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Protect Your Autonomous Underwater Vehicles with Specialist Insurance Coverage
Comprehensive Autonomous Underwater Vehicles Insurance
Protecting UK marine companies with specialist AUV coverage tailored to your operational needs
Why Choose Insure24 for Your AUV Insurance?
Autonomous underwater vehicles represent cutting-edge marine technology, operating in challenging underwater environments for research, inspection, and commercial applications. At Insure24, we understand the unique risks and specialized coverage requirements of AUV operations across the UK marine sector.
Our comprehensive AUV insurance policies are designed specifically for marine companies, research institutions, offshore energy firms, and underwater inspection services. We provide complete protection for your valuable equipment, operations, and business continuity.
- Specialist Marine Expertise - Deep understanding of AUV operations and marine industry risks
- Comprehensive Coverage - Equipment, liability, data protection, and environmental coverage
- UK-Wide Protection - Coverage for operations in UK territorial waters and beyond
Equipment & Hull Coverage
- AUV hull and structural damage
- Navigation and control systems
- Sensors and cameras
- Propulsion systems
- Communication equipment
- Scientific instruments
- Battery systems and power units
Third Party Liability
- Collision with vessels or structures
- Damage to underwater cables
- Interference with fishing operations
- Marine pollution incidents
- Injury to marine life
- Damage to seabed installations
- Obstruction of shipping lanes
Data & Cyber Protection
- Loss of collected research data
- Cyber security breaches
- Communication system hacking
- Intellectual property theft
- Data recovery costs
- Business interruption from cyber incidents
- Regulatory compliance costs
Recovery & Salvage
- Emergency recovery operations
- Salvage and wreck removal
- Search and rescue costs
- Environmental cleanup
- Equipment retrieval
- Deep water recovery
- Specialized marine contractors
Business Interruption
- Loss of operational income
- Project delays and penalties
- Additional operating expenses
- Contract cancellation costs
- Replacement equipment hire
- Staff costs during downtime
- Client compensation
Environmental Coverage
- Marine pollution liability
- Habitat damage claims
- Wildlife protection violations
- Environmental restoration costs
- Regulatory fines and penalties
- Marine protected area incidents
- Contamination cleanup
Industries We Cover
- Offshore Energy - Wind farm inspections, oil & gas pipeline surveys, subsea infrastructure monitoring, cable laying operations, and renewable energy installations.
- Marine Research - Oceanographic studies, marine biology research, archaeological surveys, climate monitoring, and scientific data collection.
- Underwater Inspection - Hull surveys, port inspections, bridge assessments, dam monitoring, and structural integrity evaluations.
- Defense & Security - Naval operations, harbor security, mine detection, surveillance missions, and maritime border protection.
- Commercial Diving - Support for diving operations, underwater construction, salvage operations, and marine engineering projects.
- Environmental Monitoring - Water quality assessment, pollution monitoring, ecosystem studies, and environmental compliance surveys.
Understanding AUV Operational Risks
- Technical & Equipment Risks - AUVs operate in harsh underwater environments where equipment failure can result in total loss. Navigation system malfunctions, battery depletion, communication breakdowns, and sensor failures are common risks that can lead to expensive recovery operations or complete vehicle loss.
- Environmental Hazards - Underwater operations face unpredictable conditions including strong currents, debris fields, fishing nets, and extreme depths. Weather changes can affect surface support vessels and recovery operations, while marine life interactions can damage equipment or alter mission parameters.
- Third Party Liabilities - AUVs may collide with vessels, damage underwater infrastructure, interfere with fishing operations, or cause environmental harm. In busy shipping lanes or sensitive marine areas, the potential for third-party claims is significant.
- Data Security Concerns - Valuable research data, commercial survey information, and sensitive operational details stored on AUV systems face risks from cyber attacks, equipment failure, or unauthorized access during data transmission.
- Regulatory Compliance - Marine operations must comply with international maritime law, environmental regulations, and safety standards. Non-compliance can result in fines, operational restrictions, and reputational damage.
Benefits of Our AUV Insurance
- Technical & Equipment Risks - AUVs operate in harsh underwater environments where equipment failure can result in total loss. Navigation system malfunctions, battery depletion, communication breakdowns, and sensor failures are common risks that can lead to expensive recovery operations or complete vehicle loss.
- Financial Protection - Comprehensive coverage protects against equipment loss, liability claims, and business interruption costs, ensuring your operations remain financially viable even after significant incidents.
- Operational Continuity - Quick claim resolution and replacement equipment provisions minimize downtime, allowing you to maintain project schedules and client commitments.
- Risk Management Support - Access to marine risk assessment services, safety training programs, and operational best practices to reduce the likelihood of incidents.
- Regulatory Compliance - Coverage includes regulatory defense costs and ensures you meet insurance requirements for marine operations and environmental protection.
