Q: Do I need boat insurance in the off-season?

A: Yes. Even if your boat is not used year-round, it can still incur damages while in storage or in transport.  Fire, theft and storm damage are just some of the risks to insure against during the off-season. If your boat is out of use for at least 4 months during the off-season you may be eligible for an additional discount.  

Q: What is the difference between agreed value and cash value?

A: Agreed Value is the insured value for your craft stated on your policy.  If your boat is subject to a covered total loss we will pay you that amount regardless of its value at the time of loss.. Actual Cash Value is determined by the market value, age, and condition of the watercraft at the time of loss, and is the amount an ACV policy will pay in the event of a covered total loss.

Q: How much liability do I need?

A: Ask yourself – how much liability do I need to feel completely protected? No states require boaters to maintain any liability except for Utah and Arkansas.  However, because liability may be your biggest exposure as a boatowner you will want to make sure you have ample protection.  Consult your agent or speak with an underwriter to review your options.  

 Q: Is there a limit on how far off shore I can take my boat?

A: Your policy will set forth the navigable limits for your policy. If you’re looking to take a longer and further trip, like to the Bahamas, please contact us for an endorsement.    

Q: Is my boat covered by my car insurance when trailering? 

A: No. Any physical damage to your boat or trailer while trailering is covered by your boat insurance policy and not your car insurance.  However, any liability arising from trailering your boat on the road is covered under your auto insurance policy.

Q: What does my homeowners policy cover me for?

A: A homeowners policies may provide limited coverage for small craft that do not have an engine, such as a kayak or canoe. The coverage is very restricted and is not designed to address the risks facing a boat or PWC owner. Review your homeowners policy to determine exactly how it does, or more likely, does not protect your boat and financial interests.

Q: Is there a limit on medical payments coverage?

A: Yes. We cover no-fault medical payments for third party injuries up to $25,000. Please consult your policy for specific details.

Q: Is my boat still covered during the lay-up period? 

A: Yes, it is covered. However, it must be out of commission (a PWC must be ashore) and cannot be operated. Please contact us if you would like to use the craft during the lay-up period and an underwriter will work with you to provide the necessary coverage, often at no charge at all.

Q: Do I have to be a member of any organization or club in order to obtain boat insurance?

A: No.

Q: If my boat is stolen during the lay-up period, is it covered?

A: Yes, subject to the terms and conditions of your policy.

Q: Do you accept credit cards online?

A: Yes. You can pay up to $1,000 with a credit card. You can also call us or use our secure live chat to renew your policy via credit card or e-check.

Q: Will my credit score affect my premium?

A: No. We will not check your credit score when determining your premium. We instead want to know about your boating history such as prior watercrafts owned and prior losses, your driving record and your preferred coverage options. This will help us prepare the most comprehensive coverage for you at the lowest possible premium.

TRAILERING

Q: What do I need to bring to the DMV to register my trailer? 

A: If your state requires you to register your trailer you will need an ID card from your automobile insurance policy. Your boat insurance policy will cover your trailer for physical damage, but the liability while trailering is covered under your auto policy.

Q: If my boat falls off the trailer while I am trailering it, is it covered?

A: Yes.

SKISAFE SPECIFIC

Q: Do you offer water sports liability? 

A: Yes, it is automatically included in our policy. Please consult the terms and conditions for additional details

Q: If I have damage to my boat, how long does it take before I hear from you?

A: An adjuster will be assigned when your claim is reported and immediately contact you to settle your claim as quickly as possible.

Q: If I have a claim and my boat is damaged, where do I have to take my boat to get repaired?

A: The repair facility of your choice, but you should not make any repairs until your adjuster has reviewed the claim documentation and advised the final settlement status of your claim.

 Q: How long does it take to receive a refund if I cancel my policy mid-term?

A: You will receive your refund within 30 days of requesting cancellation. If you paid by credit card, the refund will be credited back to that account, otherwise we will send you a check.

Q: If I pay with a credit card or electronic check, when does the charge go through?

A: The next business day.

Q: How many boaters has SkiSafe insured? How long has SkiSafe been in business?   

A: Over 500,000 boaters and over 40 years in business.

Q: Which discounts does SkiSafe offer?    

A: Some of the discounts we offer include those for having completed a qualified boating safety course, a clean driving record, navigating in protected waters, multi-craft discount, winter layup discount, and online application discounts, among others.