Working on board is arguably one of the most unique and varied careers, offering incredible opportunities and unforgettable experiences. However, crewing onboard yachts is physically demanding. The strain and long hours mean that illness or accidental injury are more common than in other industries. Moreover, the multinational cultures shared within crews and the cruising through / base in many countries around the world can lead to various sets of needs for captains and crew. These bespoke needs can only be handled by international medical insurance solutions.
For super or mega yacht crews, even if the vessel carries Protection & Indemnity insurance (P & I) for both accidents and illnesses while on-duty, it is still not a major medical insurance plan. It is in the owner’s best interest to offer health insurance for the crew as it reduces the liability and has a positive impact on the P & I insurance loss ratio, since medical claims are filed directly with the health insurer. Professional marine crews need dependable medical coverage for both accidents and illnesses, 24/7 support and direct claim settlement worldwide, during off-duty as well.
Even though the application of ILO’s Maritime Labor Convention (MLC) 2006 standards for crew healthcare and insurance did create stronger and more comprehensive rights and protection at work for the lager super or mega yachts crews as well, still, yacht crew members are often uninsured when off-duty, for accidents or sicknesses.
