Get Insurance for Your Boat or Yacht in 3 Easy Steps
- Apply online
- Review coverage options
- Select a policy
Protect The Things You Love To Enjoy
Insuring the things that you have worked hard to obtain, or the tools that rely on for your business to keep moving, is what Bertram Insurance Service has been doing for over 40 years.
The ocean can be a tough environment for your boats. Unforgiving conditions and the general harshness of such great beauty can take it’s toll on your watercraft. When it comes to insuring your boat or yacht we take special care to really get to know your unique vessel and what it means to keep your possessions protected from the unknown.
Our job is make sure we have a true understanding of the boats, yachts and watercraft that you and your family love to enjoy. You are covered with peace of mind and a team that is quick to respond to your needs.
We can insure almost any vessel
- Boat (under 32′)
- Yacht (32′ or more)
- Sailboat
- Wooden boats
- Metal boats
- Rigid inflatables (RIB)
- Personal Watercraft
- Charter boat
- Fishing boat
No matter what your boat is, we can can find the right coverage for you!
Factors That Affect Your Boat & Yacht Insurance Cost
- Type, size, and value of the vessel
- Engine size and horsepower
- Age and condition of the boat
- Where you navigate and where the boat is stored
- Boating experience and safety course completion
- Claims history
Because every vessel and boater is different, the best way to know your actual cost is to get a personalized quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Boat & Yacht Insurance?
Boat and yacht insurance is a policy that provides financial protection for your vessel and its equipment, along with liability coverage if you injure someone or damage their property while operating your boat. Coverage can apply to boats used on lakes, rivers, or open water, and can extend to sailboats, powerboats, and larger yachts.
Why Do You Need Boat or Yacht Insurance?
Many marinas and lenders require proof of insurance before you can dock or finance a boat. Beyond that requirement, boats carry real liability exposure – a collision with another vessel, a passenger injury, or fuel spill cleanup can result in significant costs. Boat insurance also typically includes towing and on-water assistance, which can be valuable if you break down away from shore.
What Does a Typical Boat & Yacht Policy Cover?
Coverage Type | What It Protects |
|---|---|
Hull / Physical Damage | Damage to the boat itself, on either an Agreed Value or Actual Cash Value basis. |
Liability | Injury or property damage you cause to others while operating the boat. |
Medical Payments | Medical expenses for you or your passengers after a covered incident. |
Uninsured Boater Coverage | Your costs if you’re hit by a boater with no or insufficient insurance. |
Towing & Assistance | On-water towing, fuel delivery, and emergency assistance. |
Personal Effects | Personal belongings kept on board, such as fishing or water sports equipment. |
Fuel Spill Liability & Wreck Removal | Costs to clean up a fuel spill or remove a sunken or disabled vessel. |
What’s Usually NOT Covered?
- Wear and tear or mechanical breakdown – normal aging of the engine or components is excluded.
- Racing or commercial use – using the boat to race or for hire (charters, fishing guide services) typically requires a different policy.
- Operating under the influence – damage or injury while operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs is excluded.
- Named storm exclusions – some policies require haul-out or specific precautions ahead of a named storm in certain coastal regions, or apply deductibles/exclusions if those steps aren’t taken.
Does homeowners insurance cover my boat?
Homeowners policies typically provide very limited coverage for small watercraft (like a canoe or small dinghy) and usually exclude larger or higher-horsepower boats entirely. A dedicated boat policy is generally needed for meaningful protection.
Agreed value vs. actual cash value for boats - what's the difference?
Agreed Value coverage pays a pre-agreed amount if the boat is a total loss, without a deduction for depreciation. Actual Cash Value coverage factors in depreciation, which typically results in a lower payout but a lower premium.
Do I need boat insurance if I only use it a few times a year?
Yes! Liability exposure and the risk of theft or storm damage exist whether the boat is in frequent use or sitting at the dock. Some carriers offer lower-cost seasonal or lay-up options for infrequently used boats.
Is towing and roadside assistance included?
Many boat policies include or offer on-water towing and assistance as part of the package or as an affordable add-on — it’s worth confirming what’s included in your specific policy.
Does my policy cover boats in other states or while traveling?
Many policies extend coverage while traveling or trailering to other states, though navigational limits (such as how far offshore you’re covered) vary by policy – check your specific navigation limits in the policy.