Marine

Type of Marine Fuels – What Are My Fuelling Options?
Type of Marine Fuels – What Are My Fuelling Options? 500 282 James Hallam

Some types of marine fuels may be more affordable than others. Unfortunately, the cheapest fuels also tend to be the least carbon efficient. And as ship owners must now meet stringent decarbonisation regulations, choosing the right fuel for your marine operations may not be as straightforward as it used to be.

In this post we will list the various types of marine fuels, to give you a better idea of your fuelling options for your marine business.

What are the Decarbonising Rules For the Marine Industry?

In early 2023, the International Maritime Organisation introduced new Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) rules. The aim is to reduce the carbon intensity of all ships by 40% by 2030.

On top of this, the Fuel EU Maritime regulation came into force on 1 January 2025. This regulation sets strict limits to the total average greenhouse gas emissions for any ship heavier than 5,000 gross tonnes that calls into EU ports.

Because of such regulations, choosing the right fuel for your shipping is not as straightforward as it used to be. It is not just a case of choosing the greenest and most cost-effective fuel for your current operations. You also need to consider how you will adapt your operations to meet future decarbonisation and emission targets. This might mean making considerable modifications today, so that you can continue to ship tomorrow.

Read our full guide to decarbonising and emission regulations for the marine industry here.

Types of Marine Fuels

You have a choice of fuelling options for your marine operations, including:

  • Marine diesel oils (MDO)
  • Marine gas oils (MGO)
  • High Fuel Oil (HFO)
  • Ultra low sulphur fuel oil (ULSFO or VLSFO)
  • Liquid natural gas (LNG)
  • Methanol
  • Biofuel

We’ll explore each of these in detail, to help give you an idea of what might be the best option for you.

Marine Diesel Oils (MDO)

MDO is a distillate, meaning it is produced via a process that involved heating and evaporating residual oil. Due to its relatively high sulphur content, burning MDOs tends to produce more harmful emissions compared to other marine fuels.

Marine Gas Oils (MGO)

Like MDO, MGO is a distillate. However, MGO tends to be of a higher quality than MDO, producing fewer harmful emissions but costing more as a result.

High Fuel Oil (HFO)

HFO tends to be around 30% cheaper than distillate fuels, but it has a much higher density and sulphur content than both MDO and MGO. As a result, HFO use contributes significantly to pollution.

Changing Priorities in Marine Fuel

MDO, MGO, and HFO have been the most popular types of marine fuel for decades. Distillates such as MDO and MGO are popular choices for autonomous ships, and for small to mid-size ships that do not have the capacity to use other fuel types, which may require the use of heaters and purifiers.

The London Maritime Academy reports that, as recently as 2021, MDO, MGO, and HFO fuelled almost 93% of all ships at sea. Yet the high sulphur contents of these fuel types have forced the industry to consider alternatives.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulates sulphur emissions in the marine trade. IMO 2020 is the most recent regulation, which limits the sulphur levels in the fuel oils used in shipping to 0.5%. Previously, the limit was 3.5%.

It is possible to install systems that clean a ship’s exhaust gasses to limit the sulphur oxide emissions, which has allowed many marine operations to continue to use HFO even following the IMO 2020 regulation. However, the industry is currently exploring a number of alternative fuel types.

Ultra Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (ULSFO)

Also known as VLSFO, this is a high quality form of MDO that has been specifically distilled to achieve less than 0.5% of the regulation IMO 2020 sulphur levels. It is a clean and affordable option, particularly for small to mid-size vessels. There are also ultra-low sulphur variations of MGO, that can have sulphur emissions as low as 0.1%.

Though ULSFOs are cleaner and relatively affordable, there are certain safety concerns associated with these fuels. When mixed with other fuels onboard a ship, they may become less efficient, or even unstable.

Liquid Natural Gas (LNG)

LNG is even cleaner than ULSFO. However, though the fuel itself may be relatively cost-effective, LNG is not quite ready to become the leading type of fuel for the marine industry.

The main issue is that LNG can be difficult to transport and store. Also, most vessels will have to retrofit their fuel systems before they can switch to LNG, a process that many will find prohibitively expensive.

Methanol

Methanol, another alternative fuel type, may be more compatible with existing fuel systems. Yet though methanol emits fewer pollutants than MDO, MGO, and HFO, it is still carbon based, so it may only be useful as a transitional solution.

Biofuel

Biofuels are derived from renewable resources, such as animal fats and hydrotreated vegetable oils (HVOs). They are totally sulphur free. Yet they can cost more than other fuel types, and they may lead to additional issues, such as potential microbial growth in engine systems.

Dual Fuels

Some marine businesses have experimented with a “dual fuel” system. This involves mixing a traditional fuel source, such as MDO or MGO, with an alternative fuel source, such as HVO or LNG. Doing so can reduce the vessel’s overall sulphur emissions. However, as we mentioned above, mixing fuels can result in instability.

