25ft sailboat insurance

Average Sailboat Insurance Cost

‍ Sailboat insurance is often less expensive than auto insurance, but rates vary based on several important factors.

Sailboat owners typically pay between $250 and $1,500 per year to insure their sailboats. This cost varies based on a number of factors, including policy type and coverage amounts. Sailboats are usually less expensive to insure than powerboats.

In this article, we’ll go over the average costs of sailboat insurance for typical production fiberglass cruising vessels. Additionally, we’ll go in-depth on the factors that contribute to premiums, along with how to reduce the cost of a good sailboat insurance policy.

We sourced the information used in this article from our own analysis of insurance industry averages. We also considered information provided by boat insurance companies, along with the policies they advertise.

Table of contents

‍ Average Annual Sailboat Insurance Price

Sailboat insurance varies, but owners rarely pay more than $1,000 annually for basic coverage. This is considering that the vast majority of sailboats are fiberglass production cruisers between 20 and 40 feet in length, and they aren’t used as often as automobiles.

Sailboat insurance prices range between $250 per year for the most basic coverage (liability, small boats with infrequent use) to $1,500 for comprehensive coverage (average-sized older vessel with somewhat regular use).

But if we were to establish a general rule about sailboat insurance, it’s this: it’s cheaper than car insurance. Sailboat insurance is usually an insignificant cost compared to mooring fees and maintenance.

Is Sailboat Insurance Cheaper than Powerboat Insurance?

Yes, sailboat insurance is usually cheaper than powerboat insurance, even if your vessel comes with an engine. This has a lot to do with speed, power, and accident rates.

Speedboats are particularly expensive to insure, as they’re more dangerous and accident-prone. The cost to insure a small speedboat is often comparable to a large sailboat.

Types of Sailboat Insurance Coverage

There are several types of coverage with different pricing rates. The actual name of these different coverage types varies between companies. But generally speaking, here are the broad types of insurance that you can get for your sailboat.

Basic Liability and Salvage Coverage

The most inexpensive coverage is basic liability, which usually covers accidents you cause only. It doesn’t cover your repair costs, but it does cover damage to other boats, medical expenses for injuries, and wreck removal.

Specialized or Custom Coverage

Specialized coverage varies most in price. This kind of coverage is determined by the owner and covers modifications and expensive equipment.

Let’s say a sailboat owner buys a basic new Catalina 315, then outfits it for offshore use. He installs solar panels, an autopilot, a Garmin radar set, and a costly set of automatic winches and hardware.

With a specialized insurance coverage plan, he can add the value of these very specific items to his repair and replacement plan in case the boat gets damaged or lost along the way.

Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive plans offer significantly more coverage. These policies offer towing services, damage costs for you and other boats, uninsured boater protection, repairs and replacement parts, and emergency assistance for things like dead batteries and running out of gas.

What Factors Contribute to Sailboat Insurance Premiums?

Sailboat insurance works much like car insurance, but there are some differences. Like car insurance, sailboat insurance premiums are based on factors including your accident record, the value of your boat, your location, and how often you use the vessel.

Operator Boating Record

Citations and accidents are some of the most important insurance cost factors. This makes sense, as a long history of responsible boating reduces the risk that the company will have to payout.

A minor incident won’t ruin your premiums, but a history of crashes and BWIs will certainly limit your options and increase sailboat insurance prices.

Experience plays a role as well. Documented boating experience, such as policies on other vessels or professional captain certifications, can greatly reduce the cost of sailboat insurance.

Operator Age

Age is another important factor for insurance premium prices. The ages that get the best rates are between 50 and 60. If you look at it on a chart, you’ll see insurance rates top out around age 16 and slowly decline until age 70. At this point, insurance rates begin to increase—but never to the level of a young person.

Sailboat Value

The value of your sailboat also plays a big part in your insurance costs. For example, a $500,000 classical schooner is certainly going to cost more to insure than a clunky $10,000 fiberglass sloop, especially because the owners of more expensive boats generally opt for more coverage.

Agreed Value vs. Actual Value

How does an insurance company decide what to pay out if your boat is a total loss? There are two primary ways these policies work: with either agreed value or actual value.

 Actual value policies are common for new boats, as their value is easy to determine. If a new (or late-model) boat is worth $150,000, then that’s the cost the insurance company will usually cover to replace the vessel.

Agreed value is more common for older and classic boats, as the procedures used to calculate their value aren’t always reliable. Factors such as rarity, design, desirability, and condition may not reflect clearly in analytics—but do on the market.

Agreed value is a number that the owner and the company settle on. It is more holistic than the actual value, as the actual value may be impossible to accurately calculate for some rare and vintage vessels.

Sailboat Age

The age of the vessel has an impact on insurance rates. Usually, an older vessel is thought to be less valuable to a point. This means that a 1970 sailboat is usually cheaper to insure than a 1990 sailboat. The cost difference can be negligible beyond ten years of age, but it’s higher with late-model vessels.

Sailboat Type

Different kinds of sailboats have different insurance rates. Factors under this category include a number of hulls, size, displacement, and cruising characteristics. For example, speedy trick race boats made with carbon fiber are more expensive to insure than bulky fiberglass cruisers.

Location plays a big part in average sailboat insurance costs for a number of reasons. For example, sailboats used in freshwater are typically cheaper to insure than saltwater.

Also, sailboats moored in areas prone to severe weather tend to have higher insurance premiums. For example, premiums in Florida or South Texas account for hurricanes, while premiums in central Oklahoma account for large hail.

Does Your Driving Record Affect Average Sailboat Insurance Cost?

Absolutely; your driving record can have a dramatic effect on your ability to find favorable sailboat insurance rates. This is because insurance needs to consider you and the boat—and how risky you (as a captain) are to insure.

Car accidents, moving violations, citations, and DUIs are detrimental to insurance premiums on and off the water. And they will find out, regardless of what company you choose. Risky drivers are almost always risky boaters as well.

But your driving record can also work in your favor. You may be a new boater who hasn’t had a chance to prove yourself yet. If sailboat insurance and auto insurance had no correlation, you’d be treated like a brand new driver for years, even if you’ve had experience. A safe driving record can reduce your costs and increase coverage options.

Does Liveaboard Sailboat Insurance Cost More?

Yes, liveaboard insurance tends to cost more. This is because you’re on the boat constantly and engaged in activities like cooking, bathing, and electricity use. All of these activities carry risks, which must be considered.

Additionally, liveaboard insurance policies can cover more than typical comprehensive coverage. This includes assets inside the sailboat, such as furnishings, computers, equipment, and other possessions.

Average Sailboat Insurance Costs Differences For Men and Women

Insurance companies consider risk on a wide scale, and they notice trends that are large enough to make a cost difference. One pricing factor to consider is that, after age 27, men tend to pay higher insurance premiums than women.

There’s a simple reason for this—men crash and commit violations more often. Insurance companies have found that, on average, men are more likely to engage in dangerous boating behavior, and thus they are riskier to insure.

The price difference is typically pretty small—between $10 and $100—but this gap widens with accidents, DUIs, and other detrimental incidents. Generally speaking, women can enjoy lower quotes and lower premiums if they have a clean driving and boating record.

How to Reduce Sailboat Insurance Premiums

Reducing your premiums is actually fairly simple, and there are strategies that take only a few hours to complete. The easiest way to reduce your sailboat insurance premiums is to take a boater’s safety course or to get your boating license, even if you’re not required to by law.

You can also reduce your premiums by increasing your hull deductible. This strategy will cost you more out of pocket in the event of an accident, but safe boaters can usually contend with the risk.

Seasonal insurance rates can also be reduced if you haul your boat out or winterize it correctly. If the boat sits in storage for six months of the year, like in a dry slip or a boatyard, you can usually get a pretty hefty winter discount.

Related Articles

Daniel Wade

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

by this author

Financial and Budgeting

Most Recent

What Does "Sailing By The Lee" Mean?

October 3, 2023

The Best Sailing Schools And Programs: Reviews & Ratings

September 26, 2023

Important Legal Info

Lifeofsailing.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies.

Similar Posts

Best Bluewater Sailboats Under $50K

December 28, 2023

How To Choose The Right Sailing Instructor

August 16, 2023

Cost To Dock A Sailboat

May 17, 2023

Popular Posts

Best Liveaboard Catamaran Sailboats

Can a Novice Sail Around the World?

Elizabeth O'Malley

June 15, 2022

4 Best Electric Outboard Motors

How Long Did It Take The Vikings To Sail To England?

10 Best Sailboat Brands (And Why)

December 20, 2023

7 Best Places To Liveaboard A Sailboat

Get the best sailing content.

Top Rated Posts

© 2024 Life of Sailing Email: [email protected] Address: 11816 Inwood Rd #3024 Dallas, TX 75244 Disclaimer Privacy Policy

A Guide to Sailboat Insurance

Imagine sailing freely on the open seas, wind in your hair and a sense of adventure in your heart. But amidst the exhilaration, don’t forget the importance of protecting your sailboat.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to navigate the world of sailboat insurance, helping you choose the right coverage, avoid common mistakes, and lower your premiums.

So set sail with confidence, knowing that your prized vessel is safeguarded against any unforeseen circumstances.

Table of Contents

Understanding Sailboat Insurance Coverage

You should consider reviewing your sailboat insurance coverage to ensure you’re adequately protected. As someone who values freedom and adventure, it’s important to understand the ins and outs of your insurance policy.

Finding affordable sailboat insurance can be a challenge, but with a few tips and tricks, you can secure the coverage you need without breaking the bank.

When searching for affordable sailboat insurance, start by comparing quotes from different providers. Look for companies that specialize in marine insurance as they may offer better rates and tailored coverage options. Additionally, consider bundling your sailboat insurance with other policies like auto or home insurance to potentially save money.

Understanding liability limits is crucial when it comes to sailboat insurance. Liability coverage protects you in case of accidents or injuries caused by your sailboat. It’s important to assess your risk exposure and choose liability limits that adequately protect your assets. While higher limits may come with a higher premium, they offer greater financial security.

Don’t forget to review the terms and conditions of your sailboat insurance policy. Look for any exclusions or limitations that may affect your coverage. It’s also a good idea to regularly reassess your insurance needs as your sailboat usage and value may change over time.

Types of Sailboat Insurance Policies

When considering sailboat insurance policies, it’s important to thoroughly compare and understand the different types available. Sailboat insurance provides essential protection for your vessel and yourself while out on the open water.

Here are some key types of sailboat insurance policies to consider:

Liability Limits: This type of insurance policy covers any damages or injuries caused to others while operating your sailboat. It’s important to carefully review the liability limits of each policy to ensure you have adequate coverage in the event of an accident.

Coverage Exclusions: It’s crucial to carefully review the coverage exclusions of each policy to understand what isn’t covered. Some common exclusions may include wear and tear, damage caused by improper maintenance, and acts of war or terrorism. Make sure you’re aware of these exclusions to avoid any surprises down the line.

Additional Coverage Options: Many sailboat insurance policies offer additional coverage options that you can choose from based on your specific needs. These options may include coverage for personal belongings on board, emergency towing services, and even coverage for racing events.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Sailboat Insurance

Considering the sailing conditions and intended use of your sailboat is crucial when choosing insurance coverage. There are several factors to consider when selecting sailboat insurance that will best suit your needs.

First, you need to take into account the sailing conditions you typically encounter. Are you sailing in calm waters or do you venture into rough seas? The type of coverage you choose should align with the risks associated with your sailing environment.

Second, think about the intended use of your sailboat. Do you use it for leisurely weekend trips, or do you participate in competitive racing? Different insurance policies offer varying levels of coverage for different uses.

To make it easier for you, here is a table summarizing the factors to consider when choosing sailboat insurance:

Navigating Liability Coverage for Sailboat Owners

There are several key factors to understand and navigate when it comes to liability coverage for sailboat owners, such as the amount of coverage needed and the potential risks involved. It’s important to have a clear understanding of liability limits and how they can protect you in the event of an accident.

Here are some points to consider:

Liability Limits : Determine the appropriate liability limit for your sailboat insurance policy. Higher limits provide more coverage in case of accidents or damages caused by your sailboat. It’s crucial to assess your personal risk tolerance and the potential costs associated with liability claims.

Coverage Exclusions : Familiarize yourself with the coverage exclusions in your policy. These are specific situations or events that may not be covered by your insurance. Understanding the exclusions can help you make informed decisions and potentially avoid costly surprises in the future.

Special Considerations : Take into account any special considerations related to your sailboat. For example, if you plan to charter your boat or participate in races, you may need additional coverage. Discuss these factors with your insurance provider to ensure you have the appropriate coverage for your specific needs.

Protecting Your Sailboat Against Physical Damage

To protect your sailboat against physical damage, it’s important to have insurance coverage that includes accidents and the cost of repairs.

Accidents can happen unexpectedly, whether it’s a collision with another boat or damage caused by severe weather conditions.

Coverage for Accidents

You should definitely check if your sailboat insurance policy includes coverage for accidents caused by collisions with other vessels. Accidents can happen, and the cost of repairs can add up quickly. It’s important to have the proper coverage in place to protect yourself and your investment.

Here are a few common accidents that could occur while sailing:

Collisions with other vessels: Accidents happen, and if your sailboat collides with another boat, it can result in significant damage. Make sure your insurance policy covers this type of accident.

Groundings: Running aground is a common occurrence for sailors, especially in shallow waters. If your sailboat gets stuck on a sandbar or hits a submerged object, it can cause damage to the hull and other parts of the boat.

Storm damage: Severe weather conditions can cause significant damage to your sailboat. High winds, heavy rain, and rough seas can lead to costly repairs.

Having the right insurance coverage can give you peace of mind and protect you from unexpected expenses. Take the time to review your policy and make sure you have the coverage you need.

Cost of Repair?

If your sailboat sustains physical damage, it is important to consider the cost of repair in order to make an informed decision about your insurance coverage. Understanding the cost of repairs will help you evaluate whether it is worth filing an insurance claim or paying out of pocket. To assist you in this process, here is a breakdown of the typical cost of repairs for common sailboat damages:

Specialized Coverage for Racing Sailboats

When it comes to racing sailboats, specialized coverage is essential.

Unlike regular sailboats, racing sailboats have unique policy considerations that need to be taken into account.

From coverage for regattas and races to higher premiums and deductibles, it’s important to understand the specific insurance needs of racing sailboats.

Racing Sailboat Coverage

Make sure your racing sailboat coverage includes specialized coverage for racing events. Racing sailboats require specific insurance coverage to protect against the unique risks involved in competitive sailboat events. Here are three important considerations to keep in mind when selecting your coverage:

Hull Insurance : This coverage will protect your sailboat from damage caused by accidents, such as collisions or grounding during a race.

