Getting out on the water is at the top of my summer list every year.
I look forward to dropping crab pots first thing in the morning, often with a kid – or dog – in tow.
Whether we’re tubing at a family reunion, fishing, or crabbing off Kayak Point on our annual CrabFest weekend, boating is one of my favorite ways to enjoy summer in the Pacific Northwest.
Before you launch, I get this question all the time:
👉 Do I actually need boat insurance?
The short answer?
Probably. If it has a motor—or meaningful value—I strongly recommend it.
A Quick “What If” Scenario
Let me start with something I talk through with clients a lot:
What if your boat is sitting in your garage and your home catches fire?
Most people assume their homeowners insurance would cover it.
In reality, most homeowners (and umbrella) policies:
- Only cover boats for very limited amounts (generally around $1,000)
- Have restrictions based on length or horsepower, usually less than 17 feet and under 25 horsepower for a motorized boat, and less than 26 feet for sailboats
- Often don’t cover real-world use on the water
So even if you technically have coverage, it may not go very far.
Real Talk: Even a “Simple” Boat Is Worth More Than You Think
I use our family’s boat as an example all the time.
We’ve got a boat we use for crabbing. It’s not flashy or brand new—but it’s absolutely worth more than $1,000.
And that’s the disconnect:
👉 Many homeowners policies cap coverage right around that amount.
So if something happens, you could be left covering most of the loss yourself.
Watch: Why Boat Insurance Matters (Real Example)
Here’s a quick breakdown where I walk through this:
Boating Safety Matters (and Where to Start)
If you’ve worked with us, you know we talk a lot about boating safety—and for good reason.
Simple steps go a long way:
• File a float plan
• Make sure everyone has a properly fitted life jacket
• Keep an eye on weather conditions (especially in the PNW)
In Washington, many boaters are also required to carry a Boater Education Card, which you can get by completing a safety course.
Even if you’re not required, I still recommend it.
But here’s the reality:
👉 Even experienced, careful boaters run into situations they can’t control, such as:
- Other boaters
- Sudden weather changes
- Equipment issues
Boating safely reduces risk—but insurance is what protects you when something actually happens.
What Does Boat Insurance Actually Cover?
A good boat policy works a lot like auto insurance—but for the water.
It can include:
- Damage to your boat (accidents, storms, theft, fire)
- Liability coverage (if you hit another boat, dock, or swimmer)
- Medical expenses for you and your passengers
- Uninsured/underinsured boater coverage
- Carried contents like fishing gear, crab pots, or equipment
That last one is a big deal—because gear adds up quickly.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Your Boat?
Short answer: not very well.
Most homeowners policies:
- Have strict limits (often around $1,000–$1,500)
- Restrict coverage based on boat size or horsepower
- Don’t cover most on-water scenarios
- Don’t provide meaningful liability protection
👉 That’s why I usually recommend a stand-alone boat insurance policy.
What Happens When You’re Towing Your Boat?
This is another area where people are surprised:
- Your auto policy may cover liability while towing
- But damage to your boat itself usually requires a boat policy
So without the right setup, you’re only partially covered.
Agreed Value vs. Actual Cash Value (Why It Matters)
This is another important piece when choosing coverage:
- Agreed Value: You agree on the boat’s value at the time you start your policy; no depreciation at claim time
- Actual Cash Value (ACV): You’re paid based on current value after depreciation
For a lot of boats, especially newer ones, that difference can be significant.
Do You Need Boat Insurance in Washington?
Boat insurance isn’t legally required in Washington.
However:
- Many marinas require it
- Lenders require it if your boat is financed
- And (most importantly) it can help protect you from significant financial risk
Why I Recommend a Specialty Boat Insurance Policy
In my experience, boat insurance is:
- Surprisingly affordable
- Designed specifically for how boats are used
- Built to cover gaps left by homeowners and auto policies
We can help with:
- Boats and sailboats
- Jet skis and personal watercraft
- High-value canoes and kayaks
Final Thoughts: Protect Your Time on the Water
Boating should be about relaxing, making memories, and enjoying everything the Pacific Northwest has to offer.
The last thing you want is for an accident—or even a smaller loss—to turn into a bigger financial issue.
The right boat insurance policy helps make sure your time on the water stays focused on the fun.
FAQ: Boat Insurance Questions
If it has a motor or meaningful value, I still recommend coverage—especially for liability.
Only in limited situations and usually for small amounts. It typically doesn’t cover on-water risks.
It can include damage, liability, medical expenses, and uninsured boater protection.
Not by law, but it’s often required by marinas or lenders—and strongly recommended.
Yes—many policies include coverage for carried contents like fishing equipment and crab pots.
Ready to Review Your Boat Insurance?
Before your next trip out on the water, reach out to our team. We can help make sure you’re covered.
Enjoy the water this season! 🚤
Post by Nick Pembroke