Collecting on board: Fine art

Displaying fine art on board a yacht requires thoughtful planning and care. Whether you are installing new works or already have a collection on board, the following guidelines can help safeguard your artwork and preserve it in optimal condition.

• Secure a Valuable Articles policy that provides worldwide, all risk coverage, including protection for newly acquired items purchased while travelling.
• Ensure you understand and comply with all applicable export laws and regulations when acquiring artwork abroad.
• Maintain a complete inventory of all artwork on board, including detailed descriptions and high-resolution photographs.
• Review your policy regularly to ensure coverage remains current and reflects all items in your collection.
• Work with a qualified professional art appraiser to maintain up- to- date valuations for insurance purposes.

• Always work with a professional art installer experienced in marine environments.
• Use seismic hardware for two-dimensional works to prevent movement or detachment during transit.
• Secure fragile objects such as glass, ceramics, figurines, and sculptures with museum putty, microcrystalline wax, or custom mounts and pedestals, consulting a conservator to determine the best stabilization method.
• Periodically inspect wiring, hooks, and mounting hardware, replacing or upgrading components as needed with the help of a professional art handler.

• Minimize exposure to natural light, as ultraviolet damage is irreversible and can significantly affect value. Display art out of direct sunlight and frame with protective glazing.
• Consider installing a custom art lighting system.
• Actively monitor and maintain stable temperature and humidity levels through climate control systems comparable to those used in homes or museums.
• Reduce environmental fluctuations by keeping doors closed when not in use.
• Consult with an art conservator to develop custom framing or enclosure solutions, which may include framing items with absorbing packs, vapor-barrier backing boards, and spacers to limit potential moisture exposure to the artwork.
• Schedule regular condition checks of the collection with an art conservator.
• Install water leak detectors in high-risk areas such as HVAC systems, kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and beneath appliances. If feasible, install a flow-based automatic water shut-off leak detection device for enhanced protection.

• Monitor who has access to artwork on board, both at sea and while in port, and engage security personnel when appropriate.
• Conduct background checks on the captain and crew, and consider non-disclosure agreements for all personnel.
• Install closed- circuit cameras and an alarm system to alert crew to unauthorized access. Consider using security hardware or theft protection devices for artwork.
• Place smoke detectors near artwork and test them regularly.
• During extended voyages or ocean crossings, temporarily secure or remove especially fragile items. Professionally pack and store removed works in custom cases or crates in a low traffic, designated area.

• Prepare a list of fine art service providers in all planned ports, including art handlers, packers, shippers, conservators, and storage facilities.
• Create a priority item list, noting object locations and any special handling or security requirements.
• Assign a crew member trained in fine art handling to oversee the emergency or evacuation procedures.
• Keep an emergency supply kit on board, including collection specific packing materials, gloves, fans/dehumidifiers, absorbent materials, ethafoam blocks, etc.
• Identify both on board and off- site locations that can serve as temporary storage or triage areas.
• Review and update the emergency plan annually to ensure all procedures remain current.

Chubb’s Fine Art & Collections Specialists help clients go beyond insurance by focusing on prevention. Our team can assist with collection risk assessments, emergency preparedness guidance, and referrals to trusted art professionals in major ports of call.

Contact your independent broker to learn more.