Liability Insurance : In the fast-paced world of racing sailboats, accidents can happen. Liability insurance will cover any damages or injuries caused to others during a race.

Equipment Insurance : Racing sailboats often have specialized equipment that can be expensive to replace. Ensure your policy covers the cost of repairing or replacing your racing gear, such as sails, rigging, and instruments.

Unique Policy Considerations

There are three important policy considerations to keep in mind when selecting coverage for your racing sailboat.

First, make sure to thoroughly review the policy exclusions. These are the situations or events that your insurance company won’t cover. It’s important to understand these exclusions so that you can plan and prepare accordingly.

Second, pay close attention to the coverage limits. These limits determine the maximum amount that your insurance company will pay in the event of a claim. It’s crucial to assess these limits to ensure that they align with the potential risks and costs associated with racing sailboats.

Premiums and Deductibles

You should carefully consider the premiums and deductibles associated with specialized coverage for your racing sailboat. Sailboat insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection in case of accidents or damage. To make the most informed decision, here are some key points to consider:

Premium discounts: Look for insurers that offer premium discounts for safety measures such as having a boating safety course, installing safety equipment, or having a clean claims history. These discounts can help reduce your overall insurance costs.

Choosing deductibles: Deductibles are the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. Higher deductibles usually result in lower premiums, but it’s essential to ensure that you can comfortably cover the deductible amount in case of a claim.

Specialized coverage: Racing sailboats often require specialized coverage due to their unique risks. Make sure to evaluate the coverage options available for racing sailboats and choose a policy that adequately protects your investment.

Exploring Additional Coverage Options for Sailboat Insurance

Can you explain the benefits of adding additional coverage options to your sailboat insurance policy?

As a freedom-seeking sailor, you understand the importance of protecting your beloved sailboat from any unforeseen events. Exploring coverage limits and understanding policy exclusions are crucial steps in ensuring comprehensive protection.

By adding additional coverage options to your sailboat insurance policy, you gain peace of mind and the freedom to navigate the open waters without worry.

One of the main benefits of adding extra coverage is the ability to customize your policy to meet your specific needs. You can choose to enhance your coverage for damages caused by natural disasters, such as hurricanes or storms. This ensures that even in the face of nature’s fury, you’ll be financially protected.

Another important coverage option to consider is liability insurance. This protects you in the event that you cause damage to another person’s property or injure someone while operating your sailboat. By having this additional coverage, you can sail with confidence, knowing that you have the means to handle any potential liability claims.

Furthermore, adding coverage for personal belongings onboard your sailboat is essential. This protects your valuable possessions, such as electronics, navigation equipment, and personal belongings, from theft, loss, or damage.

Tips for Lowering Sailboat Insurance Premiums

If you maintain a good sailing record and take a boating safety course, you may qualify for lower sailboat insurance premiums. Here are some tips for reducing sailboat insurance costs and strategies for lowering sailboat insurance premiums:

Shop Around : Don’t settle for the first insurance provider you come across. Take the time to compare different policies and prices to find the best deal for you. Consider factors such as coverage limits, deductibles, and additional benefits.

Increase Deductibles : By opting for a higher deductible, you can lower your insurance premiums. Just make sure you have enough savings to cover the deductible in case of an accident.

Bundle Your Policies : Many insurance companies offer discounts when you bundle your sailboat insurance with other policies such as auto or home insurance. This can lead to significant savings on your premiums.

By following these tips and strategies, you can lower your sailboat insurance premiums and enjoy the freedom of sailing without breaking the bank.

The Claims Process for Sailboat Insurance

To expedite the claims process for sailboat insurance, make sure to promptly report any damages or accidents to your insurance provider. Time is of the essence when it comes to filing a claim, so don’t delay in notifying them about any incidents that occur. By doing so, you’ll help ensure that the claims process runs smoothly and efficiently.

When it comes to the claims process, it’s important to understand the timeline involved. Insurance companies typically have specific timeframes within which you’re required to report and file a claim. Familiarize yourself with these deadlines to avoid any potential complications or delays in receiving your settlement.

In addition to reporting the incident promptly, it’s crucial to gather all necessary documentation to support your claim. This may include photographs of the damage, estimates for repairs, and any relevant police or incident reports. By providing thorough documentation, you can help expedite the claims process and increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Insuring Your Sailboat

You should always carefully review your sailboat insurance policy to avoid common mistakes that could leave you underinsured in the event of an accident. Sailboat insurance is essential to protect your investment and ensure your peace of mind while out on the open water.

Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Not understanding liability requirements : It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the liability requirements set by your state or marina. Failure to comply with these requirements could result in legal consequences and financial burden in case of an accident.

Ignoring coverage limits : Many sailors make the mistake of overlooking the coverage limits in their policy. It’s important to know the maximum amount your insurance company will pay in the event of a claim. If your coverage limit is too low, you may end up having to pay out-of-pocket for damages or injuries.

Neglecting to update your policy : As your sailboat ages or you make modifications, it’s essential to update your insurance policy accordingly. Failing to do so may result in inadequate coverage or even denial of a claim.

By reviewing your sailboat insurance policy, understanding liability requirements, paying attention to coverage limits, and keeping your policy up to date, you can ensure that you have the right coverage in place to protect yourself, your sailboat, and your freedom on the water.

Stay safe and enjoy your adventures worry-free!

Expert Advice on Choosing the Best Sailboat Insurance Policy

When comparing sailboat insurance policies, it’s important to consult with experts who can provide guidance on finding the best coverage for your specific needs. Understanding liability and having adequate coverage for accidents are crucial aspects of sailboat insurance. You want the freedom to explore the open waters without worrying about financial burdens in case of an unfortunate incident.

To begin, liability coverage is essential because accidents can happen, even to the most experienced sailors. Imagine a scenario where your sailboat collides with another vessel, causing damage to both boats and possibly injuring individuals. Without proper liability coverage, you could be held personally responsible for the expenses, which could be financially devastating. So, make sure your policy covers liability for bodily injury and property damage.

Additionally, coverage for accidents is vital. Sailboats are susceptible to various risks, including storms, collisions, and even theft. Accidents can result in significant damage to your boat, leaving you with hefty repair or replacement costs. Having comprehensive coverage that includes accidents will ensure that you’re protected financially if the unexpected occurs.

To find the best sailboat insurance policy, consult with experts who specialize in this field. They can evaluate your needs, explain the various coverage options, and help you find a policy that provides the right protection for your sailboat adventures. Remember, the freedom to sail without worry comes from having the right insurance coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i insure my sailboat if it is older or in need of repairs.

Yes, you can insure your older sailboat or one that needs repairs. Sailboat insurance providers understand that boats age and require maintenance. They offer coverage options to protect your investment and give you peace of mind.

What Is the Difference Between Agreed Value and Actual Cash Value in Sailboat Insurance?

When it comes to sailboat insurance, understanding the difference between agreed value and actual cash value is crucial. Agreed value ensures you’ll be compensated for the agreed upon value, while actual cash value takes depreciation into account.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Sailboat Insurance if I Have Completed a Boating Safety Course?

Yes, completing a boating safety course can make you eligible for discounts on sailboat insurance. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also gain valuable knowledge that will benefit you on the water.

Does Sailboat Insurance Cover Me if I Sail in International Waters?

Does sailboat insurance cover you when sailing in international waters? You’ll be glad to know that many policies do offer coverage for international sailing, giving you the freedom to explore the open seas worry-free.

Can I Add Coverage for Personal Belongings and Equipment Stored on My Sailboat?

Yes, you can add coverage for your personal belongings and equipment stored on your sailboat. Sailboat insurance offers coverage options for personal belongings and equipment protection, giving you peace of mind while enjoying your freedom on the water.

Scott is a devoted boat enthusiast and provides invaluable insights, tips, and advice on boat insurance coverage, industry trends, and maintenance. Marine Insurance Now is the go-to resource for seasoned boat owners seeking insurance guidance and aspiring sailors embarking on nautical adventures. Scott's expertise and infectious passion make his blog a must-read for boat enthusiasts and is making waves in the boating community.

Related Posts

The Essentials of Salvage and Wreck Removal Insurance

Is Racing Insurance Right for Your Speedboat

Boat Show Insurance: A Must for Exhibitors and Dealers

Affiliate Disclosure - Terms and Conditions - Privacy Policy

• Homeowners Insurance
• Renters Insurance
• Condo Insurance
• Landlord Insurance
• Flood Insurance
• Auto Insurance
• Boat Insurance
• RV Insurance
• Get a Quote
• Sailboat Insurance Guide: Costs, Requirements & More

By John Miceli

O wning a sailboat is freedom. Navigating the oceans, rivers, and lakes of the world under sail brings about feelings you can’t replicate anywhere else. To properly protect your vessel, and protect your ability to take the world’s waters by storm, you need insurance for your sailboat.

Below, we’ve tried to answer any questions you may have about insuring your sailboat by explaining many, many aspects of boat insurance coverage . Here’s everything you need to know about sailboat insurance.

Sailboat Insurance: The Basics

Your boat can get damaged when it’s in use, when it’s stored, when it’s floating at your dock, or when it’s sitting in your yard. You can also be liable for expenses if you injure someone or damage someone else’s property with your boat. 

Boat insurance is designed to protect you and your vessel from financial loss. Depending on the policy you choose, your boat insurance can reimburse you in every one of these scenarios. You don’t usually need to find a specific sailboat insurance provider unless you’re looking for coverage for worldwide cruising or your boat is exceptionally large. Otherwise, most insurance companies that write policies for boats are equipped to handle all types of vessels , from small dinghies and jet skis to yachts and sailboats.

However, even though you don’t need a special provider, there are a few specifics and considerations to know when looking for insurance for a sailboat. 

What Sailboat Insurance Covers

An insurance policy that covers your sailboat for damages it could incur is usually referred to as a comprehensive , or full, insurance plan. These policies will typically cover your boat from fire, lightning, sinking , vandalism and theft . Policies can also include coverage for weather events like high winds, hail, and hurricanes , although your carrier may have some stipulations about coverage from such severe weather. 

Boat insurance is highly customizable. In addition to the above protections, many policies also include some coverage for wreckage removal and fuel spill cleanups. Some include towing coverage in case of emergencies. You may also purchase dedicated protection for your fishing equipment, mechanical breakdowns, and more.

When getting covered for damage to your boat, you typically either get reimbursed for the replacement cost of what was damaged or for the actual cash value of the item or part. For sailboats, even with replacement cost coverage, sometimes certain parts are only covered on an actual cash value basis because the insurance company doesn’t deem them permanent fixtures of the vessel. These parts may include sails and rigging, as well as anchors, tarps, dock lines, and some electronics on your boat.

For instance, let’s say the sail on your 15-year-old sloop tears. Even though a new sail of the same quality as your initial one may cost $2,500, your insurance company may reimburse you less than that, say $1,000, if they cover your sails on an actual cash value basis since they believe the sail had depreciated over time.

Depreciation formulas vary by company. But, be aware of this possibility, as you may want to ask your provider about depreciation on partial losses.

Sailboat Insurance Cost

The cost of sailboat insurance varies by the age of your vessel, its length, its motor type, and the boat’s location. But, sailboat insurance usually costs a few hundred dollars a month, or between 1% and 5% of your vessel’s value. For instance, if you have a $200,000 sailboat, and insurance is about 2% of its value, it could cost you $4,000 per year to cover it, which comes to about $333 every month.

The size and number of motors your boat has influences the cost of insurance. Generally, the more you have, the more it costs to cover your boat. This aspect of coverage can make sailboat insurance more affordable than for a powerboat of a similar size, as sailboats typically have fewer and less powerful engines. 

The material your sailboat is built from also affects how much you’ll pay for boat insurance. Insurers prefer fiberglass hulls or aluminum hulls, as opposed to wooden or steel ones. Some companies won’t cover wooden or steel hulls at all. 

Insurance companies also offer many discounts to bring down your boat insurance rate. Completing certain boater safety courses could qualify you for a discount. Bundling your boat insurance with other policies you have can save you money. And, in some cases, your carrier could reward you for moving your sailboat out of potential hurricane danger zones during hurricane season.

You may also be able to change your rate by adjusting your deductible. Opting for a higher deductible, meaning vowing to pay more out of pocket for damages, can decrease your premiums. But, you may have different deductibles for different components of your sailboat. Fishing equipment, personal items, and portable items may have different deductibles, and your mast may have a separate deductible in case it gets damaged.

Having sailing history or experience is a plus when it comes to your insurance rate, too. Generally, if you have a long, safe track record of sailing, this will be reflected favorably in your premium.

Don’t get sunk by unexpected damages.Keep your vessel safe with a policy from one of the nation’s top carriers.

Sailboat Insurance Requirements

Generally, there are only two scenarios when you’re required to have an insurance policy on your sailboat. The first is if you have a loan on it, and your lender mandates a policy to protect their investment. The second is if you want to store your sailboat in a marina or yard, and they require you to have liability insurance to do so. 

In the United States, the government will never make you get insurance for your sailboat unless you live in Utah or Arkansas, the only two states that require boat insurance. So, you won’t usually be required to get a policy. But, when you’re getting one, there are a few prerequisites you’ll want to know no matter where you are.

Most of the major boat insurance carriers have size, value, and age limits when it comes to covering boats. If your boat is too big, too old, or too valuable, you’ll need to find a specialty insurer.

Progressive, for instance, doesn’t usually accept boats over 10 years old valued over $500,000, boats 11-20 years old valued over $250,000, or boats over 20 years old valued over $60,000. And, they won’t usually accept any boat over 50 feet long. Geico won’t accept any boat over 70 feet in length, or any vessel valued over $2,500,000. 

Most insurers also won’t accept houseboats, or a sailboat you’re permanently living on. And, carriers typically don’t accept boats that were previously deemed a total loss by another insurance company in the past.

Some companies may make you pay more for insurance on a catamaran than for a monohull. It varies by provider. Since catamarans have more hulls and more engines, they’re generally more expensive than a monohull of the same size, thus it costs more to replace or repair if it were damaged. They’re also more difficult to refloat if they sink since they can’t be righted as easily as a monohull. 

As we mentioned earlier, there are a lot of variables that go into the cost of the boat insurance policy, but just be aware that some companies are friendlier towards catamarans than others.

