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Information Centre

Alongside our tips which provide you with advice on things like winter lay-up and ideas for planning your trips and voyages, here you will also find useful links and contacts that will be of interest to the sailing community. Feel free to let us know of any other companies or information that we can add to the Information Centre for the benefit of the sailing community.
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All Things Boat
Other Useful Links
All Things Boat

All Things Boat is an internet based resource for the boating community. Each year, All Things Boat updates their review of the best boat insurance providers. This review provides a quick tutorial on the basics of boat insurance and then reviews a wide range of insurance providers. The list includes insurance companies that cater to small powerboats as well as some international companies that cater to cruisers out traveling the world.

Ardent Training
Travel Partners
Ardent Training

Wherever you are in the world, we’ll bring our skipper courses from onboard our yacht ‘Mipha’ to you via your computer, tablet, or smartphone. All of our courses are presented online in video or text and pictures so that you may choose the learning style that suits you best. Physical charts, navigation tools and learning materials are sent in the post so that you can learn to navigate step-by-step with us and your own RYA login is provided instantly to access your chosen course. Knowledge checks are provided along the way so that you can monitor your progress, and you can even complete your RYA theory exam online at home too. With expert instructors on hand 7 days a week you can get in touch quickly and easily whenever you have a question. View our FREE TRIAL to find out more.

Asto
Sail Training
Asto

ASTO – The Association of Sail Training Organisations is the UK’s National Sail Training Organisation.  ASTO’s mission is to promote Sail Training as personal development for young and disabled people. Their membership is made up of more than 30 not-for-profit organisations that operate more than 50 Sail Training vessels around the UK.

Boatshed Brighton
Other Useful Links
Boatshed Brighton

We sell more boats and faster than any other brokerage!

Sell your boat with us today.

Brighton Marina Yacht Club
Yacht Clubs
Brighton Marina Yacht Club

Brighton Marina Yacht Club is very much part of Brighton Marina, founded in 1978 at time when Brighton Marina first opened.  Since that time BMYC has continued to evolve alongside development of the marina itself. The first club premises were floating – on the MV Medina, which was moored in the marina. BMYC relocated in September 2015 to a new home afloat in the heart of Brighton Marina, surrounded by members’ boats. It is their largest space yet, with excellent facilities for members to enjoy, for events and business collaborations; and of course they extend a warm welcome to the many visiting yachtsmen from around the UK and overseas who find a safe and friendly haven in Brighton Marina.

The Topsail Bar is well-stocked complementing the excellent galley; a light and airy lounge area and extensive waterside terrace combine to produce the newest and most attractive social and sporting facilities in the City of Brighton.

Chichester Yacht Club
Yacht Clubs
Chichester Yacht Club

Chichester Yacht Club is a friendly family Club situated in a beautiful position on Chichester Harbour, with stunning views over the water, a bar and restaurant, and a full range of facilities for club and private functions.

The club is open year round, with a busy programme of sailing and social events, and owners of yachts, motor boats, dinghies and remote control model yachts are equally welcome. The club is within walking distance of two marinas, and members organise a lively series of sailing and social events.

The sheltered waters are ideal for training and coaching at all levels, and there is an active year-round dinghy racing and cruising programme. The location is also ideal for other waterborne activities, such as canoeing and paddle boarding.

Classic Sailing
Travel Partners
Classic Sailing

Classic Sailing Ltd offers tall ship and small ship sailing experiences all over the world.

‘Hands on’ sailing participation is at the core of all our Classic Sailing holidays. You don’t have to be a sailor, our skippers help you become the crew on tall ships, barques, brigs, schooners, gaff cutters, luggers and privateers. Whether you want an epic sailing expedition or a weekend taster, we can offer expert advice based on 22 years of experience helping you fulfil your sailing dreams. Over 10,000 independent travellers and adventure seekers have joined Classic Sailing vessels to explore coasts, islands and oceans worldwide since 1997.

Eda Frandsen Sailing Ltd
Travel Partners
Eda Frandsen Sailing Ltd

We are Eda Frandsen Sailing Ltd

Offering Unforgettable Adventure Sailing Holidays in Cornwall & the West Coast of Scotland on board 60ft traditional Gaff cutter Eda Frandsen.

