Club Marine has changed its commercial boating product to better align with its recreational offer and enhance policy benefits, while still catering for vessels used for both business and occasional pleasure.

CEO Tim Wiles says commercial boat cover has been available on request for some time but has “largely flown under the radar”.

“We’re now looking forward to expanding our reach in this important sector,” he said. “We understand the unique risks of operating a boating business.

“We also see the common synergies between passenger-carrying commercial and recreational boats, which is where our strength lies.”  

The cover is suitable for skippered and “bareboat” charters, dive and fishing charters, sail training, club fleets, dealer stock vessels, boat demonstrations, brokerage tenders, licence training and boats under construction. 

Cover is provided for accidental loss or damage caused by an independent repairer’s negligence, and there is an option to buy additional protection for loss of hire/earnings during an accidental loss or damage claim.

Owners undertaking part-time or seasonal work are covered for incidental non-paid use of the boat. Member benefits include Club Care, Club Marine Assist and a rewards program.  

Club Care benefits for commercial operators provide up to $20,000 of assistance – twice the recreational policy’s cap – including emergency fuel delivery, returning the boat to its home destination, temporary accommodation and transportation.

“These benefits, along with our nationwide network of assessors and repairers, can help commercial operators get back up and running in a timely manner to mitigate further financial loss,” Mr Wiles said.

“There’s also the flexibility for them to operate commercially yet still have recreational coverage attached to their policy.”