Outboard Motor Thefts Are Rising – Here’s How to Stay Protected

In a recent incident:

• Thieves rammed through a secure boatyard gate, climbed fencing, and disabled CCTV by cutting power lines.
• Using an angle grinder, they accessed the power supply and shut it off.
• A high-powered outboard engine, worth around £20,000, was stolen.
• No footage was captured due to the power cut.
• It’s believed lifting equipment was used to remove the engine.

This was not a one-off event. Reports suggest these thefts are often carefully planned, involving advanced tools and a solid understanding of marine security systems.

If you're affected by a theft, the aftermath can be stressful. Having the right insurance in place and knowing what documentation is usually required can make things a lot easier.

Most insurers will typically ask for:

• A completed claim form
• Proof of ownership (like a purchase receipt)
• Photos of the stolen outboard
• Any identifying marks or serial numbers
• At least one written estimate for a replacement
• A police report and crime reference number

There may also be a short waiting period to allow for potential recovery efforts before a claim is settled. Keeping your records organised and your policy up to date can make the process smoother.

Even with secure yards and alarm systems, organised criminals are showing they can bypass many conventional barriers. No system is perfect, but following some sensible security measures can significantly reduce risk—and may also be important for maintaining insurance cover.

Here are some good practices to consider:

• Secure your engine with an anti-theft device
• Use GPS trackers or engine immobilisers with alert systems
• Install engine locks or dedicated alarms
• Record all serial numbers and take clear, identifying photos
• Store engines indoors or in locked areas where possible

Make sure your insurance policy reflects the current value of your engine.

We recognise that many larger outboards are permanently affixed to the transom of the vessel with a number of bolts and for these engines, conventional anti-theft locks designed for portable units are often impractical or ineffective.  In such cases, Pantaenius understand that standard locking measures may not apply. If the engine is securely bolted as per manufacturer’s recommendations and theft occurs without any sign of negligence, claims will still be accepted and paid. When your boat is ashore, however, we recommend storing it out of plain sight or in a position that limits access to equipment that could facilitate engine removal.