23 February 2015
Yachtowners, the specialist yacht syndicate of The Shipowners’ Club, has launched an additional service for those Owners who have purchased its Enhanced PA cover, (crew Personal Accident with medical expenses cover). The availability of this dedicated helpline for crew, providing 24-hour emergency medical advice and access to treatment where necessary, is part of Yachtowners’ strategy to provide the best service in the sector as well as the most comprehensive cover.
Yachtowners continues to bring the established values of mutuality to the growing superyacht sector, including enhanced service and assistance in managing claims. Following the earlier introduction of market leading liability policy wording and PA covers, the addition of this valuable source of assistance to crew in need of medical attention in a foreign port or remote region, further promotes the aim of making life easier for both owners and crew, and is provided at no cost to them.
The Emergency Helpline will be operated by Speciality Assist Ltd*, which provides experienced medical co-ordinators ensuring appropriate advice and care 24/7. Speciality Assist’s contact details will be made available to all crew members employed by vessels benefitting from Yachtowners Enhanced PA cover. The medical cover is applicable to crew whether they are onboard or not at the time of the emergency. Speciality Assist’s service boasts multi-lingual staff with 24hr access to medical expertise and a comprehensive network of practitioners, clinics and hospitals around the world. All costs incurred will be billed direct to Yachtowners, thus ensuring that the crew and owner are inconvenienced as little as possible.
Head of the syndicate, Nicola Kingman commented, “A prime goal in establishing Yachtowners within The Shipowners’ Club was to bring improved and relevant services to those owning, operating and crewing superyachts. We are pleased that we have been able to launch this helpline as part of fulfilling this goal and we will continue to develop our products to meet the needs of the evolving superyacht market.”
*www.specialty-group.com/specialty-assist-limited/services
ENDS
Notes for editors
The Shipowners’ Club is a mutual marine liability insurer, providing Protection & Indemnity insurance to small and specialist vessels since 1855. The Club is a member of the International Group of P&I Clubs and works with more than 600 broking companies globally to insure over 33,000 vessels across a range of operating sectors and geographical areas.