New podcast episode: The right insurance for an ocean crossing - with Timo Elfes from Pantaenius
Leonie Meyer
· 02.01.2026
Sailing is the best hobby in the world - so it's all the more important to keep an eye on all the risks. Our podcast host Timm Kruse, together with our guest Timo Elfes from Pantaenius, sets the tone right from the start: While sailors invest months in planning an Atlantic crossing, the topic of insurance is often neglected. However, real claims show what the reality of an ocean crossing can look like.
Factors you should consider for an ocean crossing
With his experience - both in the insurance industry and as a passionate sailor - Timo Elfes clarifies the most important questions: What is the difference between an ocean crossing and coastal sailing from an insurance perspective? Why is a standard policy not enough and when do you need to take extra care with special risks? Timo Elfes explains how insurance premiums are calculated, which factors - from the age of the boat to the technical equipment - are decisive and why an all-risk policy is often indispensable.
The insider tips for typical mistakes are particularly exciting: from sleepy replacement of the standing rigging to the correct planning of safety technology on board - if you don't proceed carefully here, you can fall flat on your face not only in the event of damage, but also when concluding the contract. Timo Elfes reports from his everyday life on how many an owner tries to insure the boat for more than it is worth and how Pantaenius checks this.
Risks of an ocean crossing
But what actually happens if the technology on board fails or a total loss is imminent? Pantaenius expert Timo Elfes gives practical examples from real cases of damage and shows impressively how dramatic and costly uninsured risks can become. He explains in detail what sailors really need to pay attention to and how to avoid painful mistakes. Finally, he gives three key tips that you should definitely clarify before setting off with regard to insurance and safety.
Here you can listen to the YACHT sailing podcast with Timo Elfes
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