Tour boat insurance tab a concern

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March 27, 2006	Tour boat insurance tab a concern by Annemarie Franczyk

Western New York tour boat operators are hoping state-mandated liability insurance won't layer more costs on the business of pleasure cruising.

What worries them is not required coverage -- they voluntarily insure their vessels -- but the amount of coverage that will be required.

One proposal, by Gov. George Pataki, would seek $10 million in liability insurance. Another would leave the amount up to the state Department of Insurance. A third, passed last week in the Senate, would require $1 million in coverage. Still another calls for $25,000 insurance per passenger.

Insuring tour boats became a hot issue last fall when the Ethan Allen capsized on Lake George, killing 20 elderly passengers. Though not required by the state, the operator had a $2 million policy but it didn't cover accidents that occurred on the water.

Local operators will be relieved if the proposed $1 million-requirement persists; they say their vessels are insured for at least that much. But if the upper limits go through, rates could triple. The effect could be devastating, particularly for a business with a four-month season, said Rick Deegan, captain and owner of Grand Lady Cruises Inc.

State Assemblyman Robin Schimminger said Albany's jurisdiction needs to be defined in the matter. Some argue the state can issue mandates only on boats sailing landlocked waters such as Chautauqua Lake.

Others say state rules regarding insurance legally extend to vessels sailing Lake Erie, the Niagara River and other waterways under the U.S. Coast Guard.

About Grand Lady Cruises, Inc.: Welcome Aboard The M/V Grand Lady. The Niagara Region's newest, most unique place to meet and celebrate, offering an upscale setting for all your corporate and social functions. You'll enjoy an experience second to none when you step aboard the luxurious Grand Lady, cruising along the Niagara River for dinner, lunch and other events. The magnificent view, our outstanding amenities, and the total privacy will provide the perfect backdrop to important discussions, private dinners, lively entertainment, wedding, banquet or group tours... or simply some special, unhurried time aboard and away. You'll find that our many offerings such as customized menus, routes and schedules, will help you host an event that will be unlike any other.

Treat your corporate guests, employees, family and friends to an exclusive charter on the Grand Lady... and launch your own legendary event! Visit us online at www.grandlady.com

Grand Lady Cruises Inc. | 100 Whitehaven Rd. | Grand Island, NY 14072

about online thymes:

online thymes allows small to medium sized businesses outsourced marketing functions. our firm offers innovative expertise in all aspects of marketing ranging from traditional methods such as public relations, print advertising and web development to email marketing and streaming video.

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