- Global Operations - Coverage extends beyond UK waters for international projects, research expeditions, and commercial operations worldwide.
- Specialist Claims Handling - Dedicated marine claims specialists understand AUV operations and work quickly to resolve claims with minimal disruption to your business.
How to Get Your AUV Insurance Quote
- Technical & Equipment Risks - AUVs operate in harsh underwater environments where equipment failure can result in total loss. Navigation system malfunctions, battery depletion, communication breakdowns, and sensor failures are common risks that can lead to expensive recovery operations or complete vehicle loss.
- 1. Initial Consultation - Contact our marine insurance specialists to discuss your AUV operations, equipment specifications, and coverage requirements. We'll assess your unique risks and operational profile.
- 2. Risk Assessment- Provide details about your AUV fleet, operational areas, project types, safety procedures, and previous claims history. Our experts will evaluate your risk profile and coverage needs.
- 3. Tailored Quote - Receive a comprehensive quote tailored to your specific operations, including equipment values, liability limits, and additional coverage options. We'll explain all policy terms and conditions.
- 4. Policy Activation - Once you're satisfied with the coverage and terms, we'll activate your policy and provide all necessary documentation. Your AUV operations will be fully protected from day one.
- 5. Ongoing Support - Benefit from continuous support including policy reviews, claims assistance, risk management advice, and coverage updates as your operations evolve.
Regulatory Compliance & Standards
Our AUV insurance policies are designed to meet all relevant UK and international regulatory requirements for marine operations:
- Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) - Compliance with UK maritime safety regulations
- International Maritime Organization (IMO) - International maritime law compliance
- Marine Management Organisation (MMO) - UK marine licensing requirements
- Environment Agency - Environmental protection and pollution prevention
- Health and Safety Executive (HSE) - Workplace safety in marine environments
- Data Protection Act 2018 - Protection of collected research and commercial data
- Marine Protected Areas - Special coverage for operations in sensitive areas

Insure24's AUV insurance gave us complete peace of mind during our North Sea research project. When our vehicle was damaged in rough conditions, their claims team handled everything professionally and quickly.
Dr. Sarah Mitchell, Marine Research InstituteWhy Choose Insure24 for AUV Insurance?
- Specialist Knowledge - We understand the unique risks facing AUV operators
- Comprehensive Coverage - Multiple insurance products designed to work together
- Competitive Pricing - Tailored quotes based on your specific venue and operations
- Expert Support - Dedicated team available when you need us most
- Quick Claims - Fast response when incidents occur
- FCA Regulated - Authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority
Protect Your Autonomous Underwater Vehicles with Specialist Insurance Coverage
Get Your AUV Insurance Quote Today
Don't leave your AUV exposed to unnecessary risks.
Our specialist team will assess your venue's unique needs and provide a comprehensive insurance solution that protects your business, your customers, and your livelihood.
Call us now: 0330 127 2333
Or get an instant online quote at insure24.co.uk
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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What types of autonomous underwater vehicles are covered?
We cover all types of AUVs including research vehicles, inspection ROVs, survey AUVs, military/defense systems, commercial inspection vehicles, and hybrid ROV/AUV systems. Coverage includes both tethered and untethered vehicles operating in commercial, research, and defense applications.
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What is the maximum coverage limit available?
Coverage limits vary based on your equipment value and operational requirements. We can provide coverage from £100,000 up to £50 million for high-value research and commercial fleets, with liability coverage up to £25 million.
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Are international operations covered?
Yes, our policies can extend beyond UK territorial waters to cover international research projects, commercial operations, and transit between locations worldwide, subject to specific terms and conditions.
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What happens if my AUV is lost at sea?
Total loss coverage includes the full replacement value of your AUV plus reasonable recovery attempt costs. We also cover salvage operations and environmental cleanup if required.
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Is data loss covered under the policy?
Yes, we provide comprehensive data protection coverage including loss of research data, commercial survey information, and costs associated with data recovery and recreation.
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How quickly can claims be processed?
Emergency claims can be processed within 24-48 hours for critical operations. Standard claims are typically resolved within 5-10 working days, depending on the complexity and documentation required.
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Do you cover prototype or experimental AUVs?
Yes, we provide specialized coverage for prototype vehicles, experimental systems, and research platforms, with tailored terms reflecting the unique risks of developmental technology.
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What safety requirements must be met?
Basic requirements include certified operators, approved safety procedures, emergency response plans, and compliance with relevant maritime regulations. Specific requirements vary by operation type.
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Is coverage available for leased or rented AUVs?
Yes, we can provide coverage for leased, rented, or borrowed AUVs, ensuring you're protected even when using equipment owned by third parties.
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Are there any operational depth limitations?
Coverage is available for operations at any depth, from shallow coastal surveys to deep ocean research. Premium adjustments may apply for extreme depth operations beyond 6,000 meters.
