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Yacht Insurance

Protect your superior watercraft with superior protection from Chubb.

Chubb has been a leading provider of yacht insurance for over 100 years, offering some of the most comprehensive policies available for private, pleasure watercrafts. Being on the water is an experience of peace, calm, and new adventures on the horizon. It’s an experience you want to protect. Our Masterpiece® Yacht insurance policy offers superior coverage for pleasure yachts 36 feet or greater in length. And for captained vessels 70 feet or greater in length and valued at $3 million or more, our  Masterpiece Yacht Preference policy has the specialty coverages you and your crew need.

Masterpiece® Yacht Policy Highlights

Agreed Value Coverage

We pay the entire agreed amount, with no deductible, for a total loss. With our Masterpiece Yacht Select policy, eligible vessels can receive Replacement Cost coverage up to 120%.

Liability Protection

Limits of coverage to suit your personal needs, including: legal defense costs, liability as required by the Oil Pollution Act of 1990, wreck removal, and Jones Act coverage for paid crew.

Replacement Cost Loss Settlement

Repair or replacement of covered property is paid for without deduction for depreciation for most partial losses.

Uninsured/Underinsured Boater Coverage

Pays for bodily injury to persons aboard the insured watercraft who are injured by an uninsured owner or operator of another vessel.

Medical Payments

Reasonable medical and related expenses are included for all those onboard, boarding or leaving the covered vessel. These benefits are provided on a per person basis, rather than per occurrence. Optional and customized limits are available.

Search & Rescue

Up to $10,000 for the expenses incurred by an insured in relation to a governmental unit such as the United States Coast Guard (USCG) who provide emergency aid and assistance are included for no additional charge. With our Masterpiece Yacht Select option, coverage is available up to $25,000.

Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA)

When Liability coverage is purchased, coverage is automatically provided for those employed aboard the vessel who are within the jurisdiction of the LHWCA.

Personal Property & Fishing Equipment Coverage

Protection is automatically included for the clothing, personal effects and fishing gear of the boat owner and their guests. Optional higher limits are available.

Coverage for Marinas as Additional Insured

Marinas, yacht clubs and similar facilities where clients keep their vessels are included as Additional Insureds.

Trailer Coverage

We automatically include coverage up to $5,000 for your trailer used with your insured vessel. Higher limits are available.

Emergency Towing & Assistance

Our policy includes this coverage with optional higher limits available.

Boat Show & Demonstration Coverage

We automatically provide this coverage, at no additional charge.

Precautionary Measures

We will pay up to the policy limit the reasonable costs incurred to haul, fuel or dock the insured watercraft endangered by a covered peril.

Bottom Inspection

We will cover the reasonable costs to inspect the bottom of an insured vessel after grounding, stranding, or striking a submerged object. There is no deductible for this coverage.

Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA) Coverage

If Liability coverage is purchased, our policy provides coverage in addition to the Liability limit, up to the required OPA statutory limits, regardless of the Liability limit chosen. Additionally, if the OPA statutory limit is increased in the future, our policy will automatically increase the applicable OPA limit to match the new higher statutory limits.

Temporary Substitute Watercraft

Up to $5,000 to charter a temporary substitute watercraft if the insured vessel is out of commission due to a covered loss and cannot be repaired within 72 hours. With our Masterpiece Yacht Select policy offering, the limit of Temporary Substitute Watercraft is increased to $10,000.

Marine Environmental Damage Coverage

This feature provides protection up to $10,000 for fines and penalties as a result of marine environmental damage, as defined by the policy terms. Coverage is provided in addition to the insured's applicable Liability and OPA limits. With our Masterpiece Yacht Select policy offering, the limit of Marine Environmental Damage Coverage is increased to $25,000.

57% of boating accidents happen on calm days with waves less than 6 inches.

Chubb offers some of the most comprehensive protection and services available rain or shine.

*Source: 2016 Recreational Boating Statistics, United States Coast Guard

Masterpiece Yacht Preference

Masterpiece Yacht Preference fulfills the specialty insurance needs of luxury yacht owners with captained vessels 70 feet in length and greater, valued at $3 million or more.

No depreciation applies on the following items

Machinery inside the hull, Personal Property, dingy/tender, and Personal Watercraft.

Emergency Towing Service

We include coverage up to the amount of Property Damage with no deductible.

The medical payments limit offered is on a per occurrence basis, and we will pay costs incurred up to three years from the date of occurrence.

Marina as Additional Insured

The marina, yacht club, or similar facility where the insured yacht is docked, moored, or stored is included as an Additional Insured.

Captain and Crew Coverage

Liability coverage is extended to the captain and crew members serving aboard the insured yacht.

Defense Costs

Defense costs are included in addition to the limit of liability and includes up to $50,000 loss of earnings.

Mooring or Slip Rental Agreement Waiver

When waiver of subrogation is required through a written contract by a yacht club, marina, or similar facility used for the purpose of storage or slip rental, our Masterpiece Yacht Preference policy will permit an insured to waive their rights of subrogation.

Masterpiece® Recreational Marine Insurance Brochure

Your client’s guide to watercraft protection. Make sure they’re protected, with the right coverage, so they can relax on and off the water.

Related Coverage

We provide exceptional boat insurance with tailored protection.

We help you stay ahead — and informed with these helpful tips and tricks

This information is descriptive only. All products may not be available in all jurisdictions. Coverage is subject to the language of the policies as issued.

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Racing Yacht Insurance

Craftinsure Racing Yacht Insurance Updated 2022

Our Craftinsure Racing Yacht Policy is Fully Comprehensive, All Risks cover. It's Plain English and has been specifically designed for Racing Yachts valued up to £600,000. For values above please ring us 0345 2607 888. Cover has been specially written for Racing Yachts based in the UK, cruising range of Brest to Elbe for bigger boats. For Boats more than 23ft and 20 years old you will need to have a survey report not more than 5 years old, with all recommendations complied with.

• Policy Detail

Benefits of Craftinsure Racing Yacht Insurance

• Specialist Racing Yacht Insurance from the leading Yacht Insurer
• Loss or damage from fire, theft, accident or malicious damage
• Cover for underwater gear and rig
• Cover for Personal Effects included as standard
• Tenders included if marked with name of main boat
• Includes cover for trailer
• £5,000,000 Third Party Cover
• Monthly premium payment @ 0% credit

Useful Links

• Insurance Product Information Document
• Summary of Cover

What is Insured?

• Loss or damage, including accidental damage
• Repair or replacement up to the sum insured stated in your policy
• We will pay the agreed value or replace the vessel after a total loss
• Loss or damage whilst in transit by road (provided by road haulier if over 30ft/9.14m in length)
• Tenders (if appropriate) are covered, including whilst used independently of the parent vessel
• Loss or damage to protective covers
• Recovery of the vessel following a loss
• Inspection of the vessel after grounding, even if no damage is found.
• Personal Effects (for items with a value not over £250)
• Your legal liability – third party cover to others for injury or damage caused up to £5,000,000.
• Cover for others using your boat with your permission
• Legal costs incurred in defending a claim against you or in pursuing a claim against a Third Party for damage to your boat

What is not Insured?

• Loss or damage caused by the vessel being in an unseaworthy condition.
• Wear, tear, depreciation or gradual deterioration
• Theft of outboard motors unless securely locked using an anti-theft device
• Theft of outboard motor unless you have safely recorded the serial number
• Mechanical or electrical breakdown
• Loss or damage to personal effects unless the vessel has lockable storage
• Loss of money, cheques, credit or debit cards, jewellery, spectacles or mobile phones
• The vessel operation outside of the territorial scope shown in the policy
• Wilful misconduct or recklessness by you or other persons in control of the vessel (including whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs).
• Sample Policy

Agreement details

• We will pay the agreed value or replace the vessel after a total loss.

