Liability for a homemade boat

[Mexican Hat]

Wharram Tiki 38, self-built and launched in the US June 2022.

I had asked my insurance company about this and got a 'no problem' answer...until I actually tried to get the coverage. They refused to even consider it for a homemade boat. I've since tried several big US insurance companies that advertise boat insurance and get the same answer: Nope, not for a homemade boat.

I plan on doing some sailing to distant shores and from what I gather, 3rd party/ liability is a hard requirement in many countries. Can anyone suggest companies to try? I don't want full coverage, just liability.

[Wannabes00n]

Maybe Try "Hagerty Insurance." They got their start in wooden boats.

[Cheechako]

a) Never offer more info than asked... with insurance, Customs, Immigration etc.
b) (you've let the cat out of the bag now unfortunately, but Tell the insurance agent you have a Wharram Tiki. Built 20xx. No more. Most owners have no idea who built there boat. Make yourself one of those owners.

[ItDepends]

Not many countries require liability insurance (Mexico being the exception) but the vast majority of marinas do.

Depending on your style, that might not be a big issue.

[Jammer]

Try Skisafe if you haven't already. They have broader underwriting rules than most.

Originally Posted by Cheechako

a) Never offer more info than asked... with insurance, Customs, Immigration etc.
b) (you've let the cat out of the bag now unfortunately, but Tell the insurance agent you have a Wharram Tiki. Built 20xx. No more. Most owners have no idea who built there boat. Make yourself one of those owners.

The most recent boat insurance application I filled out had a question, "Is this a homemade boat?" with a yes/no check box.


I checked "yes" and was issued a full coverage policy for my Chameleon dinghy after answering a bunch of questions about what it was made out of and what sort of prior boatbuilding experience I have.

[singlespeed]

I have found that having a recent (two year old or less) marine survey in hand when applying for insurance, changes in coverage for location, marinas, etc., makes life easier. Additionally, issues that develop slowly over time are often not noticed, having a fresh pair of eyes look over your boat helps catch them before they get expensive.

[GRIT]

I agree with singlespeed. Get yourself a glowing survey first, then talk to the insurance companies.

We bought insurance through Susan Waters, and found her to be very knowledgeable, communicative, and willing to do the research to find what you need.

Susan@marineinsurance.cc

Follow her advice religiously, and if she can't find you insurance, you can then start to worry.

Cheers.
Paul.

[fourlyons]

I got liability through Progressive for my self built wood boat (which I did disclose) over the phone, no survey. However that was 12 years ago. Maybe because I'm an existing customer I have never had a problem renewing.

[CLady]

If you have homeowner's insurance, you may be able to add an umbrella liability policy naming your boat in the coverage.

[flyingnut40]

Give these guys a try,

https://www.edwardwilliam.com/

[smj]

Originally Posted by CLady

If you have homeowner's insurance, you may be able to add an umbrella liability policy naming your boat in the coverage.

From my experience an umbrella policy ads extra liability coverage onto an existing policy, so one would need an existing boat policy.

[Rough Magic]

I would try the designer. He would likely have a good company. And I would think you built her exactly as drawn, if so, he may be able to provide information on other boats and owners. We just went through a very difficult time getting insurance on a 30 year old plastic boat, new to us. Offshore racing boats have had to cancel for lack of insurance recently. Every one blamed lack of staff in a tight labor market. Good luck, hope it works out well for you.

[flyingnut40]

I'll suggest again,

https://www.edwardwilliam.com/

They'll even cover homebuilt Ferro cement

Dennis