Call us for a boat or marine trade insurance quote on 03333 609 886
Cruise the inland waterways with peace of mind
At Stoneways Marine, we provide specific narrowboat and barge insurance that offers cover for continuity of life afloat on the inland waterways throughout the UK. Whether you’ve got plans to live on a permanent mooring, cruise the canals continuously throughout the year, or spend your weekends and holidays leisurely exploring a cut, our specialist narrow boat insurance policies can provide you with the financial protection to do what you love best.
We understand that for many boat owners, this is much more than just a vessel to moor. It’s your home on the water, an escape from a busy life and your place of relaxation. This is why our tailored insurance options always include wide liability cover and personal accident cover, and your insurance policy can be curated to protect you from a variety of risks.
As boaters ourselves, we know that no two days are the same. So, when it comes to flexible narrowboat and barge insurance, know that you’re pulling your tiller the right way when choosing Stoneways Marine.
What does narrowboat insurance cover?
Narrowboat insurance typically includes a wide range of cover in the UK. It can protect your barge against breakdowns, accidental damage, fire, theft, and much more. Here’s what’s usually included:
- Material damage – For physical loss or damage caused by accidents, collision, stranding and grounding, fire and explosion, theft and vandalism.
- Third-party liability cover – Any sums that you or anyone using your vessel with your permission are legally liable to pay.
Contents and personal effects – Cover for contents offers protection for your boat’s gear and mod cons. A narrowboat insurance policy can also extend to personal possessions permanently kept on the boat.
Do you need insurance cover for a narrowboat?
While narrowboat insurance is not strictly a legal requirement in the UK, many boat owners choose to buy it to protect their investment.
Also, while there isn’t a law that states you must have insurance for your barge, you must have a minimum of £2 million of third-party liability insurance to cruise on many of the UK’s inland waterways, or face a fine.
The Canal & River Trust requires valid third-party canal boat insurance cover for you to obtain a boating licence. Without this, you cannot use all the UK’s inland waterways.
Why choose Stoneways Marine for canal boat insurance
At Stoneways Marine, we’re passionate boat owners who understand that, for many, it’s not just a hobby; it’s a lifestyle.
We’re committed to providing the very best service. Unlike some major insurance companies, when you pick up the phone, you’ll speak to a friendly member of our team who’s just like you and understands what you need from a narrowboat insurance policy.
Choose Stoneways Marine as your insurance policy provider and request a free, no-obligation narrowboat insurance quote today. Call 03333 609 886.
It was a breath of fresh air
“We decided to try a local insurance provider after poor experiences with a faceless large insurer. It was a breath of fresh air to speak with an individual who understood the policy, could explain the implications and provide guidance.
Very pleased to have found and become a customer of Stoneways.”
Mike Alexander
Narrowboat Insurance FAQs
How much does narrowboat insurance cost?
It’s difficult to put an exact figure on your narrowboat insurance policy without knowing all the relevant details. However, you can expect to pay from £250 per year, but this will depend on your boat’s value, age and usage, among other factors.
Request a narrowboat insurance quote from Stoneways Marine today to find out how much you’ll pay.
What documents do I need to buy narrowboat insurance?
Requirements can vary, but you’ll typically need to provide:
- Your personal details
- Boat details — The make, model, length, year of build, and the current market value of the vessel.
- A marine survey — You may need a survey, but these are more likely for older or high-value boats.
Claims history — Full details of any previous insurance claims.
What factors influence narrowboat insurance premiums?
Key factors for the price of your narrowboat insurance include the boat’s age and value, cruising patterns, security measures, and claims history.
- Age and value – Older and higher-value boats can incur higher premiums.
- Cruising patterns – Continuous cruising may face higher premiums because of higher risk.
- Security – Alarms and secure moorings could lead to a discount.
Claims history – A clean record and an existing no-claims discount can lower your premiums.