Watercraft

Insurance

Why You Need A Quality Watercraft Plan

sunset sailing

Owning a boat, jet ski, or personal watercraft opens the door to unforgettable experiences on the water—but it also comes with real financial and legal responsibilities. Quality watercraft insurance protects you from the unexpected, including accidents, property damage, theft, vandalism, and liability claims. Even a minor incident can result in costly repairs, medical bills, or lawsuits that quickly exceed out-of-pocket budgets.

A well-designed policy goes beyond basic coverage. It can include protection for passengers, towing and assistance, personal effects, uninsured boaters, and damage caused by storms or natural events. Many marinas and lenders also require proof of insurance before allowing docking or financing, making proper coverage essential for compliance as well as peace of mind.

With the right watercraft insurance in place, you can focus on enjoying the water, knowing that your investment, your passengers, and your financial future are protected.

GET QUOTES

 FAQs

  • Standard boat insurance policies can include a variety of coverages:

    • Physical damage (your boat) — e.g., collision, fire, theft, weather events.

    • Liability (injury to others or damage to others’ property) if you cause an accident.

    • Towing and assistance (while on or off the water) in some policies.

    • Personal property coverage (equipment aboard, valuables).

    • Additional options/add-ons: uninsured boater coverage, storage/lay-up coverage, haul-out prep for storms.

    • Many insurers allow lay-up discounts (reduced premium) when boat is stored and not used for a period.

    • Transport coverage: Many policies cover land trailer transport (loading/unloading) within certain limits, but may not cover waterborne transport unless specifically endorsed.

    • Even in storage, a boat is still at risk (theft, fire, severe weather) — so review your policy.

    • “Because I have homeowners insurance, my boat is automatically covered” — Not true in many cases.

    • Assuming your policy covers all uses (racing, chartering, overseas) when those uses may be excluded.

    • Not updating the policy when you add aftermarket gear or increase the boat’s value/use.

    • Choosing high deductible to reduce premium without considering whether you could afford the out-of-pocket in a claim.

    • Thinking you don’t need insurance because you “rarely use” the boat — weather, theft, trailer accidents, storms can still cause damage.

  • Key factors include:

    • The boat itself (size, age, type, engine horsepower) and how it’s used.

    • Where it’s used and stored. Coastal vs inland, dock vs trailer, storage during off-season.

    • The coverage you choose (higher limits = higher cost), deductible chosen.

    • Your experience, claims history, safety training. Completing a boater safety course often gives discounts.

    • Add-ons and special features (e.g., towing, haul-out, special equipment) increase cost.

  • Our flagship watercraft carrier partner is Progressive Insurance.

Did you know?

The first boats appeared over 10,000 years ago, when archaeologists believe boats were made with simple dugout canoes carved from tree trunks.

Book An Appointment

Float us your request.

Send us your requests, and an agent will respond.