What You Need For a Sailboat Insurance Quote

When you’re ready to get a quote for an insurance plan to protect your sailboat, there’s some basic information you’ll need. It’s normal for carriers to ask for your boat’s:

• Make and model, including the year it was built and its length
• Hull identification number
• When you bought the boat
• How much you paid for the boat
• Where and how (wet dock, dry dock, in a marina, in your backyard, etc.) the boat will primarily be stored
• Personal information such as your name, address, email address, and your boating history

Insurance companies know sailboats are used relatively often for long-distance trips. You may be asked to define a navigation area when you’re getting a sailboat insurance quote, too. Some companies won’t insure you outside of the navigation area you define, while others will cover you at the expense of higher premiums. 

If you’re an active cruiser, the insurance company will likely be quite interested in your boating experience. Before giving you an insurance policy to take your sailboat around the globe, insurers usually require significant boating experience. You may not get a policy if you’re new to cruising or don’t have a lot of experience in open waters.

You may also be asked if or when you’ve had a marine survey done to your boat. A survey report done by a licensed professional gives the insurance company a detailed description of the overall condition of the boat. The engine, rigging, and other systems will be assessed. It helps the insurer determine the boat’s value.

You might not need a survey for a new sailboat. But, many insurers won’t cover older boats without a survey. The age at which boats require a survey varies by company, but it may be any boat older than ten or fifteen years.

The Best Sailboat Insurance

The best sailboat insurance is the one that covers all your bases with any desired add-ons at an affordable price. The best sailboat insurance for one person may not be the best for another; there is no hands-down best boat insurance company. This is why it’s vital to shop around and compare prices.

It also depends on your boat. Some companies may be better suited to cover older or especially large boats than others. You need to find the policy that’s right for you.

An important part of boat insurance is liability coverage . You probably don’t want to carry just the minimum amount, which is usually around $100,000. Most providers would recommend at least $500,000 to $1,00,000. Medical expenses and property damage bills can rack up quickly after an accident. You don’t want to be lacking liability coverage when you need it.

Additionally, the best sailboat insurance is probably the one that covers the most. A comprehensive policy that includes as many forms of weather-related damage as possible would best protect your vessel. 

Be aware of policy restrictions. Watch for named storm deductibles, navigation areas, and cruising limits. You want to be covered no matter where you decide to travel.

Don’t get sunk by unexpected damages.Keep your vessel safe with a policy from one of the nation’s top carriers.

The editorial content on Clovered’s website is meant to be informational material and should not be considered legal advice.

Similar Articles

ACTIVE STORM TRACKER Hurricane and Tropical Storm Information Learn more

Service Locator

• Angler Endorsement
• Boat Towing Coverage
• Mechanical Breakdown
• Insurance Requirements in Mexico

Agreed Hull Value

Actual cash value, liability only.

• Insurance Payment Options
• Claims Information
• Towing Service Agreement
• Membership Plans
• Boat Show Tickets
• BoatUS Boats For Sale
• Membership Payment Options
• Consumer Affairs
• Boat Documentation Requirements
• Installation Instructions
• Shipping & Handling Information
• Contact Boat Lettering
• End User Agreement
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Vessel Documentation
• BoatUS Foundation
• Government Affairs
• Powercruisers
• Buying & Selling Advice
• Maintenance
• Tow Vehicles
• Make & Create
• Makeovers & Refitting
• Accessories
• Electronics
• Skills, Tips, Tools
• Spring Preparation
• Winterization
• Boaters’ Rights
• Environment & Clean Water
• Boat Safety
• Navigational Hazards
• Personal Safety
• Batteries & Onboard Power
• Motors, Engines, Propulsion
• Books & Movies
• Cockpit Confessions
• Communication & Etiquette
• Contests & Sweepstakes
• Colleges & Tech Schools
• Food, Drink, Entertainment
• New To Boating
• Travel & Destinations
• Watersports
• Anchors & Anchoring
• Boat Handling
• ← Products & Services
• Payment Options

Boat Insurance

Get a Quote 800-283-2883 | File a Claim 800-937-1937

Boat Insurance From Experts – BoatUS and GEICO have teamed up!

Get a Quote

Retrieve a Quote

Self Service

Policies are underwritten by GEICO Marine Insurance Company. Privacy Policy & Notice of Collection

If GEICO Marine is unable to offer a quote, your information may be shared with non-affiliated insurance companies, CHUBB and American Modern, so that they may provide a quote. Both of these non-affiliated insurers have sole financial responsibility for its own insurance products. By clicking “Get a Quote,” you agree that the information you provide can be shared with our business partners.

Login to My Account, the place to conduct all your BoatUS business online on one secure site, anytime, anywhere. Make a payment and manage autopay options, view your policy summary, retrieve policy documents, upload claim photos and documents, update your credit card, contact and boat information, and more!

BoatUS and GEICO have teamed up to bring boaters a great boat insurance policy at a great price. Serviced by boating experts our coverage options for boaters of all kinds can’t be beat.

Check out our policies and add-on coverage options for a custom policy you can only find here.

The best marine insurance protection for your boat, engine and gear. Pays you the most in the event of a claim — the agreed value when you buy the policy for total losses and parts are replaced "new for old." Available for all boat types, excluding PWC.

This boat insurance coverage lowers your premium by paying you the current market price for your boat in the event of a total loss. Recommended for smaller boats, personal watercraft and boats without a lien holder.

Our lowest cost marine insurance policy providing essential liability coverage to protect your assets without the added cost of hull coverage. Includes salvage and wreck removal. Available for boats with no lien holder.

Custom Add-on Coverage Options

Provides liability coverage that may be required by a marina's dock contract.

Allows for paid passengers for the purposes of fishing, sight-seeing, or day cruises. Maximum of 6 passengers onboard plus the captain while being used for charter.

Usually excluded, this endorsement provides coverage for ice and freeze damage if you have your boat winterized by a marine professional.

Provides a guarantee for claims-related repairs made at an approved facility for as long as you own and insure the boat through BoatUS. (Available with Agreed Hull Value Coverage only.)

This endorsement lowers the deductible for claims relating to the dinghy and/or the dinghy's motor resulting from theft or damage to $100.

This endorsement lowers the deductible for claims relating to navigational electronics to $250.

Provides coverage to the lower unit of the insured outboard engine and outdrive due to mechanical breakdown which is usually excluded in the policy. Available with Agreed Hull Coverage only. Disappearing deductible does not apply. Click here for additional information.

Coverage for fishing and watersports equipment and personal items such as cell phones, tablets, stereos and clothing lost or damaged while on board or while being loaded or unloaded from the boat. For competitive anglers or water sport enthusiasts, Tournament Reimbursement fees are also covered under Personal Effects.

To ensure that you or your family do not incur large out-of-pocket expense if injured onboard, our policies also include an additional $25,000 for payments not covered by any major medical policy. This coverage is in addition to the medical payments limit you select with your policy.

Get Unlimited Towing from TowBoatUS at our lowest price - as little as $3 a month for the insured boat. Pricing varies with the length and location of your boat. Click here for additional information.

When you insure your trailer, roadside assistance while trailering your boat is included.

Unlimited Towing from TowBoatUS – the Nation’s Largest Fleet

Add Unlimited Towing to your boat policy for as little as $3 a month based on boat size and location.

Easy Payment Options

Paying your insurance premium is quick, easy and affordable with auto-pay and installment payment options. View All Payment Options

For a quote, visit our Online Application or call 800-283-2883 for personal service.

All coverage is subject to terms, conditions, limits and exclusions of the policy. Not all policy options are available in all states. Boat and PWC policies are underwritten by GEICO Marine Insurance Company with administrative offices at 5323 Port Royal Road, Springfield, VA 22151. GEICO Marine Insurance Company is domiciled in Omaha, NE, and coverage is offered in all 50 states and the District of Columbia to boat owners with a U.S. address. View the GEICO Marine Insurance Company Privacy Policy & Notice of Collection .

We use cookies to enhance your visit to our website and to improve your experience. By continuing to use our website, you’re agreeing to our cookie policy.

You are about to leave geico.com

When you click "Continue" you will be taken to a site owned by , not GEICO. GEICO has no control over their privacy practices and assumes no responsibility in connection with your use of their website. Any information that you provide directly to them is subject to the privacy policy posted on their website.

Boat Insurance

Get your customized boat insurance quote today..

Or continue previous quote .

Manage Your Boat Insurance Policy

GEICO Marine (formerly Seaworthy) Policyholders

• Log in to GEICO Marine to manage your policy or call (877) 581-BOAT (2628)
• Mon - Fri 8:00 am - 10:00 pm, Sat - Sun 8:00 am - 9:15 pm

SkiSafe Policyholders

• Log in to SkiSafe to your policy or call (800) 225-6560
• Mon - Thu 9:00 am - 7:00 pm, Fri 9:00 am - 6:00 pm, Sat 9:30 am - 5:30 pm

Or call us at (800) 841-3005

Need a boat insurance quote?

Existing boat policyholder?

Get a boat insurance policy to protect your investment.

Boat insurance is crucial for protecting your investment, whether you're navigating lakes, rivers, or ocean waters across the United States. With GEICO for your boat and BoatUS–the nation's largest group of recreational boat owners–you're backed by a partnership with over 50 years of experience in making boating safer and more enjoyable.

Whether you're looking to start a new policy or find savings on an existing one, we're here to make boating better. Get started with a free boat insurance quote today and benefit from competitive rates without compromising on service. Protect your peace of mind and enjoy the waters with confidence, knowing that you have reliable coverage from names you can trust.

Why do you need boat insurance?

A boat insurance policy helps protect you and your boat. If you don't have a separate boat insurance policy, you're probably underinsured. This could mean paying a lot out of pocket for accidents outside your control. Many homeowners policies cover minor boating risks but don't cover your needs sufficiently due to:

• Size restrictions
• Limitations on horsepower
• Limits on damage coverage

Boat insurance can provide coverage for:

• Damage to your boat including hull, sails, equipment, and more.
• Fuel spill liability
• Liability to pay for damages and injuries you cause if you hit another boat, person, or dock
• Medical coverage for you and persons in your boat.
• Wreckage removal

Check out our "boating insurance explained" video for more reasons why boat insurance is a smart idea.

What types of watercrafts are covered by boat insurance?

All boats aren't the same. You need to customize your boat insurance to meet your needs and provide your watercraft with the proper coverage. Here is a list of the most common types of watercrafts.

• Pontoon boats are one of the most popular inland water boats. They are a flattish boat that rely on floats to remain buoyant. Their wide and spacious area is great for many passengers to enjoy the ride.
• Personal watercraft (PWC) are powered by a water jet pump and the rider generally sits, stands, or kneels on it. There are many types of PWCs which include WaveRunners, Sea-Doos and more.
• Fishing and bass boats are designed and equipped for fishing. Most are powered by an outboard motor and are equipped with power poles, trolling motors, etc.
• Powerboats are the most popular type of boat used for cruising, watersports, and so much more.
• Sailboats are propelled partly or entirely by sails.

If you don't see your watercraft listed and are looking for more information on different types of boats and insurance for boats, check out our boat FAQ page .

What does boat insurance cover?

Understanding the different types of boat insurance coverage is crucial for ensuring your watercraft and your finances are protected against on-water incidents. At GEICO, we offer a variety of coverage options to suit every boater's needs, including:

Liability Coverage

Essential for all boat owners, liability insurance covers damages and injuries to others if you're at fault in an accident. This includes costs associated with injuries, property damage, and legal fees.

Hull and Equipment Coverage

Hull and Equipment Coverage protects your boat if it collides with another vessel or object. It also covers non-collision-related damages to your boat, such as those from fire, theft, or storms.

24/7 Boat Towing*

Boat towing coverage assists with towing costs and provides emergency services if your boat breaks down or you get stranded, so you can have peace of mind on the water.

Each type of coverage provides specific protections, allowing you to customize your policy according to your boating lifestyle and the risks you might encounter. Whether you're a casual weekend sailor or a dedicated marine enthusiast, understanding and selecting the right boat insurance coverages can make all the difference. Choose the boat insurance coverage that best fits your needs and sail with confidence knowing that GEICO has you covered.

How much does boat insurance cost?

Boat insurance is based on the type of boat, length, number of engines and horsepower, how you use it (recreation, charter, racing, etc.), and how and where it will be stored. All of these factors, including the experience and claims record of the owner/primary operator will factor into the cost of boat insurance.

Boost Your Savings With our Boat Insurance Discounts

GEICO offers several boat insurance discounts to help make coverage more affordable for boat owners. Some discounts include:

Multi-Policy Discounts

Save on boat insurance by bundling it with your GEICO Auto or additional GEICO Marine policy.

Boat Safety Courses

Discounts are available for boaters who have completed an approved boating safety course such as State Certified Safety , American Sailing Association Course , U.S. Power Squadrons , Charter Boat Captain's License, and U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary .

Full-Pay Discount

Paying your policy in full upfront instead of in installments can lead to savings.

It's always a good idea to speak directly with a GEICO representative for the most current information regarding discounts and how you might be able to apply them to your policy.

Secure Your Boat Insurance Today

Don't wait until it's too late to think about protecting your boat. At GEICO, we offer tailored boat insurance policies designed to meet the unique needs of every boater.

Take action now! Get a free, no-obligation quote today, or speak directly with one of our specialists. They're available to answer your questions and guide you through your policy options, ensuring you have the perfect coverage for your boating lifestyle.

Call Us: (855) 395-1412

• Mon - Fri 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM (ET)
• Sat - Sun 8:00 AM - 9:15 PM (ET)

Boat Insurance FAQ

• Is boat insurance required? Boat insurance liability coverage is only mandated in a few states, so always check insurance requirements for the state you're boating in. Physical damage coverage is required by your lender if you're financing your boat or watercraft. If you keep your boat at a marina, the marina may require you to have liability coverage.
• Liability to pay for damages and injuries you cause if you accidentally hit another boat, person, or dock

There are some types of watercrafts that are not eligible for a GEICO boat policy including but not limited to:

• Airboats, amphibious land boats or hovercraft
• Boat with more than 4 owners
• Boats over 50 feet in length
• Boats over 40 years old
• Boats valued over $2,500,000
• Floating homes
• Homemade boats
• Houseboats that do not have motors
• Steel hulls
• Wooden hulls
• Watercraft previously deemed a constructive total loss
• Does boat insurance cover theft? Our Agreed Hull Value, and Actual Cash Value policies protect against damage to your watercraft from incidents out of your control, including theft.
• How do I make a payment or manage my boat insurance policy? Managing your boat insurance policy and making payments is easy in the BoatUS app. You can also manage your policy or make payments online , or by calling (800) 283-2883 .
• How do I report a claim on my boat insurance policy? You can report your claim through the BoatUS app. Claims can also be reported online , or by calling (800) 937-1937 .