If you require any further information please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Financial Conduct Authority
Other Useful Links
Financial Conduct Authority

The financial services regulators in the United Kingdom whose aim is to protect consumers, ensure our industry remains stable and promote healthy competition between financial services providers.

Topsail Insurance Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Financial Ombudsman Service
Other Useful Links
Financial Ombudsman Service

The FOS was set up by parliament to sort out individual complaints that consumers and financial businesses aren’t able to resolve themselves. Their service is free to consumers.

First Class Sailing
Travel Partners
First Class Sailing

First Class Sailing provide the full range of RYA sailing courses and a huge variety of sailing and yachting activities to help you experience what WE at First Class Sailing LOVE about sailing – the adventure, excitement, 360 degree horizon, camaraderie, freedom, the escape, that 2 days on a boat is like 2 weeks on a beach.

Whether you’re a beginner looking to step on board for the first time, or an experienced sailor looking to develop your skills and open up new sailing opportunities, you can find a course which is perfectly suited to your level. You’ll develop the confidence as well as the practical skills and knowledge you’ll need to enjoy the freedom and excitement of sailing.

First Class Sailing
Sail Training
First Class Sailing

First Class Sailing have a very customer service focused approach in providing the full range of RYA Sailing courses on yachts.  In addition they provide RYA classroom training on navigation, VHF Radio, Sea Survival, Diesel Engine Maintenance and First Aid.

They also offer Sailing Adventures to places like the Norwegian Fjords and up to the Lofoten Islands in the Arctic Circle, the Faroes, and the West Coast of Scotland.  They also partake in races like the Rolex Fastnet Race, the ARC across the Atlantic and the Round the Island Race.
They use experienced instructors and skippers who are passionate about teaching.

Halcyon Yachts – International Yacht Delivery
Travel Partners
Halcyon Yachts – International Yacht Delivery

Halcyon Yachts is one of the UK’s leading yacht delivery companies. Whether you have a sailing yacht or motor boat, a super yacht or a family cruiser, you can ALWAYS trust Halcyon Yachts to deliver with care and professionalism.

Our yacht delivery skippers are all qualified to RYA Yachtmaster Ocean or higher. Our yacht delivery crew are also highly experienced and qualified. We have an extensive network of sailors based around the UK and internationally.

Halcyon Yachts ensures that all yacht deliveries are made safely, securely and with utmost respect of the owners wishes. We are on hand 7 days a week to help guide you through the delivery process and to ensure an excellent service from start to finish.

Hamble School Of Yachting
Sail Training
Hamble School Of Yachting

One of the leading RYA sea schools in the UK, specialising in RYA Sailing courses, RYA Motor courses and RYA Powerboat courses.

Health Staff Discounts
Other Useful Links
Health Staff Discounts

Providing exclusive offers for NHS Staff. Connecting businesses looking to attract NHS Staff with NHS Staff looking for good deals. On this site you will find exclusive Health Service discounts, offers and deals.

Island Cruising Nz
Travel Partners
Island Cruising Nz

Island Cruising NZ, formerly known as the Island Cruising Association, provides resources for cruisers wanting to prepare for long coastal or offshore voyages. We also run yacht cruising rallies around New Zealand and the islands of the South Pacific; namely Tonga, Fiji, Vanuatu and New Caledonia. Our rallies are designed to allow sailors to cruise the islands aboard their own boats, or assist as crew on someone else’s boat. Although our rallies have typically attracted owners of sailing yachts, we welcome owners of offshore capable motor boats to join us too.

We provide education for sailors to prepare their vessels for sailing offshore, suitable for both new and experienced ocean sailors, through our online cruising preparation workshops and members resources. We can provide assistance with Customs, Immigration, Health and Biosecurity in and out of each country, connect you with other sailors heading in your direction, give you lots of information about the places you are visiting and we hold social events at various points along the way.

We also partner with reputable marine brands who offer advice and discounts to our members, and we produce a monthly newsletter magazine.

