Need some advice - Marina sank my boat

We own a 31' Carver and when our marina went to put our boat in this spring they called and stated that the boat was put in but pull back out because it sank. When we talked to them they told us that 2 seals failed as did our aft bilge. The boat sank about 6 feet so there is a lot of water damage. Any advice would be appreciated as to what we should be doing about all this.

Re: Need some advice - Marina sank my boat

Oh man thats horrible to hear. I would call your insurance company right away. Possibly an investigator to see if the marina could possibly be at fault.

Re: Need some advice - Marina sank my boat

Thank you for your reply. The marina is definitely at fault. They didn't really tell us what they did wrong but told us they were taking care of the bill to get it back on the water. The boat sat in the water overnight and when they pulled it out they started working on the engine. We are not sure what all they are doing to it but stated they would let us know when they got done. They pulled out most but not all of the beds and cushions and told us they were having it cleaned. There is a lot of water damage to the cupboards and other upholstery and I don't think they plan on replacing any of it. No one seems to know if there are any problems with the electrical throughout the boat or not. They told us they would have it back on the water and ready to use this weekend. We are also not sure how long it would take to notice everything that was wrong due to it sinking. Not sure if we should go after there insurance company to replace everything or ours. Not sure what the value of the boat is now that it sank. Any more advice would be great.

Re: Need some advice - Marina sank my boat

I don't have much experience in this, but you should make sure you document EVERYTHING (what you saw, what the told you, where, when), take pictures, and try to get them to put things in writing.

Maybe there are witnessess also. CYA.

Re: Need some advice - Marina sank my boat

If your insurance man wasn't there YESTERDAY, why not? Its going to a BIG problem, and get all parties involved. Ya ain't sinking a 31 footer and have it ready by the weekend..INSANE. And if its salt water...(oh boy)

Re: Need some advice - Marina sank my boat

Do you have insurance? I'm with the others: The only thing you should be doing that you're not is getting your insurance company involved. You could be assuming a lot of personal liability if you "sign off" on repairs and then something catastrophic fails down the road. They may have cause to exclude. You're playing with fire...

Re: Need some advice - Marina sank my boat

i think you need an attorney with maritime experience. you have a big investment, that has been comprimised. the wood work could take weeks to show any damage. you didn't say if it is salt or fresh water. if salt all electrical will have to be surveyed for damage.

Re: Need some advice - Marina sank my boat

I agree, your insurance company. And a lawyer. You will be paying for his advice, so listen to him. I'm sure he will say don't sign anything.

Re: Need some advice - Marina sank my boat

I agree - you need to:

1 - Call your insurance company ASAP. Give them the name and number of the Marina.

2 - Call a good attorney who has experience with yachts.

I would talk to the attorney to get the insurance to pay off the boat as salvage and go after the marina for any balance.

Re: Need some advice - Marina sank my boat

Has anyone suggested that you call your insurance company?

Re: Need some advice - Marina sank my boat

Or possibly an attorney??

Re: Need some advice - Marina sank my boat

Back on the water and ready to go in less than a week!! Yeah right. Something ain't right.

Re: Need some advice - Marina sank my boat

I Think maybe they will get it running in a week in hopes you will accept the vessel back and then they will get out of any other repairs.It could take weeks to months for other damage to show up then your stuck with the repairs. Get your insurance people there ASAP!
Good luck!