Frequently asked questions

If you have any unanswered queries about what we have to offer, please look through the questions below. If, however, you still have a query please do not hesitate to contact us.

Q. Having navigated to the Navigators & General website, a message has appeared stating that my browser is not supported. What does this mean?

This website is supported by Microsoft Explorer 4+ and Mozilla FireFox. If you do not have current versions of either of these browsers they can be downloaded at:

Microsoft Internet Explorer Home (for Internet Explorer)
Mozilla Download Site (for Firefox)

Q. How can I pay for my insurance?

We accept payment by Visa, Mastercard or Switch for policies processed over the Internet.

Q. Is it safe for me to put my personal, credit and debit card details on the Web?

We recognise the need to protect our customers from such security problems as hackers. With this in mind, credit card details are entered onto a secure server where they are encrypted and passed through our accounts system for verification. The encryption prevents unauthorised users from decoding and reusing the details.

Q. If I save a quotation, the system generates a quotation number and I must input a password to access the quote again later. How does this work and what happens if I forget my password?

You will only be able to access a quote within 30 days from the date it is created. After that time it will expire and you will need to re-input the details to get an up to date price. If you forget your password, there is no way to access your quote.

Q. I processed a quotation yesterday but when I tried to access the quote today the system asked me for a password. What would this be?

In order to access a quotation the "SAVE" option must be selected on the quotation screen. You will then be prompted to choose a password and note the quotation number.

Q. If I take out cover, will I receive any documentation in the post?

No, all the documents you need are available when you take cover out. However, this is not automatic, so please ensure you print when prompted.

Q. I want to print out the policy booklet/premium page for my own record but there doesn't appear to be a print function. What can I do?

Unfortunately we don't know which type of printer you have connected to your computer. Try pressing your computers 'Ctrl' key and 'P' key together when you are on the premium page. If this still doesn't work check your computer handbook. If you've installed Adobe Acrobat Reader, then a PDF version of the Yacht and Motor Boat and Small Craft Policy are available in the relevant sections.

Q. Is boat insurance compulsory in the UK?

Yes and no; evidence of third party insurance is compulsory at most marinas, harbours and in recognised mooring areas. To obtain an inland waterways licence, you need to produce proof of third party insurance; most lakes and reservoirs require the same.

Q. Is my vessel covered whilst in transit by road?

Loss or damage to the vessel is automatically provided for vessels less than 30’ in length. We can cover larger vessels providing the transit is undertaken by a professional transportation company using purpose built trailers, but you need to notify us in advance.

Q. How do I value my vessel?

The value of your vessel should reflect the current market value. Small increase, up to say 10 to 15%, will be quite acceptable. Where the value is not known or ambiguous we will need an independent valuation.

Q. What does boat insurance cover?

In essence: accidental damage, fire and theft to the vessel and its equipment, together with your liabilities to third parties.

Q. How long have Navigators and General been insuring boats?

For over 80 years, since 1921.

Q. How do you define UK coastal waters?

Coastal waters, up to twelve nautical miles offshore, of the United Kingdom.

Q. If I lend my vessel to a friend, will they be covered under the policy?

Yes, provided they are doing so with your permission and you are confident in their ability to handle the vessel.

Q. If I change the vessels mooring location, do I need to advise you?

Yes, you must advise us of any relevant changes to your own or the vessel's circumstances throughout the year, at the very latest by renewal.

Q. I am not intending to use my boat next season, what should I do about insurance?

As a general rule, most boatyards and marinas would expect you to retain at least Third Party Insurance whilst the vessel is on their premises, but you should also consider other risks such as fire, theft, malicious damage and stress of weather. 12 month laid up policies at reduced rates are available.

Q. What are material facts?

Any facts that would influence our acceptance or assessment of your proposal.
For example:

  • a registered medical condition.
  • pre-existing damage to the vessel.
  • a dispute over the ownership of the ownership of the vessel.
  • a change of vessel, permanent mooring or usage, at any stage during the currency of the policy.   

Please note that the above listing is not exhaustive.

Navigators & General Insurance Company Limited. PO Box 848. Brighton. BN1 3GQ. Tel: +44 (0) 1273 863400. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.
Navigators & General can only provide boat insurance cover for UK Residents. Non-UK residents should visit www.zurich.com to find the contact details of your local Zurich Financial Services office.
Communications may be recorded or monitored to improve our services and for security and regulatory purposes.
Cover and premiums are subject to individual assessment.
Navigators & General Insurance Company Limited is a limited company registered in England & Wales No.173444. Registered Office: The Zurich Centre, 3000 Parkway, Whiteley, Fareham, Hants PO15 7JZ.
© Copyright - Navigators & General Insurance Company Limited 2008. All rights reserved. Reproduction, adaptation or translation without prior written permission is prohibited except as allowed under copyright laws.
If you are a UK company operating in boat insurance or the marine trade industry and are interested in a relationship with Navigators and General , please contact our Brighton office at enquiries@navandgen.co.uk, who will be happy to discuss this with you.