Electrification and Fuel Cells

Finally, electric batteries and fuel cells are becoming increasingly prevalent in certain sectors.

Fuel cells rely on electrochemical oxidation to convert chemical energy directly into thermal and electric energy. They are low-maintenance, highly efficient, and they generate very little vibration and noise compared to traditional fuel and engine systems. Plus, if the cell uses natural gas or methanol as the fuel, the carbon emissions can be extremely low.

Electric batteries, though, generate zero emissions. We are already seeing battery-powered boats that can charge at shore before delivering hours of zero emission, fully electric propulsion. At the moment, only smaller boats such as tugs are realising the potential of electric propulsion. It is unclear whether it will ever be viable for larger vessels to switch to electric batteries.

Insurance Implications of Marine Fuel

The type of fuel you choose for your marine operations can have certain insurance implications. For example, if you rely on a dual fuel system, your vessels may face an increased risk of fire. Certain fuels may also be caustic, toxic, or otherwise harmful to crews and marine life if they are not stored or handled correctly.

If you would like to discuss how your fuel choice might affect your marine insurance, we are here to help.

Everard Insurance Brokers are the specialist marine trading division of accredited Lloyd’s brokers James Hallam Limited. We can help you ensure you have the insurance you need to cover your vessels and your crews.

Find out more about our dedicated marine insurance services.

 

Seasonal Boat Safety Inspections: How to Ensure Compliance Before Peak Activity
Seasonal Boat Safety Inspections: How to Ensure Compliance Before Peak Activity 500 334 James Hallam

Routine boat safety inspections will allow you to address any potential issues before they become problematic, meaning that you will be ready to enjoy season after season of smooth sailing.

But on top of this, your boat insurance may require you to undertake certain maintenance tasks, meaning that seasonal boat safety inspections can help you stay compliant, and covered.

This post will provide an essential checklist of seasonal boat safety inspections. We will outline the key things to check throughout the year to help you ensure compliance before peak activity.

Spring Boat Safety Inspection Checklist

In the early months of the spring, your safety checks will help you ensure your boat is ready for launch once the season truly begins:

  • Hull – Look for any signs of damage, including chips, scratches, blisters, and dents. Check for signs of marine growth, and for signs of cracks or corrosion where the hull and keel join. You may need to apply a protective coat of paint, or even a coat of antifouling, to help keep things watertight.
  • Engine – Check the oil and coolant levels, and top up where necessary. Also check your filters and belts for signs of wear and tear, and check your propellor for any signs of damage.
  • Battery – Test your battery’s charge. Check the terminals for signs of corrosion, and if necessary, clean them.
  • Sails – If your boat has sails, as we will cover below, you should take them down and wash them over the winter. Spring is a time for ensuring that both the sails and the lines are still in good condition, and getting any repairs if necessary.
  • Safety Equipment – Is everything still in code? Does anything need topping up, or replacing? Check your boat’s life jackets, fire extinguishers, flares, and any other emergency equipment.

Summer Boat Safety Inspection Checklist

Summer is peak sailing season, and routine inspections before and after every excursion will help you ensure that everything stays in optimum condition throughout the season:

  • Fuel System – Look out for any signs of leaks, and any loud noises or emissions that might suggest an issue with your fuel line or engine.
  • Seals and Fittings – Keep an eye out for signs of leaks and water entry. Make sure that all cleats, seals, and other fittings are watertight.
  • Keep Things Clean – Throughout the season, if you rinse your deck and hull with fresh water, you can remove a lot of salt and debris, which can make hull maintenance cheaper and easier through the off-season.

Autumn Boat Safety Inspection Checklist

As Autumn approaches, the sailing season will begin to wind down, and you will start to think about putting your boat into storage for winter. Some interim checks can help streamline the winterisation process:

  • Hull – Check for any signs of damage. Consider adding a new layer of gelcoat, followed by a polish. You may need to carry out more substantial repairs in the winter, but this interim check can make things a little easier.
  • Propeller – Check the propeller for signs of damage, and if necessary, remove any debris that may have become entangled.
  • Engine – It is good practice to change your boat’s oil, along with the filters, at the end of each season. This can help protect the engine from corrosion over the winter.

Winter Boat Safety Inspection Checklist

If you take the time to properly prepare your boat for the winter, then you will not face an overwhelming list of servicing tasks once spring rolls around again.

Winter is a time for a thorough safety inspection for your whole boat, including the hull, the thru hull fittings, the propeller, the engine, and more.

Read our full guide to boat maintenance for the winter.

We also have a guide to servicing sailing equipment over the winter, and a guide to properly storing your boat through the winter months.

