Login for boat- & yachtowners
07/06/2017
Prevention | Theft
Checklist: Burglar and theft protection made easy
Below you will find a practical and helpful checklist that will make it more difficult for thieves to get their hands on your property. Print it out and keep it with you on board as a handy reminder. Of course, this list does not claim to be fully exhaustive. Each boat owner has specific requirements but if you think we have missed a crucial step, feel free to contact us.
In the marina
- Lock your yacht, even if you are only leaving it for a moment
- Never 'hide' a key on board
- Never write the name of your boat on the key
- Lock/bolt storage lockers
- Secure the outboard engine
- Lock/secure hatches
- Secure dinghies
- Secure bikes
- Remove and secure dinghy centreboards and oar blades if possible
- When leaving the yacht, store sheets and removable fittings securely on board
- Switch off the master switch
- Always activate security systems, even if you will only be gone briefly
- Regularly check that your security systems and their power supplies function correctly
- Do not leave any valuable items (e.g. laptops and binoculars) on display below deck
- Remove any loose accessories, e.g. plotters and fishfinders, when leaving the yacht
- Hide expensive equipment with a plain covering
- Remain alert in the marina and report anything unusual to the harbourmaster
- Leave your contact details with the harbourmaster
- Keep a copy of your serial numbers (e.g. hull and engine numbers) safely on land
- Perform an inventory of your property and keep this on land
In winter storage
- Select a secure place for winter storage, preferably somewhere fenced in, with exterior lighting and motion sensors
- Empty the ship and securely store nautical items such as plotters, radar equipment, GPS, binoculars and life jackets, e.g. in the cellar of your home
- Stainless steel propellers are popular with thieves, so make sure you remove them and store them in a safe place
- Always lock the yacht, hatches and storage lockers etc. during winter storage
- Securely store tools and ladders and do not leave them lying around
Trailers
- Do not leave trailers parked out in the open for prolonged periods
- Always secure trailers appropriately, even when only being left for a short period
- Always keep the trailer box locked
- Always remove loose items, such as oar blades, when travelling on the road
In the event of a claim
- Contact the police immediately and report the incident
- Inform your insurance company
- In case of burglary, take measures to minimise damage
- Take clear photos to support your claim (close-up images)
- Make a list of stolen items and compare with your inventory
- Pass on the serial numbers of the stolen items
