What to do in the event of damage to your personal watercraft or boat?

Collision, engine failure, theft, vandalism, fire, vermin and rodents… whether you’re a novice sailor or an experienced captain, on the water or docked, the risks of damage to a boat are numerous, and you’re never safe from an incident. Fortunately, your APRIL Marine insurance policy provides you with optimum protection, 365 days a year.

Here are a few key steps to help you understand everything, from making a claim to handling your claim.

What to do in the event of an incident at dockside or in the water?

In the event of an incident, don’t panic! Here’s a quick reminder so you don’t forget any steps:

1. Safety: Make sure everyone on board is safe.

2. Asset protection: Wherever possible, protect your property from further damage.

3. Call the authorities: Call the Police or Coast Guard if anyone is injured, or if your boat is unseaworthy.

4. APRIL Marine Assistance: Using your policy number (min. 7 digits), contact APRIL Marine Assurance. They will assess with you the emergency interventions required and refer you to the nearest tugboat.

5. Contact details & Photos: Take the contact details of witnesses and third parties involved in the incident, so that you can pass them on to your insurer and the authorities. Take photos of the damage and the scene (before and after clearing).

6. Evacuation: Move the boat to a safe location. It is a good idea to remove it from the water so you can see the damage. If you are unable to safely remove it from the water, ask APRIL Marine Assistance for support.

7. Make a claim: Using your policy number (min. 7 digits), contact APRIL Marine Assistance (24/7), login to you Member Area or call your broker to report your claim.

8. Repairer: If you don’t have a preferred repairer yet, ask APRIL Marine Assistance or find the one closest to the scene of the damage or to your home. Never have damage repaired before allowing the insurer to inspect and assess it.

9. Breath!: Everything’s going to be okay.