Boat Safety Inspections Will Help You Stay Compliant with Insurance Requirements

Your boat insurance may require you to undertake certain maintenance tasks. For example, some marine insurance policies may stipulate that you keep your boat onshore throughout the winter.

Year round boat safety inspections will not only help you keep your boat in good working order. They will also help you ensure that your policy will give you the cover you need should you ever make a claim.

Everard Insurance Brokers are the specialist marine trading division of accredited Lloyd’s brokers James Hallam Limited. We can help you ensure you have the insurance you need to cover your boat all year round.

Find out more about our dedicated marine insurance services.

Marina and Boat Yard Safety Essentials
Marina and Boat Yard Safety Essentials 500 334 James Hallam

 

Marinas and boat yards can be hazardous environments. In this post, we will discuss some of the main risks that exist in marinas and boat yards. We will also outline some safety essentials, including key safety equipment and fire safety procedures.

What Are the Common Risks in Marinas and Boat Yards?

Due to the hazards present in these environments, the three most common risks in marinas and boat yards tend to be relating to fire, flood and injury. It’s important to recognise these risks and what causes them so you are able to make changes to mitigate them.

Fire
Marinas and boat yards are full of flammable substances, such as oil, fuel, and certain cleaning products. These are often kept in close proximity to the sort of materials that can quickly catch fire, such as sails, tarps, and wooden structures. All of this means that even a small fire can escalate rapidly.

Flood
It might seem obvious given their proximity to water, but marinas and boat yards should not underestimate the risk of flooding. Floods can strike without warning, and floodwater could cause a huge amount of damage if you do not take precautions to secure your premises and equipment.

Injury
Any large body of water will be inherently hazardous. But as well as life jackets and lifebuoys, you should also look to safeguard against slips, trips, falls, and other injuries.

Key Safety Equipment for Marinas and Boatyards

To help reduce these risks and the scale of the damage or injury they can cause, it’s essential to have safety equipment within quick and easy access.

First-aid equipment
The marina or boatyard should have:

  • onshore first aid kits
  • offshore first aid kits
  • at least one member of staff trained in first aid

Any first aid kits stored on boats should be fully waterproof, and the offshore first aid equipment should include foil blankets for people rescued from the water.

Water safety equipment
In terms of safety equipment and rules, you should always make sure there are:

  • lifebuoys or throw lines within easy reach wherever anyone might fall in
  • plenty of easily accessible ladders so that anyone who falls into the water will be able to quickly climb out again
  • enforced rules that nobody should ever take to the water without wearing a life jacket

Fire safety equipment
To help mitigate the risk of fire, you should:

  • thoroughly assess the fire risks in your marina or boatyard
  • get an adequate number fire extinguishers to cover these risks
  • ensure that your extinguishers are suitable for fighting the sorts of fires that are likely to break out (e.g. wood and paper, chemical, electrical etc.)

Marina and Boat Yard Safety Essentials

  • Take the time to understand the risks you are facing. Perform a thorough risk assessment for your marina or boatyard. Identify all of the things that could possibly go wrong. Assess how likely it is that each risk you have identified will lead to harm, and also how severe the harm might be for every possible risk.
  • Invest in the equipment you need. Your risk assessment may have revealed certain gaps in your current safety procedures. Invest in new equipment wherever necessary. Also be sure to check any existing equipment for use-by dates, and get adequate replacements as soon as you can.
  • Invest in training and development. All staff should be familiar with your health and safety protocols, and all should know how to use your key safety equipment. Get first aid training for as many members of staff as possible, and make sure that all new members are given safety drills as part of their induction. Everyone, including all staff and all members, should receive refresher training at least once a year.
  • Prevention is better than a cure. Stay on top of your routine cleaning and maintenance and you can help prevent many common accidents. Servicing engines and other machinery can help prevent fires. Keeping areas free from clutter can prevent slips, trips, and falls.
  • Be prepared for an emergency. Make sure everyone knows exactly what course of action to take in the event of an emergency. For example, where should people gather if you need to evacuate the premises? Which emergency services will you need to contact, and who will be responsible for contacting them? Also be sure to take precautions to secure your premises against possible floods.

Specialist Insurance For Marinas and Boat Yards

Everard Insurance Brokers are the specialist marine trading division of accredited Lloyd’s brokers James Hallam Limited. We can help you ensure you have the insurance you need for your marina or boat yard, to cover you, your staff, your members, your premises, and your equipment for a range of risks.

Find out more about our dedicated marine insurance services.

Marine Cyber Security: Threats to the Marine Industry
Marine Cyber Security: Threats to the Marine Industry 1000 503 James Hallam

 

Every business in every sector must take cybersecurity seriously. Businesses in the marine industry are no exception.

In this post we will outline some of the major cybersecurity threats in the marine industry and discuss some ways you can keep your business safe from cybercriminals.

Which Marine Systems are at Risk of Cyberattacks?

