Your boat is likely one of your most prized possessions. It did not come cheap, the maintenance is not easy, but it provides some of the best leisure times that you and your family enjoy together. It is important to find the right boat insurance that will come to the rescue in case of the unexpected. Below are some common questions about boat insurance.
Isn’t my boat covered under my homeowner’s policy?
It’s often best to separate your boat insurance from your homeowner’s policy. Many homeowners’ policies don’t cover marine-specific risks, such as salvage work, wreck removal, pollution or environmental damage. They also typically cap boat coverage at $1,000 so a home insurance policy might help you only if your boat is small, slow and inexpensive.
What does a boat policy cover?
- Damage or destruction from a collision, fire, lightning, theft and vandalism.
- Bodily injury liability, in case someone is injured on your boat.
- Property damage liability, which pays for damage your boat causes to someone else’s property.
- Guest passenger liability, which pays for legal expenses of someone driving your boat with permission.
- Medical payments, which pay expenses for you and your passengers.
How much does it cost to insure a boat?
To determine cost consider these factors:
- Length
- Value
- Age and condition
- Speed/Horsepower
- Primary residence
- Type of boat/motor
- Where it will operate (ocean, lakes, rivers)