Boat / yacht insurance
InsuranceFinder coverage guide · Updated September 2026
Boat and yacht insurance covers physical damage to watercraft, outboard motors, trailers, and navigational equipment, alongside liability for on-water collisions and fuel spills. It does not cover commercial charter use without a commercial marine endorsement.
Boat & yacht coverage breakdown: hull, liability & gear
A typical boat or yacht policy covers physical damage to the watercraft and liability for injuries or property damage arising from its use, subject to the form, navigational limits, and deductibles.
Pays to repair or replace the boat (and often named equipment) after covered losses such as collision, grounding, fire, or theft, subject to the agreed or actual cash value terms and deductible.
Pays for covered bodily injury and property damage you cause to others while operating or owning the boat, subject to policy limits. Some lakes and marinas require proof of liability.
May pay limited medical costs for injuries to you or passengers after a covered boating accident, subject to the medical-payments limit on the form.
May cover the trailer, outboard motors, and certain personal property kept on the boat when those items are scheduled or included — confirm what the form lists.
A standard boat policy usually does not cover wear-and-tear, poor maintenance, racing (unless endorsed), or operating outside stated navigational / geographic limits. Some forms exclude or limit coverage for chartering, commercial use, or unlisted operators. Hurricane haul-out and lay-up rules can apply seasonally. Always read the policy form and any endorsements.
Who typically uses boat and yacht insurance
Boat and yacht insurance is typically carried by people who own a recreational boat, personal watercraft, or larger yacht. Homeowners policies sometimes give only limited coverage for small boats — larger or higher-value craft usually need a dedicated boat or yacht policy. Lenders and marinas often require liability (and sometimes hull) coverage while a loan or slip agreement is in force.
Agencies specializing in boat / yacht insurance
Independent agencies published in our database. Open a profile for license details and state DOI links.
National carriers writing boat / yacht insurance
Admitted national insurance companies writing coverage in multiple states.