Boating Insurance

1. Is Boat Insurance Required in Massachusetts?

Unlike auto insurance, Massachusetts does not require boat owners to carry insurance for most personal watercraft. However, there are several important exceptions:

If you finance your boat, your lender may require comprehensive and collision coverage until the loan is paid off.

If you dock your boat at a marina, many facilities require proof of liability insurance.

If you rent out your boat, Massachusetts law may require a commercial policy.

Even though boat insurance is not legally required, carrying a policy is highly recommended to protect against costly damage, liability claims, and unforeseen accidents.

2. What Does Boat Insurance Cover?

A standard boat insurance policy typically includes:

Physical Damage Coverage: Covers repairs or replacement if your boat is damaged by fire, storms, theft, vandalism, or collisions.

Liability Coverage: Protects you if you are responsible for injuries or damage to another person's boat, dock, or property.

Medical Payments Coverage: Pays for medical expenses if you or passengers are injured on your boat.

Uninsured/Underinsured Boater Coverage: Covers injuries or damages if you're hit by another boater who does not have insurance.

Wreckage Removal and Fuel Spill Liability: Covers costs associated with removing a sunken boat and cleaning up fuel spills (which are required by federal law).

Optional coverage can include:

Trailer Coverage: Protects against damage to your boat trailer.

Personal Effects Coverage: Covers fishing gear, watersports equipment, and other valuables on board.

On-Water Towing Assistance: Provides coverage for emergency assistance if your boat breaks down on the water.

3. How Much Does Boat Insurance Cost in Massachusetts?

Boat insurance premiums vary based on boat type, location, coverage limits, and personal boating history.

Average Annual Boat Insurance Costs in Massachusetts

Small boats (kayaks, canoes, small fishing boats under 25 feet): $100 – $500 per year

Mid-size powerboats and sailboats (781) 871-5414 feet): $500 – $1,200 per year

Larger vessels (yachts, offshore boats): $1,500+ per year

Factors That Affect Boat Insurance Rates

Boat Size & Value: Larger and more expensive boats have higher insurance costs.

Location: Coastal areas like Cape Cod, the North Shore, and the South Shore have higher premiums due to storm risk.

Boating Experience: Experienced boaters with safety certifications may qualify for lower rates.

Usage: Boats used in high-traffic areas (e.g., Boston Harbor) may have higher premiums.

Storage Method: Boats stored in a dry dock or secured marina may have lower rates than boats left in the water year-round.

4. Does Boat Insurance Cover Storm Damage and Nor’easters?

Yes, but with important limitations. Massachusetts boaters face unique risks from hurricanes, nor’easters, and severe storms, which can cause major damage.

Comprehensive Coverage: Protects against storm damage, but policies may require that your boat be removed from the water before a named storm arrives.

Named Storm Deductibles: Some policies have a separate deductible for damage caused by hurricanes or tropical storms, usually based on a percentage of your boat's insured value.

Winter Storage Considerations: Boats stored improperly during the winter may not be covered if damage results from lack of maintenance.

If you dock your boat in Cape Cod, the South Shore, or the North Shore, it's critical to check your policy’s storm damage exclusions and requirements.

5. What Are the Insurance Considerations for Different Types of Boats?

Sailboats

Require specialized coverage for sails, rigging, and masts, which can be costly to repair.

Higher risk for capsizing and storm damage, especially for ocean sailing.

Fishing Boats

Often carry expensive gear, so personal effects coverage is important.

Policies may have exclusions for commercial fishing activities.

Jet Skis & Personal Watercraft (PWC)

Higher accident risk, so liability insurance is essential.

Policies often exclude night-time riding or restrict high-speed operations.

Yachts & Offshore Boats

Require specialized coverage for international waters and extended voyages.

Higher coverage limits needed for expensive onboard equipment and crew liability.

Each boat type has unique risks, so it’s essential to tailor your coverage accordingly.

6. What If My Boat Is Stolen in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts has relatively low boat theft rates, but it does occur, especially in marinas and unsecured docks.

Comprehensive Insurance Covers Theft: If your boat is stolen, your policy will cover the replacement cost up to the agreed value.

Personal Belongings Are Not Always Covered: Items stolen from your boat, such as fishing gear or electronics, may require an add-on personal effects policy.

Security Measures May Lower Rates: Installing tracking devices, alarms, and secure storage can help reduce premiums.

7. Does Homeowners Insurance Cover My Boat?

In most cases, homeowners insurance provides very limited boat coverage—if any.

Small boats under 25 horsepower (canoes, rowboats) may be covered, but only for limited liability and physical damage.

