So, you’ve bought a boat. Congratulations! You’ll soon be having some great times out on the open water. Wind in your hair. Sun on your face. Boating is a beautiful thing. 

But before you draw up the anchor and set sail, you’ll want to make sure that boat of yours is protected. In other words, you need boat insurance. 

But Do I Really Need Boat Insurance? 

For the most part, yes. 

Yachts, sailboats, jet skis, speedboats, and anything else that moves at a speed of more than 25mph across the water need insurance.  

Canoes, kayaks, and slower, small-engine boats don’t. 

In some cases, your home insurance might offer a small amount of coverage for your boat as part of your property. However, this is limited and does not count as actual boat insurance. 

How Does Boat Insurance Work? 

Boat insurance isn’t entirely different from car insurance. It covers collision, property damage, injury, theft, etc. It can even include roadside (or waterside) assistance. 

As with any insurance, you’ll have a premium to pay and a deductible to cover, should an accident happen. If the situation is your fault, your insurance will cover it. If the other person is at fault, their insurance should cover it.  

If they don’t have insurance, your insurance once again comes into play. 

What Does Boat Insurance Cover? 

As stated before, boat insurance can cover just about everything you’d expect it to. 

• Collision – your boat hits a boat or watercraft 
• Bodily Injury – your boat causes injury to a person 
• Property damage – your boat damages property 
• Comprehensive projection – your boat is stolen, vandalized, damaged by external forces 
• And more. 

What Factors into Boat Insurance? 

Just like with cars, there are a number of factors that can impact the cost of your boat insurance. This includes the age of the boat, size, value, speed/power, condition, location, and more. 

Additionally, the level of deductible you choose and the amount of coverage needed will affect the overall cost. 

How Do I Get Boat Insurance? 

The best way to get boat insurance is to talk to an insurance professional. They’ll be able to guide you through the intricacies of different policies, ensuring that you get the protection you need. At Link-Hellmuth, we work with the top insurance providers to make sure you have access to the best insurance plans. 

Additionally, we can bundle your boat insurance with your other insurance policies, saving you some serious money. 

For boat insurance in Springfield, Ohio and beyond, contact Link-Hellmuth today!