Boat & Jet Ski Insurance

What does boat insurance cover?

A boat policy combines two main protections: one that covers your vessel (physical damage) and one that protects you if you cause harm to other people or their property (liability). On top of that you can add optional coverages based on how and where you go out on the water.

• Physical damage: collisions, capsizing, fire, theft, vandalism and storms, depending on the policy.
• Liability: injuries to other people or damage to other boats, docks or property.
• Medical payments: care for you and your passengers after an accident.
• Uninsured boater: if an uninsured boater injures you.
• Towing and on-water assistance, personal effects and trailer (optional).

Which watercraft we can insure

We work with carriers that cover most recreational watercraft: runabouts, fishing boats, pontoons, ski and wakeboard boats, small sailboats and personal watercraft (jet skis). Each carrier has its own rules on size, speed, age and use, which is why we compare several options for your case.

Does my homeowners policy cover my boat?

Many homeowners policies offer little or no protection for boats: they usually have low limits, cover only small vessels, or exclude damage away from your property and liability on the water. Jet skis and boats with powerful motors are usually excluded.

Review your policy or send it to us: we will tell you what it covers and whether a separate boat policy makes sense.

Agreed value vs. actual cash value

With agreed value, you and the insurer set the boat value when you buy the policy and, in a total loss, that amount is paid (minus the deductible). With actual cash value, the market value at the time of the loss is paid, which drops with depreciation. Agreed value usually costs more but gives more certainty.

Is boat insurance required?

State laws on boat insurance vary, and in many cases it is not required by law. Even so, it is very common for the lender (if you financed the boat), the marina where you keep it, or some lakes and events to require it. And without liability coverage you could pay out of pocket for an accident with injuries.

Boat registration and boater education rules are set by each state. In Georgia they are administered by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR); confirm your requirement before going out on the water.

What affects the price?

Price depends on the type, size, age, value and engine power, where you boat and store it, your experience and record, the deductible and the coverages you choose. Some carriers offer discounts for boating safety courses or for bundling with your auto or home policy.