What is included in the charter insurance
What is included in the charter insurance - and what is not?
Are you planning a trip with a sailing yacht or would you like to rent a catamaran – perhaps even in Croatia or especially in Istria? Then sooner or later you will come into contact with the subject of charter insurance. But what is actually behind this insurance? What is really covered – and where should you take precautions? In this article, we clarify the most important points so that you are on the safe side if you want to charter a boat.
What is charter insurance?
Charter insurance is an insurance package designed to protect you against financial risks when hiring a boat – such as a sailing yacht or catamaran. It is either offered by the charter company or can be taken out separately. The contents vary depending on the provider and the package selected, but the insurance basically comprises several components.
What is included?
Here are the most common components of charter insurance:
1. Bond insurance
When chartering a boat in Istria or elsewhere, a deposit is almost always required. Depending on the type of boat, this can amount to several thousand euros. The deposit insurance covers damage that you accidentally cause to the boat – for example, if you approach the dock uncleanly or run aground.
2. Skipper liability insurance
If you skipper a boat, you are generally personally liable for damage to third parties. This insurance protects you if, for example, property damage or personal injury occurs during a mooring maneuver.
3. Charter cancellation insurance
Sometimes a trip has to be canceled at short notice – due to illness, accident or other unforeseen events. This insurance then covers the cancellation costs incurred.
4. Consequential loss insurance
Some insurance policies also cover consequential damage, for example if an operating error damages an expensive component such as the gearbox. This option is particularly useful for high-priced yachts or catamarans.
What is not included?
Despite comprehensive packages, there are important exclusions that you should be aware of:
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Intent and gross negligence: If you cause damage deliberately or through gross negligence, no insurance will pay.
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Private property of the crew: Damage to equipment, smartphones or clothing brought along is generally not insured.
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Forces of nature: Damage caused by force majeure – such as extreme weather events – is only covered under special policies.
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Engine damage caused by improper handling, such as incorrect refueling, is often not covered.
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Accidents outside the insured area: Make sure that the cruise you are planning – e.g. along the coast of Istria – is within the area of validity.
Is charter insurance worthwhile?
Quite clearly: Yes! Especially if you want to hire a catamaran, which is significantly more expensive than a monohull sailing yacht, charter insurance offers a reassuring safety net. Even with an experienced crew and good planning, something can always happen – whether through your own mistakes or through other boats in the harbor.
Our summary
If you want to hire a catamaran, for example in Croatia or when chartering a boat in Istria, you should think about the right charter insurance early on. It protects you from expensive surprises and ensures that you can concentrate fully on your sailing experience. It is important to take a close look at what is included – and what is not. That way, you can sail through your vacation with peace of mind.