GEICO has teamed up with its subsidiary, BoatUS, to bring boaters a policy developed by specialists, with the great service you expect from GEICO. Policies are underwritten by GEICO Marine Insurance Company. BoatUS—Boat Owner's Association of The United States—is the nation's largest association for recreational boaters providing service, savings and representation for over 50 years.

The above is meant as general information and as general policy descriptions to help you understand the different types of coverages. These descriptions do not refer to any specific contract of insurance and they do not modify any definitions, exclusions or any other provision expressly stated in any contracts of insurance. We encourage you to speak to your insurance representative and to read your policy contract to fully understand your coverages. Some discounts, coverages, payment plans, and features are not available for all customers, in all states, or in all locations.

*Boat and PWC coverages are underwritten by GEICO Marine Insurance Company. The TowBoatU.S. Towing Coverage Endorsement is offered by GEICO Marine Insurance Company, with towing services provided by the BoatU.S. Towing Program. Towing coverage only applies to the insured watercraft.

• Agent Directory
• Company Directory

Find an Independent Agent

• Get Matched with an Agent
• Agent Directory by State

Find an Insurance Company

• Get Matched with a Company
• Company Directory by State

What type of insurance do you need?

• Business Insurance
• Home, Auto & Personal Insurance
• Life & Annuities

By Coverage Type

• Commercial Auto Insurance
• Professional Liability Insurance
• Small Business Insurance
• Business Umbrella Insurance
• Workers' Compensation Insurance
• Commercial Property Insurance
• Business Owners Policy
• Builders Risk Insurance
• Cyber Liability Insurance
• Surety Business Bonds
• Inland Marine Insurance
• Employers Liability Insurance
• Employment Practices Liability Insurance
• Environmental Liability Insurance
• Errors and Omissions Insurance
• Insurance Coverage & Advice by State  
• See more ...

By Business Type

• Retail Store
• Agriculture & Forestry
• Construction
• Manufacturing
• Wholesale Trade
• Retail Trade
• Transportation & Warehousing
• Information Industry
• Finance & Insurance
• Real Estate
• Scientific & Technical Services

Auto & Vehicle Insurance

• Car Insurance
• Motorcycle Insurance
• Boat Insurance
• RV / Motorhome Insurance
• ATV Insurance
• Snowmobile Insurance
• Personal Watercraft Insurance
• Collectible Auto Insurance
• Umbrella Insurance

Home & Property Insurance

• Homeowners Insurance
• Condo Insurance
• Farm Insurance
• Landlord Insurance
• Renters Insurance
• Mobile Home Insurance
• Contents Insurance
• Vacant Land Insurance
• Flood Insurance

Other Insurance

• Life Insurance
• Long Term Care Insurance
• Disability Insurance
• Health Insurance
• Special Event Insurance
• Short-term / Sharing Insurance

Insurance Solutions & Resources

• Compare Car Insurance
• Compare Home Insurance

How Much Does Boat Insurance Cost?

Don’t let the price of insuring your boat come as a surprise. Find out how much a policy might cost you.

Christine Lacagnina has written thousands of insurance-based articles for TrustedChoice.com by authoring consumable, understandable content.

Jeff Green has held a variety of sales and management roles at life insurance companies, Wall street firms, and distribution organizations over his 40-year career.  He was previously Finra 7,24,66 registered and held life insurance licenses in multiple states. He is a graduate of Stony Brook University.

Learn the Average Cost of Boat Insurance

If having fun on the water appeals to you, then you might find yourself in the market to buy a boat. You could purchase a boat for fishing, speed boating, sailing, or a pontoon to float around in casually. Just as you insure your car and your home, it's a good idea to get adequate insurance coverage for your boat.

As you research your options for boat insurance, you might have questions about the cost, what kind of coverage to get, and what insurance company carries the best policies for your dollar. An independent insurance agent can help answer your insurance questions and get you on the right track for savings on your boat policy. But first, here's a closer look at boat insurance costs.

The average annual cost of boat insurance is a few hundred dollars, though it can run over $1,000 per year, depending on the type of boat and your personal profile. There are many factors that influence boat insurance costs, including the type of boat you insure, its length, and its expected use. Whether you have a speed boat, a small fishing boat or a yacht will make a big difference in what you pay.

So how much is boat insurance? In general, boat insurance costs range from $200 to $500 per year, on average. Typically, you can estimate boat insurance rate calculations by figuring that your premiums will be around 1.5% of your boat's overall value. An independent insurance agent can help you find more exact quotes for boat insurance costs in your area.

Average Cost of Boat Insurance by State

Boat insurance costs vary by location, but certain regions of the country typically pay more for their coverage than others. States along the coast, those with higher property values, and those in the South tend to pay more for boat insurance than northern states, those with lower property values, and those not along a coast.

Save on Boat Insurance

Our independent agents shop around to find you the best coverage.

What Factors Affect Your Boat Insurance Cost?

A number of factors, some in your control and some not, can have an impact on the cost of your boat insurance . If you sail on a lake that has a high rate of claims, the cost of your coverage will be higher than for a lake where there are far fewer claims.

Additional factors that affect your boat insurance rates include:

• Type of boat
• Boat age & condition
• Driver's age & experience
• Usage frequency
• Driving record
• Safety measures
• Coverage options
• Credit score

Type of Boat

The year, make, and model of the boat and motor, and whether you have an inboard or outboard motor, come into play when determining rates. The length and overall value of your boat also greatly influence your insurance costs. A pontoon boat insured in Delaware would cost about $791 annually to insure, while a fishing boat in the same state would cost $11,875 to insure due to its greater length and value.

Value of the Boat

The more valuable your boat is, the more of a risk it is to insure because it would cost more to repair or replace. As a result, you can expect to pay higher boat insurance premiums for a more valuable boat. In Delaware, the cost to insure a boat worth less than $20,000 would be only $377 annually. In the same state, it would cost an average of $1,697 to insure a boat worth $75,000 and nearly $17,000 annually to insure a boat worth $750,000.

Horsepower of the Boat

Often, boats with higher horsepower engines will have higher insurance premiums assigned to them. The faster the boat can go, the greater the risk of it getting involved in a collision, so the riskier it is to insure. An independent insurance agent can help you find boat insurance quotes depending on if your boat has an inboard or outboard motor.

Age and Condition of the Boat

Older boats tend to be cheaper to insure because they would cost less to replace after an accident. Boats in better condition tend to be cheaper to insure as well, thanks to their updated safety features. An independent insurance agent can help you find exact boat insurance quotes based on the age and condition of your boat.

Age and Experience of Boat Drivers

The age and experience level of a boater can impact boat insurance rates. Adding your teenage son as a driver on your policy may increase your rates. Boaters who are a bit older and more experienced, on the other hand, can often be granted lower rates on coverage because they're seen as less of a risk. However, gender also affects boating rates, regardless of age. Studies have found that women over the age of 27 tend to be quoted better rates than men of the same age, even with equal driving records.

Boat Usage Frequency

The more often you use your boat, the more of a risk it has of getting into a collision. If you only take your boat on occasional fishing trips, your rates will typically be lower than if you tow water skiers, wakeboarders, or parasailers. Weekend-only boaters enjoy much cheaper boat insurance rates than frequent boaters, typically. Simply put, if your boat is docked or not on the water at all, it's less likely to get damaged.

Location of the Boat

This is to determine if you will be using the boat in areas where there are natural hazards like hurricanes. Areas like oceans, squalls, etc., are prone to boating incidents because of hurricanes and other threats. So boaters who frequently use their vessels on oceans, the Great Lakes, or coasts, rather than on inland rivers or smaller lakes are more likely to be seen as riskier to insure and thus can expect higher insurance premiums.

Driving Record

Good automobile drivers tend to be good boat drivers. So like with car insurance, the cleaner your record, the less you can expect to pay for your boat insurance. You're likely to have to pay more for your coverage if you’ve filed claims in the past. 

Safety Measures

Taking formal safety training and getting boater certifications can help lower the cost of boat insurance. Having safety equipment on your boat can also help lower your rates. If you've passed a state-approved certified safety course, for example, or have your boat equipped with Coast Guard-approved fire extinguishers on board, you'll likely pay less for boat insurance. 

Insurance Coverage Options

Like any type of policy, the specific boat insurance coverages you pick will influence your overall costs. If you need coverage for your fishing equipment, trailer, personal belongings, or any other boat accessories, you'll pay more than you would for just a liability policy. If you want to pay lower premiums every month, choose a policy with a higher deductible amount. An independent insurance agent can help you do this.

Your Credit Score

Believe it or not, insurance companies have found that a person with a lower credit score is statistically more prone to boating accidents. If your credit score is low, you may be charged more for your boat insurance than someone with a higher credit rating. Boaters with consistently excellent credit history will likely pay less for boat insurance.

The Cost of Boating Accidents

Take a look at some statistics from this year about boating accidents:

• More than 5,000 boating accidents happen every year in the US.
• Boating accidents cost the US $62.5 million annually.
• The most common type of boating accident is a collision between two or more vessels.
• Perhaps contrary to popular belief, most boating accidents happen in calm waters.
• About 77% of fatal boating accidents were caused due to a lack of boating safety education by the operators.
• The leading contributory factor for fatal boating accidents in the US is alcohol.

Knowing just how common and costly boating accidents are in the US can inspire you to search for the right boat insurance policy. An independent insurance agent in your area can help you find the best policy for you at the lowest possible rate.

Understanding the Cost of Boat Insurance

Having boat insurance is important to protect you against potential lawsuit costs in case of a collision or other accident and to help you financially recover from damage to your own boat, theft of your property, and other incidents. Working together with an independent insurance agent is the best way to have coverage details outlined and explained in a way that makes sense. Independent insurance agents can help you find the best blend of coverage and cost for boat insurance, along with any discounts you may qualify for.

Why Choose an Independent Insurance Agent for Boat Insurance?

Independent insurance agents simplify the process by shopping and comparing insurance quotes for you. Not only that, but they’ll cut through the jargon and clarify the fine print so you'll know exactly what you’re getting.

Independent insurance agents also have access to multiple insurance companies, ultimately finding you the best boat insurance coverage, accessibility, and competitive pricing while working for you.

https://quicknav.com/boating-accident-statistics/

https://betterboat.com/blogs/boating/average-boat-insurance

https://www.discoverboating.com/ownership/insurance

When you use links on our website, we may earn a fee.

Best Boat Insurance of 2024

Boat insurance is a type of coverage designed to protect boat owners and their personal property in the event of an incident on the water. The best boat insurance companies offer flexible coverage options for a variety of vessels, with reasonable premiums and lots of additional benefits.

Every person who owns or operates a boat should consider carrying boat insurance , as it protects them against personal liability if they’re in an accident, as well as guarding them against loss if something happens to their vessel. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best companies that offer boat insurance, what they offer, as well as their benefits and drawbacks. We’ll also discuss special coverage options for particular use cases or types of boats.

Table of Contents

• Best Boat Insurance
• How to Find
• How to Save

Geico Marine  »

Insures boats up to 50 feet in length

Gives policyholders access to BoatUS Catastrophe Team

Insures boats valued up to $2.5 million

Doesn’t insure wood or composite boats

Boats more than 40 years old aren’t eligible for coverage

Geico Marine has been writing boat insurance since the 1980s. Originally established as Seaworthy Insurance, the company was bought by financial giant Berkshire Hathaway in 2007.

Under the Geico umbrella, Geico Marine offers insurance designed to meet the needs of the vast majority of boat owners. The list of boats that are ineligible for coverage by Geico is far shorter than those that are. Disqualifying criteria include:

• Boats over 50 feet in length
• Boats over 40 years old (15 years for houseboats)
• Multihull sailboats (catamarans)
• Watercraft made of wood or composite material
• Homemade boats
• Amphibious land boats or hovercraft
• Boats previously deemed a total loss
• Boats valued over $2,500,000

In addition to its strong lineup of coverages, Geico Marine insurance also comes with 24/7 assistance. Additionally, the company has a long-standing association with The Boat Owners Association of the U.S. (BoatUS), including giving policyholders access to the BoatUS Catastrophe (CAT) Team.   The BoatUS CAT Team is a group that brings considerable resources to bear – including towboats and cranes – to help BoatUS members and Geico customers recover and salvage their vessels after a natural disaster.

Special coverage for rods, reels, and other equipment

Emergency towing and personal property coverage included

Lift and trailer coverage available

Claims can take a few weeks to settle

Some negative customer reviews online

Specialty insurer Markel is another provider of boat insurance. Markel boat insurance policies come with multiple coverages included and even more optional coverages available, including many not available from other insurers. Several of these special coverages are geared towards fishing enthusiasts, including both amateurs and professionals.

Among Markel’s special coverages for fishers are protections for rods, reels, and other personal effects, plus coverage for boat lifts and trailers. The company even offers professional angler liability coverage and tournament fee reimbursement as optional add-ons.

However, according to Markel’s documentation and customer reviews online, the company can take up to several weeks to settle claims. This is somewhat longer than some other providers. Customers have also noted that claims can take longer and be more involved, increasing the time it takes to get boats repaired or replaced.

Coverage designed specifically for yacht owners

High coverage limits available for captained vessels

Vessels must be 36 feet longer or greater to qualify for yacht coverage

Crew required for vessels over $3 million

Global insurer Chubb is one of the few large carriers that offers boat insurance designed specially for yachts, including those over 70 feet in length with professional captains and crews.

Yacht insurance from Chubb is available for pleasure cruisers at least 36 feet long (and valued up to $3 million), as well as captained yachts at least 70 feet long and valued at $3 million or more.

Among the niche yacht coverages available from Chubb are:

• Search and rescue
• Longshore and harbor workers’ compensation
• Boat show and demonstration
• Oil Pollution Act

Yacht insurance from Chubb can even include temporary substitute watercraft, so you can still enjoy the water if your yacht is damaged and requires repairs.

Coverage specifically designed for personal watercraft

Vessels are still covered during winter lay-up periods

Water sports liability coverage is included

No coverage for commercial use

$25,000 limit for no-fault medical payments

Specialty provider SkiSafe is one of the biggest personal watercraft insurers you’ve never heard of. The company doesn’t underwrite its own policies; that’s handled by AXIS Insurance Co., a large Bermuda-based insurer. SkiSafe has been around for nearly 50 years and insured more than half a million boaters.

Boat insurance from SkiSafe is designed to meet the needs of personal watercraft owners. As a result, coverages are fairly consolidated and focus specifically on the reduced needs of these types of boaters. Naturally, there is a heavy focus on coverage for injuries, including related to water sports. However, there are also special savings related to lay-ups, since the season for personal watercraft can be relatively short compared to other types of boats.

