Although some people might pay more or less than that amount, the typical cost of boat insurance is between $200 and $500 per year. There are numerous elements that influence the cost of boat insurance premiums, which accounts for the stark difference. Because of this, same coverage can cost considerably differently for two boat owners.
It is simpler to comprehend why the discrepancy exists if you are aware of the variables that influence boat insurance premiums. Here are some factors that affect the cost of boat insurance policies.
The Level of Coverage
When you get boat insurance, you can customize the coverage in multiple ways. You can increase or lower the amount of liability coverage, with higher amounts leading to larger premiums.
You can also purchase add-ons to address specific base-policy gaps or situations, such as supplemental towing or salvage coverage. Every add-on increases the premium price, as it functionally extends your policy beyond its normal limits.
Finally, your deductible plays a role in boat insurance premium pricing. Usually, the higher the deductible, the lower the premium. High deductibles leave you paying more of the cost of a qualifying incident out of pocket. As a result, insurers charge less because high deductibles reduce their payouts.
The Boat’s Features and Value
In many cases, a boat’s features are a big part of what insurers consider when setting policy premiums. Everything from the horsepower to the finishes to the onboard equipment is factored in along the way. Primarily, this is because certain features increase risk, while others push repair costs up. Since premiums shield insurers from losses across all of their policies, they price premiums accordingly.
Additionally, as with vehicles, the value of the boat impacts premium prices. The more expensive the watercraft, the more insurers have to spend when making repairs after qualifying incidents. As a result, they charge higher premiums to compensate.
The Typical Usage of the Boat
The ways a boat is used also influence premium prices. For example, you’ll pay more if you’re living on a boat than if you’re using one recreationally, as increased use causes risk to rise.
Boats operated for business purposes require insurance coverage that comes with a higher premium. As a result, a fishing boat that’s only used by the owner and one that’s used for charters have different premiums, even if they’re the exact same vessels otherwise.
Boats used for racing also have higher premiums overall. Generally, specialty insurance is required for racing vessels, and it’s often quite costly.
The age and driving history of the driver
Age and driving history of a boat operator also affect premiums. Younger drivers are considered to be more dangerous than older drivers because they have less experience driving. Younger drivers, especially teens, are hence statistically more likely to be involved in collisions. Additionally, teenage drivers have a higher propensity for driving carelessly, which raises the likelihood of an accident.
Similar to how insurance companies view drivers with accidents on their records as higher risks, so do boat operators. When past occurrences or insurance claims are taken into account, those with spotless histories typically have to pay higher premiums.
