How Boat Builders Can Get the Materials for the Strongest Vessel

Boat builders always look for ways to design and craft the most robust boats to sail out into the open sea. For boat owners, the goal is to ensure their vessel is as solid and reliable as possible. It can mean various things for different people, but one of the most important considerations when building a boat is what materials to use.

Advising Boat Builders on the Best Materials Possible

As insurance agents, you understand this better than anyone else — after all, you are responsible for helping your clients protect their investments in case of accidents or damages. With that in mind, we discuss the best materials for boat builders when it comes to constructing the most robust boat possible. 

Fiberglass

The first and most important material to consider is fiberglass. Fiberglass is a lightweight, durable material used in boat construction for decades. 

It is resistant to rot, corrosion, and UV damage, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a long-lasting vessel. Additionally, it is relatively easy to repair fiberglass if needed — another advantage in ensuring the longevity of your client’s investment. 

To protect your clients’ investment, explain how important it is to have boat builder insurance since insurers designed this coverage specifically for boats and marine vessels. It can cover various losses, including damage from fire and weather and liability for personal injury or property damage.

Steel

When building the most substantial boat, there’s less material quite as reliable and durable than steel. Steel boats are solid and resistant to corrosion, making them ideal for constructing a sturdy vessel that can withstand harsh conditions.

The downside of steel is its heavy weight, which can limit the size of your craft or require more powerful engines to move it in the water. Additionally, welding steel requires specialized knowledge, which may be a more expensive option for those with the necessary skill set.

Aluminium

Aluminum is ideal for boat building due to its strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and easy fabrication. It’s an excellent material for larger boats as it doesn’t require the same level of maintenance as some other materials. Aluminum boats are also much lighter than their wooden or fiberglass counterparts, making them easier to handle in choppy waters.

Ferro-Cement

Ferro-cement boats are durable and can last up to 20 years if maintained properly, making them an ideal choice for investing in a long-term vessel. Builders make this yacht material from layers of mesh and cement, with steel reinforcing bars placed in the mesh. This combination creates a solid yet flexible structure that can withstand harsh and difficult environmental conditions, such as storms and rough seas.

Wood

Wood is a classic choice for boat construction that many have used for centuries. It offers a good balance of strength, lightness, and flexibility, making it an ideal material for boat building. 

This material is strong enough to withstand turbulent seas while providing the buoyancy necessary to keep the craft afloat. Additionally, builders could easily shape wood and repair it with simple tools or by hand, making it a versatile choice for those looking to build their own boats.

About Merrimac Marine Insurance

At Merrimac Marine, we are dedicated to providing insurance for the marine industry to protect your clients’ business and assets. For more information about our products and programs, contact our specialists today at (800) 681-1998.