Marine businesses across the world are increasingly relying on a mix of information technology (IT) and operation technology (OT) to maximise operational efficiency. Both IT and OT systems are vulnerable to cyberattacks:

Maritime IT Systems

These are largely the systems used onshore to manage the maritime operation as a whole. Cybercriminals may target data such as:

  • accounts
  • crew lists
  • staff rotas
  • payroll
  • permits
  • certificates

If they gain access to this data, they may steal it outright and sell it to other cybercriminals. Or they may encrypt the data as part of a ransomware attack. IT system breaches can result in a significant financial and reputational hit for maritime companies.

On-Board OT Systems

These can include onboard systems such as:

  • PLCs
  • SCADA
  • ECDIS
  • GPS
  • systems for controlling engines and cargo remotely

It is easy to imagine the chaos that could ensue if a cybercriminal gained control of any of these systems. Along with the financial and reputational damages, there would also be potential for environmental damage, destruction of property, and even loss of life.

One increasingly critical area of concern is the Automated Identification System (AIS), which transmits vital information about a vessel’s identity, position, and course to nearby ships and coastal authorities. Originally designed to improve navigation and safety, AIS was not built with cybersecurity in mind. It is vulnerable to attacks such as spoofing and data manipulation, which could mislead vessels about the presence or movements of other ships, increasing the risk of collisions or grounding. As the marine industry becomes more interconnected, protecting systems like AIS is becoming a key focus for cybersecurity strategies and specialist marine cyber insurance policies.

How Big is the Risk of Cyberattacks For Marine Businesses?

The latest World Economic Forum report on cybercrime revealed that there were historic levels of data breaches in 2024. The forecast for 2025 predicts increasingly sophisticated attacks, largely fuelled by advances in artificial intelligence and marine learning technologies.

Despite the growing risk and sophistication of cybercrime, it seems that too many maritime businesses are either unaware of the risks, or unprepared to meet them. According to a recent DNV Maritime Cyber Priority report, only 40% of surveyed marine organisations are investing sufficiently in IT and cybersecurity.

Cybercriminals do not discriminate. They do not care what sort of business they target. No business is too big, or too small, for them. If they find a vulnerability, they will exploit it. And thanks to AI and machine learning technologies, they can quite easily target multiple businesses in multiple sectors with multiple attacks at once.

If your maritime business is not taking cybersecurity seriously, it may only be a matter of time before you fall victim to a cyberattack or a data breach. As the global maritime industry becomes increasingly aware of the risks of cybercrime, any business that does not take steps to secure itself may eventually struggle to get charters.

Regulations and Guidance for Mitigating Maritime Cyber Risks

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has set regulations for cybersecurity onboard vessels. This means that shipowners, operators, and managers have a legal duty to meet certain cybersecurity requirements both onboard and offshore.

The IMO has also issued a set of guidelines on maritime cyber risk management. They outline the marine technology and assets that may be vulnerable to cybercrime, along with the operational, safety, and security implications of cyberattacks.

The guidelines also include some tips for identifying, analysing, assessing and communicating cyber risks in the marine industry.

You can access the full IMO cyber risk guidelines.

Key Cybersecurity Principles For Marine Businesses

No two maritime businesses are quite the same, so every business involved in shipping and logistics may face a unique set of cybersecurity risks.

Nonetheless, here are three key principles that every maritime business should consider as part of their cybersecurity strategy:

  • Perform a thorough audit of all of your key systems, so as to identify any possible points of vulnerability. Once you understand the specific cybersecurity risks your business is facing, you will have a better understanding of the steps you will need to take to mitigate or minimise these risks.
  • Staff training. Make sure that all staff, including onboard crews and onshore support workers, understand the risks of cybercrime. Everyone should be able to spot the signs of a potential cyberattack – such as a phishing email – and all should know what to do if they ever suspect that key data, or a key system, has been compromised.
  • Software updates. Cybercriminals are constantly looking for vulnerabilities to exploit. Keep on top of updates for all of your key systems, both onboard and onshore. This can help to minimise the possible points of entry for cybercriminals.

Cybersecurity and Seaworthiness

As ships rely more on digital systems, cybersecurity has become a key part of seaworthiness. Recent legal guidance suggests that if a vessel does not have proper cyber risk management, including cyber insurance, it could be classed as unseaworthy. This could mean that marine insurance policies are invalidated in the event of a claim. For newbuild vessels especially, having strong cybersecurity protections and specialist cyber insurance is becoming essential, not just for safety but to meet legal and operational standards.

Specialist Cyber Insurance For Marine Businesses

Everard Insurance Brokers are the specialist marine trading division of accredited Lloyd’s brokers James Hallam Limited. We can help you ensure you have the insurance you need to cover your marine business for all cybersecurity risks, both onshore and at sea.