Jeanneua Owners Network
Owners Associations
Jeanneua Owners Network

The Jeanneau Owners Network is an Independent website developed by Jeanneau Owners as the authoritative resource for those who own, or are interested in Jeanneau Yachts and Boats Worldwide.

Kadore Yacht Charter
Travel Partners
Kadore Yacht Charter

Kadore Yacht Charter is a small business offering skippered and bareboat charter on the West Coast of Scotland. Based in Crinan, Argyll, you will be in the heart of some of the most beautiful sailing waters in the UK. Our bespoke service provides all you need in terms of equipment and sailing itinerary. You will be in easy reach of ‘must see’ locations teeming with unique wildlife such as Mull, Staffa, Jura, Islay, and many more where you can ‘drop the anchor’ and stay over. Kadore is an explorers’ yacht fitted for comfort and protection, her powerful engine complements her sailing strengths. Should you be an experienced yachtsman, or a novice check out the KYC website for more information and how to book.

Latesail Ltd
Travel Partners
Latesail Ltd

Your first port of call for worldwide yacht charters.

We are the largest online consolidator of bareboat, flotilla, by the cabin and crewed yacht charters across the world’s major charter fleets and smaller operators. We deal in last minute and early bird bookings and choose charter operators that have a history of positive customer feedback. Our long-standing relationships with them means we often have exclusive offers not available elsewhere.

Browse more than 6,000 live charters online or, if you need some guidance, our expert team is on hand to give you honest, unbiased advice on when and where to sail for the widest fleet availability and keenest prices.

Learn 2 Sail
Sail Training
Learn 2 Sail

RYA accredited training centre, Learn2Sail, offering professional sail training courses. Whether you are taking your first step in learning to sail or if you are already an accomplished sailor, Learn2Sail offers you tailor-made sailing courses in the stunning waters of the Algarve, Portugal to help develop your sailing knowledge, experience and expertise.

Based in the spectacular surroundings of Portimao on the Portuguese Algarve you will have the opportunity to sail in near perfect conditions all year round to gain the confidence you need to handle your own yacht or charter boat.

Husband and wife team, Mark and Jane Sanders, are supported by the professional Learn 2 Sail crew who will ensure that you have a fantastic sailing adventure in the beautiful Algarve while teaching you how to sail.

Little Ship Club
Owners Associations
Little Ship Club

The Little Ship Club founded in 1926 is a Yacht Club for sailors, powerboaters and non sailors from the UK and overseas. A warm welcome awaits at it’s clubhouse on the bank of the Thames at Southwark Bridge. Members can participate in Rallies, Training, the lecture programme, social events and private dining as well as many other benefits of membership including a generous supplier discount scheme and use of the cabins for overnight accommodation. See website for more details and how to become a member.

Maritime Injury Center
Other Useful Links
Maritime Injury Center

The Maritime Injury Center strives to provide expert information on all topics related to maritime accidents and injuries. The team is passionate about helping injured maritime workers and their families get the answers and support they need.

Maybe Sailing Ltd
Travel Partners
Maybe Sailing Ltd

Hands on classic sailing adventures and sail training in UK, Europe and the Caribbean.

Our primary purposes are to supply exciting sail training adventures for underprivileged young persons and vulnerable adults, as well as to the public in general. The organisation also carries out adult hands on classic sail training voyages.

Merseyside Adventure Sailing Trust
Sail Training
Merseyside Adventure Sailing Trust

Merseyside Adventure Sailing Trust works to promote by exclusively charitable means the mental, spiritual, moral and physical development and improvement of young people. MAST also aims to provide opportunities to empower them to develop their full capacities, enabling them to become responsible members of society and improve their lives.

National Hurricane Centre
Weather
National Hurricane Centre

NWS Mission

Provide weather, water and climate data, forecasts, warnings, and impact-based decision support services for the protection of life and property and enhancement of the national economy.

NWS Vision

A Weather-Ready Nation: Society is prepared for and responds to weather, water, and climate-dependent events.