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Home  News  New Changes Announced to US Sailing’s Commercial Insurance Coverage

New Changes Announced to US Sailing’s Commercial Insurance Coverage

Effective January 1, 2022, Chubb Insurance Company has clarified some of the terms of coverage under US Sailing’s commercial insurance as it pertains to Certified Race Officials and Certified Instructors. This change has resulted in a change to secondary liability insurance coverage for Certified Race Officials and Certified Instructors under the US Sailing policy.

Starting this year, US Sailing’s commercial insurance will provide liability coverage for Certified Instructors and Certified Race Officials only when volunteering or working at US Sailing Championships, US Sailing Events and US Sailing Courses.

US Sailing’s insurance will apply to Certified Instructors when they are volunteers for US Sailing or are paid by US Sailing to coach, teach, or help run a US Sailing Championship, a US Sailing Event, or a US Sailing Course. It does not apply to Certified Instructors employed by (or volunteering at) a sailing school or organization, community program, sailing club, or other organization outside of a US Sailing US Sailing Championship, a US Sailing Event, or a US Sailing run Course.

Coverage under US Sailing’s commercial policy does not apply to Certified Instructors who are a sole proprietor or owner of a Corporation/LLC to teach sailing, coach sailing, coach a race team(s), or offer private lessons.

US Sailing’s insurance will apply to Certified Race Officials when they are volunteers for US Sailing or are paid by US Sailing for actions related to being a Certified Race Official at a US Sailing Championship, a US Sailing Event, or a US Sailing Course. It does not apply to Certified Race Officials employed by (or volunteering at) a sailing school or organization, community program, sailing club, or other organization, outside of a US Sailing US Sailing Championship, a US Sailing Event, or a US Sailing run Course.

Coverage under US Sailing’s commercial policy does not apply to Certified Race Officials who are the sole proprietor or owner of a Corporation/LLC for actions related to being a Certified Race Official, outside of a US Sailing US Sailing Championship, a US Sailing Event, or a US Sailing run Course.

As has always been the case, where Certified Instructors and/or Certified Race Officials are employed by or volunteer at a sailing school, club or organization, primary insurance should be provided by the sailing school, club, or organization. In cases where a Certified Instructor or Certified Race Official establishes their own coaching/sailing establishment, insurance should be purchased by the individual.

In light of these changes, US Sailing encourages each Certified Instructor and Certified Race Official to be cognizant of the insurance policy in place at the sailing school, club or organization where they may work or volunteer.

This change was not initiated by US Sailing, but rather due to the underwriter’s desire to clarify the extent of liability coverage provided under the US Sailing commercial policy because of a recent, significant claim; the only claim that has been made under the secondary liability coverage. Additionally, this is a result of an increasingly challenging insurance environment.

Since US Sailing was informed of the change that the underwriter was making, we have been working to both obtain the necessary details to appropriately communicate the effects of the change as well as finding alternative solutions.  We have made progress in both of those areas and while the right solution has not yet been created, we are continuing to talk with a variety of insurers and others in the insurance market in that regard and have been able to obtain sufficient clarity in the necessary details so as to be able to effectively communicate with you now.  US Sailing will of course continue to work with the appropriate people in the insurance market to provide the best and most appropriate options for our stakeholders and provide updates when those are available.

We understand you may have questions about how these changes affect you and/or your club. US Sailing has set up a Frequently Asked Questions document for you to access here https://www.ussailing.org/education/instructor/resources/instructor-insurance/ and/or https://www.ussailing.org/competition/rules-officiating/resources/competition-rules-officiating-resources-insurance-for-race-officials . If you have further questions, please email [email protected] .

To see when you qualify for coverage as a Certified Instructor, read more here: https://www.gowrie.com/pdfs/USSailing_CertifiedInstructors_GowrieInsurance.pdf

To see when you qualify for coverage as a Certified Race Official, read more here:

https://www.gowrie.com/pdfs/USSailing_CertifiedRaceOfficials_GowrieInsurance.pdf

Copyright ©2018-2024 United States Sailing Association. All rights reserved. US Sailing is a 501(c)3 organization. Website designed & developed by Design Principles, Inc. -->

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Yacht insurance

The marine insurance leader for over 45 years.

Find a Markel marine agent and get a free, no-obligation quote today.

If you love your yacht, you’ll love our insurance.

We’ve been the yacht insurance leader for over 45 years because we provide coverages that fit your yacht and your lifestyle. Markel yacht insurance can offer distinct advantages in coverage features, options, knowledge and experience.

Why do you need yacht insurance?

Whether you own a yacht or a houseboat, we understand it’s not a typical boat and shouldn’t be covered by a typical boat insurance policy. That’s where we come in—each Markel yacht insurance policy can be customized to fit your yacht, your needs, your budget and your style.

Still not sure?

Here’s a few of the potential advantages to insuring your yacht with us:.

More complete coverage than any other carrier at no additional cost.

Experienced yacht underwriters and marine claims specialists who provide prompt, responsive service.

Discounts and cost-effective coverage options to save you money.

Flexible payment options.

Save money by customizing your yacht insurance

Actual cash value coverage (ACV) Reduce your coverage to ACV, which factors in depreciation of your yacht should you have to file a claim.

Lay-up option We’ll discount your yacht insurance premium during the winter months when your yacht is not in use.

Higher deductibles If you can manage minor repairs to your boat on your own, selecting a higher deductible will reduce your premium.

Windstorm exclusion Live in an area that isn’t at risk for a hurricane? You may consider removing windstorm coverage from your policy.

Liability only Coverage in case you damage another yacht and/or person (doesn’t require a survey—even for older boats).

What we offer

We offer coverage for a variety of watercrafts over 26 feet in length, including:.

• Sport fishing boat

Our coverages can include:

• Coverage for your yacht
• Coverage for you
• Optional coverages

Hull and equipment insurance protection including:

• Protect and recover can cover reasonable costs incurred when trying to protect your yacht from further damage after an accident
• Consequential damage for non-wood yachts–normal wear and tear and deterioration is not typically covered under a yacht insurance policy. However, if your yacht suffers damage from fire, explosion, sinking or collision because of one of these conditions, you may be protected
• Ice and freezing damage coverage if you contracted with a commercial marina or repair facility
• Agreed value for total loss
• Deductible waived on most total losses
• No depreciation on most partial losses
• Automatic tender coverage

Windstorm extra expense If there is a named storm, watch or warning, we will share the expense with you to help protect your yacht before the storm makes landfall.

Personal effects coverage For all the “extras” you physically bring onto your yacht. (i.e., smart phone, camera, etc.)

Emergency towing and assistance Coverage for towing expenses if your yacht happens to get stuck in or out of the water, including the delivery of gas, oil and parts.

Rental reimbursement coverage Coverage for when your yacht is being repaired from a covered loss.

Uninsured boater Unfortunately, not all boaters on the water have insurance. This coverage helps protect you and your family members if you are injured in an accident caused by an uninsured boater. Coverage is automatically included if watercraft liability is purchased.

Pollution liability Pollution coverage helps protects you if you are held legally liable due to an oil pollution leak or spill.

Medical payments Coverage for injuries suffered during an accident on your yacht.

Paid crew (Jones Act) Protection for you if you are legally responsible for injuries to a paid captain or crew member while on your yacht.

Protection and indemnity Coverage in the event that you are responsible for injuries to another person, or damage to their boat or property. Wreck removal is included with purchase of hull coverage.

