Boat insurance. It's your safety net for things like accidents, theft, damage, and so much more. But let's be honest - insurance can be a real head-scratcher at times. 

That’s why we work hard to make it simple. Get all the information you need about boat insurance (in plain English) from the experts at SkiSafe. We’ll get you up to speed on the basics in no time. 

Boat Insurance 101

Boat insurance is a coverage package designed to protect you and your vessel. Sometimes, that means paying for damages incurred if a named storm hits. Other times, it means paying for damage if you strike something in the water or medical bills if a guest is injured.  

With the right SkiSafe Boat Coverage, a single claim could cover a variety of things - from physical damage to injuries sustained by your guests, and a whole lot more. Essentially, it’s your protection against the uncertainties of boating.

Biggest Boat Insurance Qs: Answered 

It can be tough to understand the inner workings of your policy and, quite honestly, insurance in general. So, we’re here to bring you up to speed with some of the most common questions our customers ask. 

Do I really need insurance for my boat?

While not always mandatory, boat insurance is highly recommended. (There’s no denying that, as a boat insurance company, we’re definitely biased on the topic. But still, most boaters agree that it’s a worthwhile investment). Most marinas require it, and insurance can protect you financially if you cause an accident, damage someone's property, or your own boat suffers loss or damage. 

» MORE: How to Get the Best Boat Insurance Policy

What coverages should I consider?

Liability coverage is a good starting point. More frequent boaters and those looking to protect their investment in the craft should consider physical damage coverage for risks that can include collision, theft, vandalism, named storms, towing assistance and more. Some boaters may even need coverage for activities like watersports or fishing tournaments. We can address any need you have and let you know how the policy may respond to it.. Remember, we don’t have a one-size-fits-all approach—you can customize your policy as you need.  

Do I really need additional coverage beyond the basics?

It’s certainly tempting to opt for the most basic policy. And if you never actually have to use your boat insurance, it might work out for you. But no one can predict what will happen in the future, and to be truly protected, you’re likely going to want more coverage. Popular options include coverage for freeze damage, personal property and equipment, hurricane haul-out, and more. 

What’s not covered? 

A SkiSafe policy offers a lot of coverage, but there are some things that would exclude a claim from being covered, like: 

• Normal wear and tear
• Malicious or intentional damage
• Manufacturing or design defect

FYI: This is not an exhaustive list; these are just some examples to be mindful of. It’s important to always read your policy to understand what's covered and what's not and don’t hesitate to inquire about any exclusions. 

What happens if my boat is stolen? 

First and foremost, don’t panic. Stay calm and take action. Time is of the essence, so start by filing a police report and notifying your insurance company ASAP. Claims adjusters will then investigate the theft further. It’s important to be honest and helpful to everyone involved. This will make for a smoother and likely faster claims process. You may receive a payout to replace or repair your boat based on your policy and chosen coverage. Additionally, consider investing in anti-theft devices or boat security systems to deter theft. 

» MORE: Boat Anti-Theft System

How do deductibles work? 

Your deductible is the amount of money you pay out-of-pocket before insurance coverage kicks in. Here’s an example: Your boat crashes into the dock. No one is injured, but the hull of the vessel is damaged. You file an insurance claim and get an estimate for the repairs. The total cost of repairs will be $2,000 and your policy has a $500 standard deductible. The deductible is the amount of money you’re responsible for paying out-of-pocket. Your insurance company wilil thus pay you $1,500 for such a covered loss. 

Should I pick a higher or lower deductible? 

A higher deductible equals lower insurance premiums. A lower deductible equals higher insurance premiums. So, increasing your deductible increases the amount you are responsible for paying out-of-pocket in the future but lowers the amount you’re paying for coverage today. So, ask yourself: Can I handle the higher out-of-pocket expense if needed? Am I okay with potentially paying more upfront?

What discounts are available for boat insurance?

A SkiSafe policy offers plenty of ways to save on your boat insurance. Here’s how:

• Earn a discount by taking an approved boat safety course.
• We reward responsible boaters with discounts for maintaining a clean driving record. 
• Score a discount by storing your boat during the off-season with layup discounts.
• Do you avoid venturing out on wider waters? If so, our navigable waters discount may apply. 

How can I get boat insurance?

It’s very easy to apply for a SkiSafe Boat Insurance Policy online. Just click here to get started.