Larger boats, sailboats, and personal watercraft are not covered under standard homeowners policies.

To fully protect your boat, a dedicated boat insurance policy is the best option.

8. Do I Need Boat Insurance for Freshwater vs. Saltwater Use?

The type of water you navigate affects your insurance needs:

Saltwater boating (Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, Boston Harbor): Boats used in saltwater environments require specialized maintenance due to corrosion risks. Insurers may charge higher premiums for ocean-going boats.

Freshwater boating (Lake Winnipesaukee, Quabbin Reservoir, Connecticut River): Lower risk of storm damage and corrosion, often resulting in lower insurance costs.

Interstate Use: If you frequently take your boat to other states, ensure your policy includes out-of-state coverage.

9. Does Boat Insurance Cover Accidents with Uninsured Boaters?

Unlike auto insurance, many boaters do not carry insurance, making uninsured/underinsured boater coverage essential.

Covers injuries and damages if you’re hit by an uninsured boater.

Highly recommended for high-traffic areas like Boston Harbor, the Charles River, and Cape Cod Bay.

Helps cover medical expenses, boat repairs, and lost wages if you’re injured in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured boat operator.

10. How Can I Get the Best Boat Insurance Policy in Massachusetts?

Finding the right boat insurance requires research and comparing policies. Here are the best steps to take:

Assess Your Risks: Consider how often and where you boat (ocean vs. lake, seasonal vs. year-round).

Compare Multiple Insurers: Look at companies that specialize in marine insurance.

Check for Discounts: Many insurers offer discounts for boating safety courses, bundling policies, and proper storage facilities.

Understand Your Policy: Read the fine print on hurricane deductibles, salvage coverage, and exclusions for racing or commercial use.

5. What Are the Insurance Considerations for Different Types of Boats?

Sailboats

Require specialized coverage for sails, rigging, and masts, which can be costly to repair.

Higher risk for capsizing and storm damage, especially for ocean sailing.

Fishing Boats

Often carry expensive gear, so personal effects coverage is important.

Policies may have exclusions for commercial fishing activities.

Jet Skis & Personal Watercraft (PWC)

Higher accident risk, so liability insurance is essential.

Policies often exclude night-time riding or restrict high-speed operations.

Yachts & Offshore Boats

Require specialized coverage for international waters and extended voyages.

Higher coverage limits needed for expensive onboard equipment and crew liability.

Each boat type has unique risks, so it’s essential to tailor your coverage accordingly.

6. What If My Boat Is Stolen in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts has relatively low boat theft rates, but it does occur, especially in marinas and unsecured docks.

Comprehensive Insurance Covers Theft: If your boat is stolen, your policy will cover the replacement cost up to the agreed value.

Personal Belongings Are Not Always Covered: Items stolen from your boat, such as fishing gear or electronics, may require an add-on personal effects policy.

Security Measures May Lower Rates: Installing tracking devices, alarms, and secure storage can help reduce premiums.

7. Does Homeowners Insurance Cover My Boat?

In most cases, homeowners insurance provides very limited boat coverage—if any.

Small boats under 25 horsepower (canoes, rowboats) may be covered, but only for limited liability and physical damage.

Larger boats, sailboats, and personal watercraft are not covered under standard homeowners policies.

To fully protect your boat, a dedicated boat insurance policy is the best option.

8. Do I Need Boat Insurance for Freshwater vs. Saltwater Use?

The type of water you navigate affects your insurance needs:

Saltwater boating (Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, Boston Harbor): Boats used in saltwater environments require specialized maintenance due to corrosion risks. Insurers may charge higher premiums for ocean-going boats.

Freshwater boating (Lake Winnipesaukee, Quabbin Reservoir, Connecticut River): Lower risk of storm damage and corrosion, often resulting in lower insurance costs.

Interstate Use: If you frequently take your boat to other states, ensure your policy includes out-of-state coverage.

9. Does Boat Insurance Cover Accidents with Uninsured Boaters?

Unlike auto insurance, many boaters do not carry insurance, making uninsured/underinsured boater coverage essential.

Covers injuries and damages if you’re hit by an uninsured boater.

Highly recommended for high-traffic areas like Boston Harbor, the Charles River, and Cape Cod Bay.

Helps cover medical expenses, boat repairs, and lost wages if you’re injured in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured boat operator.

10. How Can I Get the Best Boat Insurance Policy in Massachusetts?

Finding the right boat insurance requires research and comparing policies. Here are the best steps to take:

Assess Your Risks: Consider how often and where you boat (ocean vs. lake, seasonal vs. year-round).