• Boat trailer coverage
• Boat lift and boat house coverage
• Fishing tournament reimbursement for fishing boats
• Fishing equipment protection
• Transit and storage coverage
• Trip coverage
• Trip interruption reimbursement
• Personal liability coverage if you live aboard your yacht

Frequently asked questions about yacht insurance

General questions.

How much coverage do I need? Each boat, person, location and situation is different. There isn't a good way to give a "ballpark" figure for how much coverage you need. It’s best to evaluate your comfortable level of risk when protecting your boat, assets and passengers. Your best option is to call our boat specialists at +1.800.236.2453 to discuss the best coverage for you.

Can I insure my yacht for liability only? Yes, we offer protection and indemnity (liability only) coverage to help protect you in case you are responsible for injuries to another person or damage to another boat or property. Many carriers do not offer liability-only policies for yachts, or if they do, require a survey. However, Markel’s protection and indemnity coverage does not require a survey, so you’re able to do what you love without worries out on the water.

Will my policy cover normal wear and tear of my yacht? Most insurance policies will not cover normal wear and tear of your yacht and the deterioration or the resulting damage. However, if your yacht is damaged from fire, explosion, sinking, collision or stranding, you may be protected under our consequential damage coverage.

Can I use my yacht for chartering? We know that sometimes yacht owners charter their yacht for sightseeing tours or even sport fishing to help offset some of the costs of owning a yacht. Markel offers an optional limited charter coverage for these situations provided the captain of the watercraft has a minimum of 2 years loss-free experience of yachting. Additional restrictions may apply.

I live on my yacht. Am I covered? Markel provides live aboard coverage. Be sure to disclose that you live aboard to your agent.

My yacht is in a corporation's name. Can I still insure it with Markel? Our yacht insurance policy can cover corporately titled boats for both personal use and client entertainment. We do require all corporately titled boats designate a designee of the watercraft. Contact your agent to learn more.

Do I need to insure my yacht in the winter? It may seem that since you don't use your yacht in the winter you don't need to insure it. This is a risky way of looking at insurance and one that we have seen cost far too many people far too much money. Your yacht is at risk for damages at all times of the year, not only when it's on the water. For example, if your yacht is placed in storage for the winter and is damaged, you will not have any assistance in paying for those repairs without an active insurance policy.

Do you cover unique boats? We offer coverage for various kinds of boats that other insurers may shy away from, including: high performance boats, airboats, hovercraft, etc. Not sure if your watercraft will be covered? Give us a call at +1.800.236.2453 to speak with one of our marine insurance specialists.

What kind of fishing equipment is covered? Your rods, reels and tackle are automatically covered under your personal effects coverage up to the limit purchased. If that coverage isn't sufficient, our fishing equipment coverage provides insurance protection at replacement cost. Please contact one of our marine insurance specialists at +1.800.236.2453 to find out more.

Claims questions

How do I file a claim? We understand that no one wants to file a claim. That's why we do everything we can to make the process as painless as possible. You can report your yacht insurance claim by calling our office at +1.800.236.2453 or submit your claim online and we'll take it from there.

How long will it take for my claim to be processed? We are committed to investigating, evaluating and resolving marine insurance claims in a timely manner.

Is there anything I can do to help speed up the claim process? Yes, you can help streamline the claims and settlement process and avoid delays by providing the following information when you file your claim:

• Policy number
• Date, time and location of loss or damage
• Description of loss or damage
• Digital photos (if possible)
• Phone number to reach you

Additional resources

Related articles.

From boat safety tips to breaking down yacht insurance, find the information, advice, and resources you’ll need all in one place.

Warrior Sailing

Markel is a proud supporter of Warrior Sailing, an organization dedicated to healing and strengthening the lives of veterans through sailing. Visit warriorsailing.org to learn about Warrior Sailing and how you can donate to the program so they can continue to help the lives of wounded veterans.

Related products

Specialized coverage designed specifically for boats 26 feet or less, such as pontoons, runabouts, fishing boats and more.

Personal watercraft

Insurance for personal watercrafts (PWCs) such as a Jet Ski, Sea-Doo or WaveRunner.

High performance boat

Coverage for speedboats greater than 26 feet in length and capable of speeds 66 to 120 m.p.h.

Yacht Insurance: A Complete Owner’s Guide

Michael Castorino Articles

Yacht insurance, also known as boat insurance, is a type of insurance that provides coverage for yachts or boats against potential risks or damages. Yacht insurance policies can protect yacht owners from financial losses associated with accidents, damage, theft, liability claims, and other unforeseen events that can occur while the yacht is in use or at rest.

Here are some key things you need to know about yacht insurance:

Yacht insurance policies typically cover a wide range of risks, including damage to the yacht, theft, vandalism, liability claims, medical payments, and more. The coverage may vary depending on the policy, so it’s important to carefully review the policy and understand what is covered and what is not. Yacht insurance policies typically offer different types of coverage, including:

• Hull coverage: This covers damages to the yacht’s hull, machinery, and equipment caused by accidents, collisions, or other covered events.
• Liability coverage: This provides protection if the yacht owner is found legally responsible for causing damage to another person’s property or injuring another person while operating the yacht.
• Medical payments coverage: This covers medical expenses for injuries sustained by the yacht owner, passengers, or crew while on board the yacht.
• Uninsured/underinsured boater coverage: This provides coverage if the yacht owner is involved in an accident with another boater who does not have insurance or has inadequate insurance.
• Personal property coverage: This covers personal belongings, such as electronics, furniture, and other items on board the yacht.
• Towing and assistance coverage: This covers the cost of towing and emergency assistance in case the yacht becomes disabled or stranded.

Coverage Limits

Yacht insurance policies typically have coverage limits, which are the maximum amount the insurance company will pay in case of a covered loss. It’s important to review and understand the coverage limits in your policy to ensure that you have adequate coverage to protect your yacht and assets.

The cost of yacht insurance premiums may vary depending on various factors, including the value and size of the yacht, its intended use, cruising area, the yacht owner’s experience, boating history, and the coverage options chosen. Higher-value yachts or those used for racing or cruising in remote areas may typically have higher premiums.

Deductibles

Yacht insurance policies may also include deductibles, which are the amount that the yacht owner is responsible for paying out of pocket before the insurance coverage kicks in. Higher deductibles may result in lower premiums, but it’s important to choose a deductible that you can comfortably afford in case of a claim.

Navigation Limits

Yacht insurance policies may have navigation limits, which are geographic areas where the yacht is covered to operate. It’s crucial to understand and adhere to these navigation limits as operating the yacht outside of the covered areas may result in a denial of coverage in case of a claim. 

Additional Coverage

Yacht owners may have the option to add additional coverage to their yacht insurance policy, such as coverage for pollution liability, wreck removal, tender or dinghy coverage, and more. It’s important to discuss your specific needs with your insurance provider to determine if any additional coverage is necessary.

Safety Measures

Insurance companies may require yacht owners to adhere to certain safety measures, such as having safety equipment on board, following navigation guidelines, and completing safety courses. Adhering to these safety measures may help lower your premiums and reduce the risk of accidents or damage.

The Conclusion

Insuring your yacht is as important as routine maintenance and repairs. Accidents can happen at any time, so it is better to have the right amount and type of coverage before you hit the open waters. If you have recently purchased your first yacht or want to become part of a like-minded community of boat enthusiasts, joining a yacht club can offer many benefits. Lighthouse Point Yacht Club is one such club that provides benefits such as storage facilities for vessels, a fuel dock, a pump-out station, detailing services, and more. To become a member, give us a call today! 

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on the water, 

around the world

A SHARED AFFINITY

AIG's yacht offerings were crafted by people who relish life on the water and deeply understand the complexities of owning watercraft.

