Selecting insurance for an entire group can be an intimidating task. After all, choosing something for yourself can be difficult, but when everyone has different requirements or interests, trying to make everyone satisfied and happy is a challenge for sure. That’s where we come in!

First off, there is a lot of research to be conducted, quotes to consider, difficult conversations to be had, and potential compromises to be made. That’s before getting into the nitty-gritty of ever-changing rules and regulations. Which is why you should have a basic understanding of yacht crew insurance benefits, because even when you leave it for the experts, you need to know what you are getting yourself into. The different benefit options to be aware of are:

· Medical/Health Insurance

· Life Insurance

· Accidental Death and Dismemberment

· Personal Accident

· Temporary Disability Insurance

· Hospital Indemnity

Medical/Health Insurance

Medical/Health Insurance is typically at the forefront of all benefits packages. Oftentimes being the only benefit offered. While most people are familiar with health insurance, there are still a number of details that need to be reviewed and considered. How much is the deductible? Is there a co-pay? What is the co-insurance? Does it include dental, vision, and/or disability? Feeling overwhelmed? Please feel free to contact us for assistance and guidance on what plan would fit your yacht crew best.

Life insurance

Many consider life insurance as a personal or “luxury” option, but there are a growing number of yachts that are including life insurance coverage as a part of their overall benefits package. Offering coverage for your crew can give them some assurance that if anything happens to them while they are at sea, their loved ones will be better protected financially back home. Typically, coverage amounts are fixed in increments of $10,000, up to $100,000.

Accidental Death and Dismemberment

Accidental death and dismemberment, also known as AD&D, is very similar to life insurance. The difference is that there is only a benefit from an accidental death, or dismembering injury. This type of insurance typically provides coverage 24/7, not just while at work.

Personal Accident

Often referred to as PA cover, personal accident insurance will pay out a sum of money for permanent injury (and sometimes permanent illness). It is often confused with medical insurance; however, it doesn’t provide coverage for any medical bills or doctors’ appointments, it simply provides a one-time payment after experiencing a permanent injury or illness.

Temporary Disability Insurance

Temporary Disability insurance is a great way to offer coverage for your crew in the event they get sick or hurt and cannot work for a short period of time. Having this policy will cover a percentage of the person’s wages if they are unable to perform their occupation and can last for up to two years due to an injury or illness. If the disabling event becomes permanent, the personal accident (if purchased as above) may kick-in and pay a lump sum.

Hospital Indemnity

Hospital indemnity insurance is similar to disability insurance, in that it provides an added benefit. Depending on the policy, it provides a benefit each day your crew member is in the hospital. For example, if someone were hurt on the job and had to go to the hospital, the insurance would pay that person $100 per day that they are admitted in the hospital. This does not cover their hospital bills; it just provides the person with an added benefit.

Having proper insurance is important whether you are at sea or docked at a shipyard. MHG is your specialized broker when it comes to crew insurance. Our insurance specialists have the knowledge and experience to find the policy that works best for you. If you are interested in purchasing, or have any questions about yacht crew insurance or travel insurance, please contact us at +1 954 828 1819 or +44 (0) 1624 678668 or visit mhginsurance.com.