Choosing a liferaft, size, grab bag and cover
The raft must never be too small for the crew actually aboard, one place short is one person too many in the water.
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Liferafts are sold by the number of people they take, and that figure is an upper limit, not a comfort rating. Four people in a four-person raft sit shoulder to shoulder; anyone who is regularly out with a full crew takes the next size up. Servicing every two to three years is compulsory, otherwise the raft will not open when it matters.
The grab bag holds whatever has to be to hand within five seconds: papers, EPIRB, handheld VHF, water, signalling gear, medicines. Nobody carries more than fifteen kilograms in an emergency.
The raft itself is equipment and belongs in the sum insured; depending on the model it costs several thousand euros. Once it has been deployed it is as a rule no longer usable, and the replacement is only covered if there was an insured event.
Frequently asked questions
How often does the liferaft have to be serviced?
Every two to three years, depending on the manufacturer. If the service is out of date, there is no guarantee the raft will open.
Is the raft covered?
Yes, as equipment, provided it is included in the sum insured.
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