ALL-ENCOMPASSING COVERAGE

AIG's yacht policy addresses nearly all types of property damage or loss, with coverage tailored to align with personal cruising plans.

NEWLY ACQUIRED VESSELS

Newly purchased tenders and yachts/boats are automatically covered for up to 30 days after the date of purchase.

IN & OUT OF THE WATER

Coverage includes protections for crew, marine environmental damage, tenders and on-board property, as well as occurrences while on dry land.

SAFETY AT SEA: LOSS PREVENTION

Dedicated loss prevention services range from crew first aid training and storm preparedness to on-board art collection management.

GREAT LENGTHS, GREAT EXPECTATIONS

While we handle complex claims every day, each comes with its own circumstances. Repairs and restorations are managed with precision and compassion.

Whatever success means to you, we'll help you protect it.

Arrange a complimentary personal assessment of your current insurance coverage and risk management profile.

Contact Us Today

ADVICE & INSIGHTS

What to Consider When Insuring Your Boat

Your dreamboat may be a sailing yacht, a family cruiser, or a large yacht with worldwide navigational capabilities. Regardless of its size or how you use it, you can more effectively protect your family and your investment with a thoughtful approach to insurance.

Boating Safety Best Practices

Safe boating practices should begin well before the vessel is launched. The following information is intended to help you anticipate unforeseen events and enable crew, family, and guests to return home safely.  

How to Prepare if You Need to Abandon Ship

When sailing offshore—whether cruising, sport fishing, or yacht racing—it is the responsibility of the vessel’s owner and captain to ensure the vessel is ready for its intended use. Use the following to help you guide your preparations.  

Your Sailing Yacht Insurance Specialist

You require expertise and experience in your sailing yacht insurance specialist, and for over three decades w.r. hodgens marine insurance has delivered. se habla espanol, sailing yacht insurance, our background and knowledge make navigating to the correct sailing yacht insurance coverage for private yachts, charter or bareboat, catamarans, or fleet operations simple and clear, with proven results and satisfied customers. your sailboat investment needs protection, and the critical peace of mind. w.r. hodgens marine insurance brings through personalized and comprehensive underwriting experience helps smooth out every passage. we have programs for all sailing yachts and our sailboat insurance coverage extends worldwide, from the usa, bahamas, cuba, and caribbean through the panama canal, pacific ocean, and the mediterrranean and all other areas..

• Worldwide navigation limits
• Agreed value
• Personal Effects
• Uninsured boater insurance
• Paid crew, charters
• Pollution liability yacht insurance
• We insure all top builders
• Towing, underway assistance

The sailing yacht lifestyle you've earned deserves an insurance specialist dedicated to preserving both that lifestyle and your substantial investment. W.R. Hodgens Marine Insurance brings that commitment along with the sailing and insurance expertise to keep you underway, on course, and secure anywhere your sailing yacht takes you. Contact W.R. Hodgens Marine Insurance for all your yacht insurance needs.

Sailing yacht quote.

Get fast quotes from AAA Underwriters.

Peace of Mind

Get peace of mind today.

Charter Insurance

Charter Insurance for single yacht or fleet needs.

Sample Yacht Insurance Builders

We have listed here a sampling of only some of the sailing yacht builders we insure. sailing yacht insurance has coverage for all quality sail yachts. contact us with your sail yacht information for an insurance quote now..

Abeking and Rassmussen Adrina Alubat Alliaura Marine Antares Yachts Azzura Cabo Rico Class Yacht CNB Superyacht Comar Contest Yachts Cookson DK Yachts Delfine Denchomarine Derecktor Elan Marine Fantasi Yachts Finngulf Goetz Grand Soleil Latini Marine Lerouge Yachts Marten Maxi Yachts McMullen and Wing Morris Yachts Murtic Yachts Newport Nordia Passport Pendennis Perini Navi Reichelpugh Rivolta Royal Huisman Sangermani Santa Cruz Seawind Cats Sparkman and Stephens

Alden Allied Amel Angleman Arcona Baltic Bavaria Bayana Beneteau Bruce Roberts C and C Cal Cantiere del pardo Grand Soleil Catalina CCYD Cheoy Lee Damstra Dean Dehler Delphia Deutsche Werke Dufour Duwamish Erickson Fisher Fountaine Pajot Freedom Freeport Fuji Gib Sea Gulfstar Hanse Yachts Hallberg Rassy Kelly Herreshoff Hinckley Hunter Hylas Kanter

Island Packet Islander Jenneau Jomeri Jongert Lagoon Littleharbor Maio Manta Marten Moody Morgan Nauticat Nautor Niad Pacific Seacraft Pearson Privilege Sabre Saga Saturna Schock Seawind Skookum Southern Ocean Spencer Swan Tartan Tayana Trintella Tripp Design Valiant Vismara Vitters Westsail Warwick Wyliecat X-Yachts

Sailing Yacht Insurance Made Simple

Fill out the Sailing Yacht Insurance Quote Form to get started. Or call us at 954-523-6867 and we will be happy to help you.

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Yacht Insurance

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Whether your yacht is in Miami, Martha’s Vineyard, Monte Carlo or Melbourne, we can offer you coverage that follows you worldwide. Do you have a mega yacht, high performance vessel, cruiser, sailboat, catamaran, ski boat or sport fishing yacht? Whatever type of yacht you own, we provide you with personalized coverage as unique as your vessel.

 Yacht Coverage Options Can Include:

• Varying deductible amounts
• Separate deductible for navigational electronics
• Protection and indemnity liability coverage
• Extended protection is extended to permissive operators of the vessel
• Consequential damage coverage
• Storm haul out
• Extra expense coverage
• Damage or loss to motor, hull, or other equipment used to operate the boat
• Wreckage removal and salvage expenses
• Third party liability coverage including legal defense in the event you are sued for liability
• Broad or specific navigational territory limits including access to worldwide navigation
• Emergency towing and assistance
• Personal effects and fishing tackle coverage
• Tender/dinghy coverage
• Charter coverage
• In house claims concierge

For more information about Grand Prix racing yacht coverage, click here.

A yacht is classified as a vessel that is greater than 26 feet. Yacht insurance is more detailed due to hazards, exposures and navigational ranges.

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What Is Yacht Insurance?

Yacht insurance is an insurance policy that provides indemnity liability coverage for a sailing vessel. It includes liability coverage for bodily injury or damage to the property of others and damage to personal property on the vessel. Depending on the insurance provider, this insurance could also include gas delivery, towing, and assistance if your yacht gets stranded.

Key Takeaways

• Yacht insurance provides indemnity liability coverage for a sailing vessel.
• It has two principal parts: hull insurance and protection and indemnity (P&I) insurance.
• While there is no legal agreed upon length that separates a yacht from a pleasure boat, generally it is considered to be somewhere between 27 and 30 feet.

Understanding Yacht Insurance

Some companies specialize in providing coverage for antique and classic boats. You can choose between an actual cash value or agreed value policy. The former is cheaper but factors in depreciation and market value, so your payout will be less. Some policies include discounts based on your boating education, safety features, and whether you have a hybrid or electric boat. Some companies also offer a package deal that decreases the rate on a yacht insurance policy if you purchase additional policies, such as for your home or car.

Boats are defined as vessels under 197 feet long, while ships are 197 feet long or longer. There is no agreed upon length for a yacht , but they are generally considered to be at least 30 feet long. A vessel under 27 feet is considered a pleasure boat.  

Although there isn't a standard definition of what the size of a yacht is, we can see that there is a general agreement within a range. With that being said, this general range falls within class 2 and class 3 of the Federal boat classification system.

For its own purposes, the National Boat Owners Association marks the dividing line at 27 feet. Most yacht coverage is broader and more specialized than pleasure boat coverage, because larger vessels travel farther and are exposed to greater risks.