Nautilus Yachting
Travel Partners
Nautilus Yachting

Great value Sailing Holidays, Yacht Charter & Flotilla Sailing Holidays in Greece, Turkey, Croatia, Italy, Mediterranean, BVI & Caribbean. Sailing holidays to suit everyone – whether you’re an experienced skipper or an eager novice – great flexibility means your holiday is designed to suit you.

Nimbus Owners Club Uk
Owners Associations
Nimbus Owners Club Uk

The Nimbus Owners Club UK was founded in 1998 and today has in excess of 100 Nimbus motor boats in the club.  The popular Swedish designed boats are produced in Sweden by Nimbus Boats AB of Gothenburg and marketed in the UK by Offshore Power Boats of Lymington, Hampshire.

The club offers members a comprehensive modern website together with rallies and social events held throughout the year in various locations.

Noonsite
Other Useful Links
Noonsite

Noonsite aims to provide a one-stop website featuring essential information on all matters of interest to sailors planning an offshore voyage anywhere in the world, whether already underway or still in the preparatory stages.

Ocean Cruising Club
Owners Associations
Ocean Cruising Club

Qualification for membership of this prestigious club is by completion of a continuous ocean passage of at least 1000 nautical miles, measured along the rhumb line, in a vessel no more than 70 feet in length.

Membership is open to anyone aboard, either skipper or certified as competent by the skipper.

Visit our dedicated Ocean Cruising Club page:

Peters & May
Logistics
Peters & May

Peters & May provides worldwide boat transport services to many of the premier race teams, super-yachts and manufacturers, moving more than 6,000 boats each year. With over 25 years experience, a global network of offices, dedicated loadmasters and in-house VAT and customs experts, Peters & May is best placed to provide the level of service you should expect from your boat transport partner.

Pyd – Professional Yacht Deliveries Ltd
Travel Partners
Pyd – Professional Yacht Deliveries Ltd

Professional Yacht Deliveries is the specialist of choice for many of the leading names in the marine industry. PYD was founded in 1995 as a dedicated yacht delivery company and this core activity remains central to our business. Over the years, however, customers’ demands have seen us broaden our provision progressively to embrace a wide range of ancillary services, including bespoke yacht management and own boat training. There is now almost no aspect of your yacht delivery, boat purchase or cruising plans where PYD cannot make a significant contribution. With a portfolio of commercial clients, including some of the world’s most prestigious boat builders, charter companies and brokers, as well as hundreds of discerning and experienced private owners, PYD is committed to maintaining the highest possible standards of seamanship and customer care. Whether the vessel is sail or motor, superyacht or family cruiser, and whatever or wherever the requirements, the PYD approach is always meticulous and thorough, but above all professional.

Royal Southampton Yacht Club
Yacht Clubs
Royal Southampton Yacht Club

Like all royal yacht clubs, the Royal Southampton takes pride in its history and values. But today’s RSYC is also one of the most dynamic and active. Extensive racing activities span everything from Sunday mornings ‘round the cans’ to jointly running the first few days of the Cowes Regatta.

The Club hosted superb J Class racing in the Solent – and also fielded a team of race officers for the sailing events of the 2012 Olympics. Additionally the Cruising group – comprising both sail and power- makes ambitious passages to far off destinations yet ensuring, that no charming rally venue or reciprocal yacht club in the Solent is left unexplored. Ever open to innovation, RSYC has instituted a Remote Controlled Yacht section which has a well supported regular programme of racing, plus year-round activities.

There’s a lot more than sailing – it’s a fun, friendly, highly social club, offering a great range of events. Who couldn’t enjoy a party in the glorious clubhouse overlooking Ocean Village Marina? Is there a more perfect spot for a lazy lunch on a sunny day, or for a twilight drink, than the stunning Gins Clubhouse, on the beautifully unspoilt Beaulieu River?

Many of our members do not own a boat. Some don’t even sail. Or motor. They are members because the club atmosphere is a lot of fun, with so much to offer – though it’s interesting how many find themselves drawn onto the water eventually…

Sail Charter International
Travel Partners
Sail Charter International

Sail Charter International, launched in early 2018, has grown rapidly to already become a well-loved and reputable yacht charter price comparison website. “SCI” is NOT a fully automated robotic site – the independent professionals working within “SCI” review each and every quote/offer and the individual personal service given to their clients has been very well received.