Our specialist marine cyber insurance policies can offer protection against a wide range of digital threats, including breaches of onboard operational technology (OT) systems like GPS, ECDIS, and the Automated Identification System (AIS). With targeted attacks on maritime navigation and communication systems on the rise, comprehensive cyber coverage is essential for safeguarding your assets, operations, and reputation.

Find out more about our dedicated marine insurance services.

A Guide to Cosmetic Boat Repairs and Hull Maintenance
A Guide to Cosmetic Boat Repairs and Hull Maintenance 500 334 James Hallam

 

In this post we will provide an essential introduction to cosmetic boat repair and hull maintenance. We will cover the importance of regular upkeep while outlining some of the key tasks you might consider as part of your routine boat maintenance.

How Often Should You Service a Boat?

You should give your boat a thorough servicing at least once a year, before the boating season begins. You should conduct certain other checks and maintenance procedures more frequently. For example, you should check fluid levels, including oils and coolant, as often as possible – on a daily basis, if you regularly use your boat.

You should also aim to check your boat’s key systems, including the engine, the electricals, the coolant system, the hydraulics, the steering, and the propulsion, at least once every three months.

Read our full guide to winter boat maintenance. We also have a guide to safely storing your boat out of season, and a guide to servicing your sailing equipment.

The Importance of Committing to Boat Repairs and Hull Maintenance

  • Safety and security. Corrosion and degradation can lead to leaks. A well-maintained boat will remain seaworthy.
  • Long-term cost savings. Routine boat maintenance can help you find and fix errors long before they become truly problematic, potentially saving on costly repairs in the long-term.
  • Keep your boat looking new. For many, this is the most important reason to stay on top of boat maintenance. If you take personal pride in your vessel, then of course you will want to do all you can to keep it looking beautiful.

Hull Maintenance – Key Areas to Focus On

To monitor your hull’s integrity, assess it’s:

  • Structural condition
  • Transom
  • Rudder
  • Stringers
  • Look for any cracks or chips
  • Any signs of leaks or corrosion

Essential Hull Maintenance Tasks

If your boat has a fibreglass and gelcoat hull, first look for any signs of wear and tear. As well as a visual inspection, you can tap the hull lightly with a hammer. If it sounds hollow, it could mean there is a void in the core. Cut out any section that seems compromised, laminate it with new fibreglass, and then bond it with either polyester resin or marine epoxy.

If there are any cracks or gouges in the gelcoat, first sand the hull down to expose the laminate, before applying a fresh coat to reseal. A layer of polish can also further protect the gelcoat layer.

Also check for any marine coat, and be prepared to scrape back some layers of paint to apply some antifouling if necessary.

Cosmetic Boat Repairs

To check the cosmetic condition of your boat, pay attention to the:

  • Deck
  • Windows
  • Key fixtures
  • Fittings
  • Interior upholstery

Cosmetic Boat Repair Tasks

Thoroughly clean your boat’s deck. You may wish to apply a new finish. Check the usage guidance on your chosen finish for tips on how often you may need to reapply.

Also pay attention to your boat’s various fixtures and fittings, including the thru-hull fittings. Give everything a clean and a polish, and always be on the lookout for signs of corrosion or damage.

Read our full guide to taking care of sails and sailing equipment.

When it comes to your boat’s interior, give every area a thorough vacuum, along with some deep dusting and cleaning. Wash all upholstery, and if it is looking torn or threadbare, get it repaired or replaced.

If you want to keep your boat’s interior fresh all year round, as well as routine cleaning, make sure it is as well-ventilated as possible. Also take care not to leave perishable food or drink for too long in your boat. As well as creating unpleasant smells, this can also lead to the accumulation of condensation and mould.

We Can Help You Take Care of Your Boat

Everard Insurance Brokers are the specialist marine trading division of accredited Lloyd’s brokers James Hallam Limited. We can help you ensure you have the insurance you need to cover your boat all year round.

Find out more about our dedicated marine insurance services.

Servicing Sailing Equipment for the Upcoming Season
Servicing Sailing Equipment for the Upcoming Season 500 375 James Hallam

 

As the sailing season approaches, it is important to ensure your vessel, and all of your equipment, is in good working order.

In this post we will outline all of the key maintenance tasks you should undertake to prepare for the upcoming season.

The Importance of Spring Maintenance for Sail Boats and Sailing Equipment

Dedicate a bit of time to some key maintenance tasks, and you can look forward to an entire season of smooth sailing. Regular maintenance will reduce your downtime while helping you save money on repair costs in the long-term.

Of course, it is best to think of boat maintenance as an ongoing commitment, rather than an annual task. Be sure to also read our guide to boat maintenance in winter, and our guide to where you should store your boat out of season.

Does Insurance Require Sailboats to be Serviced?

