When your child embarks on a career as a yacht crew member, they step into an exciting and demanding industry. While the adventure of working at sea is appealing, the unique risks involved make proper health insurance essential. Many parents have concerns about coverage, costs, and how to ensure their child is protected. Below, we've asked Mark Bononi, MHG's COO and Director of our Yacht Division, to address some of the most common questions that we at MHG Insurance receive from parents about yacht crew insurance.

Q: Will our home health insurance cover anything while my son is working overseas?

A: Most traditional health insurance plans do not cover medical expenses incurred while working overseas, especially in international waters. Even if your plan offers some level of international travel coverage, it probably won't extend to workplace injuries or emergency evacuations—both of which are crucial considerations for yacht crew members. A specialized yacht crew insurance policy ensures that your child has access to the care they need, no matter where they are in the world.

Q: What happens if my daughter needs to be airlifted off the boat?

A: Emergency medical evacuations are often one of the biggest concerns for yacht crew and their families. If your daughter becomes seriously ill or injured while at sea, an airlift may be the only option to be transported to a hospital capable of providing adequate care. Without insurance, these airlifts can cost tens of thousands of dollars. A well-structured yacht crew insurance policy can cover medical evacuations, helping ensure she can receive the necessary treatment without financial strain.

Q: Why do we need different insurance for Europe and the U.S.?

A: Healthcare systems and insurance requirements vary widely between regions and countries. Some European countries have nationalized healthcare, while the U.S. has a private system. If your child is working on yachts that travel between different regions, a global insurance policy is critical to ensure they are covered everywhere they go. Yacht crew insurance is specifically designed to provide seamless international coverage, eliminating the risk of gaps in care.

Q: If my child is exploring a country during her time off, is she still covered by the yacht's health insurance?

A: This depends on the specific policy the yacht provides. Some employer-sponsored plans only cover crew members while they are actively on duty, meaning any injuries sustained during personal time—such as exploring a new city or engaging in water sports—may not be covered. An individual yacht crew insurance plan ensures that your child remains protected at all times, whether they are on the clock or enjoying their time off.

Q: Does health insurance cover my son in between his assignments? What other options do we have?

A: Many yacht crew members work on short-term contracts, which can lead to coverage gaps between jobs. If your son relies solely on employer-provided insurance, he may find himself without coverage when switching vessels or during time off. To avoid these lapses, I recommend a continuous individual policy that stays with him regardless of his employment status. This provides peace of mind and ensures he always has access to medical care.

Q: How much does insurance cost?

A: Unfortunately, there's no simple answer here. It depends on many factors, including the chosen insurance plan, the deductible or excess that is selected and of course the age and gender of the crewmember.

Q: What should I look for in his health insurance package?

A: Not all yacht crew insurance policies are created equal. At a minimum, your child's coverage should include:

1. Global Medical Coverage: Ensures access to healthcare providers worldwide.

2. Emergency Evacuation: Includes air transport to the nearest appropriate medical facility.

3. Repatriation Services: If a serious condition requires returning home, the costs may be covered.

4. Coverage Beyond Work Hours: For protection during personal time and between assignments.

5. Additional Benefits: Dental care, mental health support, and personal liability coverage can be valuable additions.

Q: What do you suggest as the necessities for him to enter the workforce as a yacht crew member?

A: Before entering the yachting industry, your child needs key qualifications. The STCW certification is mandatory safety training for all yacht crew, and the ENG1 medical certificate confirms they're fit to work at sea. Proper insurance coverage is also essential from day one, ensuring they're protected even between jobs.

Beyond certifications, understanding industry expectations is crucial. Yachting demands professionalism, strong work ethic, and adaptability. Since many crew members are paid in different currencies without traditional benefits, financial planning is also important. With the right preparation, your child can confidently start their career at sea.

As your child enters the workforce, having the right insurance isn't just about compliance—it's about safeguarding their health and financial well-being. Working with a provider that specializes in yacht crew insurance, like MHG Insurance, ensures they receive comprehensive protection tailored to the realities of life at sea.

For more details on the best coverage options for your child, visit mhginsurance.com/Insurance/Yacht-Industry or contact me here!