A buyer's guide to RIB insurance

Deciding on the level of insurance you require for your craft and which insurer to opt for can seem daunting and overwhelming, but this doesn’t have to be the case. That’s why we’ve broken it down to the most common questions we’ve received when it comes to purchasing Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB) insurance, so you can make an informed choice on what is best for you.

Do I need RIB insurance?

Whilst you aren’t required to have boat insurance in the UK for long-distance cruises at sea, if you intend to navigate any inland waterways, you will need to have boat insurance. RIB insurance ensures you’re covered for any eventuality, including personal property, accidental damage or theft so you’ll know your vessel is safe on and off the water. Most council and commercial slipways will require third party liability cover as a minimum. 

What am I covered for?

• Accidental damage or loss (due to fire, explosions, collisions, stranding, grounding, third party acts, heavy weather)
• Theft of your craft, tender or trailer
• Payment of insured value for constructive total loss
• Damage resulting from a latent defect
• Negligence (except for deliberate acts)
• The personal property when on board or used in connection with the craft
• Third-party liability up to £5,000,000

What are the benefits of RIB insurance?

RIB insurance will give you peace of mind so that you can enjoy your boating adventures without worry. By purchasing insurance with GJW Direct, you’ll benefit from 30 days European (EEA) protection, optional waterskier liability up to a maximum of £3,000,000 and other towed items up to £2,000,000.

An additional bonus when insuring your Rigid Inflatable Boat with GJW Direct is the free digital boat management system, MyBoat, granting exclusive access to discounts and offers with a whole host of recognised marine brands. This includes brands such as Sailing Chandlery and Spinlock.

What type of exclusions should I look out for?

Common exclusions include:

• Damage or loss caused by a lack of general maintenance, wear and tear
• A fault in design or construction
• Wilful misconduct
• Osmosis
• Transit for vessels over 30 feet in length
• Damage or loss as a result of war, civil disturbance or terrorism
• Damage or loss caused by insects or marine growth 
• Rot, mildew, dampness or weathering or any other gradually operating cause
• The failure, error or malfunction of any computer, computer system, computer software programme, code or process or any other electronic system

What are my obligations?

These will vary depending on your insurance provider, but general obligations include:

• Ensuring your Rigid Inflatable Boat is kept in good working order and undergoes regular maintenance
• Keeping your insurer up-to-date with changes to your personal information or make any adaptations to your vessel
• Reporting incidents, accidents or potential claims as soon as possible
• Informing your insurer if you sell or otherwise dispose of the craft
• Make the required scheduled payments
• Ensuring that the minimum required number of crew are aboard when the craft is underway

N.B. Your cover may differ from insurer to insurer so it is always important to read your own insurance policy.

Where can I buy RIB insurance?

If you’re in the market for RIB insurance, here at GJW Direct, we offer a comprehensive insurance policy for your vessel, completely hassle-free. We’ve been specialising in marine insurance for over 190 years so you can rest assured you’re in safe hands with us. Visit our website to discover the full range of benefits you’ll receive as a GJW Direct policyholder and you can even get a quote with us in minutes.

Are you looking for first-time insurance or thinking of switching insurers? Get a quote for RIB insurance with us in minutes and you can even purchase online.

Image Source: RIBeye