A holiday on a houseboat or sailing ship can be something special – but it can also be particularly expensive if, for example, an accident occurs or something breaks on the vehicle. There are different types of insurance to protect yourself against this.
The Federal Association of German Insurance Agents (BVK) lists three policies: boat liability insurance, boat hull insurance and skipper liability insurance. Who might need them and why? A brief overview.
Liability for boats
If other people are injured by yachts during docking or unmooring maneuvers, it can be life-threatening for boat owners and charterers. According to the BVK, they are liable with their entire personal assets for any damage caused to another person in connection with the ownership or use of the boat. Regardless of whether it is personal injury, property damage or financial loss.
Private liability insurance sometimes only covers such damage to a limited extent. In this case, you should have boat liability insurance, which is compulsory in some countries – but not in Germany.
Liability for skippers
The good news: According to the BVK, skipper liability insurance is usually included in boat liability insurance for boat owners. However, if you only go on the water on your summer vacation, for example, the association recommends taking out skipper liability insurance beforehand to protect yourself against personal injury and property damage. This usually covers claims for recourse against the skipper. The insured sum should therefore be at least 5 million euros.
Hull insurance for boats
According to the BVK, boat hull insurance can be used to insure against damage to your own yacht, its equipment and inventory, among other things. Even a faulty docking maneuver can have enormous financial consequences if, for example, the side of the boat gets a dent.
However, transport, slipping and crane operations as well as stays in winter storage or in a shipyard can also be insured. The association advises keeping an eye on whether dinghies and trailers are also insured or whether additional insurance for a fee would be necessary.
