Thoughts on live-aboard, only captain piloted

[ranger58sb]

Originally Posted by Zracin

Except insurance. I don't have an exact boat picked out so I can't run quotes, but assuming we're looking at something like a late 80s early 90s Viking 55, anybody have any thoughts on insurance cost or if I can even get it? I have no logged experience wouldn't claim any ability to captain it myself in anytime soon. The only time it goes out we would hire a captain. For a boat around 200-240k, would insurance run $3,000 $10, 000, $20,000 a year for an inexperienced (non operating) live aboard owner to start?

Best to consult with a marine insurance broker. For example, some marine insurance companies won't write policies for boats over X years old... and your broker can wade through all that for you.

Our recent experience: 60' boat, 15 years old, some other boat-specific stuff (which fire suppression system, how much HP, etc etc etc.) and navigation area specified, 60+ years boating experience plus Master Mariner credential, quotes between .6 to .8% of agreed value.

Be aware, boats don't do well only sitting idly. Best to run the boat and exercise all on-board systems (e.g., genset) periodically... and weekly would be a decent goal.

-Chris

[sailorboy1]

Originally Posted by Zracin

The only time it goes out we would hire a captain. For a boat around 200-240k, would insurance run $3,000 $10, 000, $20,000 a year for an inexperienced (non operating) live aboard owner to start?

I would bet it costs you more that $3k for full coverage. I bet more like 2-3% of the insured value. And that is only IF they are willing to insure you even with the "captain".

You got the right answer in post #2, ask an insurance broker directly instead of chasing guesses.

[captlloyd]

Originally Posted by Chotu

I can’t speak to the rates for that boat, but don’t start saying you are going to be a live aboard on that boat. Get the boat before you sell the house if possible and make sure it is just a recreational boat for you. Do not tell people you are moving onto it. It will make insurance very difficult to get.

Probably the number one best advice on the cruising forum, “ Don’t tell anyone you want to live on your boat” ! Es no bueno !

[Sidney777]

IMHO. If you can afford to Buy a boat that big you don't need to worry about costs.
Study & research, study & research. Is this for real?

[Martinini]

Insuring a boat more then 10 years old is hard if not impossible with a reasonable premium! As far as liveaboard in the US--I wouldn't. Lots of marina's no longer take liveaboards. There are many reasons for that but mostly greed. They can charge more for transients than liveaboards.