insurance question

[willmarsh3]

Recently someone from a local advertising outfit asked to use my boat for a day of shooting a tv commercial for a plastic surgeon. The idea was to post beautiful models on my boat, go out in the middle of the lake all day, and shoot film for the commercial. I would skipper the boat. They offered me $300 for my time. Needless to say I thought this sounded like fun. I told the guy it was go if my insurance was in order.

So I called Boat US.
They said my coverage was strictly for private/pleasure use and would not cover such activities as commercial filming. They did not offer a rider. Furthermore the said that I would have to obtain commercial insurance and Boat US would cancel my policy. Not good.

This leads to a lot of questions about insurance which I can narrow down to the following:

1) Would the insurance that a company like the Moorings uses for covering their boats for charter work? What sort of policy that is good for one day is available?

2) Would I need a Coast Guard Captains license for skippering the boat for this activity.

Thanks for your input,
Will

[Magwitch]

Next time insist the film company provides the insurance.

IanW

[Dan McCosh]

Unfortunately, you do need a USCG license for this kind of thing. A "six pack: used to work, but I don't know now. Ad work is subject to scrutiny afterwards, since your participation is on the record.

[Hwyl]

Originally posted by willmarsh3:
[QB]

2) Would I need a Coast Guard Captains license for skippering the boat for this activity.

[QB]

Yes, but I'd have gone anyway.

[Brian Palmer]

This wasn't on the Elver, was it?

-- Brian

[George Roberts]

I think $300 is too little for your time.

Insuracne brokers can provide 1 day insurance for special events.

I think you can get by without a license. Since the time has passed, I will not research the issues.

[Gary Bergman]

My recent dealings with the CG on attraction vessel issues has yeilded one big key; since becoming 'homeland security' instead of just the 'CG', they are overrun with more important things and can hardly concern themselves with small issues. If you are not a terrorist threat in your activities, then they are on a pretty much look the other way status...BTW, we finished our umpteenth filmed adventure, we notify the CG before any 'big one', and so far, no problemo....just my humble opinion, but..I'm doing it most every day...

[willmarsh3]

Brian, this was on my steel ketch.
Will.

[Brian Palmer]

Figured. Tho the Elver is looking good based on the latest web update.

-- Brian

[Gary E]

It's my opinion that all of you are missing the point here. Insurance protects you from what MIGHT happen IF and WHEN it happens, that's when the injured or the lawyer will ask you to name your insurance co and policy number.

Let's face it, when everything goes according to plan and all are happy, your insur is not a topic of conversation but let one of those who know nothing about walking on a moving floor trip and so much as twist an ankle, and you are on the hook. Heaven forbid something realy drastic happens.

I have no idea if the CG would ask or even know if a particular skipper would have a 6pac or 100Ton license, but if someone gets hurt, you can bet your last red cent, they will ask for your's.

How about an opinion from a insurance agent? or someone in the CG?

[Alan D. Hyde]

Consult with a sharp, active, busy, practical, local business lawyer.

My guess is that he'll tell you to get a "hold harmless" letter from the film-makers.

And to take them out gratis.

Alan