Tips and advice - Sport boat insurance

Towergate Mardon has been providing boat insurance for over a quarter of a century, so we are well placed to advise on how to help reduce the risk of claims and provide tips for trouble free boating.

Here are some key tips:

General tips for sports boats

• Check your sports boat engine and fuel before every tip
• Tell others where you are going
• Carry communication equipment - regularly check that the equipment is working
• Make regular checks on tides and weather as conditions can change rapidly
• Carry buoyancy aids on your sports boat
• Make sure your sports boat is well maintained and its engine is serviced regularly
• Carry flares and notify someone of your expected return time when putting out to sea
• Wear engine cut off lanyards, when fitted
• Lock outboard motors to the transom
• If possible and applicable store your sports boat in a secure building and avoid remote locations
• Mark your sports boat and trailer, preferably with electronic system such as Datatag. Also mark your possession on board

Ropes and rigging tips for sports boats

• Ensure that tape is not covering stainless steel to avoid corrosion
• Change worn ropes especially at points of contact and friction
• Green ropes can easily be washed
• Replace worn splices especially those caused by stainless shackles
• Check for signs of any UV degradation especially if the core of the rope is exposed

Machinery and engine controls tips for sports boats

• Regularly check the stern gland for gaiter failure as this gradually waters so the packing and gaiter clips should be doubled up
• Ensure that the propeller locking pin is not corroded by ensuring that adequate cathodic protection is provided which also needs routine maintenance
• Inspect and replace stiff, worn and corroded engine and steering controls as part of routine maintenance. Lubricate and ensure free running
• During laid up periods safeguard the engine as per the manufactures instructions and drain down cooling systems

Anchoring tips for sports boats

• Check that the anchor is the right size and weight for the sports boat. Also check the length, weight and condition of the warp chain shackles. As a general guide the chain needs to be 3 to 4 times the depth of water and the warp 6 to 8 times. With tidal waters in the UK this should be based on the maximum possible depth. Also consider the conditions, rough weather or increased windage which will require more length. If it doubt let it out
• The measuring of chain and warp can be done with paint, tags with the respective boat length between each marking
• To stop the “snubbing” of the warp considering lowering a weight or “chum” down the chain to help dampen the snatching
• Consider the anchoring location and conditions such as offshore wind, the sea bed type and the location of any obstructions. Also allow for a 360 degree swing and other boats lines

Trailer towing tips for sports boats

• Always check the condition of the trailer especially if the trailer is used in salt water. Always check that brakes and cables are not seized or kinked. Always check tyre pressures and conditions including the spare. Check the lighting board and connections. Check the condition and length of breakaway cables. Ensure that the jockey wheel works and can be secured
• Make sure the towing vehicle is powerful and heavy enough for the sports boat that is being towed. The total trailed weight should not excess 85% of the vehicle’s kerb weight
• Make sure you have clear vision beyond the sports boat, fit mirror extensions if required
• Ensure that the tow ball is lightly oiled
• Check the lights and brakes before setting off
• When loading the sports boat onto the trailer make sure that the weight distribution is right as this could lead to snaking problems. Make sure the Sports Boat is secured to the anchor points and check for lose items on the deck or cockpit
• Fit a wheel clamp to your trailer whenever it is unattended
• Fit a hitch lock to your trailer as well as a wheel clamp

For more information on this sports boat insurance policy please go to the details and documents section.