“SCI” are best known for offering an independent and impartial comparison on sailing yachts in the Mediterranean’s most popular sailing areas, but they have a lot more availability and are able to offer charter options worldwide in over 70 countries, across 6 continents. Additionally they are able to offer sail training, regatta and flotilla organisation/operation (especially for yacht clubs) and all-inclusive cabin/yacht charter.

Seafarer
Travel Partners
Seafarer

Sailing Holidays offers Quality Flotilla Holidays in Greece, Turkey and Croatia, worldwide yacht charter, Beach Club and Learn to sail courses.

Skipperfriends
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Skipperfriends

No more uncertainty in the port! The PORT KING app shows 24 videos of harbour manoeuvres for berthing and undocking with several variants, depending on the given situation. They are kept short and clear and can be used immediately.

The manoeuvres are designed by experienced skippers so that even a small crew can perform them safely. A must for beginners and advanced skippers, because even a small mistake can be very expensive. This app points out how to do it right.

The Cruising Association
Owners Associations
The Cruising Association

The Cruising Association is Britain’s leading organisation for cruising sailors. With more than 4000 members across the globe, they provide services, information, help and advice to sailors worldwide. The CA has its base at CA House in Limehouse basin in London and includes 19 UK and worldwide sections providing specialised knowledge and events wherever their members may cruise.

Topsail Insurance are honoured to have an active involvement with The Cruising Association and provide a specific scheme for the CA membership.

The Weather Window
Weather
The Weather Window

Frank Singleton’s Weather site gives many links to forecasts and a wealth of weather information on weather and using forecasts. He is the author of Reeds Weather HandbookFrank does not offer a forecasting service but tries to help sailors understand weather and forecasts.

Top Tips
Topsail Tips
Top Tips

Cruising within Italian waters.
If cruising within Italian Waters, be sure to ensure that you have provided your insurer with the following details: –

Engine hp
Engine Name and Serial Number if possible
Engine trade mark and identification number
Tender Serial Number
Outboard Motor Serial Number
Outboard Motor hp

This information now needs to be showing on your Italian Liability Certificate. Failure to have this information on your certificate could result in a fine.

How old is your standing rigging.
How old is your standing rigging? It is known among sailor and insurers alike that the standing rigging should be inspected regularly.

If embarking on a long Ocean voyage, Topsail will require an annual rigging inspection by a qualified rigging surveyor to be provided and accepted by us once the rigging is 7 years old. Any recommendations as a result of this inspection will need to be complied with. This will be required until the rigging is replaced.

For more local and coastal cruising, these requirements are more relaxed and every 5 years we will require a rigging inspection by a qualified rigging surveyor to be provided and accepted by us once the rigging is 15 years old. Any recommendations as a result of this inspection will need to be complied with. This will be required until the rigging is replaced.

Travel to dangerous countries.
If you are living in the UK, it may be a condition of your travel insurance policy that you do not travel to areas which the Foreign & Commonwealth office advise against travelling to. If you do so, this could invalidate your insurance and mean any treatment or assistance you require will be your responsibility. Remember to check the foreign travel advice online before you book your trip!

Bilge pumps.
You may find that when you are going to be undertaking an ocean passage on your vessel, your boat insurance company has a requirement for bilge pumps capable of pumping a specific capacity, usually 25 US gallons (95 litres) per minute, to be on board and operational.

There have been incidents in the past where well-built offshore cruising yachts have hit containers or similar, but the pumps onboard have not been able to keep the yacht afloat despite the initial damage only being minor. This resulted in the yachts being abandoned and subsequent total losses when they could potentially have been saved. Fortunately the crews were rescued and there were no fatalities. It may vary depending on your insurance provider, however our insurers have carried out a considerable amount of research into this and now apply it to all yachts going offshore. The pump doesn’t need to be installed/plumbed into the vessel, we are happy for it to be mounted on a piece of wood and kept as an additional portable pump.