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What documentation is needed for a claim?
Required documentation includes incident reports, operational logs, weather conditions, equipment specifications, maintenance records, and any available video or sensor data from the incident.
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Can coverage be adjusted for seasonal operations?
Yes, we offer flexible policies that can be adjusted for seasonal operations, project-specific coverage, or varying operational intensity throughout the year.
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Is war and terrorism coverage included?
War risks and terrorism coverage can be included as optional extensions, particularly important for operations in international waters or politically sensitive areas.
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How are equipment modifications handled?
Equipment modifications, upgrades, or additions must be declared and can be covered under the policy. We offer flexible terms to accommodate technological improvements and operational changes.
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What cyber security requirements apply?
Basic cyber security measures include encrypted communications, secure data storage, access controls, and regular security updates. We provide guidance on best practices and may require security audits for high-risk operations.
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Are multi-vehicle operations covered differently?
Fleet policies are available for operators with multiple AUVs, offering cost savings and simplified administration. Coverage can be tailored for simultaneous operations or individual vehicle deployment.
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What happens if weather prevents recovery operations?
Weather-related delays in recovery operations are covered, including additional costs for extended search efforts and specialized recovery equipment when conditions improve.
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Is training for operators covered?
While training costs aren't directly covered, we offer discounts for operators with certified training and may require specific qualifications for certain high-risk operations.
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How are environmental incidents handled?
Environmental coverage includes immediate response costs, cleanup expenses, regulatory fines, and long-term monitoring requirements. We work with specialized environmental contractors for rapid response.
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Can coverage include support vessels?
Support vessel coverage can be included for dedicated research ships, survey vessels, or chartered boats used specifically for AUV operations, subject to separate marine insurance requirements.
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What happens if an AUV causes shipping delays?
Third-party liability coverage includes compensation for shipping delays, port disruptions, or navigation hazards caused by AUV operations or equipment failure.
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Are there restrictions on operating areas?
Most UK coastal and offshore areas are covered as standard. Restrictions may apply to military zones, marine protected areas, or international waters requiring special permits.
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How is equipment value determined?
Equipment value is based on replacement cost including the AUV platform, sensors, software, and specialized equipment. Regular valuations ensure coverage keeps pace with technological improvements.
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What maintenance requirements apply?
Regular maintenance according to manufacturer specifications is required. Maintenance logs must be kept, and coverage may be affected if incidents result from inadequate maintenance.
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Is coverage available for research collaborations?
Yes, we can provide coverage for joint research projects, international collaborations, and shared operations between multiple institutions or commercial partners.
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How are software and intellectual property protected?
Coverage includes protection for proprietary software, navigation algorithms, and intellectual property stored on AUV systems, including costs for recreation and legal protection.
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What emergency response services are included?
24/7 emergency response includes immediate claims reporting, emergency recovery coordination, environmental response activation, and access to specialized marine contractors worldwide.
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How much does autonomous underwater vehicle insurance cost?
AUV insurance costs typically range from £2,000-£15,000 annually depending on equipment value, operational areas, and coverage limits. Research vehicles may cost less than commercial inspection fleets, with premiums based on replacement value and risk assessment.
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Do I need insurance for AUV operations in UK waters?
While not legally mandated for all operations, AUV insurance is essential for commercial activities and often required by research institutions, port authorities, and project contracts. Many marine licenses require proof of adequate insurance coverage.
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What is the difference between AUV and ROV insurance?
AUV insurance covers autonomous vehicles operating independently, while ROV insurance covers remotely operated vehicles with surface connections. AUVs face higher risks due to autonomous operation but may have lower liability exposure than tethered ROVs.
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Are underwater drones covered under AUV insurance?
Yes, underwater drones and small AUVs used for inspection, research, or commercial purposes are covered. Coverage includes equipment damage, data loss, and third-party liability regardless of vehicle size or complexity.
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What happens if my AUV damages underwater cables?
Third-party liability coverage includes damage to submarine cables, which can result in claims exceeding £1 million. We provide up to £25 million liability coverage for cable damage, business interruption, and repair costs.
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Is AUV insurance available for university research projects?
Yes, we provide specialized coverage for academic institutions, research projects, and student operations. University policies can include multiple vehicles, international research expeditions, and collaborative projects with reduced premiums for educational use.
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Can I get same-day AUV insurance coverage?
Emergency coverage can be arranged within hours for urgent projects or last-minute operations. Standard policies typically take 24-48 hours to arrange, while complex commercial operations may require 3-5 days for full underwriting.
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What is the claims success rate for AUV insurance?
Our AUV insurance claims have a 96% success rate with average settlement times of 7 days. Most claims involve equipment recovery, with total loss claims representing less than 15% of all incidents.
