Boat owners coverage

Boat owners insurance coverage is important not only during the boating season, but also during the off-season when your boat is in storage or in transit. The following is an explanation of the various coverages available:

Physical Damage protects your boat, motor, trailer and equipment in case of vandalism, theft, fire or explosion, wind storms, hail and lightning. It also protects you if you hit a submerged object. Coverage is also available to cover emergency services like towing and mechanical labor, and the cost of raising or removing a covered watercraft.

Watercraft Liability protects you in case of bodily injury to another person caused by you or a member of your household, or property damage caused if your boat damages the dock or another boat.

Medical Payments Liability protects you and your passengers if medical expenses are incurred as a result of a boating accident.

Some discounts available through most companies are:
*If you've completed a marine course
*Your boat is equiped with specific safety features
*You insure your home or auto with the same company as your boat insurance
*The boat has a diesel engine
*The boat is less than 5 years old

Keep in mind that items like jet skis and other watercraft vehicles need to be covered with a separate specific policy.