A delayed boating season has pushed back the typical stream of claims that is associated with marine insurance – but there are still some valuable lessons learned and relearned so far this year, says the national broker for Sail Canada.
“Typically May 24 is when we get the rush,” says Andrew Robertson, president of Skippers’ Plan Boat Insurance, and vice president of the marine department of CG&B Group. “This year, it has not been the best of weather as winter hung around, and the whole season has been delayed. Canada Day weekend was our big claims time.”
Skippers’ Plan, which is a part of the CG&B Group (recently acquired by Arthur J.
Gallagher) is the national broker for Sail Canada, which is the authority for sailing in the country.
And with summer finally here, it marks the beginning of peak claim season, says Robertson.
“So what have we seen so far this year? We have the usual racing boats bumping, raccoons dumping, power boats crashing and masts that are smashing,” he says. “We also saw an increase in claims due to snow load collapsing buildings and boat covers.”
And that provides some lessons learned, and re-learned, says Robertson.
“Much can be learned from the mistakes and misfortune of others and a few themes are recurring this year,” he says. “Here are the top three pieces of advice for clients for 2014 so far.”
Sailboat rigging does not last forever
“Know that you are going to pay for the replacement rigging whether you have a claim or not. Why wait until you have a broken mast claim to pay for new rigging?” says Robertson. “ And remember, this also includes rod rigging.” (continued.)
#pb#
Blue Poly tarps from Canadian Tire don't provide protection from 700 lbs of snow piled on your boat
“If you use this type of tarp build a rigid frame to avoid crushed canvas tops and a damaged windshield. Snow load damage is covered but you are going to lose time on the water waiting for repairs,” he says, as the winter also brought down a number of dilapidated old barns and sheds due to snow load. “Storage in your buddy's old barn may be free but it is not the best option. It also attracts lots of animals.”
Nature sucks (and chews)
Raccoons, mice, squirrels and other varmints continue to cause significant damage to boats. “They eat cushions, hoses, sails, canvas tops, electrical wiring and carpets,” says Robertson. “ If you see one crossing the road please do not swerve; they might just be headed to your boat.”
