We realized while we were packing for our upcoming trip to Bonaire (THIS THURSDAY!) that we have accumulated a lot of equipment over the few years we've been diving. The thought of "trusting" the airlines has me concerned.

Does anyone have any experience with these two programs? Are they worth the expense, ie has anyone experienced a loss (theft) of equipment via the airlines?

We have DEPP for our expensive equipment. The rates aren't too bad. We take two cameras and the insurance covers flood which is worth it. The only thing we needed the insurance was for a flooded dive watch. Several people encouraged us to get insurance on our equipment. We have DAN for health insurance.

Many Homeowners, etc., insurance policies accept riders for expensive equipment all-cause loss.

We originally investigated a home owners rider policy but the insurance company was really paranoid about adding the coverage. They wanted us to get certified estimates from a dive shop on the value of our "used" equipment (BC's, cameras, etc). We said "see ya" and went with DEPP and have been very happy with them. The coverage is based upon the value you place on the equipment. I think their policy is to replace with like equipment up to the value you placed on the equipment. I flooded the digital camera housing (with camera inside :-) ). When we returned from our trip we sent in the camera and they replaced it for the cost of the deductible. I should note that the camera was two years old at the time of the flooding (3.3 Mpixel) and was no longer available. They replaced the camera with one that was compatible with the housing but was a 4 Mpixel camera. Of course, since the price of cameras had dropped significantly during the two years, they were able to replace the camera for 1/2 the cost of the original one :-). They were friendly to deal with and acted promptly.

We have both Dan and Depp and are very satisfied...Depp has insured us through two flooded cameras already...and no premium increase(yet?!) Dan we never had to use (thank gosh) but is a wonderful organization.

We have a separate inland marine policy that covers the $10,000 + we have invested in cameras, BC's and other dive goodies that we've accumulated over 18 years of blowing bubbles. When we make changes; ie sell/buy something we call our agent and it's updated and or deleted immediately. Worth inquiring about and well worth the peace of mind. Our policy covers anything; theft, damage; self inflicted or otherwise and even the dreaded airline loss!!!

John and Sue, I am having trouble finding DEPP on the internet. do you have a website for them or an email address.
Andy

DEPP's website is http://www.equipmentprotection.com/programs/coralreef.html

Thanks for your help Dr.Director. Andy

Does DEPP insure people from out of the US?

Thanx

Purple twins, I could not find the answer to your question on their web site. You might want to e-mail your question to info@ipginsurance.com