American Family  »

Special coverage designed specifically for houseboats

Up to $100,000 of personal effects coverage available

Boats up to 54 feet can be covered (40 feet in Georgia)

A marine survey may be required

Must work with a local agent to buy coverage

American Family is unique among boat insurance carriers in that it’s one of few that offers a policy designed specifically for houseboats. Included in American Family houseboat policies are several coverages that cater specifically to these types of vessels, including up to $100,000 for your personal property in case items are stolen, damaged, or fall into the water.

Houseboat insurance from American Family may lack some coverages you might find with other types of vessels, such as emergency towing or parts delivery (these are included in some boat policies from American Family, but it’s unclear from the website whether they’re included in houseboat policies). Additionally, these policies have restrictions specific to houseboats, including horsepower limitations. But, American Family also offers unique discounts particularly helpful for houseboat owners.

Progressive  »

Numerous discounts available

Can buy coverage online

Up to $1,000 of coverage if a pet is hurt or killed in a boating incident

Lots of limits on boat length and value

Many types of vessels are ineligible for coverage

Rounding out our list is insurance giant Progressive, which also has a strong boat insurance offering. Progressive has been insuring boats for more than three decades and insures more than 1 million vessels. Its policies should meet the needs of most owners of boats less than 50 feet long and worth less than $500,000.

Where Progressive really shines, though, is in its list of available discounts. Progressive offers boaters not just the standard discount opportunities available with other insurers, such as multi-policy, multi-boat, or paid-in-full discounts. Progressive also offers savings simply from switching coverage from another country. Additionally, accident forgiveness is also available for incidents both large and small.

The Bottom Line

Boat insurance is a highly individual product, much more so than auto or home insurance. Because boat owners’ needs vary greatly, it’s important to research providers to find the right carrier for your vessel and use case. Based on our research, we found that Geico is the best insurance company available for the widest array of vessels and the most common types of uses.

How to Find the Best Boat Insurance

Here are some essential tips to keep in mind when looking for the best boat insurance policy:

• Evaluate your coverage needs. Based on your boat's value, usage, and legal requirements, determine the type and level of coverage required.
• Compare quotes. Obtain quotes from multiple insurers to compare premiums, coverage options, and discounts.
• Review policy details. Carefully examine the policy's coverage limits, deductibles, exclusions, and additional benefits.

How to Save on Boat Insurance

When seeking to lower the cost of your boat insurance, consider:

• Maintaining a clean driving record. Even though you will be driving a boat and not a car, your record on the road can still be taken into account since many insurers link good driving with good boating. 
• Improving your credit score. Maintaining a good credit score can also lower your premiums.
• Searching for discounts. Inquire about discounts, such as those for taking a boating course, being an experienced boater, or having outboard propulsion.
• Bundling policies. Save money by bundling your boat insurance with home or auto insurance policies.
• Raising deductibles. Opting for a higher deductible can lower your premiums, but ensure you can cover the out-of-pocket costs if you need to file a claim.
• Getting a marine survey. This will tell you how much your boat is worth, enabling you to get a more precise quote from your insurer.
• Making as few small claims as possible. Just like with other kinds of insurance, the more claims you make, the higher your premiums will be.

Do You Need Boat Insurance?

Whether you need boat insurance depends on various factors, including legal requirements and your personal circumstances. You should consider:

• State requirements. Some states require boat insurance, especially for larger or more powerful vessels. Check your state's regulations to determine if insurance is mandatory for your boat.
• Marina requirements. Many marinas require proof of insurance to dock your boat. This ensures you have coverage for potential damage to the marina or other boats.
• Protection. Boat insurance can cover a range of risks, including damage to your boat, liability for damages to a third party’s items, third party injuries, theft, and medical payments.

How We Chose the Best Boat Insurance

To identify the best boat insurance, we reviewed offerings available from numerous reputable carriers. We focused primarily on those with solid financial ratings and comprehensive coverage options to meet the needs of a wide array of boaters. We then narrowed down our selections to those providers with best-in-class offerings specifically designed to meet certain types of boaters.

WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?

At U.S. News 360 Reviews, our contributors and editors have years of experience researching and reviewing complex financial topics including insurance policies. Dock David Treece , the author of this piece and a senior contributor for 360 Reviews, has more than two decades of experience in the finance and insurance industry. He has covered insurance and other financial topics for Forbes, Investopedia, Business.com, and other publishers. He has also written for several insurers, including Progressive.

Boat insurance is not required in most states. However, if you have a loan secured by a boat, most lenders require that you buy boat insurance. Additionally, boat insurance can protect owners and operators against personal liability if they’re involved in an accident.

When you buy boat insurance, you’ll need to provide several pieces of personal information, as well as information about your boat and applicable licenses. Depending on the type of boat and policy, you may also be required to submit a marine survey, which assesses the condition of your vessel.

Boat insurance does not typically have a waiting period before you can file a claim.

Some insurers allow policyholders to insure multiple boats under the same policy, so long as they all have the same owner(s). Many carriers also offer discounts for owners who insure multiple boats with the same company.

Depending on the size, type, and value of the vessel being insured, some carriers require a boat to undergo an inspection (called a marine survey) in order to assess the boat’s condition prior to binding coverage.

The amount of boat insurance you need depends on your boat's value and how you plan to use it. It should cover your boat's replacement cost, and you should also consider purchasing liability coverage for accidents, medical payment coverage for injuries, and coverage for theft of personal belongings.

Homeowners insurance might offer limited coverage for small boats under certain circumstances, like damage caused by fire or theft while on your property. However, larger or high-performance boats typically require separate boat insurance for comprehensive coverage.

About Our Team

Dock Treece

Contributor

Stephen Yao , Ph.D.

Insurance Reviewer

U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

Average Boat Insurance Cost (With 15 Examples)

Getting your boat insured can be quite a complicated process if you’ve never done it before, and getting an accurate average price can be almost impossible without spending entire days researching all the various insurance companies.

When I got my first boat I spent two entire weeks looking through all the insurance possibilities, reading all the clauses in the contracts, and getting quotes from all the possible companies. 

When I got my second boat and I had to get it insured I already knew everything that there is to know about boat insurance so I managed to solve everything in just a couple of hours. So to help others that are entirely new to this process I decided to write this guide that will let you know everything that there is to know about insurance, from the average prices, to what influences those prices, to all the things that you have to be careful about.

The average boat insurance cost is around $300 per year ($25 per month), but depending on the type of insurance prices can vary between $150 and $500 per year ($12,5 and $41,5 per month).

Table of Contents

15 Examples of Average Insurance Prices

For those examples I went to multiple insurance companies and requested insurance prices for them for 15 different boats. In this article you will see that there are different types of insurances. For those examples I requested an insurance that will cover basic liabilities, so no extras.

So those are the average insurance costs that I got from multiple insurance companies. But it;s very important to keep in mind that I requested the most basic insurance, so if you want to get some extras you might spend some extra $50 or $100.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the insurance price will differ based on a lot of factors, when I requested a price for the examples above I tried to keep things as average as possible. So I assumed I have no prior experience with boats, very minor driving incidents, that the boat will be used at least a couple of days per month, and that I have an average credit score.

Those things are very important because they can influence the prices quite a lot. So let’s take a closer look at those factors and how they influence the insurance cost.

Factors That Influence Boat Insurance Cost

Use of the Boat , depending on how you will use your boat the cost will increase or decrease accordingly. If you will take your boat out for fishing 3 or 4 times a year then the rates will be quite small, but if you will take it out every weekend for watersports then the rites will be higher.

Boating Experience , having a few years of experience with boats will make the rates cheaper, while having no prior experience will increase them.

Motor Vehicle Driving Record , most people don’t expect this to come into play but it does, and it’s really important. If you have a bad driving record it will reflect in the rates that you will have to pay for your boat insurance.

Other Drivers Experience , when you apply for boat insurance you will be asked who will be driving, and adding a person with no boating or driving experience to the list will increase the cost.

Boat Insurance Records , if you had multiple incidents in the past, your rates will go up.

Horsepower , the more horsepower your boat has, the higher the rates will be, but don’t let this discourage you from getting the boat you want, the increase in price is not that significant.

Specs of the Boat , this includes the year it was made, the model, the maker, inboard or outboard motor, etc.

Credit Score , insurance companies have found that a person with a lower credit score is statistically more prone to boating accidents. So a person with a low credit score will have to pay more for their insurance.

Ways to Reduce the Cost of the Insurance

Depending on the company that you choose, there might be some ways to reduce the cost of the insurance. Sometimes a company won’t put those information on their front page, so you might have to speak to somebody and ask them if they are available.

Multi-policy , most insurance companies will give you a discount if you already have some kind of insurance with them. So if you have your car, or your house already insured call those companies and ask them if they insure boats, and if they offer a discount.

First Owner , make sure you mention that you are the first owner, some companies will offer you smaller rates if you are the first owner. Most companies will ask you about the condition of the boat, but saying that the boat is in good condition, and saying that the boat is brand new can sometimes make a difference.

Changing Companies , if you already have an insurance but you are not pleased with it, mentioning this to another company can get you quite a considerable discount, if you want to change the insurer.

Multiple Boats, ensuring multiple boats will most often result in better rates, but make sure that you mention this from the start and don’t insure separately.

Association Member , if you are a member of an association like the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary (USCG) or United States Power Squadron (USPS), most companies will give you a discount.

Pay in Full , if you pay everything from the start, instead of monthly rates you will obtain quite a significant discount.

Safety Course , if you complete any state approved safety course you will obtain better rates from the insurance company. In the first year this won’t necessarily save you any money, but the next year you won’t have to pay for the course again and the discount will still be there. And since you took a safety course you will also be less likely to hit your boat.

Basic Insurance vs Comprehensive Insurance

Another important thing that will drastically influence the price is the type of insurance that you will get.

Basic insurance will usually only cover liabilities and it’s the cheapest option. What this insurance includes can vary slightly from company to company, but in general you can expect them to include:

• Property damage liability: Covers harm done to another person’s boat, dock, water skis or other possessions
• Pollution liability: Covers you in the event of a fuel spill
• Wreckage removal: Covers your legal obligation to remove debris after an incident

Comprehensive insurances will usually come with multiple options and they include the ones mentioned above, as well as medical treatment, damage to your own boat and some other stuff depending on the company. This option is usually more expensive, but in my opinion it’s usually worth it since a lot of basic insurances don’t cover the damage inflicted to your own boat, and of course the medical treatment.

If you only go fishing a few times a year in calm waters, the basic insurance is probably what you need. But if you want to every weekend of the summer on the boat, then a more comprehensive insurance might be better for you.

Final Thoughts

The price of the insurance can vary depending on a lot of factors, but most of those factors won’t change it that much. In most cases a person will have factors that increase and factors that decrease them, for example a person might not have any boating experience so this will add to the insurance coast, but he will have a very good credit score which will reduce the insurance cost.

But as I said in the beginning of the article on average you can expect to pay around $300 for the boat insurance.

John Rivera

My name is John Rivera and I am the creator of BoatingRepublic.com. I’ve been a boat owner for more than 30 years, and a boating instructor for 10 years.

Recent Posts

Easy Johnson Boat Motor Identification (With Examples)

Reading a Johnson identification number can be difficult if you don’t have proper guidance, since there are four different ways the motors have been noted. The Johnson Outboard Motor Company has...

Easy Yamaha Boat Motor Identification (With Pictures)

The way you read the identification on a Yamaha model will greatly depend on the year it was made. Initially Yamaha used letters from A to Z to mark the production year, but after the letters had run...

🚚 FREE US SHIPPING ON ORDERS OVER $30 🚚

What to Expect from Average Boat Insurance Prices (with Examples)

If there's one topic that always excites people when I bring it up at cookouts, dinner parties or pontoon parties , it's boat insurance.  

What could be more exciting than chatting about average boat insurance costs broken down by annual rates or monthly payments?

And how much fun is it when you and your friends break out the pen and paper and start calculating the cost of the boat insurance you need to keep your family reliably covered? Fun stuff, right? 

Our Recommended Product

Better Boat Fenders

Okay, so maybe discussing how much boat insurance costs isn't all that exciting, but it is important—seriously, it is.

It's important from a simple legal standpoint (as in you're legally required to have boat insurance in many parts of the United States) and to protect your family's financial future.

As a boat owner, boat insurance is an investment you really shouldn't skip. That's my answer to one of the most common questions people ask. That question is:

Do You Really Need Boat Insurance?

Well, if the "boat" in question is a kayak, canoe or raft built out of pallets and twine, then no, you don't.

But if you have a Bennington S16 Narrow Beam pontoon boat, a Hatteras 100 Raised Pilot yacht or almost any boat in between, then yes, you need boat insurance. At least if you want to be a responsible boat owner and operator.

Better Boat Teak Clean + Bright

Now, if the question is "Do I need boat insurance from a legal standpoint?" Then, not necessarily.

In most states, you don't legally need to have any form of boat insurance unless your boat is considered an asset involved in a loan or a lease agreement. Heck, in some states you don't even need a license or training to operate a boat.

Having a boat insurance policy could well mean the difference between lifelong peace of mind or an accident causing financial ruin. Imagine the theft or sinking of your boat leaving you without your prized vessel and with absolutely no recourse.

Think of it like this: No one legally forces you to put the bar down on the ski lift or to tie your shoes before you go for a run, but it's still a good idea to do those things, right?

The same story applies to boat insurance. You hope you never fall out of the chairlift or trip while running, but using the bar and tying your laces are both good ways to help ensure (so to speak) that those things don't happen.

Featured Boating Product

Better Boat Cup Holders

The general rule of thumb when it comes to calculating average boat insurance cost is that you'll pay about 1.5% of the value of your boat in annual rates .

• To insure a boat worth around $20,000, it would cost you only about $300 per year to have it fully insured.
• If you own a motorboat worth $100,000, you can expect to pay about $1,500 to insure it.
• For the $2 million yacht, you're looking at around $30,000 a year. (Sorry, but multi-million dollar yachts are expensive to insure, that's just the way it is).

These numbers are just to give you a frame of reference because there are many factors that can impact how much your boat insurance is going to cost. Don't worry, many of these factors actually lower the price you'll pay for marine insurance.

Better Boat Soap

Shop Around for the Best Boat Insurance

Most leading providers of home and auto insurance also provide boat insurance (including Geico, Progressive and Allstate). 

Check in with any insurance company you already use and ask if they can provide you with another type of insurance coverage. They'll often want to keep your business in-house if they can and may offer incentives.

