Insurance: What to Do If Your Plans Change

A common question sailors ask is, "Should I tell my insurance company if I change my cruising plans?". This is Admiral Marine Insurance's advice for anyone considering a change of route, whatever their insurance provider.

Avoid invalidating your policy by staying one step ahead

When your sailing plans change, whether it’s your route, destination, or even onboard equipment, it’s essential to keep your insurer informed. Failing to do so could leave you without valid cover at sea.

Why it is important to inform your insurer of any change in cruising plans

Your cruising area dictates the premium you pay as different geographical areas attract different premiums. Therefore, if you move outside your agreed cruising area, your policy could be automatically invalidated, meaning you may not be covered in the event of a claim.

The agreed geographical area is shown on your policy schedule. We appreciate that on your adventures, remembering your agreed cruising area may slip your mind, which is why it is important to keep a copy of your policy schedule onboard.

If you’re planning to go beyond those limits, please contact your insurer in good time so they can ensure your cover reflects your latest plans.

Even if you realise that you have already gone beyond the agreed limits, it is important you inform the insurer as soon as possible so they can rectify it for you.

Common changes that require notification

Here are some common changes that you need to inform your insurer of:

• Change of cruising area
• Major modifications, such as upgrading to lithium batteries
• Structural changes to your yacht
• Change of ownership, including adding or removing co-owners
• Change of insured items, such as your tender, outboard, or life raft
• Changing of mooring location

If you're unsure whether something needs to be disclosed, please contact us. Better be safe than sorry!

How to Notify Your Insurer

When should you tell your insurer? As soon as you’re aware of any change that might affect your policy, especially a change of cruising area or vessel modifications.

How do you tell your insurer? A written or verbal confirmation is all it takes. You can call or send an email, and your insurer will advise if any additional information is needed.

Ready to review your cover or discuss your upcoming plans?

At Admiral Yacht Insurance, we understand that plans can evolve, especially for adventurous sailors like those taking part in World Cruising Club rallies. Whether you're crossing oceans or upgrading your equipment ahead of your next voyage, keeping your insurer in the loop is key to staying protected.

Get in touch with the Admiral Yacht team at www.admiralyacht.com or call on +44 01722 416106 and sail with confidence, wherever you're headed.