Yacht insurance is broader and more specialized than pleasure boat coverage, due to the fact that a yacht can sail farther and thus runs greater risks.

A yacht insurance deductible, the amount of money you must pay out of your own pocket before your insurance kicks in, is usually a percentage of the insured value. A 1% deductible, for example, means that a boat insured for $100,000 would have a $1,000 deductible. Most lenders allow a maximum deductible of 2% of the insured value.

Generally, yacht insurance coverage does not include wear and tear, gradual deterioration, marine life, marring, denting, scratching, animal damage, osmosis, blistering, electrolysis, manufacturer’s defects, defects in design, and ice and freezing.

Two Parts of Yacht Insurance

There are two principal sections of a yacht insurance policy.

Hull insurance

Hull insurance is an all-risk, direct damage coverage that includes an agreed amount of hull coverage. That amount is settled on when the policy is written, and in the case of a total loss it will be paid out in full. In addition, there is replacement cost coverage on partial losses, though sails, canvas, batteries, outboards, and sometimes outdrives are not include and instead are subject to depreciation.

Protection and indemnity (P&I)

Protection and indemnity (P&I) insurance is the broadest of all liability coverages, and because maritime law is particular, you will need coverages that are designed for those exposures. Longshore and harbor workers’ coverage and Jones Act coverage (for the yacht’s crew) are included and important, because your losses in these areas could run into six figures. P&I will cover any judgements against you and also pays for your defense in admiralty courts .

Insurance Information Institute. " Boat insurance and safety: Boat insurance coverage ." Accessed Jan. 31, 2022.

National Boat Owners Association (NBOA). " The Best Yacht Insurance Rates ." Accessed Jan. 31, 2022.

DiscoverBoating.com. " Boat Insurance Guide: Insurance Discounts ." Accessed Jan. 31, 2022.

Malhotra Insurance. " Watercraft and Boat Insurance: Is There a Difference? " Accessed Jan. 31, 2022.

U.S. Government Publishing Office. " Coast Guard, DOT ." Accessed Jan. 31, 2022.

DiscoverBoating.com. " Boat Insurance Guide: Boat Insurance Coverage FAQs: What is a normal deductible? " Accessed Jan. 31, 2022.

Absolute Insurance of Palm Beach County, Inc. " Yacht Insurance ." Accessed Jan. 31, 2022.

International Marine Underwriters. " Commercial Hull and P&I ." Accessed Jan. 31, 2022.

DiscoverBoating.com. " Boat Insurance Guide: Boat Insurance Coverage FAQs: What should I look for in a yacht policy? " Accessed Jan. 31, 2022.

Gallagher Charter Lakes. " Protection & Indemnity Insurance – What is it??? " Accessed Jan. 31, 2022.

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Superyacht insurance: How to choose the best policy for your yacht

Related articles.

Picking insurance coverage for your superyacht can be fraught with difficulty. BOAT reveals what owners really need to know when it comes to yacht insurance and how to keep the process as pain-free as possible if the worst happens.

When it comes to superyacht insurance, shopping around for the best deal may not be the smartest tactic. “Many of the insurance policies and contracts out there are quite similar, but, as with everything, the devil’s in the detail. Sometimes what may appear to be a really good option might contain some restrictions or exclusions in cover that might catch the unwary person out,” says Mike Wimbridge, managing director of Pantaenius UK.

Indeed, insuring superyachts worth tens to hundreds of millions of pounds, plying waters subject to windstorms and even perhaps political upheaval, is complicated. There are a lot of considerations at play and in the end what you see on your policy is what you get. “Marine insurance is not specifically regulated, meaning policy forms don’t have to be approved by any regulators in any country or state like other types of consumer insurance do. So whatever you get on your policy contract is what you get today for insurance, and it could be different for everyone,” says Nancy Poppe, North American Yacht Practice Leader at Willis Marine Superyachts.

In general, there are two types of insurance a yacht needs: Hull and Protection & Indemnity (P&I). Hull covers physical damage to the vessel and its appurtenances, while P&I is marine liability insurance for third-party liability, explains Poppe. The larger the yacht and/or the more complex its cruising programme, the more likely this coverage will be split with P&I provided by a P&I Club. “They offer a single shot $500 million P&I limit, and they can very easily offer all of the certificates,” says Spencer Lloyd, president of AssuredPartners’ yacht speciality team. “For instance, there’s something now called the Nairobi Wreck Removal endorsement and some of the companies that do both Hull and P&I do not have the ability to issue these certificates for a yacht travelling in foreign waters.”

The marine insurance market currently is a bit turbulent, which means not every yacht is insurable. A few years ago a large number of underwriters – overwhelmed by hurricanes and fires – pulled out of the marine market, creating a hard market where demand exceeded supply. It’s since stabilised to some extent, helped by the fact that 2021 churned up no serious windstorms, but underwriters today can still afford to be picky.

Wimbridge likens the last few years to “panning for gold”, as the market was shaken up to see where things lie. “The London market, the traditional home of the superyacht market, is not comfortable below USD10 million. So the more domestic markets are picking those risks up, whether that be US or Europe or Australia. I think above 10 million, it’d be fair to say the London market has been choosy over recent years,” says Wimbridge. But he is seeing more competition creeping in for what insurers would class the more desirable risks in the megayacht area, so that’s leading to a steadying of the market. The under-$5 million market, though, is more volatile, subject to holes when a single underwriter pulls out.

Factors that affect a yacht’s insurability include its age (even if it’s refit), whether it will be based in a windstorm-prone area, and the owner’s experience, explains Poppe. “For boats that, say, want to summer in Florida and winter in the Caribbean, there are very limited choices particularly in the smaller end of things. And first-time owners jumping into large-sized vessels with no prior ownership experience and not hiring a full time professional manager – there's limited, if any, options for coverage there,” she says. With this in mind, she advises any prospective owner to secure an offer of insurance before they accept an offer to buy a yacht.

Once the insurance is in place, the communication doesn’t stop. There are a few situations where it’s common that the underwriter requires advance notice or coverage can be excluded. One of these is yard work.

“A lot of yacht policies will exclude welding and hot work until you notify them first and beforehand,” says Lloyd, explaining that the underwriter will typically want to see a copy of the yard’s insurance certificate, any independent contractor’s liability, a drawing of what welding is going to take place and a gas-free certificate if the tanks have to be cleared of flammable liquids. The difficulty he has seen lately is when the shipyard wants a complete waiver of liability, a situation he deems unfair. “A lot of times the company insuring the yacht will come back and say, ‘Hey, we want a $10,000 to $15,000 additional premium for the exposure of what you're having done’.”

How underwriters consider named windstorms also differs, with at least one excluding all coverage for yachts under 500 gross tonnes. “In the old days, the bigger boats didn't necessarily need a hurricane plan. But in this day and age, most underwriters are asking to see the hurricane plan for all sized yachts,” says Poppe.

“If you're going to be in the shipyard, having work done during hurricane season, you need to give your underwriter a lot of advance notice,” she continues. “If you're not going to be able to move the vessel to sea in the event of a storm coming, you are probably going to face either no coverage for windstorm or a quite high deductible for windstorm.”

Another point that could be lost in the fine print is itinerary exclusions. “For instance, there are parts of the world that are deemed to be political hotspots, so they tend to be excluded from the war cover,” says Wimbridge.

Insurance companies also want to be involved in choosing the captain. “They have gotten much more strict about captain resumes,” says Lloyd. “Rule of thumb was the captain must have a minimum of two years’ experience on similar-size boats to the one that they are applying for. And some have raised it to three years. We are in a constant battle because with so many boats being sold, there’s not enough qualified people to fill the positions. And how does the mate, who is good and capable but doesn’t have the resume, take the next step?”

