Make Boat Insurance Part of Your Summer Game Plan

By Grinley | May 16, 2025
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boat insurance

With warm weather here, it’s time to start thinking about boat insurance. There’s nothing quite like being out on the water. Whether it’s cruising on the lake, casting a line at sunrise, or zipping around on your Jet Ski with a grin that won’t quit, boat life is the good life.

But even the most picture-perfect days on the water can hit some choppy waves—especially if you’re not carrying the right insurance. That’s where we come in.

You might be surprised to learn that there are nearly 12 million registered recreational boats in the U.S. And while most days are smooth sailing, the U.S. Coast Guard reports that there were over 4,000 recreational boating accidents in a recent year, causing more than $63 million in property damage.

Even a minor mishap—like a bump at the dock or a rogue wave flipping your Jet Ski—can leave you with a repair bill that’s anything but relaxing. The average claim for a boat collision? Around $11,000–$15,000, and it climbs quickly depending on the vessel.

Whether you’ve got a pontoon, a speedboat, a fishing vessel, or a personal watercraft (yes, Jet Skis too), here’s what smart watercraft insurance should include:

  • Liability coverage: If you accidentally damage someone else’s boat or property—or cause an injury—this has your back.
  • Physical damage coverage: Pays to repair or replace your boat or watercraft if it’s damaged in an accident, by weather, or even while it’s parked in your driveway.
  • Uninsured boater coverage: If someone without insurance hits you, this helps cover your expenses.
  • Medical payments: Covers injuries to you or your passengers, no matter who’s at fault.
  • Towing and assistance: Because breaking down on the water is very different from pulling over on the highway.

And don’t forget: Homeowners insurance often doesn’t cover boats or Jet Skis the way you might think. A dedicated watercraft policy is the smart—and safe—way to go.

At Boufford Insurance, we know the water is where some of your best memories are made. We’ll help you protect your investment and your fun—without sinking your budget.

Whether you’re a weekend boater, a hardcore angler, or someone who just loves the thrill of the throttle on a Jet Ski, we’ll help you find coverage that fits you.

Ready to review your boat policy? Give Boufford Insurance a call.