Marinas serve as gateways to the open waters for boat owners and enthusiasts alike. The excitement of harbouring vessels also comes with the inherent risks such as dock damage, fires, and electric shock drownings. 

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These risks translate into substantial financial liabilities for marina owners. VoltSafe Marine can assist marinas in reducing many of the risks associated with shore power hazards in the face of insurance liability. 

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The Vulnerability of Marinas

The unique environment of marinas exposes them to many risks. Dock damage can occur due to various factors such as severe weather conditions, collisions involving boats, wear and tear over time, or boat owners sailing without unplugging shore power.

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Fires, though less frequent, can have catastrophic consequences potentially causing significant property damage, environmental harm, and endangering lives. The cost of the damage to docks as a result of a fire can reach millions of dollars. For example, in 2011 a boathouse fire in Port Lambton, Ontario resulted in $40M worth of damage. A recent fire at Vancouver’s Granville Island cost an estimated $5-10M in damages. This is why marinas require that boat owners carry liability insurance between $1-$2M. In addition to fires, Electric Shock Drownings (ESDs) can also carry losses financially, but more importantly, they also carry a lifelong devastating impact for the families left behind.  

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Insurance Coverage

To safeguard against these risks, marina owners typically invest in comprehensive insurance policies tailored to their specific needs. These policies often include:

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1. Property Insurance: Covers damage to marina structures, including docks, piers, and buildings, caused by covered perils such as fire, vandalism, or natural disasters.

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2. Liability Insurance: Protects against claims of bodily injury or property damage arising from accidents that occur on the marina premises, including dock collapses or fires that spread to neighboring boats. 

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3. Pollution Liability Insurance: Addresses the potential environmental damage resulting from fuel spills or other hazardous materials released during a fire or accident.

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4. Business Interruption Insurance: Provides financial compensation for lost income and   ongoing expenses in the event of a covered incident that disrupts normal marina operations.

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5. Boat Owner Insurance Requirements: Many marinas require boat owners to carry their insurance policies, covering liability for damages caused by their vessels while docked or navigating within the marina.

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VoltSafe Marine prevents potential damage by detecting faulty wiring or power overdraw with its heat sensor, shutting off power to the slip, and notifying owners and marina operators via software. This early warning prevents fire risks while its current leakage detection capabilities mitigate risks of ESDs. Boat owners can monitor power usage and identify devices drawing excessive power to avoid damage. Additionally, the magnetic hardware can breakaway without damage to the docks. Marinas incur costly repairs when boats sail away without disconnecting from shore power, creating unnecessary infrastructure damage expenses for marinas and boat owners alike. 

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Mitigating Risks and Reducing Insurance Costs

While insurance provides essential financial protection, marina owners can take proactive measures to mitigate risks and potentially lower insurance premiums:

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1. Invest in Maintenance: Regular inspections, maintenance, and repairs of docks, electrical systems, and fire suppression equipment can reduce the likelihood of accidents and damage.

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2. Implement Safety Protocols: Establish and enforce safety guidelines for boat operations, fueling procedures, and fire prevention measures. Conduct regular safety training for staff and boat owners to promote awareness and preparedness.

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3. Enhance Security Measures: Install surveillance cameras, security lighting, and access controls to deter vandalism, theft, and unauthorized access to the marina premises.

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4. Update Emergency Response Plans: Develop comprehensive emergency response plans in collaboration with local authorities and emergency services. Conduct drills and simulations to ensure staff readiness to handle accidents or disasters effectively.

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5. Review Insurance Coverage Regularly: Periodically reassess insurance needs and coverage limits to align with evolving risks, changes in property value, and regulatory requirements.

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VoltSafe Marine shore power solutions enhance marina risk management by enabling faster maintenance response, reducing hazards, and potentially lowering insurance premiums. Its prongless connector and heat sensor prevent hidden corrosion and power overdraw, mitigating fire risks. The system notifies marina operators of issues like overheating and faulty wiring, while allowing boat owners to monitor energy usage via VoltSafe Marine’s companion app. 

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If you are a marina owner and would like to learn more about how VoltSafe Marine can help with reducing your insurance claims from dock damage due to shore power hazards, CONTACT US or send us an email to sales@voltsafe.com.

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