During every yacht delivery, we place the highest priority on avoiding damage to the yachts entrusted to us. This principle has guided our work for many years and forms the basis of our daily decisions – from preparing a delivery to the final maneuver in the destination port. The fact that we have not had to record any major damage to date confirms our careful working methods and the high level of professionalism of our crews. Nevertheless, it is part of the reality of any sea voyage that, despite all experience and preparation, a residual risk remains. Even in the best conditions and with a technically sound yacht, something unforeseen can happen in exceptional cases. It is therefore crucial not only to act preventively, but also to take precautions for the unlikely event of an emergency.
In order to provide our customers with the best possible protection, we first check the yacht’s existing hull insurance before each delivery. This forms the basic cover for damage that may occur to the ship itself. However, as not every policy is structured identically and the scope of cover varies, we take the time to go through the relevant points with you. In this way, we ensure that there are no unpleasant surprises in the event of a claim and that the insurance actually meets the requirements of the planned route and the prevailing weather conditions.
In addition, we attach great importance to ensuring that all skippers employed have valid, commercial skipper’s liability insurance. This insurance is a central element of professional deliveries and covers the essential risks that may arise from the responsible activity of a ship’s master. While the private liability insurance of a recreational sailor is not sufficient for commercial deliveries, commercial skipper’s liability insurance guarantees robust and appropriate cover – both for you as the owner and for our crew. It applies in particular if an error on the part of the skipper or an incorrect decision-making process leads to damage. This gives our customers the reassuring feeling that clear, professional structures are in place even in the rare event of a problem.
Another central safety factor is the thorough technical inspection before the start of each passage. Before a yacht even leaves the harbor, our crew carries out an extensive inspection. We check all safety-relevant systems – from the engine, rigging, electrics and navigation technology to the sails, bilge systems and safety-relevant equipment. This check not only serves to identify existing defects, but above all to adapt the entire yacht to the requirements of the upcoming route. After all, every route places different demands on people and materials. For example, a delivery through the Bay of Biscay requires different preparations than a passage in sheltered inland waters or in the Baltic Sea.
If we identify any defects or abnormalities during this inspection, we will rectify them – if possible – immediately on site. Minor technical problems in particular can quickly develop into major risks in the event of swells or longer engine running times. It is therefore our top priority to identify possible weak points at an early stage, address them and thereby guarantee the safe execution of the yacht delivery. If a defect cannot be rectified directly on site, we will inform you immediately and agree on the further procedure together. Transparency is an essential component of our working methods.
In addition to technical safety, we also attach great importance to organizational preparation. Weather routing, scheduling, crew briefing and route analysis ensure that every delivery starts on a solid foundation. Our crews know at all times what conditions to expect, which alternative ports are available and how the route can be adapted to the situation. This careful planning makes a significant contribution to minimizing risks and bringing the yacht safely and reliably to its destination.
Overall, our safety standards are based on a combination of experience, careful preparation and professional insurance cover. For our customers, this means that your yacht is in responsible, well-prepared hands throughout the entire delivery.