Your marine insurance policy might also require you to stay on top of certain maintenance tasks. For example, it might stipulate that your boat’s rigging must always be in good, seaworthy condition. So, if you do not commit to regular maintenance, you could inadvertently invalidate your policy.

Key Sailing Equipment to Check

  • Hull and decks
  • Rigging
  • Sails
  • Engine
  • Electricals
  • Safety equipment

Inspect the Hull and Clean The Decks

Thoroughly inspect every inch of your boat’s exterior, including the keel, the rudder, and all through-hull fittings. Look for scratches, gouges, abrasions, and repair anything you find.

If necessary, apply a new coat of antifoul or polish, and replace your anodes if they appear worn or corroded.

Clean your boat’s deck using dedicated cleaning products for each area. Polish your metalwork, and check the seals for leaks. Also inspect your deck equipment, including the stanchions, lifelines, chains, and the anchor system. Give all winches a clean and a grease, and test all hatches, windows, and portlights for leaks.

Check Your Sails and Rigging

Depending on where you stored your boat and your sails over the winter, you may need to clean your sails. In any case, the springtime before the sailing season begins is a good opportunity to check your sails once again for any signs of wear and tear.

Check your rigging for any weak spots, or signs of fraying or corrosion. Pay particular attention to the split pins, the shackles, and the wire guards. You may wish to hire a professional rigger for a dedicated pre-season check, to ensure that everything is working like it should.

Engine and Electrical Checks

First, give your boat’s engine a thorough visual inspection, checking for any signs of rust, corrosion, or damage. You may want to hire a specialist mechanic to give your engine a dedicated servicing.

Even if you do not get your engine serviced, you can clean it, check the fluid levels, and top up where necessary. You can also use this as an opportunity to stock up on engine spares, including fuel, coolant, and oil filters, so that you will have reliable backups once the season begins.

Make sure you record any engine maintenance you carry out in your ship’s log.

Finally, check all of your boat’s electrical components and appliances, including your lights, pumps, and gauging. Check all implements for signs of corrosion, and all wiring for signs of wear.

Check Your Safety Equipment

Many items of safety equipment have use-by dates. Pre-season is a good time to ensure that everything onboard is still in code and in good condition, and to replace anything that needs replacing.

Key safety equipment to check includes your life rafts, lifejackets, flares, and radio beacons and transmitters.

Are You Insured For This Year’s Sailing Season?

Everard Insurance Brokers are the specialist marine trading division of accredited Lloyd’s brokers James Hallam Limited. We can help you ensure you have the insurance you need for this year’s sailing season, and beyond.

Find out more about our dedicated marine insurance services.

Where to Store Boats in Winter to Protect From Damage
Where to Store Boats in Winter to Protect From Damage 500 334 James Hallam

Winterising your boat means taking steps to protect it from harsh winter weather, to ensure it will be ready to sail again once spring comes around. An essential part of winterising your boat is ensuring you store it properly. In this post we will discuss the ideal winter storage solutions for boats, with some alternative suggestions if such storage is impractical or impossible.

Be sure to read our guide to essential boat maintenance for winter, too.

Where Is The Best Place To Store a Boat in the Winter?

Ideally, you should take your boat out of the water over the winter, and store it in a secure building, with heating. If this is not possible, at the very least you should aim to take your boat ashore over the winter. This can help prevent corrosion, while making essential winter maintenance a lot easier through giving you easy access to the hull and keel.

If you cannot keep your boat indoors, then you should cover it, to protect it from precipitation. But if you use a tarpaulin, take care not to block any vents, and do not allow it to rest directly against the hull or topside. This can lead to scuffing in high winds.

What Should I Cover My Boat With?

A canvas tarpaulin or a dedicated boat cover is better than a cheap plastic tarpaulin, especially if your boat will be in storage for an extended period. Plastic tarpaulins can quickly disintegrate.

Steps To Take To Winterise Your Boat:

To keep your boat in the best condition while it’s in storage over winter:

  • Remove as many items as possible from the boat, including any food and drink. This will help prevent mould and mildew from forming.
  • If your boat has sails, take them down, and get them washed and repaired as necessary. Store them in a warm and dry place.
  • Remove all freezable liquids, including the water tank. Leave the taps in the open position, so that any condensation can drain out.
  • Top up the fuel tank and add some antifreeze, which can help prevent rusting. Check your boat’s manual for best-practice tips.
  • Clear all of your boat’s drains and check your piping and hoses for leaks.
  • Thoroughly clean your boat before putting it into storage, and ensure it is as well-ventilated as possible to keep the interior fresh.
  • Ensure the boat’s batteries are fully charged, then consider disconnecting them completely. This way, they will not drain through the winter, and there will be less fire risk.

What If I Have To Leave My Boat in the Water Over The Winter?

So long as your boat is securely moored, and so long as you can cover your boat to keep out the rainwater, your boat should be fine left in the water over the winter. British winters can get cold, but we do not face the sort of subzero temperatures that could really damage your boat.

