Ahoy!
Boat insurance built by boaters, for boaters -- combining IoT technology, AI, and marine expertise to protect recreational vessels across the United States.
Overview
Ahoy! Insurance is a technology-driven managing general agent (MGA) specializing in recreational boat and yacht insurance across the United States. Founded in 2021 by Amit Nisenbaum, Kaenan Hertz, and Shachar Segev -- a team of boating enthusiasts, insurance executives, and high-tech entrepreneurs -- Ahoy! combines deep domain expertise in marine activity and insurance to deliver products designed specifically for boaters. The company operates from offices in New York and Israel.
In spring 2024, Ahoy! was acquired by Bishop Street Underwriters, a specialty MGA aggregator backed by RedBird Capital Partners. The acquisition was Bishop Street's first and marked a significant milestone for Ahoy! as it expanded its product lineup and geographic footprint. In October 2024, Ahoy! launched a new yacht underwriting program for larger vessels, and in February 2025, the company entered the Florida market -- the world's largest boating community.
Ahoy! offers two product lines: an admitted program underwritten by Spinnaker Insurance Company for standard vessels, and an E&S (excess and surplus lines) program backed by Lloyd's underwriters (including GreenlightRe syndicate) for larger or higher-value boats. Together, these cover vessels up to 95 feet in length and USD 2.5 million in value across all 50 U.S. states and U.S. territories.
Products & Services
Admitted Boat Insurance Program
Standard recreational boat coverage underwritten by Spinnaker Insurance Company (NAIC #24376). Available for vessels up to 50 feet and USD 500,000 in value. Rated A- (Excellent) by A.M. Best.
Key Features
- Liability, comprehensive, and collision coverage
- Medical payments and uninsured/underinsured boater protection
- Fishing equipment coverage (up to USD 10,000)
- On-water towing and roadside assistance
- Phone overboard protection (auto-detection when underway)
- Personal effects coverage
- Weather alert notifications via mobile app
Target Users: Bass boat, pontoon, cabin cruiser, fishing boat, power boat, and sailboat owners in most U.S. states.
Distribution: Direct-to-consumer and through independent agent portal.
E&S Yacht Underwriting Program
Excess and surplus lines program launched in August 2024 for larger or higher-value vessels. Backed by Lloyd's underwriters including a GreenlightRe syndicate. Available nationwide and in U.S. territories.
Key Features
- Vessels from 50 to 95 feet in length
- Values from USD 500,000 to USD 2.5 million
- Fuel spillage coverage up to OPA limits (approximately USD 1 million)
- Open brokerage model -- agents/brokers can access without prior appointment
- Agents without E&S licensing may use Ahoy! as broker of record while retaining commission eligibility
- Professional surveys required for higher-value or older vessels
Target Users: Yacht and larger vessel owners, boaters seeking coverage above standard limits, markets underserved by traditional carriers withdrawing from the space.
Distribution: Through Loro Insurance portal (loroinsurance.com), open brokerage.
At a Glance
- Founded
- 2021
- Headquarters
- New York, New York
- Employees
- 11-50
Category & Focus
Last updated: 2026-05-11