If your boat is damaged, stolen or involved in an incident, knowing what to do can make the insurance claims process much simpler. By acting quickly, keeping good records and following your insurer’s instructions, you can help to reduce delays and improve the chances of a smooth claims resolution.

1. Put safety first

If you are involved in an accident, people’s safety should be your first priority. If anyone is injured, call emergency services immediately and give first aid if it is safe to do so. If another vessel is involved, check whether anyone else needs assistance.

If the incident is serious you may need to contact the coastguard, harbour authority or marina operator.

2. Prevent further damage

Once everyone is safe, take reasonable steps to stop the damage getting worse and try to reduce avoidable loss where possible.

This could include:

• Turning off engines or electrics if safe to do so
• Securing any loose equipment
• Arranging a tow or emergency salvage
• Moving the boat to a safer location when possible

Be sure to keep receipts for any emergency costs you incur as these may form part of your insurance claim.

3. Review your policy

Before you report the claim check your boat insurance documents. Look out for:

• What you are covered for
• The excess you are required to pay
• Any policy exclusions or limits
• How quickly you must notify the insurer after the incident
• Whether necessary repairs require prior approval

Some policies require you to use approved repairers or obtain prior authorisation for certain work so it’s important to check before you start.

4. Gather evidence

Having plenty of evidence can make a big difference to the outcome of a claim and how long it takes to resolve. Where applicable, try to collect:

• Photos or videos of the damage to your boat
• Names and contact details of any witnesses
• Weather information, if relevant
• Logbook notes
• Receipts for any emergency repairs or replacement items you have paid for
• Contact details of any third parties involved

If your claim is for theft, make a list of the missing items with their make, model, age and estimated value where possible.

5. Report the incident promptly

Contact your insurer or broker as soon as you can. Be prepared to share the following details:

• Your policy number
• The date, time and place of the incident
• A clear description of what happened
• Details of any other boats or third parties involved
• Whether there were any injuries, theft, vandalism or police involvement

If your claim is a result of theft, a collision or vandalism, you may need a police report, crime reference number or marina statement.

6. Check before arranging repairs

For larger claims your insurer may want to inspect the damage before starting with repairs. However in some cases, emergency repairs may be approved straight away.

Where possible:

• Get written repair estimates
• Ask whether the insurer has preferred repairers or allows you to choose your own
• Keep hold of damaged parts until told otherwise
• Do not authorise any major work without approval from your insurer

7. Keep a clear record

It’s a good idea to keep everything connected with the claim together in a file.

Things worth keeping include:

• Your claim reference number
• Copies of any emails and letters from the insurer
• Photos and contact details of any witnesses
• Repair quotes, receipts and invoices
• Notes of phone calls
• Proof of maintenance, if required

Keeping a complete record of these documents can help to avoid disputes and any delays during the claims process.

8. Be ready to provide further information

Your insurer may request additional documents or information to support your claim such as proof of ownership, servicing records or a survey report. Responding quickly and accurately to these requests will help to keep the claim progressing.

9. What to do if your claim is declined

If your claim is rejected or only partly paid, ask the insurer for a written explanation. Check your policy wording carefully and challenge or consider the complaints process if you believe the decision is incorrect.

Making a boat insurance claim can feel stressful, but the process can be much smoother if you stay organised and act quickly. 
With boat insurance from Bishop Skinner Marine you are supported through a claim by a dedicated claims team. You can find out more about how the team can help or give them a call on 0330 818 2355.

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The RYA is an Introducer Appointed Representative of Marsh Ltd and Bishop Skinner Marine is a trading name of Marsh Ltd. Marsh Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for General Insurance Distribution and Credit Broking (Firm Reference No. 307511). Copyright © 2026 Marsh Ltd. Registered in England and Wales Number: 1507274, Registered office: 1 Tower Place West, Tower Place, London EC3R 5BU. All rights reserved.