How Often Should I Visit and Check on My Boat?

Try to visit your boat at least once a month throughout the winter, while it is afloat. This way you can check that everything is still secure, and you can address any potential issues, such as pooling water, before they become truly problematic.

If you are leaving your boat afloat over the winter, you may need to do some thorough maintenance in the spring, to ensure that there are no new leaks or signs of wear and tear. Also, be sure that your boat insurance covers you for keeping your boat in the water over the winter. Not all policies will include such cover, and some may stipulate that you must keep your boat onshore throughout the winter.

Everard Insurance Brokers are the specialist marine trading division of accredited Lloyd’s brokers James Hallam Limited. We can help you ensure you have the insurance you need to cover your boat over the winter, and beyond.

Find out more about our dedicated marine insurance services.

 

 

Boat Maintenance in Winter: Essential Repairs for Vessels and Equipment
Boat Maintenance in Winter: Essential Repairs for Vessels and Equipment 500 333 James Hallam

If you stay on top of boat maintenance throughout the winter, then you will not face an overwhelming set of tasks once spring rolls around.

This post is an essential boat maintenance checklist for winter. We will cover all of the essential checks and repairs you should make at the start of the winter season that will make life easier once you are ready to start sailing again.

Be sure to consult your boat’s manual for dedicated maintenance tips for your specific model.

Hull Maintenance Checklist

  • First, check your boat’s hull for any chips, scratches, or dents. Even the smallest chip can lead to leaks and water ingress, so aim to fill anything you find before you sail again. For GRP vessels, if necessary, apply some fresh gelcoat to reseal your hull, and give the hull a polish to protect the gelcoat layer.
  • Check the underside of your boat for any marine growth, and check the paint for peels, craters, and blisters. If your boat is getting on in years, it may be time to scrape back a few layers of paint to reapply a few coats of antifouling.
  • Check your anodes in steel vessels, and replace them if they appear worn. Tighten all bolts and clean their threads.
  • Check for cracks and signs of corrosion where the hull and keel join, and get any necessary repairs as soon as possible.

Thru-Hull Maintenance

Check all thru-hull fittings for signs of corrosion or damage, and repair or replace as necessary. Also check any valves. Make sure they are fully operational with no signs or wear or damage.

Propeller Maintenance Checks

Give the propeller a thorough clean, and check it for any dings, cracks, warping, or other signs of damage. Make sure it is securely fitted, and replace any bearings as necessary.

Engine Maintenance Jobs

Aim to replace your boat engine’s fluids, along with the filters, at least once a year. You should also aim to replace the raw water pump’s impeller once a year.

Thoroughly inspect the engine’s cooling system, along with any cables, hoses, spark plugs, and any other connections.

Winter Boat Maintenance Tasks

Certain other tasks will depend on the specific type of boat you own:

  • If your boat has sails, check the sails for rips, tears, or fraying, and get any necessary repairs. Also inspect your lines, and clean them if necessary.
  • If your boat has any wood, clean it and treat it.
  • Check all electricals are in good working order, and check the wiring for any wear and tear.
  • Vacuum and clean any soft furnishings.
  • Check for leaks around any windows and deck fittings.
  • Check the condition of any safety equipment you keep on your boat, and replace anything that is damaged, or approaching its use-by date.

Get The Right Cover For Your Boat Over Winter, and Beyond

Everard Insurance Brokers are the specialist marine trading division of accredited Lloyd’s brokers James Hallam Limited. We can help you ensure you have the insurance you need to cover your boat over the winter, and beyond.

Find out more about our dedicated marine insurance services.

 

Voyage Charter vs Time Charter in Marine Trade: Is There a Difference?
Voyage Charter vs Time Charter in Marine Trade: Is There a Difference? 500 278 James Hallam

Voyage Charter and Time Charter are two types of maritime agreements usually called Charter Parties Agreement (CPA) that govern the transport of goods at sea.

Both are broadly similar, and to decide which type of agreement is suitable for your operations. In this post we will discuss the key differences between Voyage Charter and Time Charter Parties, to help you decide which is right for you.

What is a Voyage Charter?

In shipping, a voyage charter describes an agreement to a vessel for a specific voyage or round-trip between specified ports. The one-off nature of voyage charters means they are commonly used for one-time shipments and occasional shipping requirements.

For example, an oil company taking advantage of an unexpected crash in oil prices may decide to buy more stock than usual and choose a one-off voyage charter for a deep-sea tanker to transport the crude oil from Ras Tanura port in Saudi Arabia to Corpus Christi port in Texas, United States.

A voyage charter is agreed between a shipowner (who provides the vessel) and a charterer (who pays to transport goods). The charterer pays either a lump-sum or quantity-based freight rate to transport the cargo for the specific voyage, as well as the cost of loading and unloading the goods.

