Why You Need Boat Insurance
Boats are expensive to repair and accidents on the water can be serious. Liability from a boating accident can quickly exceed what most people can pay out-of-pocket. And unlike auto insurance, boat insurance is not required by NC law — which means many boaters on the water are uninsured.
What Boat Insurance Covers
- Physical damage — collision, sinking, fire, theft, storm damage
- Liability — bodily injury and property damage to others
- Medical payments for you and your passengers
- Uninsured watercraft coverage
- Fishing equipment and personal effects
- Towing and on-water assistance
- Coverage while on trailers and in storage
Types of Watercraft We Insure
- Powerboats and bass boats
- Pontoon boats
- Sailboats
- Personal watercraft (jet skis)
- Deck boats and bowriders
- Houseboats
- Kayaks and canoes (with some policies)
NC Boating Coverage Considerations
- Jordan Lake, Lake Norman, Falls Lake — popular NC boating areas
- Coastal and Outer Banks boating exposes you to ocean weather risks
- Hurricane season in NC runs June through November
- Consider agreed value vs. actual cash value for older vessels
- Layup or storage discounts available during off-season
Frequently Asked Questions
Is boat insurance required in NC?
North Carolina does not require boat insurance by law, but many marinas and boat storage facilities require it. It's also strongly recommended given the cost of boats and potential liability.
Does my homeowners insurance cover my boat?
Most homeowners policies provide very limited coverage for small boats — typically $1,500 or less. For any boat worth insuring, you need a dedicated watercraft policy.
Do I need boat insurance year-round?
Many boaters choose to keep comprehensive coverage year-round to protect against theft and weather damage in storage, while reducing liability coverage during the off-season.