Running with my eyes closed

[SidneyC]

I've always wanted to learn how to sail, figured the best way to do that was to buy a sailboat. Moved to Victoria BC and bought one, a Cal 25 to be exact. Never had it surveyed, the boat was relatively inexpensive, so I didn't really see the need to. I gave it very thorough going over couldn't find any stress fractures rotten spots in the hull, soft spots on the deck, rigging and what not seemed to be in good shape, no blisters. Came with a 10hp engine GPS, VHF, Depthsounder etc... Needed some cosmetic work ie. painting/varnishing the trim, general cleanup, removal of a wasps nest.

THOUGHT, it was a simple as buying it, hire someone to move it from dryland storage to the water motor it a few miles down the coast to a marina near where I live tie it up pay the mooring fee, start taking sailing lessons, and practice, practice, practice.

Found out that in order to moor it I need insurance and the insurance company said that it was to old to insure.

Went on the internet found this website started searching the forums for advice.

If anyone can recommend a good marine insurer in Canada let me know. From what I read it seems that as long as it gets a passing grade from a marine surveyor I should be able to get insurance. Is this true? Is it possible to get only general liability insurance or just something really basic so I can at least use the Marinas? I really need to get my boat in the water, seems like the best way to learn how to sail.

Thats me
Sid

[GraemeInCanada]

It's relatively easy to get insurance if you've had a surveyor say it's in good shape. The best thing to do is get a hold of an insurance agency and ask who they use and get that person's number to have it done. On that note I use Coast Underwriters Ltd. that I got through Johnston Meier. I have a friend who had no trouble with BCAA though.