Insuring Your Personal Boat The Right Way
Whether it’s a pontoon on the lake, a bass boat for early morning fishing, or a sleek runabout for weekend cruising, owning a boat brings freedom and fun—but also responsibility. Just like a car or home, your boat needs the right insurance coverage to protect you, your passengers, and your investment.
Why Boat Insurance Matters
Many boat owners assume their homeowners insurance will cover their watercraft, but in most cases, that coverage is limited and may not apply when the boat is in use. A dedicated boat insurance policy is designed specifically for the risks that come with being on the water—from accidents and injuries to theft and storm damage.
What Boat Insurance Typically Covers
Most boat insurance policies offer coverage for:
- Physical Damage: Repairs or replacement of your boat due to collision, theft, fire, vandalism, or storm damage.
- Liability: If you’re found responsible for injuring someone or damaging another boat or dock, liability coverage helps with legal fees and medical bills.
- Medical Payments: Covers minor injuries to you or your passengers regardless of who’s at fault.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Boater: If another boater causes an accident and doesn’t have proper coverage, this protects you and your crew.
- Towing & Assistance: On-water towing, fuel delivery, or emergency labor if your boat breaks down.
Factors That Affect Your Policy
Insurance premiums for boats can vary based on several things:
- The type, size, and value of the boat
- Where and how often it’s used (freshwater lakes vs. coastal waters)
- Your boating experience and driving record
- Storage methods (marina slip, trailer, dry dock)
Customizations and safety equipment, like GPS systems, depth finders, or marine radios, can also be factored into your policy to ensure full replacement coverage if something happens.
Seasonal Use, Year-Round Protection
Even if you store your boat during the off-season, having year-round coverage is important. Many claims—like theft, fire, or storm damage—happen when boats are parked or stored, not just when they’re in use.
At Shafer Insurance Agency, we help boat owners across the country find the right coverage so they can enjoy the water with peace of mind. Whether you’re buying your first boat or upgrading to a bigger model, we’ll help tailor a policy to suit your lifestyle and budget. Give us a call or request a quote online—we’ll help keep your boat, your passengers, and your fun afloat.