With all of these considerations, it’s crucial that the owner – whether they are dealing directly with an underwriting agent like Pantaenius UK or working with a broker like Poppe or Lloyd – is being advised by someone they trust and someone experienced in insuring yachts of a similar type and cruising programme.

In the end, insurance is a relationship business, Wimbridge points out. “The selection of the insurance partner and, if appropriate, the insurance broker, I think is paramount because those parties are experts in this process and often the clients aren’t. And in many cases, the ultimate client isn’t the one doing the negotiation. Depending on how large the boat is, there can be several people in that chain involved in the pre-discussions, offering their own thoughts and advice, which might not necessarily be the most helpful. The advice in all aspects of this is to choose the right partner, people that will give you proper advice.”

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Bluewater cruising insurance – what you need to know

• April 13, 2022

Janneke Kuysters looks at bluewater cruising insurance and explains what you need to know and why it's become increasingly difficult to insure your yacht for long distance cruising

There’s no getting around the fact it has become a lot harder to get boat insurance, particularly bluewater cruising insurance. However, there are still ways to secure good coverage – you just need to know what makes insurers tick.

If you want to ruin any cruising sailors’ potluck party on a tropical beach, just drop in a question about boat insurance. Many boat owners have stories to tell. Just about every aspect of the process has become more complicated for bluewater cruising insurance, it takes a bigger chunk out of the cruising budget every year and the rising deductibles make it more and more tempting to go uninsured. So, what is going on in the market and how do you get proper insurance to match your cruising plans?

How bluewater cruising insurance works

First, let’s look at who you are dealing with when you try to get your yacht insured for a trip to the Med, the Caribbean or a circumnavigation.

The insurance company covers your yacht: they write the cheque when there are damages to it or when you’ve caused damage. All this depends on the conditions that you agreed to when taking the policy, but in general, you don’t deal with the insurance company directly when you try to get insurance for a bluewater itinerary. Unlike car insurance, boat insurance is a very specific product and it requires a tailor made approach. Most likely you’ll do business with a broker or an underwriting agent.

Uninsured yacht owners could face enormous salvage, repair and environmental damage costs if the worst should happen. Photo: Ben Welsh Premium/Alamy

The broker considers you, your boat and your plans and presents this ‘package’ to several insurance companies. A single insurance company may want to insure you, but it could also be a syndicate of insurers: each insurer accepting a certain percentage of the risk presented by your package.

There are different kinds of brokers; the difference lies in the amount of work they take off the hands of the insurance companies. If the broker is just helping you to get cover for your beautiful blue water itinerary, you’ll get a policy with the header of the insurance company. If the broker does a lot more work, for instance manning phone lines for 24/7 assistance and handling of claims, you may find their company name at the top of your policy. Brokers that take the most work off the hands of the insurers are called managing general agents (MGAs).

What has changed?

Why has it become more complicated to get yacht insurance for blue water voyages? Mike Wimbridge, managing director of Pantaenius UK, explains: “Yacht insurance for offshore itineraries has always been a tailor made market. And we see that, in recent years, there has been less appetite from the insurance companies when it comes to yacht insurance in general. For coastal cruising in UK waters, things are still fairly easy to insure. But for more bespoke risks like insuring a bluewater cruise, we see that the market is nervous.”

There are several reasons behind this change, Wimbridge says. “Up until 2017 this was a highly competitive market, so prices were as low as possible. It then became untenable for many insurers, especially when a few big windstorms tore through areas where lots of yachts were stored.

“Insurance companies and their reinsurance companies pulled out of the market, leaving a few behind who needed to safeguard their financial situation. So the premiums and deductibles rose. Things are stabilising now, but we still see slight increases annually.”

There are other factors at play. The effects of climate change mean extreme weather events happen more often.

Sailing off the beaten track can be challenging to insure. Photo: Janneke Kuysters

The typical consumer profile has also changed. In the past, yacht owners usually set off on passage armed with sextants, paper charts and a wealth of experience. Nowadays it has become a lot easier to get started – thanks to everything from computer-based navigation systems to powered sail handling – so owners can set off on a bluewater cruise with less experience.

At the same time, boats have become larger and potential claims more expensive: a single lightning strike can destroy tens of thousands of pounds worth of electronics, so it’s perhaps understandable insurers can be nervous to write bespoke policies.

However, there are signs that the market is rebalancing. Ric De Cristofano, director of underwriting with Topsail Insurance, says: “The good news is that the insurance market is cyclical: it will bounce back. I think we have the worst time behind us and we’ll see that insurers become more open to write policies for bluewater cruising yachts.”

How to get bluewater cruising insurance

If you are looking for insurance for a bluewater itinerary, Wimbridge says, “Getting a quote is getting harder and harder. You have to ‘pitch’ yourself, your boat and your plans to the insurer. The broker can help you to do this or you can select a carrier that has staff on hand who are experienced in this area. Things like your sailing CV, diplomas and those of your crew, previous long passages that you have successfully undertaken, and technical or managerial skills that will benefit your sailing, are very important to mention.

“When it comes to the boat: the more seaworthy, the better. There is no real threshold when it comes to boat value, but a well found yacht that is suitable for offshore cruising is paramount to get insurance.”

“We have added a maintenance log to our ‘pitch’ to get insurance,” say American cruisers Jason and Nicky Wynn (see gonewiththewynns.com). “This has added to the success of securing insurance for our boat.” Keep receipts and take photographs as proof of upgrades and repairs, and record a log of routine maintenance.

“The third element in your ‘pitch’ is your itinerary,” continues Wimbridge. “The Atlantic and Pacific are well-cruised areas where insurers can assess the risk they are writing. But if you’re heading around Cape Horn or further afield in the Indian Ocean, premiums will rise. So with your choice of itinerary you can influence the height of your premium and insurance conditions.”

Hurricane damaged yacht. Photo: Pantaenius

In general, insurers are not keen to cover your yacht if you sail in areas with a cyclone/hurricane risk. They have predefined areas and dates which are important to adhere to if you want to stay insured. You will also have a very hard time finding insurance to sail in areas with political instability, war or threats of terrorism. War Risk zones are internationally acknowledged areas where even large commercial ships pay breathtaking insurance premiums.

De Cristofano adds: “Start looking for an insurer at least six months before you plan to leave. Have a chat with your broker to see if they will be able to find insurers that will cover your itinerary. Give yourself ample time to put your ‘pitch’ together and to discuss possible alternatives with your insurer that will lead to a policy that fits your budget.

“It pays to negotiate about the deductible: if you are willing to accept a higher deductible, this may make a significant difference in the premium you will be paying, because it signals to the insurer that you have confidence in your yacht and your skills to maintain it properly.”

However, Wimbridge warns: “Price is not all; think of insurance as a partnership with the insurer. The cheapest policy may not do what you need it to do when you are in trouble on the other side of the planet. You need an insurer who has the knowledge and the capacity to get help to you where you are: spare parts, technical assistance or even worst case, salvage. A lot of the cheaper insurance options will require hiring a third party provider locally, which may present all sorts of cultural and language barriers. So look at the quality of the policy.”

Real world solutions

Bill Garlick is a well known name in the cruising community: many boat owners who have sailed to the other side of the world and run into trouble with their insurance get help from Bill at The Marina Shop in Opua, New Zealand.

“The marine insurance market had a monumental dislocation at the end of 2018 when many Lloyds pleasure craft syndicates closed their books,” Garlick explains. “The lost capacity created a worldwide shortage of marine insurance for pleasure craft. Cover was difficult to find and premiums started rising. Around 95% of our clients were insured with Lloyds at the end of 2018 and those now with Lloyds can be counted on one hand. A number of insurers stepped in to fill the abyss which meant brokers and clients had to deal with new policy wordings and cruising parameters. By the end of 2019 most clients were placed with new insurers.

