If you own a sailing yacht, you likely get a lot of fulfillment using this intricate system of ropes, pulleys and canvas to propel your boat through the water.
However, the nature of sails make them risky in and of themselves. When insuring your boat, your agent will likely ask you if the boat includes a sail. Your agent will then adjust your coverage to include different protections for sails.
Yacht insurance will likely help those whose sails experience covered damages or losses. Covered events usually include fire, theft, vandalism and weather damages.
Nonetheless, a yacht insurance policy won’t always cover a sail for every type of hazard. In general, your policy won’t cover you when instances of normal wear and tear harm your sails. It also won’t cover you if your negligent actions lead to sail damages that were otherwise avoidable.
Therefore, it is your responsibility to take care of your sails. Proper care will help you keep this valuable piece of equipment in good shape.
- Do not let just anyone adjust or set up the sail without the proper training. Sails need adjustments during use, so only you or a trained guest should make these changes.
- When you are not using your sails or ropes, store them so that they won’t become damaged. Take the sail off the boat, and store it according to manufacturer recommendations. Incorrect storage might subject the sails to pest infiltration or moisture damage. Therefore, store your sails and ropes in dry areas with stable temperatures. You can often use special containers to store these items.
- Clean and dry your sails after every use. Doing so will help you keep dirt, salt and moisture debris from accumulating. Also do not leave your sail exposed to the sun. Sun can be just as damaging as moisture on sails.
- Make sure your mast and mooring hooks are clean, and do not contain rust, mold or other deterioration. Such residual damages could damage sail and rope materials.
- As ropes, links and other components of sails begin to deteriorate, replace them as needed. You should check these parts frequently for deterioration or breaks. It is best to replace them before they deteriorate to the point of causing safety concerns.
When taking care of your sails, you can protect yourself from yacht insurance risks.
Voyager Insurance Services has your coverage needs in mind. Call one of our agents at 972.712.8000 to get a fast, free quote on Dallas yacht insurance right now.