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Do you cover AUV operations in the North Sea?
Yes, North Sea operations are fully covered including offshore wind farm inspections, oil platform surveys, and research activities. Additional weather-related coverage is available for harsh North Sea conditions.
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Is insurance required for commercial AUV surveys?
Most commercial contracts require comprehensive AUV insurance including professional indemnity, equipment coverage, and third-party liability. Port authorities and offshore operators typically mandate minimum coverage levels of £5-10 million.
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What is covered under AUV professional indemnity insurance?
Professional indemnity covers errors in survey data, navigation mistakes, incorrect measurements, missed defects, and advice-related claims. Coverage includes legal costs, client compensation, and project re-work expenses up to policy limits.
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Can I insure second-hand or refurbished AUVs?
Yes, used and refurbished AUVs can be insured based on current market value and condition assessments. We may require recent surveys or certifications for older vehicles, with coverage adjusted for depreciation and technological obsolescence.
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Are AUV batteries covered for replacement costs?
Battery systems are covered for damage, failure, and replacement costs. This includes lithium-ion batteries, fuel cells, and hybrid power systems, with coverage for both sudden failure and gradual deterioration beyond normal wear.
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What marine protected area restrictions apply to AUV insurance?
Operations in Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are covered with additional environmental liability protection. Special conditions may apply for sensitive habitats, with enhanced coverage for ecological damage and restoration costs.
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Is AUV insurance available for defense contractors?
Yes, we provide specialized coverage for defense and security applications including classified operations, military exercises, and homeland security missions. Enhanced cyber security and confidentiality provisions are included.
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Do you cover AUV operations from offshore platforms?
Operations launched from oil rigs, wind platforms, and research vessels are fully covered. This includes platform-based deployments, crane operations, and coordination with offshore personnel and equipment.
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What happens if my AUV interferes with fishing operations?
Third-party liability covers compensation to fishing vessels for lost catches, damaged nets, and operational delays. Coverage includes negotiated settlements and legal defense costs for fishing industry disputes.
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Are AUV sensors and cameras separately covered?
All sensors, cameras, sonar systems, and scientific instruments are individually covered for damage, theft, and malfunction. This includes high-value multibeam sonar, underwater cameras, and specialized research equipment.
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Can I get AUV insurance for Arctic operations?
Arctic and polar operations are covered with enhanced provisions for extreme conditions, ice damage, and extended recovery operations. Additional premiums apply for operations beyond 70° latitude due to increased risks and recovery costs.
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What cyber security coverage is included for AUV data?
Comprehensive cyber coverage includes data breach response, ransomware attacks, communication hacking, intellectual property theft, and regulatory compliance costs. Coverage extends to shore-based data processing and storage systems.
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Is AUV insurance available for startup companies?
Yes, we provide tailored coverage for marine technology startups, including prototype testing, demonstration projects, and early commercial operations. Flexible payment terms and scalable coverage options are available for growing companies.
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Do you cover AUV collision with marine wildlife?
Wildlife collision coverage includes damage to AUVs from marine animals and potential liability for protected species incidents. Coverage extends to equipment damage, environmental assessment costs, and regulatory compliance requirements.
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What documentation is needed for AUV insurance quotes?
Required documentation includes equipment specifications, operational procedures, safety protocols, operator qualifications, maintenance records, and previous claims history. Detailed risk assessments help ensure accurate premium calculations.
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Are AUV operations covered during transportation?
Transit coverage includes transportation by road, sea, and air between operational sites. This covers loading, unloading, storage, and movement of AUVs and associated equipment to project locations worldwide.
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Can I get temporary AUV insurance for short projects?
Short-term and project-specific policies are available from one day to twelve months. Temporary coverage is ideal for research expeditions, contract surveys, and demonstration projects with flexible start and end dates.
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What happens if weather delays AUV recovery operations?
Weather delay coverage includes extended search costs, additional vessel time, specialized recovery equipment, and accommodation expenses for recovery teams. Coverage continues until safe recovery is achieved or total loss is declared.
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Is AUV insurance available for international research collaborations?
International collaborative projects are covered including multi-national research expeditions, shared operations between institutions, and joint commercial ventures. Coverage can be structured to protect all participating parties.
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Do you cover AUV operations in territorial disputes areas?
Operations in disputed waters require special war risks coverage due to potential seizure, detention, or political interference. Additional premiums apply for operations in politically sensitive maritime areas.
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What training requirements apply for AUV insurance coverage?
Operators must demonstrate competency through recognized training programs or equivalent experience. We offer premium discounts for certified operators and may require specific qualifications for high-risk or deep-water operations.
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Are AUV spare parts and maintenance equipment covered?
Spare parts, maintenance equipment, and shore-based support systems are covered for theft, damage, and loss. This includes specialized tools, diagnostic equipment, and critical spare components essential for operations.