Single-Handed sailing.
Plenty of people around the world sail single handed every day, but if you are a novice sailor or you are used to having crew around you often, this may seem daunting. Before you set out, here’s some things you should think about
– Know the boat:
It is paramount whilst sailing that you can make decisions quickly and act confidently, even more so when you are on your own. It may help to do a test run with a crew member on board, but not assisting you.
– Insurance:
Your insurance provider may have restrictions around how many hours you can sail single handed for – it is worth checking your insurer’s stance on this, as failure to comply with their restrictions could invalidate yacht insurance. It is also a condition of all insurances that you act as responsibly as you would if you were uninsured, meaning you must always try and minimise a potential loss, even if you are alone.

Insurance survey.
Is your vessel due a survey? It is common practise for insurers to require a full out of water survey on a vessel once it reaches a certain age and for this to be regularly updated after that point in order to ensure that the vessel is in a seaworthy condition and that any issues are rectified to prevent a potential loss or dangerous situation occurring whilst you are onboard your vessel. We would suggest it is also good practise to have a regular survey, putting your mind at rest that you know your vessel is structurally sound.

Changes to documentation
From April, you will see changes to all your insurance renewal documentation. As part of the Financial Conduct Authority’s move to “increase transparency and engagement at renewal”, the premium that you paid last year will be shown on your renewal documents to allow you to make a comparison alongside a statement to encourage you to consider the renewal proposal and the possibility of switching insurer.

However, be careful that you are not misled by thinking you are paying more than last year. For example, UK Insurance Premium Tax has increased a number of times in recent periods, there may be changes in the value of your craft or you may be undertaking different cruising, so it may not accurately reflect what you paid previously.

Consider the overall service, policy conditions and excess, which makes comparing providers more than just a previous premium comparison.

In summary, it is good thing that you actively seek and consider alternatives, so get other quotes from companies such as Topsail, to make sure you are getting the best overall deal and the renewal is correct for your own circumstances but always ensure comparisons are on a like for like basis.

Medical declaration.
The requirements of insurance companies can differ, but ordinarily it is best for you to declare any conditions that could cause a claim or that the trip is dependent on, as well as any conditions that are ongoing or have caused symptoms requiring treatment.

A medical declaration is a statement by yourself declaring any medical conditions you currently have and/or any procedures you have had done or are expecting to have, as well as any ongoing investigations. Should you neglect to do this, it could result in any claims that arise from your medical declaration being declined as there would be no cover in place for pre-existing conditions. For example, if you were taking blood pressure tablets and neglected to declare this, there would be no cover in place should you have a claim as a result of your High Blood Pressure.

If you do have any concerns or are unsure as to what you need to declare, you could contact the company to see what they request you to declare and they can advise accordingly.

Shopping around.
When buying a boat or renewing your boat insurance, it is usual for people to seek more than one insurance quotation. Whilst price is a key factor to many, make sure the comparison is on a like for like basis.

Below is a list of some of the things to keep an eye out for when comparing boat insurance:
Are the boat details identical?
Is the Total Sum Insured the same?
What is the Third Party Liability limit?
What Excess / Deductible applies to the quotes? (If you are happy to bear a higher excess then do not be afraid to ask your insurer. This will likely result in a reduced premium).
What cruising parameters does each quote provide?
Is the cover being offered comparable?

All of the above will impact the cost of your insurance premium, so be sure you have all the details when making a comparison.

Making a claim.
Would you know what to do if you needed to make an insurance claim?

It is always worth making sure that you have the claims contacts to hand before you travel and maybe save it on your mobile or portable device so you can easily access it.

Some insurers will require you to contact them directly and others via your broker or maybe a third party claims handler. The claims handling information will be found within your Policy documentation, but if you are uncertain please ask your insurer before you leave.

Legal expenses cover.
Many of you will have been given the option of Legal Expenses Insurance when buying insurance for your boat, but is it just another extra cost and is it worth having?

Cover varies, but as a general rule of thumb it can offer your protection against things such as uninsured loss recovery, personal injury pursuit, contract disputes and prosecutions.