When Will Cargo Owners or Shippers Use Voyage Charter Agreements?

  • As a Voyage Charter is a limited short-term contract, they are most likely to be used when there is a low risk of loss.
  • Voyage Charters can be arranged relatively quickly, so Cargo Owners or Shippers often use them to benefit from favourable shipping rates and other opportunities.
  • The flexibility and short-term nature of Voyage Charters also make them a good choice for maritime companies with irregular or ad-hoc shipping requirements.

What is a Time Charter?

While a Voyage Charter only applies for a single voyage, a Time Charter instead applies for a specific amount of time. The shipowner will agree to hire out their vessel to a charterer for a specified period, during which the charterer will have more control over the ship including choosing its schedule, route and cargo handling procedures.   Such feature tend to make time charters more suitable for companies and businesses which ship cargo regularly.

A Time Charter could last for a number of months, or even a number of years. For the length of the agreement, the charterer will either pay a fixed amount or typically a daily rate.

An example could be a gas company who may time charter’s specialist LNG (Liquid Natural Gas) Carrier from the Middle East to Asia.

In a Time Charter Party, the shipowner will retain responsibility for crew management, and for the ongoing maintenance of the ship.

When Will Cargo Owners or Shippers Consider Time Charter Party Agreements?

  • Time Charter Party agreements are usually long-term contracts. Shipowners and charterers may enter into such an CPA when a company needs ongoing access to shipping services.
  • It is common for companies to take out Time Charters when they have frequent and/or several/many shipments or requirements, but they do not have the resources or need to to purchase their own vessel.

Is There a Difference Between Voyage Charter and Time Charter Party Agreements?

Fundamentally, the only difference between a Time Charter and a Voyage Charter Party Agreement is the time for which the CPA apply. Voyage Charter Party agreements only last for a single voyage. Time Charter Party agreements last for a fixed term, which can include multiple voyages.

What Are The Insurance Implications of Voyage Charter and Time Charter Agreements?

  • Time Charter Insurance covers all voyages made by a vessel, or by multiple vessels, during the agreed chartered period. Insurers often provide open cover on a 12-month basis, and charterers will provide a summary of their monthly, quarterly, or annual operations. The insurer will then adjust the charterer’s premiums as necessary at the end of each quarter, or at the end of the policy year.
  • Voyage Charter insurance covers a single vessel for the duration of a single voyage. The charterer will therefore pay a set premium for this single voyage.

Beyond this, whether a Voyage or Time Charterparty insurance for both types of CAP are essentially an enhanced form of Protection and Indemnity Insurance that also includes cover for Hull and Machinery.  Further and if the Charterer is the Cargo Owner during all or part of a voyage, then cover also excludes loss of or damage to their own cargoes.

The policies may also include optional additional covers for:

  • Freight Defence & Demurrage (FD&D), which can cover any legal expenses that arise as a result of disputes, and
  • Bunker Insurance, which covers the loss of Bunkers purchased by the Charterers.

There is a third arrangement, known as a bareboat charter. We will explain the circumstances in which this arrangement may apply, along with the insurance implications, in a future post.

What Liability Insurance Do You Need For Your Voyage?

Take the time to complete our short Charters Liability Insurance Questionnaire.

This will help you understand your operation’s possible exposure to risk, which will help us provide the best package of cover and terms for your voyage.

Or if you want to discuss your requirements in more detail, get in touch with our marine team by calling us on 020 3148 9540 or email info@everardinsurance.co.uk

 

Exciting News from Everard Insurance!
Exciting News from Everard Insurance! 1280 720 James Hallam

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our New Personal & Commercial Boat Insurance Product available to brokers, designed to provide comprehensive protection and peace of mind for boat owners. Whether you own a sailboat, motorboat, fishing vessel, or yacht, our tailored coverage options ensure that you can enjoy your time on the water with confidence.

Key Features of Our New Boat Insurance:

  • Hull and Machinery Coverage: Protects the structural integrity and mechanical components of your boat.
  • Liability Coverage: Safeguards you against legal liabilities for bodily injury or property damage to others.
  • Personal Property Coverage: Insures your personal belongings on board.
  • Medical Payments Coverage: Covers medical expenses for injuries sustained on your boat.

Discounts and Incentives:

  • Multi-Policy Discounts: Bundle with other Everard Insurance products for additional savings.
  • No Claims Bonus: Rewards for maintaining a claim-free record.

Why Choose Everard Insurance?

Set sail with confidence knowing that Everard Insurance has you covered. Contact us today to learn more about our new boat insurance product and get a personalised quote!

Or use our online risk capture portal, please find the link below:

Small Craft: Commercial Marine Insurance Form – James Hallam

Small Craft: Private Pleasure Craft Insurance Form – James Hallam

Start Typing