In addition to the usual insurers, consider  USAA , Progressive , State Farm and other major providers.

What Factors Affect Average Boat Insurance Pricing?

There are a lot of things that can make the cost of your boat insurance go up, but there are also plenty of ways you can get lower boat insurance prices.

Let's look at a few of the most common factors that affect average boat insurance costs and rates.

Better Boat Microfiber Sponge Kit

Safety Record

The more years you spend without having a boating accident or citation, the less you'll pay for boat insurance. It's also a good idea to be a safe boater just for the merits of avoiding bodily injury and property damage, of course.

Homeowner's Discount

If you own a home, chances are good that your boat insurance rates can be lowered based on that asset. This may come as part of a "bundle" your insurer will offer.

Even if you get homeowners insurance from one company and boat insurance from another, the latter may still consider your home ownership as a valid reason to lower how much your boat insurance costs.

Better Boat Microfiber Cleaning Cloths

If you pay your boat insurance by the month or a few times a year, that's fine - it's standard, in fact. However, if you can pay for the entire year's boat insurance in one lump sum, you'll likely get a better rate.

As with cars, newer boats are usually more expensive to insure. There's just one caveat.

Contrary to popular misconception, buying a used boat may not save on insurance costs. Many insurance companies will offer a better rate to insure a boat that has only been owned by one person. So, it often pays to keep an older boat and make repairs and updates as needed (as opposed to replacing it).

Better Boat Wax Applicator Set

What Does Average Boat Insurance Cover?

Now we get to perhaps the most important question here: What does boat insurance actually cover, anyway? A lot of things, which vary from policy to policy.

Take the time to customize your boat insurance plan to suit your needs. Carefully select what you and your family need based on your specific circumstances.

To get you started, here are some things covered by the average boat insurance policy that most boaters consider very important.

Medical Costs

If someone is injured in a boating accident that's found to be your fault (or the fault of someone in control of your boat), then your boat insurance plan will likely cover a good chunk of the medical expenses associated with the boating injuries.

This is also true if you or someone on your boat is hurt in an accident that's someone else's fault. This is important, especially if the other parties involved made the poor choice to skip getting boat insurance.

Better Boat Mildew Stain Remover

Liability Expenses

After a boating accident, regardless of whether there were medical bills, there are often legal costs. These could be potentially ruinous if you don't have good boat insurance coverage in place. 

Property Damage

If your boat is involved in an incident that causes property damage to another vessel, a dock or part of a marina - or even simply to the boat itself - you'll be glad when the repairs or replacements are covered by your insurer and not your personal bank account.

Even something as simple as forgetting to put out boat fenders could cause your boat to end up with a gigantic scratch down the hull. It's nice when you have insurance that can cover accidents like this. 

Personal Effects

A good boat insurance policy covers more than just repairs or replacements of parts of a boat or dock. It'll also help you replace or repair items lost or damaged while you're boating, such as fishing gear, upholstery , navigation hardware, galvanized steel anchors and propellers or potentially even personal items like jewelry or a phone.

Look for Great Boat Insurance Rates Each Year

Once you have a boat insurance policy, don't just sit back and consider yourself done with the process beyond making payments.

There's a reason why insurance companies run commercials and web ads all the time. They want you to switch plans and join them.

Many insurance companies will offer enticing rates and incentives for you to switch to their brand, so shop around from time to time. You could save thousands of dollars over the years by always opting for the best available boat insurance plan.

Featured Boat Care Product

Better Boat Erasers

• choosing a selection results in a full page refresh

Get expert insights delivered straight to your inbox.

How Much Will Boat Insurance Cost Me?

11 Min Read | May 29, 2024

Boats are a highlight of summer! They’re flashy, fun . . . and freaking expensive to repair or replace. That’s why it’s better to pay for boat insurance than to hope you’ll get by with zero accidents. 

Boat insurance protects you financially if your boat is involved in an accident where property gets damaged or someone gets hurt. On average, boat insurance costs $200 to $500 a year—or around 1–5% of your boat’s value if you have a big, powerful or expensive boat.

Let’s talk about what affects the average boat insurance cost, what it covers and where to get it.

Do I Really Need Boat Insurance?

That depends on your boat. A standard homeowners insurance policy will generally cover small, inexpensive watercraft like:

• Paddle boats
• Boats with low-powered engines (usually less than 25 horsepower or less than 25 mph maximum speeds)

You can also add a liability rider to your homeowners insurance to cover property damage or injuries if you get in an accident with another boater.

But homeowners policies won’t cover big, powerful boats. You’ll need boat insurance for:

• Charter Boats – Since your boat is your business, you may also need commercial insurance .
• Fishing Boats – including bass boats, fancy offshore rigs and everything in between
• Houseboats – Just like insuring a regular house , you need to insure your home on the water too.
• Personal Watercraft – Watercraft like jet skis are super fun, but they’re also risky—hence the insurance.
• Pontoons – Pontoons are where the party’s at! So make sure your boat and your passengers are protected.
• Sailboats – Activities like long distance travel, racing or historical reenactments require special coverage. Think of sailboats as the classic cars of the sea.
• Speedboats – Fast boats are at higher risk for accidents—which makes insurance a must.
• Yachts – Luxury vessels need insurance because they’re more  valuable and travel farther than most other boats.

All these boats need insurance even if it isn’t required by state law. Why? Because if you’re uninsured, a boating accident can ruin your future—in more ways than one.

Boating accidents caused $55 million in property damage in 2019—and that’s not counting medical bills and lost wages for the 2,559 people who got injured. To make matters worse, 613 people died in boating accidents that year. 1

If you cause those damages, injuries or (God forbid) deaths, you’ll be held liable. That’s why boat insurance is so important: It protects you financially after an accident, so you can focus on more important things.

How Much Is Boat Insurance?

The average cost of boat insurance is $200 to $500 a year—although for a really big or expensive boat (like a yacht or sailboat), insurance can cost around 1–5% of the boat’s value. For example, you may pay about $2,500 a year to insure a $100,000 yacht.

But just like other insurance rates vary, boat insurance costs change depending on you and your boat.

Get trusted coverage that fits your budget.

When you work with a RamseyTrusted pro, you can feel confident knowing they’re going to find the best policy for you at the best price.

What Factors Affect Boat Insurance Costs?

Many of the factors that affect car insurance rates also affect boats—but there are also some unique things to consider for watercraft.

Type of Boat

The more valuable a boat is, the more expensive it is to insure. For example, yacht insurance almost always costs more than pontoon insurance because yachts are more expensive.

High-powered watercraft are riskier, so insurance companies look at the type of motor (inboard or outboard, amount of horsepower and so on). Slow and steady usually wins the race to get low insurance rates!

To be considered in good condition, your boat must meet the U.S. Coast Guard safety standards from the time when it was built. Otherwise, you’ll pay higher premiums because of your boat’s outdated safety features.

Your boat’s age matters—and so does yours.

Older boats are generally cheaper to insure, especially if they’ve only had one owner. You’ll probably also get better rates if you’re between 25 and 60 years old, because that’s when insurers think you’re the most responsible.

Fishing and floating are lower risk than towing water skis or wakeboards. If you use your boat for “risky” activities, your insurance company will charge you higher premiums to make up for the accident they expect you to have.

Boating accidents almost always happen on the water (duh). So if you occasionally take your boat out, you’ll pay less than if you boat every weekend. That’s also why people who live up north typically pay less for boat insurance—the shorter boating season means less time for accidents.

Speaking of where you live, you’ll pay higher premiums for boating in an area with hurricanes (on the ocean), squalls (in the Great Lakes) or other hazards. And you’ll pay less if you live in a state with no coastline. That’s because lakes and rivers are typically safer than the ocean.

Driving Record

You’ll likely get low rates if you’ve got a good driving record (aka no accidents, injuries or recent insurance claims in a boat or car). But your inexperienced teen or your reckless cousin who’s totaled three cars? Not so much.

What Boat Insurance Discounts Can I Get?

There are a lot of ways to save money on boat (or even car) insurance. You can get discounts if you:

• Take boating safety classes
• Use a diesel-powered engine
• Carry ship-to-shore radios, Coast Guard approved fire extinguishers and other safety equipment onboard
• Bundle your boat, home and auto insurance
• Pay your insurance yearly
• Choose a high deductible
• Don’t file a claim for at least two years

What Does Boat Insurance Cover?

Boat insurance covers many costs of an accident—like repairs, salvage and medical bills. Let’s walk through the types of coverage you can get.

Liability is the most important type of boat insurance. It pays for the other person’s repair and medical bills after an accident you caused. And if someone sues you? Your liability coverage should help pay the legal fees.

You can even look into guest passenger liability , which covers you if someone driving your boat with your permission causes an accident

Liability also covers repairs to docks or other objects you hit—plus clean-up costs for oil and other pollutants that your boat released into the water. (Which is good since cleaning up even a small oil spill is insanely expensive.)

Without liability coverage, you’ll have to pay for damages to boats, docks, personal property, a person’s health or the environment. That’s a lot of money. So play it safe and let the insurance company pay instead.

Physical Damage

Physical damage coverage pays to repair or replace your boat if something bad happens to it, like:

• Collisions with other boats, docks, submerged objects or floating debris
• Damage from wind, hail, lightning or other weather
• Theft or vandalism

You can even get an “all risk” policy: Unless a risk is specifically excluded, your insurance will cover anything that happens to your boat—even sinking.

How much your insurance company will pay to repair or replace your boat depends on what type of physical damage policy you choose.

Agreed Value Policy

You and the insurance company work together to decide how much your boat is worth—and that’s the most your insurer will pay you after a covered accident. So if your sailboat’s agreed value is $95,000, your insurer will pay up to $95,000 to replace or repair it.

Agreed value policies offer plenty of coverage for most boats. But if you own a rare boat that’s increasing in value, it will eventually outgrow the agreed value you chose. That’s where the next type of policy comes in.

Actual Cash Value Policy

This policy pays up to the boat’s market value on the day it got damaged. That means you should be able to restore your boat or buy a similar one. You just won’t be able to upgrade on the insurance company’s dime.

For example, let’s say your boat is worth $12,000 and it sinks. The insurance company will only pay you $12,000—even if you originally paid more to buy the boat.  

Medical Payments

This coverage helps pay for medical expenses if you or your passengers get hurt on your boat. It can cover all sorts of injuries from a collision with another boat or even taking a nosedive on water skis.

Personal Property

Personal property coverage helps replace the unattached accessories that made your boat so much fun in the first place—like your fishing gear, navigation system and personal items.

You can even get insurance for your boat trailer (which may be helpful if you’re new to towing trailers).  

Uninsured Watercraft

Imagine that a speedboat makes a huge wake and pushes your boat into some sharp rocks. Your boat is damaged—but the other guy is uninsured. Yikes!

Uninsured watercraft coverage will help pay for your repairs (or medical bills if you or your passengers get hurt). That’s much easier than suing the other boater or—worse—having to foot the bill yourself.

If your boat becomes disabled on the open water, you’ll need to get it towed back to land. That’s what salvage insurance helps pay for.

You can also get insurance that helps pay to remove your boat from the water if it sinks—otherwise, the wreckage could become a hazard to other boaters and cause even more accidents. 

What Boat Insurance Doesn’t Cover

One thing boat, home and auto insurance all have in common: They don’t cover every situation. Here’s what boat insurance doesn’t cover.

Normal Wear and Tear

Boats get old and wear out just like any other machine. So your insurer won’t pay for cosmetic or mechanical issues that come from normal use.

Faulty Machinery

While your insurance policy might cover a mechanical breakdown if it’s out of the ordinary, it won’t cover manufacturer defects or things that broke because you used them wrong or didn’t take care of them. (So you may want to clean out that clogged water pump now.)

Animal Damage

Animals can be a big boating hazard—literally. If a run-in with a dolphin, manatee or other marine animal damages your boat, your insurance policy most likely won’t cover it.

(By the way, it pays to know what animals live in your boating area so you don’t harm them, your boat or the environment.)

Infestations

Another animal that’s not covered? Mussels! These little guys can do major damage. But the insurance company won’t pay for it—or damage from insects, mold or other infestations. It’s smart to check your boat and remove any unwanted passengers.  

Improper Storage and Transportation

Your boat falls off the trailer because you didn’t tie it down? Your “winter storage” is in the yard? Your insurance company will chalk those damages up to your careless behavior and make you pay the bill.

Accidents Beyond Your Navigational Limits

Your navigational limit is where you and the insurance company agree you can boat. Your insurance policy only covers you in that area. Sail outside of it, and you’re on your own.

Accidents Outside Your Layup Period

A layup period is when you take your boat out of the water for a while (usually the winter). If you use your boat after your layup starts or before it’s over, you won’t be covered.

Underage or Unnamed Operators

Each state makes its own rules about how old a kid has to be before they can drive a boat, so check the local laws before letting them take the wheel. And if your child (or another adult) drives your boat regularly, it’s smart to put their name on your insurance policy.

Where Do I Get Boat Insurance?

The easiest way to get boat insurance is to work with an independent auto or homeowners insurance agent.

Our network of Endorsed Local Providers (ELPs) will compare policies from multiple insurers to find the best one for your boat. And our agents will go a step further: They’ll teach you how to actually understand your boat insurance policy so you can be confident you’re getting the insurance you need—without costly extras.

Connect with an agent near you today.

Get coverage you can trust.

When a RamseyTrusted pro is in your corner, you have an insurance guide you can trust who will give you confidence in your coverage.

Did you find this article helpful? Share it!

About the author

Ramsey Solutions

Ramsey Solutions has been committed to helping people regain control of their money, build wealth, grow their leadership skills, and enhance their lives through personal development since 1992. Millions of people have used our financial advice through 22 books (including 12 national bestsellers) published by Ramsey Press, as well as two syndicated radio shows and 10 podcasts, which have over 17 million weekly listeners. Learn More.

How to Save on Car Insurance: Smart Ways to Lower Your Rate

Car insurance rates skyrocketing? Trying to figure out how to save on car insurance? Check out our list of 11 ways to knock your premiums down.

What Is Commercial Insurance?

Fire? Theft? Tornadoes? Cyberattacks? Killer bees? All these and more could take out your business if you don’t have the right commercial insurance (ok, maybe not that last one). Get educated about what you need to protect your business’s needs.

To give you the best online experience, Ramsey Solutions uses cookies and other tracking technologies to collect information about you and your website experience, and shares it with our analytics and advertising partners as described in our Privacy Policy. By continuing to browse or by closing out of this message, you indicate your agreement.

• SUBSCRIBE TO EMAIL
•   Weather

Search location by ZIP code

Sailor rescued off sagamore beach after mayday call, rough seas complicate efforts.

