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Outboard thefts

The theft of outboard engines appears to be growing, with organised and opportunist thefts on the rise

wide shot of rib a with security measure in place

Thefts can impact on water activity by reducing participation, creating dissatisfied members or customers, and causing a loss of income. 

Gallagher, the RYA’s official Club Insurance partner, has provided answers to some frequently asked questions to help your organisation avoid or deal with a loss.

How can outboard engine thefts be prevented?

Here are some tips to help prevent the theft of boat outboard engines.

  • Replace the engine cowling with a fabric one to deter thieves. Replacement cowling covers should only be used on appropriate vessels during suitable water and weather conditions.

  • Paint the cowling to make the engine look less attractive. A thief would be less likely to steal the outboard engine, as they’d either struggle to sell it on or not get as much for it.

  • Add a tracking device or a deterrent such as SmartWater (a forensic marking technology that marks both assets and intruders) to the outboard engine.

  • Apply signage to highlight that tracking devices and SmartWater are in use.

  • Add an anti-theft device to the outboard engine.

  • Ensure the normal method of attachment to your boat is secure.

  • Install CCTV cameras on your premises and situate them to provide maximum coverage to areas in which engines are being stored.

  • Remove engines and store them in a locked building when boats aren’t in use.

example of security measure to protect you motor boat

Are there outboard engine security requirements as part of the terms and conditions of an RYA Gallagher Club Insurance policy?

The Gallagher RYA Club Insurance policy carries two conditions relating to theft of outboard engines:

  • Theft cover is only provided following forcible or violent entry into enclosed and secure premises. This typically includes locked buildings, dinghy parks, or compounds.
  • Outboard engines must be secured to a craft using an anti-theft device, aside from the normal method of attachment.  

Please see the policy wording for full terms and conditions.

close up of motor boat with security measure in place, says 'cowling removed'

Do RYA Gallagher Club Insurance policy premiums increase if a claim is made for an outboard engine theft? 

Insurers will review individual claims experience at renewal each year. A claim for a considerable amount may trigger an increase in the premium quoted for renewing your policy. Insurers will also reserve the right to apply premium loadings, higher excesses, or potentially restrict/reduce the extent of cover provided - including potential exclusion of theft cover in the most severe circumstances where there is frequent loss at a specific location.

How else can the theft of outboard engines impact the club?

Business interruption caused by the loss or theft of equipment can prevent members or visitors from using the facilities as intended, resulting in lost income. Business interruption can be covered by a RYA Gallagher Club Insurance policy, offering cover for loss of revenue. Policy limits and exclusions may apply. Please see the policy wording for full terms and conditions.

Get in touch with the specialist RYA team at Gallagher if you have any questions.

Call: 0800 612 2282
Email: rya@ajg.com

How can outboard engines be replaced?

As soon as you encounter the issue of outboard engine theft, ordering a replacement can be vital for minimising business interruption. Once the claim has been reported, speak to your insurers and agree a strategy to order a replacement quickly and minimise the extent of interruption to your activities. Here are some tips to consider:

  • Order as soon as you can - there can be issues with accessing engines so it's worth doing so quickly to avoid delays.
  • Be flexible - whilst you need an engine that sits within the recommended power range, you do not necessarily need to replace it with the same brand, or even with a new engine. If advice is needed, you should refer to your preferred boar supplier or manufacturer for guidance and support.

What can be done to keep operating after losing some or all outboard engines? 

To continue delivering activity safely after experiencing outboard engine theft, consider the following: 

  • Charter additional craft - consider using a commercial charter company or create or use an existing partnership with a local provider - such as a Sea Cadet unit, Scout group, a sailing club, or Training Centre. 
  • Explore if there are organisations who will provide safety cover for your activity. Water safety charities or commercial providers may be able to offer this support..
  • Move your activity to another venue with functioning safety boats.
  • Re-programme activity so that remaining safety boats can be used over a greater number of hours.
  • However, please do not forget that loaned/borrowed boats are not likely to be automatically covered by your insurance policy and you should consult with your insurance provider to arrange suitable additional cover.

Finding suitable insurance

As the RYA’s official Club Insurance partner, Gallagher has been endorsed by us for over 40 years, providing specialist products to meet the needs of RYA-affiliated clubs, recognised training centres and affiliated organisations.

To find out more about how Gallagher can help you and for further insurance questions, contact the specialist RYA Gallagher Team.

0800 612 2282
rya@ajg.com

Information last updated June 2025. 

The sole purpose of this article is to provide information on the issues covered. This article is not intended to give legal advice, and, accordingly, it should not be relied upon. It should not be regarded as a comprehensive statement of the law and/or market practice in this area. We make no claims as to the completeness or accuracy of the information contained herein or in the links that were live at the date of publication. You should not act upon (or should refrain from acting upon) information in this publication without first seeking specific legal and/or specialist advice. Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance Brokers Limited accepts no liability for any inaccuracy, omission or mistake in this publication, nor will we be responsible for any loss that may be suffered as a result of any person relying on the information contained herein.

Royal Yachting Association is an Introducer Appointed Representative of Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance Brokers Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered Office: Spectrum Building, 55 Blythswood Street, Glasgow, G2 7AT. Registered in Scotland. Company Number: SC108909.