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Did you recently purchase a boat and need insurance coverage before you hit the open water? Or are you looking to switch providers on your current coverage? You’ve come to the right place. Let’s breakdown the coverage you most likely need. 

First, boat policies are similarly structured to auto policies. Liability coverage at a minimum is included. Most agents will also advise you to add uninsured boaters’ coverage and full coverage too to protect your investment. 

Most of our clients state their number one concern is liability coverage. What if they hit another boat? Of course, this is a worst-case scenario. Insurance is something we never want to have to use, but it sure does come in handy should the need arise.  Our agents like to make sure that our clients are covered with at least $100,000 of liability for property damage.

Ski boats and high-end pontoons on Georgia’s inland lakes and fishing boats, if you are inshore/offshore in the coastal areas, are all pretty expensive these days. You should also consider bodily injury liability coverage too. Coverage for physical damage to your boat is also an item you’re going to want to have. This works like full coverage on your car insurance policy. It covers collisions with other boats or fixed objects like a dock or tree stump. It also covers comprehensive losses like fire, theft or falling objects.

Here are a few other things you should consider when insuring your boat.

On Water Towing 

This is almost like roadside assistance for your car, but for your boat. This coverage would pay for you to tow your boat to the ramp if you run out of gas or breakdown. Towing a boat can cost upwards from $800, and this coverage could save you on having to come out of pocket should you breakdown in the water. 

Boat Trailer Coverage

Coverage for the boat’s trailer can usually be added on the boat policy if desired, and if the trailer comes with the boat. 

Fuel Spill Liability 

Fuel spill liability for any gas or oil that may leak into the water in the event of an accident with another boat or fixed object. 

Personal Property Coverage

This can cover a multitude of items. For example, fishing gear, hunting gear, or just general personal items like a cellphone that may go to the bottom of the lake if your boat were to sink or have an accident. 

Content provided by Walton County Farm Bureau Agent, Coleman Fisher