Keeping a log of regular maintenance can be helpful. Photo: Janneke Kuysters

“A consequence of the contracting market is that marine insurers have tighter criteria and marine insurance is more difficult to secure. Older (30 years-plus), smaller (under 40ft) and low value boats (less than US$100,000) are difficult and sometimes impossible to insure. Standing rigging must be no more than 10 years old (a rig inspection and report is no longer acceptable), surveys are generally required when an insurer takes on a new risk unless the vessel is a relatively new factory production model.”

He adds: “Registration is now the key factor in securing marine insurance. Many insurers are not registered in all countries/jurisdictions so they can only offer cover to certain flags. Choosing a flag is now the decision that determines which – if any – insurers can offer terms.”

Claudia Masson, CEO of the specialised German yacht insurance broker Preuss, says Brexit has also had an impact on European brokers: “Since Brexit, it is no longer possible for us to insure a UK registered yacht with a UK owner. We’ve had to cancel all the policies of our UK clients; this has limited the amount of alternatives there are for UK boat owners.”

“Lightning, windstorm and saltwater damage to electronics and electrical systems are problematic,” adds Garlick. “Many marine insurers simply refuse to offer cover for these risks and others mitigate their exposure by offering high excesses/deductibles.”

Go uninsured?

Every year a number of cruising yacht owners decide to sail uninsured. There are several reasons for this, but usually it’s because of budget constraints or simply because they cannot find an insurer.

But there are considerable risks to going uninsured. First of all, some countries will not let you enter or leave without at least liability insurance – Panama being one example. The same applies to most harbours or marinas.

But the most important thing to consider when you sail uninsured is whether you can afford to lose your boat and equipment. Would being uninsured likely change your behaviour – would it make you less likely to issue a Mayday? In the case that you hit a reef, could you finance the cost of salvage and repairing environmental damage? Or the liability if you accidentally hit another yacht or a swimmer in the water?

“If you are considering sailing uninsured, there are insurers in the UK that will accept yachts for just the liability insurance,” says Ric De Cristofano of Topsail Insurance.

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Home / Education Center / Articles / Watercraft Racing Insurance

Watercraft Racing Insurance

July 16, 2021 / Author: Rick J. Lindsey

Watercraft racing is a thrill for participants and spectators alike, watching powerful, high-speed vessels compete on the water. Like many thrilling things, watercraft racing is also dangerous. Any individual or business involved in jet ski racing or other watercraft racing needs watercraft racing insurance.

Insurance producers have an excellent opportunity to write more business and provide the coverage your clients need as these races gain popularity. As with any insurance we provide through Prime Insurance Company, this coverage can be customized to your clients’ needs. From individuals needing personal liability to companies that rent watercraft for races, we have an insurance product for everyone.

Understanding Watercraft Racing

There are many different types of watercraft racing, which is why customized insurance is so important.

• Closed course watercraft racing is likely the format that first comes to mind. It is set up with an on-water track, marked with buoys. There are usually a large number of riders involved, which increases the risk of injury and damage.
• Endurance and offshore racing brings riders out on long-distance competitions on rivers or larger bodies of water, including oceans. The challenge of this format is going the distance of the race versus the tight quarters and heavy action of closed-course racing. Still, there’s potential for injury or property damage.
• Freestyle racing is all about acrobatic abilities rather than speed. Freerides are similar, but with less competition — typically this is riders playing with one another in the surf. The risk of personal injury is present with both freestyle and freeride formats.
• Hydrodrags are drag races on the water, in which racers line up next to other competitors and go as fast as they can in a straight line. There is a chance of them running into one another than in a closed course, but the high speeds of hydrodrag races can be risky.

The Importance of Jet Ski Racing Insurance

Lawsuits around watercraft are not uncommon. Many have been costly. In 2021, a jet ski rider sued a speed boat owner after the jet skier was injured. The speed boat allegedly created a huge and fast-moving wake that ejected the jet skier from the craft, breaking his leg.

The lawsuit seeks $850,000 in damages. While this is not a lawsuit that stems from a race, it is still a prime example of how steep damages can be in cases involving watercraft. Any incident I

involving machines and personal injury can generate big costs and a lot of attention.

That is echoed by a 2016 lawsuit , filed after a fatal wreck during a speedboat race in Baltimore. Fourteen spectators including the estate of a deceased child were plaintiffs in the case, alleging poor crowd control, defective watercraft, and an unqualified driver. The case stems from a crash in which a speed boat veered off course and into spectators, injuring many, damaging boats, and killing the child.

The lawsuit named the sponsors of the event and the owners of the vessel, which shows how far liability can extend. Whether your clients own vessels used in racing or are otherwise involved in races – such as by providing sponsorship – they need to invest in watercraft racing insurance.

Contact Prime Insurance Company

Our partnership approach ensures that your clients get the coverage they need and that we keep you up to date with the important information. Our website has all you need to know about specialty insurance, including insurance for watercraft racing.

To connect with our Prime Insurance Company team, call us at 800-257-5590 or email at [email protected] .

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Rick J. Lindsey hails from Salt Lake City, Utah. He began working in the mailroom of his father’s Salt Lake City insurance firm, getting his introduction to the business that became his lifelong career. Lindsey quickly rose through the ranks while working in nearly every imaginable insurance industry job. As an entrepreneur, specialty lines underwriter, claims specialist, risk manager, and a licensed surplus lines broker, Rick Lindsey is highly skilled in all levels of leadership and execution. As he progressed on his career path, Rick discovered an urgent need for insurers willing to write policies for high-risk individuals and businesses. He was frequently frustrated that he could not provide the liability protection these entities desperately needed to safeguard their assets. He also formed the belief that insurance companies acted too quickly to settle frivolous claims. Lindsey decided to try a different approach. He started an insurance company and became the newly formed entity’s CEO. This opportunity has enabled Rick to fill a void in the market and provide a valuable service to businesses, individuals, and insurance agents who write high-risk business. Prime Insurance also specializes in helping individuals and businesses who live a lifestyle or participate in activities that make them difficult for traditional carriers to insure. If you’ve been denied, non-renewed, or canceled coverage, don’t give up quite yet. Chances are Prime Insurance can help.

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St. Pete To Shine Again

• By Dave Reed
• February 14, 2024

The St. Petersburg Yacht Club and the western shore of Florida’s Tampa Bay will be the epicenter of sailboat racing this weekend when more than 240 teams across 13 one-design classes and five handicap-racing fleets get races started for the first event of the national Helly Hansen Sailing World Regatta Series in St. Petersburg . Now well into its third decade, the regatta will also mark 10 years with its title sponsor.

The Sunshine City’s motto is that St. Pete is “Always in Season,” and that is certainly the enticement for many teams traveling in from colder climes with the promise of warm breezes, stiff competition and a nightlife that’s never been more vibrant.

One such northerner is David Mierzwa, of Lake Placid, New York, who on Tuesday was behind the wheel and racing to get south of a big storm burying the mid-Atlantic and Northeast in snow and ice. Behind him was bitter cold, but ahead of him was warmth and the anticipation of his first Melges 24 Midwinter Championship at the regatta.

As a newbie to the demanding Melges 24, Mierzwa says his primary goal is to “stay out of everybody’s way,” but ultimately, he and his teammates are on a mission to learn the nuances of this high-performance keelboat from his peers.

