As RYA Clubs are undertaking greater volumes of activity than ever before during traditional winter months, Gallagher, the RYA’s official Club Insurance partner, has provided information on what insurance implications this could bring.

Be aware of insurance policy ‘winter removal’ conditions

It is important to be aware that many boat insurance policies incorporate a ‘winter removal’ condition. This requires boats to be removed from the water when not in use (including overnight), during the period 1st November to 31st March.

Clubs can discuss and review their individual situation with their respective insurance provider. Gallagher policyholders can provide details on which boats are likely to require cover whilst left on the water when not in use, advising exact mooring details and the period for which the additional cover will be required.

On receipt of this information, insurers will evaluate on a case-by-case basis and usually seek to apply an increased excess in respect of claims arising during the winter period – in recognition of the increased storm risk, rather than applying increases in premiums. The policy schedule would then be endorsed as required, noting the removal of the condition in respect of the boat(s) concerned.

The main issues that insurers might consider to be ‘high risk’

Insurers expect clubs to adopt a common sense and well managed approach to the mooring of boats on the water during periods with greater risk of inclement weather.

Clubs that operate within inland waterways/lakes/reservoirs are likely to receive less scrutiny than those based in coastal locations. In addition, insurers often prefer to see mooring in more sheltered marina/harbour pontoon berths, as opposed to on a swinging mooring for example.

Maintain the security of your boats

Whilst planning ‘laying up’ of boats, it is also important to highlight the risk of outboard motor thefts. Whilst ashore, outboard motors are far more accessible to thieves and so it is recommended that the engines be removed to a locked store, building or compound. If this is not possible, the best and most appropriate anti-theft devices should be fitted to act as a deterrent to potential thieves.

Additionally, if your club dinghies are to be left in a dinghy park or compound throughout the winter, it is vitally important to make sure that they are properly tied down and secured. Sails and other removable items should not be left onboard, and the trailer should be securely locked.

Finding suitable insurance

As the RYA’s official Club Insurance partner, Gallagher has been endorsed by the RYA 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.
Call: 0800 612 2282
Email rya@ajg.com

Information last updated October 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.