Check your boat is insured says ICA
Read your policy and ensure you have the correct cover this summerMonday, October 1, marks the official start of the boating season across the country and as the weather warms and more boat owners return to the water, the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) is reminding them to make sure their vessels have appropriate insurance.
ICA CEO Rob Whelan advises boat owners to spend time checking they have adequate insurance protection before their first trip of the season.
"ICA members provide a variety of policies to protect vessels, be it a large sailing boat, weekend fishing launch or a pleasure cruiser," Mr Whelan says.
"As we move towards warmer, sunnier weather more people will be taking to the water to relax, cool off, fish and enjoy the country’s stunning coastline, rivers and lakes.
"Wherever you are going, make sure to give your insurer a call first to check you have the insurance you need," Mr Whelan said.
"If you have recently bought a new vessel make sure the sum insured matches the value of the boat.
"While there is no regulatory requirement for owners of registered vessels to have public liability insurance, the ICA recommends boat owners purchase it alongside or as an inclusion in their comprehensive vessel insurance to cover injuries or damage caused by the boat owner," Mr Whelan concluded.
The CEO of Nautilus Marine, Lyndon Turner, says a recent fire at Hillarys Boat Harbour, in Western Australia, in which three boats sunk and a fourth suffered severe damage, should serve as a reminder of the benefits of boat insurance.
"In the case of our customers at Hillarys Boat Harbour, they are in the position where they are able to replace their boats and be back on the water in time for the new season," Mr Turner says.
"Insurers’ main priority is to get their clients back on the water as soon as possible to minimise their distress.
"Thankfully no one was injured, but the incident does raise safety issues as we leave winter and move into the summer boating season."
For more information on insurers that provide this cover, go to: http://www.findaninsurer.com.au/
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