Every year, an estimated 10,000 vessels are stolen across Europe — and that number continues to rise. Alongside full-boat thefts, break-ins for electronics, tenders, and outboard engines remain common. The total financial loss for owners and insurers is staggering, with European estimates reaching €575 million annually, according to the German Center of Competence for Boat-Related Crimes.

From the Med to the Caribbean

Many stolen boats are traced to the Black Sea, the Canary Islands, or Cape Verde, and some even end up as far as the Caribbean.
“Once we receive a report that a yacht has been stolen, we launch a coordinated search operation,” explains Jens Ploch, Sales Director at Pantaenius Spain. “We contact police, marina staff, surveyors, and industry partners, and we also publish details on international websites like stolenboats.info. It’s a complex process, but we recover a surprising number of vessels.”

Documentation is key

Ploch stresses the importance of keeping a detailed record of all onboard equipment — serial numbers, invoices, and photos — stored safely on land, not on the boat.
“In the event of a theft, having documentation ready helps owners prove ownership and speeds up the claims process,” he says. “Even a quick photo of serial numbers can make a huge difference.”

Small investments, big protection

While ports and marinas have improved their security systems with cameras, coded gates, and 24-hour staff, owners themselves play the most important role in preventing theft.
“Affordable tracking devices have helped recover many stolen boats,” says Ploch. “For just a few hundred euros, you can install a GPS tracker and monitor your yacht’s position from your phone.”

Easy tips to avoid boat theft

• Check on your boat regularly or ask a trusted contact to do so if you’re abroad.

• Inform your marina about your movements — early detection helps.

• Never leave valuables in plain sight.

• Keep copies of invoices and serial numbers off the boat.

• Use strong locks on lockers and outboards.

• Bring tenders and engines onboard at night.

• Mark your gear with your postcode or contact details.

• Never leave your boat keys on board.

A growing challenge

Boat theft may not be the most common maritime crime, but it has grown more sophisticated in recent years. As yachts become more advanced, so do the thieves targeting them.
That’s why prevention, awareness, and technology are essential. A few proactive steps today can save owners from major losses tomorrow.

For more information or insurance advice, contact Pantaenius Spain at +34 971 70 86 70.