What is Bluewater Cruising?
When insurers refer to "Bluewater cruising" for boats, they mean a specific type of sailing or boating activity that involves navigating open ocean waters, often far from coastlines and in potentially challenging conditions. Unlike coastal or inland sailing, Bluewater cruising presents a higher level of risk due to its nature, which directly impacts the terms and pricing of boat insurance policies.
Key Characteristics of Bluewater Cruising include:
- Open Ocean Navigation: Bluewater cruising involves extended voyages far from land and deep into the open ocean. Sailors may be out of sight of land for extended periods.
- Challenging Conditions: Open waters expose boats to a range of unpredictable conditions, including storms, heavy seas, and strong currents. The risk of encountering harsh weather is much greater than in coastal sailing.
- Self-Sufficiency: Cruisers need to be self-reliant, as they might be far from ports or emergency services. This includes having enough provisions, spare parts, and safety gear for long journeys.
- Long-Distance Travel: Bluewater cruising often spans thousands of miles, sometimes crossing entire oceans or circumnavigating the globe.
Due to elevate level of risks, insurance companies treat Bluewater cruising differently from other types of boating activities.
Bluewater Cruising Insurance
Insurers use the term “Bluewater cruising” to differentiate between different types of boating activities when underwriting boat insurance policies. Bluewater cruising carries higher risks compared to coastal or inland sailing, insurance cover for such activities may have higher premiums and more stringent requirements, including safety equipment, vessel condition, and the qualifications and experience of the boat’s crew.
It’s essential for boat owners planning Bluewater cruises to understand the specific requirements and coverage offered by their insurance policies and ensure that they meet all the insurer’s criteria to maintain coverage while engaging in this adventurous and challenging form of boating.
Key coverage elements and requirements include:
- Vessel Condition: Insurers typically require that vessels are built and equipped for the rigours of open ocean travel. This may include mandatory safety equipment like life rafts, EPIRBs (Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacons), and satellite communication devices.
- Crew Qualifications: The experience and qualifications of the boat’s crew are crucial. Insurers often require proof that the crew has the skills necessary to handle long voyages and challenging conditions.
- Geographical Coverage: Bluewater cruising policies often specify the regions where the boat is covered. Some policies exclude high-risk areas such as pirate-prone waters or extreme weather zones.
- Extended Coverage Options: Policies may offer additional coverage for emergency towing, salvage, and medical evacuation. These are especially important in Bluewater cruising, where access to immediate help is limited.
Get a Quote - Competitive Premiums
Getting a quote that meets your needs can be difficult. Here at Topsail Insurance we make insurance simple. With years of experience as marine insurance specialists and over 1,000 reviews on Google, we are leading insurance providers trusted by Bluewater cruisers. We’d be delighted to quote for any of your Bluewater requirements whether that’s a trans-Atlantic crossing, cruising the southern Pacific Islands, the Caribbean or anywhere in between.
Your Policy
When you request a quote from Topsail, one of our expert advisors will work with you to discuss your planned itinerary, your vessel, and your experience to provide a tailor-made quote that ensures you’re covered for the adventure ahead. We provide comprehensive boat insurance and travel insurance to ensure that both you and your boat are fully protected, for your peace of mind. We’re proud to offer competitive premiums. Get a quote today.
Change of Plans?
Don't worry if your plans change. We can adjust your policy mid-term if required.
Please get in touch with our team for a quote.
