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BOAT INSURANCE

Boat insurance covers what your homeowners policy does not.

Standard homeowners policies cap watercraft coverage at very low limits, often under $2,000, and exclude most liability when the boat is in use. A separate boat policy covers the hull, your equipment, your liability on the water, and uninsured boater protection.

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WHAT'S COVERED

What a boat policy covers.

Hull and equipment

Physical damage to the boat, motor, trailer, and permanently attached equipment from accidents, theft, vandalism, weather, fire, and most other sudden losses.

Liability coverage

Pays if you are responsible for injuring someone or damaging another boat or property while operating your watercraft. This is the most important coverage on a boat policy and the part that homeowners does not provide.

Uninsured and underinsured boater

Pays medical bills and lost wages if you or your passengers are hurt by another boater who has no insurance or not enough insurance. Boat insurance is not required in most states, so uninsured boaters are common.

Salvage, wreck removal, and fuel spill liability

Pays the cost of salvaging your boat after a major loss, removing it from the water, and federal liability for any fuel or oil spill it causes. These costs are often more than the boat itself is worth.

IMPORTANT LIMITATIONS

What a boat policy does not cover.

Wear, tear, and gradual deterioration

Damage from age, normal wear, gradual leaks, blistering, marine growth, and lack of maintenance is excluded. Boat insurance covers sudden accidental loss, not maintenance.

Operating outside the navigation area

Most boat policies define a navigation area (a specific lake, river, coastal range, or distance from shore). Operating beyond the agreed area can void coverage. If your use changes, update the policy.

Racing and speed contests

Racing, speed contests, and similar competitive use are typically excluded unless specifically covered. Endorsements are available for some competitive use but require disclosure.

Operator restrictions

Some policies restrict who can operate the boat or require named operators. Operators not listed or with poor records may not be covered. Confirm operator coverage matches who actually uses the boat.

OUR CARRIER PANEL

Carriers We Use for This Coverage

All carriers are A-rated by AM Best and appointed in the state. We compare them and recommend the right fit.

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CLAIMS TIPS

If You Need to File a Claim

Practical guidance for the first 24 hours, what to document, common mistakes to avoid, and when to call us.

Common questions

Can my insurance carrier deny my claim?

Yes, for specific policy reasons that must be in writing. You can challenge a denial.

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What is a recorded statement and should I give one?

An on-record interview the carrier uses for the file. Give one, but prepare first and never speculate.

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What happens after I report a claim to my insurance carrier?

Acknowledge, assign adjuster, investigate, decide. Most carriers move within 7-30 days for routine claims.

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Do I have to use the carrier's preferred contractor?

Usually no. Most policies let you choose any licensed contractor, though preferred shops have their own benefits.

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GET STARTED

Insuring your boat under your homeowners policy?

Standard homeowners caps watercraft coverage at very low limits and excludes liability in use. Send us your boat details and we will quote a proper boat policy.

Varies by boat type, value, horsepower, operator experience, navigation area, and use. Most recreational boats cost between $200 and $800 per year. Larger boats, high-performance boats, and boats used in coastal or saltwater costs more.

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