It would take a full article to discuss the benefits so speak to your insurance advisor for them to fully explain what is covered. However, it is a product that is good value for money, so is definitely worth considering. Topsail recommend their Legal Expenses Insurance to their customers.

Selling your boat.
If you have sold your vessel or are looking to sell it in the future, make sure that you let your insurer know when the sale is completed as you will no longer have a financial interest in the vessel and the policy will no longer be valid.

Depending on how long you have remaining on cover and the terms of your cover, you may be entitled to a return of premium for the time left on the boat insurance policy.

If you have been satisfied with the service we have provided, then why not recommend the new owner to us. We offer a referral scheme that can save them money.

Optional extra cover.Does your insurer offer any additional or optional benefits? It can sometimes be very worthwhile to pay an additional premium to protect your no claims bonus in the event of a claim, or have your excess removed. If you’re not sure whether it is worth the extra cost, it is worth considering the amount of no claims discount you receive and how your premium would be affected if this was not applicable, or whether you can afford to pay the first few hundred pounds of a claim known as your excess.

Excess waiver insurance.
If you are chartering/hiring a boat, you will more than likely be required to pay a deposit or ‘excess’. While the charter company itself sometimes offers an insurance to cover this, it may be cheaper to look elsewhere.

What are the benefits of a protection excess waiver policy? In the event that you damage the boat and the charter company do not return the deposit you paid, you can claim this deposit off your insurance company to get that amount back, saving you a significant sum of money.

Long-term crew insurance.
If you are under long-term sailing-related employment, did you know you might not have suitable travel insurance?

Many policies have exclusions for personal liability or injury arising out of your employment, or may lapse cover completely. It is important to contact your current insurer and advise them of what your employment involves, to ensure you hold adequate cover.

Additionally, the Maritime Labour Convention 2014, designed to protect seamen and women, has a number of requirements which a Crewman’s Insurance can provide, such as repatriation to your home country if you are unwell, or compensation payments if you cannot work due to an injury.

Long term travel insurance.
If you are travelling away for a long period, it is imperative that your insurer is aware of this. The longer you spend away from home, the more your chance of having a claim increases.

Many travel insurance policies include limitations to the length of time you can spend away from home and may have additional terms for trips such as these, such as increased policy excesses or exclusions. It is certainly better to be safe than sorry however, so we would strongly recommend finding a suitable insurer.

Using a delivery skipper.
Insurers understand that it is not always possible for you to move your boat yourself, and most will not have an issue with a Professional Delivery Skipper being employed to handle this for you. If you do hire a Skipper, it is very important to ensure that they have suitable insurance in place. Be sure to contact your own boat insurer to ensure you are suitably covered for this.

Dual insurance.
When you submit a claim, often insurers will request that you declare any other insurances you have in place that may cover your loss.

This is because many policies, such as travel, yacht and home insurance, can cross over and cover the same risks. For example, some home insurance policies include cover for items you take from the home when you are travelling, which may also be covered under your yacht insurance policy or yacht travel insurance policy. It is important to find out what cover you have from the policies you hold, to ensure you are not doubling up unnecessarily.

Agreed value policy.
What is an Agreed Value policy? In the yacht insurance industry there are agreed value and market value policies. Most of the UK and European policies are based on agreed value, which is where you set the sum insured based on the current market value of the boat and in the event that the boat goes “glug glug”, it will pay out that amount.

If you have a market value policy, you set out the value and if it goes “glug glug”, the insurer has the right to question your valuation and may make you a lesser offer because they feel that it is not worth what you think it is.

What to insure your boat for.
Important if you have an Agreed Value policy.

Now there is a very important message we want to get across to everyone, which could potentially save you money. Make sure the amount you insure your boat for is adjusted each year in line with its fair market value.

The reason it is so important (and many insurers fail to remind you), is that the premium is linked to the sum insured and if you do not adjust your insured value regularly, you are potentially paying too much premium.

Yes, if you have a higher sum and it went “glug glug”, then you would get a bigger pay out, but the odds on that happening are potentially far less than the extra premium you are paying each year. So be savvy and check and adjust your value each year.