• Copy Link Copy {copyShortcut} to copy Link copied!

GET LOCAL BREAKING NEWS ALERTS

The latest breaking updates, delivered straight to your email inbox.

A sailor experiencing a medical emergency was rescued from a sailboat anchored off Sagamore Beach on Thursday afternoon, first responders in Bourne said.

Bourne Fire and Rescue responded around 4:15 p.m. Thursday to a distress call from a sailboat located about 200 yards offshore.

Authorities said the sailor had also issued a mayday on a marine radio frequency.

Emergency responders from Bourne quickly responded to the scene and called for assistance due to rough seas and the vessel’s distance from shore.

The Sandwich Fire Department’s Marine Unit, a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers patrol boat and a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter joined the rescue efforts.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers patrol boat reached the sailboat and safely transported the sailor to the Sandwich Marina.

The person was transported to a nearby hospital.

An update on the extent of the sailor’s injuries was not immediately available.

The circumstances surrounding the incident, including why the boat was anchored off Sagamore Beach, remain under investigation.

Continuing Coverage

Yacht with fireworks on board goes up in flames in Marina del Rey

Neighbors reported the sounds of frightening explosions coming from the vessel., by missael soto • published september 18, 2024 • updated on september 19, 2024 at 12:36 pm.

Witnesses described powerful explosions as a large yacht with fireworks and unspent ammunition on board went up in flames Wednesday night in Marina del Rey.

Neighbors were worried the fire would jump to nearby boats after hearing loud explosions coming from the 100-foot vessel.

📺 Los Angeles news 24/7: Watch NBC4 free wherever you are

"I saw it fully engulfed in flames and like many of us living here heard an explosion and saw fireworks coming off it, and more flames and then walked down here and captured video of it," said Marina del Rey resident Lynn Rose.

In addition to the fireworks, an LA County Fire Captain told NBC4 that there was live ammunition on the vessel.

Get top local stories in Southern California delivered to you every morning . Sign up for NBC LA's News Headlines newsletter.

"According to boat owner 1,000 rounds of unspent ammunition and fireworks onboard,'' the county fire department said in a statement Thursday morning.

The call came in at around 8:30 p.m. of a vessel burning at 2201 Basin A in Marina del Rey.

"It’s a delicate balance with putting the fire out and not sinking the boat, there are a lot of environmental hazards on the boat fuel oil what have you, and so we’re doing that delicate dance of putting the fire out but not sinking the vessel in the slip," said Capt. Pono Barnes, of lifeguard services with the LA County Fire Department.

Get Los Angeles's latest local news on crime, entertainment, weather, schools, COVID, cost of living and more. Here's your go-to source for today's LA news.

Burglars break into Beverly Grove salon to get to pharmacy next door

Sean ‘Diddy' Combs didn't act alone, network of employees may also be prosecuted

Fire officials say no one was on the yacht at the time of the fire and there were no injuries.

The fuel spill cleanup operation could take several days. It was not immediately clear when the boat will be removed from the water. An environmental hazard team was called to the site.

A United States Coast Guard Incident Management Team also responded to scene.

"The fire did not appear to damage any other vessels in the harbor,'' the USCG said in a statement Thursday morning. "The Coast Guard is working with Patriot Environmental Services and Clean Harbors organizations to contain and recover the discharge from the yacht.

"The yacht's fuel capacity is reported to be 6,000 gallons. Crews from California Department of Fish and Wildlife's Office of Spill Prevention and Response and Los Angeles County Sheriff's (Department) are also assisting in the efforts."

The Oiled Wildlife Care Network also was notified and remains on standby, according to the Coast Guard.

"No observations of oiled wildlife have been reported at this time," the Coast Guard said.

This article tagged under:

Boat explodes in Marina del Rey

100-foot yacht explodes in marina del rey.

A boat was completely destroyed in a massive fire in Marina del Rey.

LOS ANGELES COUNTY, Calif. - A boat is completely destroyed after exploding in Marina del Rey .

The Los Angeles County Fire Department responded to a call in the 13800 block of Bora Bora Way a little after 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 18. 

Firefighters say two people safely got out of a 100-foot-long yacht. Neither were hurt in the massive fire, the Los Angeles County Fire Department said.

SkyFOX was over the scene around 8:45 p.m. when the boat was engulfed in flames.

A boat was destroyed in a fire in Marina del Rey. It is unknown if people were inside the boat at the time of the explosion.

As of late Wednesday night, officials did not say what caused the boat to catch fire.

This is a developing story. Tune in to FOX 11 News at 10 p.m. and Good Nite LA at 11 p.m. for the latest.

Travel Tips to Kabardino-Balkaria: More than Mt. Elbrus!

If you’ve traveled to the North Caucasus before, there is a good chance you’ve already been to Kabardino-Balkaria, and you didn’t even know it!  Kabardino-Balkaria lies in the center of the North Caucasus region, is home to Mt. Elbrus, but more than that is a treasure chest of travel possibilities.  Here is our guide to traveling through the republic of Kabardino-Balkaria, or 9 travel tips to this beautiful land:

1. How do I get there?

Kabardino-Balkaria hosts a large number of both foreign and Russian travelers every year, and has an improving infrastructure able to handle the incoming masses.  Let’s start with the obvious.  You might be a mountain climber or skier coming to enjoy the slopes of Mt. Elbrus.  That means you’re likely arriving on an airplane to Russia.  Here are your travel options:

A. Plane – We advise you fly into the Mineralni Vodi (MRV) airport in the Stavropol Region, which is about 45 minutes from the border of Kabardino-Balkaria.  MRV is the largest airport in the North Caucasus, and has daily direct flights to and from all 3 airpots in Moscow (SVO, DME, and VKO), direct flights from St. Petersburg, and several international flight routes as well, including from Istanbul, Dubai, Greece, Tel Aviv, and Bishkek.  The MRV airport has a growing infrastructure and is the most obvious choice to fly into if going to Elbrus.  From MRV, it’s a 2 hr. drive to Nalchik, and a 3.5 hr. drive to Mt. Elbrus.

That being said, the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria, Nalchik (NAL), also has a small regional airport with a daily flight to/from Moscow as well as weekly flights to Istanbul. As is to be expected in most smaller, regional airports around Russia, the service standard at a small airport like this will be minimal.  As a result, we recommend you flying in and out of MRV if able.  It’s a 2 hr. drive to Elbrus from Nalchik.  You can also fly into other regional airports which are 2 hrs. from Nalchik, such as OGZ in North Ossetia (Vladikavkaz) or IGT in Ingushetia (Magas).

B.  Car/Public Transport – If you have a car, are using a taxi, or are hitch-hiking your way to Kabardino-Balkaria, the region is accessible by a variety of roads and vehicles.  A major Russian federal highway E50 runs through Pyatigorsk into Kabardino-Balkaria, and can take you towards Mt. Elbrus, Nalchik, and deeper into the North Caucasus.  There are daily mini-buses, or “marshrutkas”, that travel to Nalchik from Pyatigorsk, Vladikavkaz, Grozny, and Magas, if you’re coming from a neighboring republic.  From the main Nalchik bus station, there is a marshrutka that goes to Terskol (i.e. Mt. Elbrus) daily around 12:30 pm; for that matter,  marshrutkas run daily into every valley of this beautiful republic.  For the seasoned international traveler, you can drive from the country of Georgia up the famed “Georgian Military Highway” through the heart of the Caucasus Mountains, cross the border into Russia at the “Verkhni Lars” border stop, and be in Nalchik in about 2.5 hours as well. 

Anyone traveling on their own should download the “Yandex” taxi app, which is Russia’s version of Uber, and has a very user-friendly app with affordable prices.  In smaller villages/towns where Yandex’s service doesn’t reach, just ask a local and they’ll direct you to a friend or relative who can taxi you where you need to go!

C.  Train – Kabardino-Balkaria is also very accessible by the famous cross-country Russian train system if that’s your preferred method of travel.  Almost all trains to the North Caucasus pass through Mineralni Vodi in the Stavropol region to the north, so make sure wherever you are coming from, Mineralni Vodi is one of the stops.  Despite Nalchik having a train station, the city is about 45 minutes from the main railway route that runs diagonal through the North Caucasus, and as a result it’s a bit convoluted to get a train directly to Nalchik.  That being said, the town Prokhladni is a regular stop on trains going to/coming from Baku, Makhachkala, Grozny, Nazran, and Vladikavkaz, so you can always hop off there and find your way by public transport or taxi.

2.  What are the best places to stay?

This list could get exhaustive, fast. 🙂  Let’s first look at an overview of the republic’s geography, followed by hotel recommendations:

A. Nalchik – This is the capital city of Kabardino-Balkaria, with a population of around 250,000.  Nalchik is growing and new, modern hotels are being built regularly.  Here are some of our recommendations:

-Modern and comfortable:  Azimut , Butik Otel

-Budget with less frills:  Hotel Rossia , Korona

You could comfortably spend a week in Nalchik, while doing day trips into Kabardino-Balkaria’s beautiful mountain valleys.

B.  Baksan Valley – This is the most traveled road in Kabardino-Balkaria, the road to Mt. Elbrus.  If you have questions about its safety because of travel warnings, please see our detailed blog here of the drive to erase any doubts or fears.  Needless to say, because of the draw of Mt. Elbrus, there are a huge variety of lodging options at the end of this valley, from 4-star to mid-range to budget to hostel.  Here are just a few we’ll recommend from our experience:

-Modern and comfortable 4-star-ish:  Azau Star , Kristall 139

-Budget with less frills 3-star-ish:   Laguna , Povorot

If you’re a mountain climber with your sites set on the summit of Elbrus, you’ll have to spend at least 3-4 nights at Elbrus’s famous base camp at 13,000 feet.  The “barrel huts” are not easy to book directly with, and we highly recommend you do your climb (and hence, have your bookings handled) through a trusted climbing company.  Here are two shelters at base camp we recommend:

-Modern and comfortable:  Leaprus

-Budget with less frills:  Heart of Elbrus Lodge

If you’re interested in climbing Mt. Elbrus and staying in these barrel huts, click  here  to see our climbing itineraries, pricing, and group dates.

C.  Chegem Valley – Chegem Valley is the adjacent valley to Elbrus’s Baksan Valley, and is famous for its beautiful waterfalls as well as being Russia’s top paragliding location.  The “ Paradrome ” has modest accommodations for those wanting to get to know this beautiful valley for a longer period of time.

D.  Upper Balkaria, or Cherek Valley – This is another beautiful mountain gorge not too far from Nalchik.  There is an authentic lodging complex in Upper Balkaria called Tau-El, with amazing local food for meals as well.

E.  Border Zone lodging – Several of Kabardino-Balkaria’s mountain gorges run into the border zone with neighboring country Georgia, i.e. an area that foreigners cannot enter without a special permit from the local government (often taking 2 months to receive).  There is a famous mountaineering lodge in Bezengi Valley, where several generations of Russian mountain climbers have honed their craft in the Caucasus Mountains.  Perpendicular to Baksan Valley (about 25 minutes from the base of Mt. Elbrus) is Adyr-Suu Valley, where there is a lodge for back-country skiers to stay, while trying their hands (and feet!) on the untouched snow of that valley.  Both these valleys require border permits for foreigners, but are possible to access for the more adventurous!

3.  Top cities to visit?

Most locals would agree that Nalchik is the main city of significance to visit in Kabardino-Balkaria, but let’s be honest, even more would say, “Just go to the mountains!”  Tirnauz is the capital of the Elbrus district, and is an interesting town to spend some time in, with its unique location in the mountains and place in Soviet history as a once-booming mining town.  The main thing to consider in visiting Nalchik and other cities in the lowlands, is the chance to experience Kabardian culture and food.  Whereas the deeper you go into the valleys, the more you’ll encounter Balkar culture and food.

4.  Best local foods to try?

There are 3 types of food that come to mind, when spending time in Kabardino-Balkaria:

A. Khychiny – This is one of the staple national dishes of the Balkar people, and what you’ll inevitably be served if guests of local Balkars.  It’s a thin buttery flat bread, sometimes cooked with fillings of cottage cheese, fresh greens, or potatoes.  It is often slathered in butter, but wow is that some tasty greasy goodness! 🙂

B.  Shashlik – Shashlik is a MUST for any visit anywhere in the North Caucasus!  Most people would agree that it’s the national food of the entire region.  Shashlik is meat shish kabobs; while pork and turkey can be found in some parts of the Caucasus, lamb or chicken are the preferred shashlik meats of choice in Kabardino-Balkaria. 

C.  Soup – No matter where you are in Russia, you’re sure to find a local soup that people love.  Kabardino-Balkaria is no different.  Especially in the winter months in the mountain valleys, there’s nothing better than to come inside from the cold weather and warm your body up to a bowl of hearty Caucasus soup.  Whether Georgian kharcho or local Balkar lakhman, make sure to try your hand at one of these soups with a side of fresh baked bread/lavash!

5.  Top Hole-In-The-Wall restaurants:

Of course, for a republic of this size, we’re bound to leave at least a few great local joints off our list, but here are a few to get you started. ***Note:  Restaurants in the North Caucasus are much better known for their food than their service, so prepare for tasty food, but manage your expectations about service:

-Elbrus – Kogutai Restaurant at Mt. Cheget – While this isn’t a hole-in-the-wall restaurant per se, it’s one of many to choose from in the Cheget tourist village, and we have found them to provide consistently good food and service.  Kogutai has a nice interior, and maybe most important, an English-language menu with good pictures. 🙂  There also is a nice outdoor patio with fantastic views of the surrounding mountains.

-Nalchik #1 – Tameris Restaurant – This is a cafe with a relaxed atmosphere in the capital Nalchik.  Local tour company Elbrus Elevation has taken foreign groups there on multiple occasions and always had good experiences.  Address is ul. Kuliyeva 3. 

-Nalchik #2 – Cafe-Bar Oasis – You have to know where this restaurant is to find it, but once inside, you won’t regret it!  There is a unique cafeteria-style ordering process, that includes several dishes being cooked on the spot once ordered.  You can sample local Kabardian dishes here.  The seating area is very modern and a pleasant atmosphere to have a meal in.  Address is ul. Kuliyeva 2. 

-Upper Balkaria – Tau-El Restaurant – This is the restaurant part of the Tau-El Tourist Complex in Upper Balkaria.  Whether spending the night or just passing through, make sure to stop here for a meal!