“We’re going so we can hunt for tips, tricks and whatever makes us better,” Mierzwa says. “It’s about having the opportunity to do an event of this caliber with likeminded people, because while sailing is the goal, being surrounded by others that do the same sport is sometimes better than the sport itself.”

As the Helly Hansen Sailing World Regatta in St. Petersburg will be his team’s first major event, he recognizes they don’t have a high enough racing pedigree to vie for the Midwinter Championship title—yet. “The only way we can get to that point is to go out there and race,” he says.

And race they will, from early Friday morning through late Sunday, alongside several other one-design classes that are the regulars of this February classic, including the S2 7.9s and the Hobie 33s , both of which will also be vying for their midwinter championship titles. 

The S2s have the returning champions of Tom and Mary Bryant’s “Team Matros” from Holland, Michigan, which won seven of eight races in 2023 to earn their berth at the Helly Hansen Sailing World Caribbean Championship last October. At each of the series’ five events one team is selected to compete in the British Virgin Islands for the overall season title.

The Hobie 33s also have their champions returning to defend— Craig and Deborah Wilusz’s “Hoof Hearted”—but this year there’s a new and unknown challenger from Waxhaw, North Carolina, and it’s a boat with a nefarious name: “Bad Bunny.” Its new owner, Sean Rhone, says he’s looking forward to meeting and racing with other Hobie 33 owners for the first time and “taking a peek under their hoods.”

Rhone has been primarily racing his Hobie 33 in singlehanded events and low-key races on North Carolina’s Lake Norman, and like Mierzwa, he’s not sure how well he’ll fare, especially with a five-person team that’s been assembled by way of social media message boards, and whom he’s never met.

“It’s cold in Charlotte,” Rhone says, “and I’m getting tired of the cold weather, so when I saw that the fleet was having its midwinters in St. Petersburg, I thought it would be nice to go and race against some other Hobie 33s for once.”

Mierzwa and Rhone may pass each other on an interstate somewhere on the way to St. Pete, along with a sizable Canadian contingent of Contender dinghy sailors making their annual pilgrimage from across the northern border. The 16-foot Contender, which its loyalists claim to be “The Sexiest Singlehander in the World ” was introduced in 1969 and continues to be popular internationally, as well as in Tampa thanks to local sailmaker Ethan Bixby. Bixby, a champion of many classes, continues to rally the troops to the Helly Hansen Sailing World Regatta and the fleet has doubled for this year’s gathering. Bixby, who won all races last year, will of course be among the 11 trapezing sailors.

Sharing the same racecourse will be eight teams racing the doublehanded Windmill class, which is new to the regatta lineup, but another cult classic sparked in the 1950s. Class measurer Pat Huntley, of Erie, Pennsylvania, is now a decade into Windmill racing, and says he’s eager to enjoy some fast sailing in St. Pete and good times with his fellow Windmillers. “It’s such a fun and cool group,” Huntley says. “And the Windmill is such a bad-ass skinny and fast boat. It can handle the chop easily and is really fast.” 

Five teams racing in the 20-foot Flying Dutchman class (first built in 1951) will hail from California to Tennessee and hosted by local FD ace, Lin Robson, the 2023 class winner. The doublehanded bonanza, however, will be the Melges 15 class, which will feature an impressive 31 teams, nearly double from 2023. The new one-design class has exploded in popularity across the country since its introduction three years ago, and midwinter regattas elsewhere in Florida have maxed out at nearly 100 boats.

Among the Melges 15 ranks in St. Petersburg will be New York’s Iris Vogel, who has traditionally raced the regatta with her larger one-design keelboats over the years (a Soverel 33 and a J/88, both named “Deviation”). Vogel is now enjoying the challenge of big-fleet racing and exhilarating downwind sailing.

Racing with her partner, Tim Longo, Vogel helms and Longo handles the front of the boat, and over the past year they’ve been working their way up the scoreboard, but have a long way to go to the top. “This is a totally new thing to sail in such a big fleet,” Vogel says. “J/88 events typically get a dozen boats at best, and the racing is much slower paced. The tactics are completely different and boats are fast downwind so it’s a ton of fun, but we are still learning a different style of racing. Having the smaller fleet [at the Helly Hansen Regatta] will give us a chance to work on our boatspeed.”

While the out-of-town armada is significant, local sailors look forward to the regatta every year, especially Tampa Bay’s PHRF sailors who’ve made the event a key fixture in their Suncoast Boat of the Year Series. For these fleets, which now comprise the regatta’s largest group with 38 entries across four divisions (Spinnaker, Non-Spinnaker, Racer-Cruiser and Cruising) organizers have added two days of long-course racing over the weekend. Depending on the wind strength and direction of the day, the race committee will plot a daylong course to test each team’s navigational and sailing skills, as well as their perseverance and desire to be first to the dock and first to the yacht club bar.

Local sailor Tim Landt, who has been an active sailor on the Tampa Bay waterfront for decades, is a registered competitor in the Cruising division in his new-to-him Nightwind 35, “Charisma.” He’s excited to see the regatta’s blossoming distance-race fleet and says the local growth and interest in racing older-generation yachts is good for the sport and for the Tampa Bay racing scene.

But it’s not all classic plastics in the distance fleet. In the Racer-Cruiser division will be the sparkling new Neo 43, owned by Ken Mungan of nearby Isles Yacht Club in Punta Gorda, Florida. Mungan purchased his sleek Italian-built 43-footer in 2022 with big plans to take on a few of the sport’s marque distance races, and local events like the Helly Hansen Sailing World Regatta offer he and his team an opportunity to learn the boat in a racing environment.

“When I turned 40 I needed a hobby and took up sailing,” Munger says. “I’m always trying new things and got into racing 2019. I did the Melges 24 for a while, but the Neo, because it’s a shallow-draft boat, allows me to do more local long-distance racing and we’re learning a lot.”

For this weekend’s regatta, Munger has more crew lined up than there are roles on the boat, but that’s fine with him. “We’re going to be overloaded, and I am anticipating a level of skill and organization that we don’t quite have yet,” he admits. “We’ll have two coaches and a new set of racing jibs that will be used for the first time, so it will be fun, and I’m looking forward to it.”

While the long-course racers are making their way around the bay, closer to shore, will be the multihulls: the high-tech A Class Catamarans , which have two divisions (Classic and Foiling) totaling 33 competitors, and the Weta Trimarans , with a smaller contingent from years past, return with nine boats, and among them is two-time defending champion and local Pete Merrifield looking for a three-peat.

         The iconic Lightning Class is one of the regatta’s largest one-design fleets, with 25 boats, five of which will be raced by members of the Starck family with a few world champions among them. Hall of Famer, Augie Diaz, of Miami, and Ched Proctor, of Southport, Connecticut, both world champions as well, always add to the high level of racing and camaradarie Lightning sailors enjoy all winter. The Helly Hansen Sailing World Regatta in St. Petersburg is a key warm-up event for the Lightning class’s hotly-contested two-regatta Southern Circuit with March events in St. Pete and Miami.

Sharing one racing circle immediately off the city front will be the 29-boat J/70 fleet and a reemergent J/24 fleet, both of which will no doubt provide quality racing for both professional and amateur sailors. The same will be true for the ever-competitive ORC fleet, with 11 entries, which will be racing further south. Bill and Jackie Baxter’s J/111 “Fireball,” from Stamford, Connecticut, which has won all of its events this winter will return to defend its 2023 ORC title, which it earned with ease, winning seven of eight races.

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 St. Petersburg Sailing Association

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The St. Petersburg Sailing Association is a dedicated group of sailors who race and cruise throughout the year on Tampa Bay. We are a relaxed, sailing-focused, volunteer-run club with one core mission: to encourage participation in the noble art of sailing . Let’s go sailing!

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