Reciprocal healthcare.
Many countries around the world hold reciprocal healthcare agreements with the United Kingdom, not just the EEA. This means that if you are travelling in a foreign country and become unwell, you are entitled to medical care at the same level as a resident of that country.

It is important to remember you probably won’t receive care at the level you would expect in the UK, so you should still have a suitable travel or private health insurance in place which covers you whilst at sea too.

Acting as a prudent uninsured.
When loss or damage occurs, you should act as if you are uninsured and take all of the necessary steps to minimise the loss in the first instance.

This involves but is not limited to taking immediate action to protect your vessel from further damage, enlisting help (amateur or professional) to safeguard your boat and equipment, and retaining any broken items for inspection.

Be sure to notify your insurer of any damage at the earliest possible opportunity.

Preparing for a Medical Emergency.
Going on a long sailing trip? There is no need to worry, as long as you have considered the risks involved. You should ensure that there is cover for medical evacuation under the insurance policy you choose, as this means that you will not have to worry about paying emergency transportation expenses with your own money and you can feel at ease when you are in remote areas.

You should also strongly consider including a medically trained person in your crew, as this can make all the difference in a real emergency situation and make sure you have some medical equipment on board for any initial first aid required.

Train-Aid
Other Useful Links
Train-Aid

Emergency First Aid at Work. The Level 2 Emergency First Aid At Work course is nationally recognised and meets the requirements outlined by the HSE. The course teaches real lifesaving skills that can be used in and out of the workplace.

By its conclusion candidates will leave with the confidence to help in the event of a sudden illness or accident whilst at work.

Tropical Storm Risk (Tsr)
Weather
Tropical Storm Risk (Tsr)

Tropical Storm Risk (TSR) offers a leading resource for predicting and mapping tropical storm activity worldwide. The public TSR web site provides forecasts and information to benefit basic risk awareness and decision making from tropical storms. The new TSR Business service and web site offers real-time products of unrivalled accuracy for the detailed mapping and prediction of tropical storm impacts worldwide. TSR has won two major insurance industry awards – the British Insurance Awards for Risk Management (2006) and for London Market Innovation (2004).

UKSA
Sail Training
UKSA

Offers a range of training focusing on youth development, schools and groups, and professional training.  Whether you’re new to the water, a maritime professional, or anything in between, UKSA can give you the inspiration you need to fulfil your potential.

Venturesail Holidays
Travel Partners
Venturesail Holidays

Choose from over 300 fully crewed adventures on our fleet of unique boats. Experience wildlife encounters, learn new skills and explore amazing locations from a different perspective. Book a berth, a cabin, or a private charter and discover the world under sail.

Wetterwelt Gmbh
Weather
Wetterwelt Gmbh

WetterWelt GmbH was founded in 1999 and Dr Meeno Schrader and his team to provide high quality customer orientated weather service.
With 30 years of experience and over 40,000 sea miles as skipper through vast varied regions of the earth Meeno and his team are justly qualified to offer a trip consulting service for any part of the globe.
As part of his service you will receive all the necessary weather information that you need so that you can make clear and confident decisions:

  • Detailed descriptions of weather condition developments
  • Forecasts of wind direction, wind strength, gusts, wave height, visibility, and significant weather
  • Commentary to help putting all the information together
  • Weather charts with isobars/fronts in 12-hour increments

World Cruising Club
Travel Partners
World Cruising Club

ARC (Atlantic Rubicon Challenge), World Arc, Arc Baltic, Caribbean 1500, ARC USA, ARC Europe, ARC Portugal, Malts Cruise.

World Cruising Club is the world’s leading sailing rally specialist, with seven distinct rallies taking place every year.  From round-the-world adventures and ocean crossings, to social cruising and island hopping.

World Cruising Club was born with the very first ARC in 1986, the first-ever ocean crossing rally. They now help more than 450 boats and 1200 people to achieve their sailing dreams every year.

Topsail Insurance Ltd are able to offer bespoke 16 month Yacht and Travel Insurance policies for those participating in the World ARC, offering you the peace of mind that you are covered for the duration of your adventure.

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