6.  Must-See Sites

This republic is so chock full of “must-see” destinations, it’s impossible to narrow the list down.  Here are just a few suggestions to get you started: (***Mt. Elbrus is a no-brainer and we’re assuming that’s on your list)

A. El-Tyubu and Paradrome – This is an amazing area towards the end of Chegem Valley.  Many tourists visit the famous Chegem Waterfalls and don’t drive any further down this gorge, which really is a shame.  El-Tyubu is a picturesque Balkar village with several historical sites to see, including some ancient mausoleums.  The real gem of the area, though, is the Paradrome , which is Russia’s premier paragliding destination.  The combination of the scenic surrounding mountains and constant winds produces almost daily conditions to sail through the beautiful Caucasus sky.  Highly recommend!

B.  Upper Balkaria – Also known as Cherek Valley, the entire drive to the actual village of Upper Balkaria is one big destination.  First, you can spend time at the 3 consecutive “ Blue Lakes ”, one of which is one of Russia’s deepest lakes with an underground spring.  Then, the drive itself becomes an adventure, as you pass by steep rock walls with a huge drop-off on the other side.  If you’re able to walk this part of the road, that is a bonus!  Once you’ve made your way through the valley walls, the region opens up into a beautiful panoramic view.  Many years ago, there were multiple villages in this region, but they’ve since been condensed into one main village.  You can see some of the ancient Balkar towers that their ancestors used to live in as well.

C.  Djili-Suu – Although hard to pronounce and not easy to get to, Djili-Suu is one of those places in the North Caucasus that people rave about that you “have to” visit.  It’s actually on the North side of Mt. Elbrus, and more accessible from the Mineral Waters region (2 hrs. from Kislovodsk).  The base camp for Elbrus climbers summiting the mountain from the North side is at Djili-Suu.  This area is famous in Russia for its numerous natural healing springs, as well as unique climate conditions that make for beneficial, long holidays for seeking a respite from their daily grind.  There are wide swaths of land available for camping, with probably the most unrivaled views of Mt. Elbrus in the North Caucasus.  Make sure to check this out!

7.  Off-the-beaten path destinations

A. King’s Waterfalls (Tsarskie), or Gedmisht – Probably the valley in Kabardino-Balkaria with the least amount of hype is the Malka Valley, which is the northernmost valley and mainly runs through the Kabardian lowlands.  At the point where the villages end, though (Khabas), the asphalt turns into dirt and the hills start to rise, culminating with the incredible King’s Waterfalls, or as one friend put it, Avatar Waterfalls.  These stunning waterfalls are best visited in the early summer, when everything is lush green and the water flow is strong, with many streams of water flowing down the earth’s surface.  The different colors are incredible and it’s hard to look away.  Once you’ve enjoyed the waterfalls, enjoy a meal of shashlik at one of the nearby lunch huts.  Having an off-road vehicle is ideal to visit these falls, but worth the time and effort!

B.  One-seater chair lift at Elbrus – As the infrastructure at Mt. Elbrus has modernized, some of the more “authentic” experiences have gone to the way-side.  This is one experience still available, though!  From the 2nd (11,000 ft.) to 3rd level (12,500 ft.) of Mt. Elbrus (whether skiing, going to base camp, or just touring), there is a single-seater chair lift for 100 rubles each way (less than $2).  This is an amazing experience if you have the time.  It’s 8-10 minutes each way, and a surreal experience of the majestic Caucasus mountain range surrounding you, skiers silently passing you by underneath, and in general enjoying the silent expanse of nature all around.  The chair lifts are from the Soviet times and so it feels like something from a different era.  For mountain climbers, the newer group cable car gives better access to most of base camp, but several huts are pretty close to this chair lift, so it still may be a good option for you.

C.  Abandoned Mines above Tirnauz – Tirnauz is about 1 hr. from Mt. Elbrus, and a town everyone drives through to and from the mountain.  Although today it looks old and half-abandoned, it was a booming mining town in the 20th century.  About a 45-minute drive above the city with an off-road vehicle, you can see the remains of the mining operations.  Learning about this history combined with the breath-taking views of the Baksan Valley and even into Georgia, you’ll wonder why more people aren’t visiting this place.  This is a great spot to see eagles soaring in the sky, as well as admire the Soviet city plan of Tirnauz from above.

8.  What do I need border zone passes to visit?

In Russia, any area within 5-10 km of a neighboring country, without a clearly delineated border (i.e. in the mountains) is considered a special border zone, and patrolled by Russian border guards.  This area IS accessible to all Russian citizens with their passports, but is NOT legally accessible to foreign citizens UNLESS you have a special permit from the FSB (Federal Security Bureau).  These permits are accessible, either through a tour operator or local friend, but require you to submit your application 45-60 days in advance.

Areas in Kabardino-Balkaria that are worth a visit if you have a border zone pass:

A.  Bezengi Wall – This is at the end of the Bezengi Valley, and holds a place of lore among Russian mountain climbers.  Many mountain guides go through training in this valley.  Five of the Caucasus Mountain’ range’s highest seven peaks are a part of the Bezengi Wall, so you can imagine the draw it has for climbers. There are great areas for trekking and camping in this area. 

B.  Adyr-Suu Gorge – This remote valley runs perpendicular to Baksan Valley and is about 25 minutes from the base of Mt. Elbrus.  It’s marked at the entrance by a relic of the past, a car lift from Soviet days that auto-cranks your car (and you) about 50 meters up the mountain.  After 45-60 minutes of driving on gravel road, the gorge opens up into a flat valley with a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains.  The Adyr-Suu Alpine Lodge is at the end of this valley and where back-country skiers base out of during the acclimatization phase of their Mt. Elbrus ski tours.  This is truly a place where you can experience untouched powder!

C.  Mt. Cheget (Elbrus) – Cheget is a neighboring mountain to Mt. Elbrus and where many climbers will acclimatize, both at its base and while doing some hikes.  It also is famous in Russia for its free-ride terrain for more experienced skiers.  Standard access to the chair lifts and mountain are available to all (i.e. mountain climbers don’t need to worry about accidentally crossing into the zone), but anyone wanting to summit the peak of Cheget OR visit the beautiful Cheget Lake needs a border permit. 

Foreigners violating the border zone areas is considered a serious offense in Russia; make sure to do your due diligence if wanting to visit one of these areas!  We highly recommend using a local tour operator and always traveling with a local person if visiting one of these areas.

9.  Any cultural “do’s” or “don’t’s” to be aware of

Kabardino-Balkaria is a fascinating republic with a combination of traditional and modern society.  The more you interact with local people, the more you’ll see a mixture of Muslim faith, post-Soviet mentality, and ancient local traditions all wrapped together.   

Kabardians mainly live in the lowlands (Nalchik, Baksan, and lowland villages), while Balkars primarily live in the mountain valleys (Elbrus, Chegem, Upper Balkaria, etc.).  There is a large population of Russians in the region as well.  Foreigners visit every area of the region regularly, and so local people are used to and will welcome your presence.

Come with an open mind to learn about these peoples, their traditions, and their land.  You won’t regret your trip to Kabardino-Balkaria!

***Want to learn more?  Here are several self-published resources from the podcast “ CaucasTalk ” related to Kabardino-Balkaria:

– Travel Tips to Kabardino-Balkaria (audio version of this blog)

– History of Mt. Elbrus (Part 1)

– History of Mt. Elbrus (Part 2)

– Interview with Local Elbrus guide

– Climbing Elbrus: Interview with American guide

– Who are the Kabardians? (Part 1)

– Who are the Kabardians? (Part 2)

– Skiing in the North Caucasus (Elbrus and more)

READY TO EXPERIENCE KABARDINO-BALKARIA FOR YOURSELF?

Where to find us.

• +1 704-810-4296
• [email protected]
• 1578 Pine Creek Rd., Gastonia, NC 28056

Travel Information

• We no longer offer travel services to Russia. See Caucasus Quest Tours for new destinations
• Is it Safe to Travel to the Caucasus in 2024?
• Climbing Kazbek & Kilimanjaro: Comparing two 5,000+ meter peaks
• How to Train to climb Mt. Kazbek in Georgia

Our Elbrus Climbing Tours

• Climb Elbrus South Route
• Climb Elbrus North Route
• Climb Elbrus & The Capitals
• Climb Elbrus & The Caucasus

Russia Cultural Tours

• Capitals of Russia
• Lake Baikal on Ice
• Delightful Dagestan
• Heart of the Caucasus

ALL Travel Services to Russia and Mt. Elbrus have been indefinitely suspended as of Feb. 2022.

Explore our new tour branch Caucasus Quest to climb Mt. Kazbek (5,054 meters) in Georgia or for immersive cultural touring experiences in Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan.

Visiting Russia - Nalchik, Capital of Kabardino-Balkaria

By Koryo Tours

Nalchik, capital of Kabardino-Balkaria

Visiting Russia – Nalchik

Yoshkar-ola | cheboksary  |  astrakhan | elista | stalingrad (volograd)  | abakan  |  nalchik  | validkavkaz  | makhachkala  |  grozny.

Nalchik is a small city of around 240,000 people and serves as the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria, one of the lesser-known republics spread across the beautiful North Caucasus area of Russia, the mountain range that separates the former soviet states of Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan from the Russian Federation.

This region has incredible diversity in ethnic groups and is a melting pot at the edge of empire. While there have been civilisations in the Caucasus for millennia Nalchik as a city is only a century old, having been a Russian fort since 1724. Today’s Nalchik is a mostly peaceful and relaxing place, being in the foothills of the mountains it has many areas of great beauty and multiple sanatoria for people looking to take the waters, over the last century it has certainly had its share of turbulence though, being occupied by Romanian troops fighting on the side of the Nazis, who embarked on an effort to exterminate the ancient community of Mountain Jews in the area (unsuccessfully), plus a 2005 Islamic militant attack on Russian security forces.

These days Nalchik is known as a clean city, a place for relaxing, and the starting point of expeditions to summit Mt. Elbrus, the tallest mountain in Europe, which lies within Kabardino-Balkaria.

Kabardians make up the largest ethnic group at just under 50% of the city’s population, followed by Russians, Balkars, other Caucasian nationalities as well as Ukrainians, Mountain Jews still live in the area but in very small numbers now, most having emigrated to Israel.

Arriving/Departing

Nalchik Airport (NAL) is a small one but is fully functional for getting in and out, usually the foreigners arriving here will be mountaineers heading for Elbrus.

The Airport is only 3km from the city centre so you could even walk into town from here, otherwise, there are taxis and marshrutkas waiting for arrivals. Flights arrive only from Moscow and St. Petersburg usually, the Caucasus has other larger airports for other international flights (such as those to Sochi). Nalchik has a railway station, dating from 1915, with links to Moscow and across the Caucasus. A good option for travelling around the region in a relaxing manner (usually slower than taking a marshrutka between cities though) For getting around inside Nalchik there are public buses all over the place, easy to use and very cheap. Otherwise most of the centre is very walkable, the main ‘high street’ is Lenin Avenue, which runs for several km through the centre of the city.

Concord Square

The centre of Nalchik and a good place to start a walking tour of the city, with the Kabardino-Balkaria parliament building on one side and Lenin stands at the other, fountains in the middle and Lenin Avenue cutting through the square

Religious Buildings

The central buildings of the main religions practised in Nalchik are both fine examples of their respective architectural styles; the Central Mosque and the Cathedral of Mary Magdalene are both worth visiting. Dress codes apply.

Not actually in Nalchik, but only 50km or so away so the city is the ideal base for starting an expedition. This is Europe’s highest mountain and a dormant volcano. There are cable car/chairlift options to get t the top for those who don’t wish to do it the hard way. It is possible to get up and down this mountain n a single day, making it certainly the simplest of the 7 continental highest peaks to climb.

Museum of the Kabardino-Balkar Republic

Great for explaining where you are and the history of the area. Mostly in Russian only though and does tend to assume some knowledge in advance. Still a good stop to get some intro into the complex history of this city and area in general.

Atazhukin Garden

A large park complex running for more than 2km along the eastern side of the city, alongside the Nalchik River. A very pleasant place with so much to see and do. The basic Nalchik Zoo is here, walking trails, restaurants and cafes, theatres, a very retro funfair, and a rickety but reliable cable car running up to a lovely viewpoint to see over the city and out to Mt. Elbrus.

Topped by a restaurant building built in the shape of a Kabardian warrior. An excellent few hours can be spent exploring this park and mingling with the locals of all ages who do their relaxing here.

Koryo Tours Russia Tours

Related articles, museums of beijing #59: fahai temple.

Fahai Temple - lovely hillside temple at the edge of Beijing

Museums of Beijing #27: Beijing Planetarium

But who is this place aimed at? Not at foreign tourists, and not at scientists either,

Museums of Beijing #79: Tea Museum

They took all the tea, and put it in a Tea Museum

Museums of Beijing #65: Grand View Garden

Grand View Garden - setting of Dream of the Red Chamber

Museums of Beijing #12: Overseas Chinese Museum

Museums of Beijing: Overseas Chinese Museum

Golyo, not Koryo, Tours

Our long-lost Hungarian counterpart (now found!)

Museums of Beijing #3: Former Home of Soong Ching Ling

Museums of Beijing: Former Home of Soong Ching Ling

Museums of Beijing #53: Memorial Hall of Qi Baishi's Former Residence

Former home of China's greatest artist

Museums of Beijing #71: Beijing Museum for Cultural Heritage Exchanges

Unique Ming Dynasty temple, a Beijing hidden gem

Is the Pyongyang Metro real? Is the Pyongyang Metro fake? You Decide!

Some frequently asked existential question about Pyongyang’s famous subway system.

Yanggakdo Hotel 2019: First Exclusive Photos of Renovations at North Korea's Most Famous Hotel

The Yanggakdo Hotel in Pyongyang has undergone a facelift.

A Pyongyang Home Companion No. 7: The Taedong's Solar-Powered Boats

A new twist on a traditional activity

Museums of Beijing #49: Civil Aviation Museum

How fly is it?

Museums of Beijing #44: Yunju Temple

Museums of Beijing: Yunju Temple

Visiting Russia - Yoshkar-Ola

Yoshkar-Ola. Quirky and pagan; an odd combination!

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

• Group Tours
• Private Tours
• Pyongyang Marathon
• Turkmenistan
• Cultural Engagement
• Country profile
• Terms & conditions
• Why choose Koryo

[email protected] | + 86 10 6416 7544 WhatsApp (message only): +44 7822 014058 Room A409, Jucai Building. No. 76 Caoyuan Hutong. Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100027, PR China

中国北京市东城区草园胡同76号聚才大厦A 座409 室, 邮编：100027 Download contact card

Not registered yet? Register now

Trouble logging in? Reset password

* All fields are mandatory

Got an account already? Let me log in