Steve Haywood wrote:
> > What evidence whatsoever is there for this? If singlehanded boating
> > were a significant risk factor then I can tell you the insurance
> > companies wouldn't 'under recognise' it. Indeed, I would expect
> > mention to made of it in insurance policies. But I've never
> heard of one that does.
Andrew J Instone-Cowie wrote:>
> Mine does, and always has. Words to effect that
> single-handing is permitted only for suitably experienced
> person, and only during daylight hours. (Can't get into the
> filing cabinet at the moment to get exact chapter and verse)
The standard Towergate Mardon documentation states:
"Narrowboat/Canal Boat only:
You are not insured for:
The craft will not be used single-handed (unless during
daylight hours and the user is wearing a personal flotation
device at all times when aboard)."
Leaving aside the double negative, we queried this with Michael Stimpson
who confirmed that this requirement only applies on rivers and tidal
water, and does not apply on canals. Also, it doesn't apply when the
craft is moored. We did get written confirmation of this, but I still
find it worrying that it is written into the standard wording, and could
be used by the insurers to avoid paying out in the event of a claim.
David Mack