Compare Multiple Insurers: Look at companies that specialize in marine insurance.

Check for Discounts: Many insurers offer discounts for boating safety courses, bundling policies, and proper storage facilities.

Understand Your Policy: Read the fine print on hurricane deductibles, salvage coverage, and exclusions for racing or commercial use.

6. What If My Boat Is Stolen in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts has relatively low boat theft rates, but it does occur, especially in marinas and unsecured docks.

Comprehensive Insurance Covers Theft: If your boat is stolen, your policy will cover the replacement cost up to the agreed value.

Personal Belongings Are Not Always Covered: Items stolen from your boat, such as fishing gear or electronics, may require an add-on personal effects policy.

Security Measures May Lower Rates: Installing tracking devices, alarms, and secure storage can help reduce premiums.

7. Does Homeowners Insurance Cover My Boat?

In most cases, homeowners insurance provides very limited boat coverage—if any.

Small boats under 25 horsepower (canoes, rowboats) may be covered, but only for limited liability and physical damage.

Larger boats, sailboats, and personal watercraft are not covered under standard homeowners policies.

To fully protect your boat, a dedicated boat insurance policy is the best option.

8. Do I Need Boat Insurance for Freshwater vs. Saltwater Use?

The type of water you navigate affects your insurance needs:

Saltwater boating (Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, Boston Harbor): Boats used in saltwater environments require specialized maintenance due to corrosion risks. Insurers may charge higher premiums for ocean-going boats.

Freshwater boating (Lake Winnipesaukee, Quabbin Reservoir, Connecticut River): Lower risk of storm damage and corrosion, often resulting in lower insurance costs.

Interstate Use: If you frequently take your boat to other states, ensure your policy includes out-of-state coverage.

9. Does Boat Insurance Cover Accidents with Uninsured Boaters?

Unlike auto insurance, many boaters do not carry insurance, making uninsured/underinsured boater coverage essential.

Covers injuries and damages if you’re hit by an uninsured boater.

Highly recommended for high-traffic areas like Boston Harbor, the Charles River, and Cape Cod Bay.

Helps cover medical expenses, boat repairs, and lost wages if you’re injured in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured boat operator.

10. How Can I Get the Best Boat Insurance Policy in Massachusetts?

Finding the right boat insurance requires research and comparing policies. Here are the best steps to take:

Assess Your Risks: Consider how often and where you boat (ocean vs. lake, seasonal vs. year-round).

Compare Multiple Insurers: Look at companies that specialize in marine insurance.

Check for Discounts: Many insurers offer discounts for boating safety courses, bundling policies, and proper storage facilities.

Understand Your Policy: Read the fine print on hurricane deductibles, salvage coverage, and exclusions for racing or commercial use.

7. Does Homeowners Insurance Cover My Boat?

In most cases, homeowners insurance provides very limited boat coverage—if any.

Small boats under 25 horsepower (canoes, rowboats) may be covered, but only for limited liability and physical damage.

Larger boats, sailboats, and personal watercraft are not covered under standard homeowners policies.

To fully protect your boat, a dedicated boat insurance policy is the best option.

8. Do I Need Boat Insurance for Freshwater vs. Saltwater Use?

The type of water you navigate affects your insurance needs:

Saltwater boating (Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, Boston Harbor): Boats used in saltwater environments require specialized maintenance due to corrosion risks. Insurers may charge higher premiums for ocean-going boats.

Freshwater boating (Lake Winnipesaukee, Quabbin Reservoir, Connecticut River): Lower risk of storm damage and corrosion, often resulting in lower insurance costs.

Interstate Use: If you frequently take your boat to other states, ensure your policy includes out-of-state coverage.

Unlike auto insurance, many boaters do not carry insurance, making uninsured/underinsured boater coverage essential.

Covers injuries and damages if you’re hit by an uninsured boater.

Highly recommended for high-traffic areas like Boston Harbor, the Charles River, and Cape Cod Bay.

Helps cover medical expenses, boat repairs, and lost wages if you’re injured in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured boat operator.

10. How Can I Get the Best Boat Insurance Policy in Massachusetts?

Finding the right boat insurance requires research and comparing policies. Here are the best steps to take:

Assess Your Risks: Consider how often and where you boat (ocean vs. lake, seasonal vs. year-round).

Compare Multiple Insurers: Look at companies that specialize in marine insurance.

Check for Discounts: Many insurers offer discounts for boating safety courses, bundling policies, and proper storage facilities.

Understand Your Policy: Read the fine print on hurricane deductibles, salvage coverage, and exclusions for racing or commercial use.