Comprehensive Insurance Cover
Comprehensive protection for extended offshore cruising and ocean crossings
For those venturing beyond sheltered coastal waters, offshore sailing presents a unique set of challenges. From unpredictable weather and limited access to assistance, to the physical demands of long-distance navigation, the risks are real, and standard boat insurance often falls short.
At Topsail, we offer tailored Offshore Sailing Insurance built specifically for open-ocean journeys. Our policies are designed to protect both your vessel and your crew.
What is Offshore Sailing Insurance?
Offshore sailing insurance is a specialist marine policy designed for extended voyages that take a vessel beyond national waters or significant distances from land. These are typically long-range passages where emergency support may be delayed or unavailable, and the boat must be self-sufficient for extended periods.
Unlike coastal or inland boating policies, offshore insurance accounts for:
- Higher levels of wear and exposure
- The need for onboard safety and communication equipment
- Crew qualifications and experience
- Geographical risk (e.g. remote waters, piracy zones, severe weather areas)
- Medical evacuation requirements
What Our Insurance Includes:
Boat Insurance
Comprehensive protection designed for offshore sailing, including cover for:
- Hull and machinery
- Accidental damage
- Fire, theft, and grounding
- Third-party liability
Travel Insurance
Our Yachtsman’s Sailing Travel Insurance includes:
- Up to £5,000,000 in emergency medical expenses
- Emergency airlift cover during offshore passages
Exclusive Discount for ARC Participants
Through our partnership with the World Cruising Club (WCC), participants in the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) are eligible for exclusive discounts on their offshore travel insurance. Please contact the WCC to receive your discount code.
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Insurance Requirements
Offshore insurance is assessed individually, based on your vessel, crew, and voyage. While each case is unique, most underwriters expect the following:
1. Seaworthy Vessel
Your yacht must be well-maintained, built for offshore conditions, and fully equipped - typically including a life raft, EPIRB, satellite communications, AIS, and storm sails.
2. Experienced Crew
Insurers look for evidence of offshore sailing experience, especially from the skipper. This may include previous passages, qualifications (such as RYA Yachtmaster or ICC), and crew responsibilities.
3. Defined Cruising Area
Policies include agreed navigation limits. Additional review may be required for high-risk zones, such as cyclone regions, piracy-prone waters, or remote expedition routes.
4. Passage Planning & Safety
You may be asked to provide a safety plan, including weather routing and emergency procedures, to demonstrate preparedness for offshore conditions.
Why Choose Topsail
Topsail Insurance has built a strong reputation as a trusted provider for serious sailors. With more than two decades of experience in offshore and bluewater cruising cover, we understand the realities of life at sea.
- Specialist knowledge of offshore risks and requirements
- Dedicated advisors who understand the sailing community
- Competitive premiums for experienced owners and crews
- Trusted by ARC participants, round-the-world sailors, and independent cruisers alike
Our goal is to remove uncertainty so that you can focus on your voyage, knowing your policy is designed to respond when you need it most.
Request a Bespoke Quote
Contact us today to speak with a member of our team or submit a quote request online. We’re here to ensure you and your boat are protected.
