Managing risk on the water

Prepare your vessel for the unexpected

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Life on the water can be all about slowing down and enjoying the journey, but even the most peaceful trips can take an unexpected turn. From the odd bump to more serious mishaps, having the right insurance with us means you can relax, knowing that our help and support is there if things don’t quite go to plan.

To help you quickly understand the key risks that could arise whilst sailing, we’ve created an infographic that highlights the most common areas of exposure. From grounding and storm damage to collision and accidental damage, click on the circles to see the risk in action and read on to understand how proactive measures and the right insurance can help you feel more confident if these things happen.

Grounding

Storm damage

Collision

Accidental damage

Please select a threat

Grounding

Running aground is one of the most common mishaps. From hidden sandbanks to unmarked rocks, it can leave you stranded and cause serious damage to your hull. That’s where our insurance can give you peace of mind, knowing support is there if things don’t go to plan.

Storm damage

High winds, heavy seas and lightning can all take their toll. Storms can damage equipment, break moorings or even leave your boat unseaworthy. With our specialist cover in place, you’ll feel safe knowing you’re not facing the aftermath alone.

Collision

Busy harbours and waterways mean accidents can happen. A collision with another vessel or floating debris can cause expensive repairs and safety concerns. Our insurance can help soften the blow, so you feel confident during your time on the water.

Accidental damage

It only takes a moment, a misplaced spinnaker pole or a sudden movement and a hatch window can easily crack or shatter. Accidents like this are all part of life on the water but repairs can be costly and inconvenient. Having the right insurance means your covered for those unexpected mishaps, helping you to put things right and get back to sailing.

Let's look at how to minimise these risks

Minimising grounding

Always use updated nautical charts, combining them with GPS and sailing forums for accurate navigation.
Check tides and currents to plan routes effectively, avoiding shallow areas and adjusting for depth changes.
Install echo sounders with alarms to monitor water depth and maintain a vigilant lookout, especially near shorelines.
Prepare a detailed passage plan, adhering to SOLAS V regulations, and understand your vessel’s draft for safe navigation.

Minimising storm damage

Monitor weather forecasts and secure your boat with high-quality mooring lines and chafe guards.
Stow loose gear to prevent hazards and ensure bilge pumps are functional to manage flooding.
Reduce windage by lowering masts and removing sails and have an emergency plan in place for worsening conditions.
Monitor Weather conditions and sea state before and during your passage.

Minimising collisions

Familiarize yourself with COLREGs and maintain a constant lookout to prevent accidents.
Utilize radar and AIS for early detection of nearby vessels and communicate clearly using VHF radio.
Adjust speed and course proactively and plan your route to minimize risks.

Minimising accidental damage

Approach docking slowly, using fenders and quality mooring lines to prevent collisions. Practice Makes Perfect.
Stow equipment safely and securely to prevent damage and ensure proper weight distribution to prevent structural strain.
Conduct regular inspections to identify and address minor issues before they escalate.
Make sure fenders are securely fastened to prevent slippage.

In the event of a claim

Call the branch that arranged your cover, they know your policy details and can assist you directly.

Poole +44 (0)1202 725 165

Southampton +44 (0)23 8063 6677

Plymouth +44 (0)1752 485090

Not sure which branch handled your cover?

No problem – just call our central hotline on 0330 008 1345, and we’ll connect you to the right team quickly.

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Haven Knox-Johnston Specialist is a trading name of Howden UK Brokers Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority No. 307663. Registered in England and Wales under company registration number 02831010. Registered Office: One Creechurch Place, London, EC3A 5AF. Calls may be monitored and recorded for quality assurance purposes.