Sailboat on water in front of lake at sunset

There’s nothing quite like being out on the open water. Whether it’s your fishing boat, sailboat, pontoon boat, ski surf boat, or another recreational boat, you will want to protect your precious vessel in and out of the water.

Insurance companies like Nationwide offer boat insurance at affordable rates, offer packages for the type of boating you do, and can be bundled with other coverage like home or auto for a discounted rate.1

Only a handful of states require boat insurance, but even if it isn’t required by your state, your lending institution or bank if you lease or finance your boat or your marina if you rent a dock or boat slip likely will. Plus, even if you’re willing to accept some personal risk to your boat and its contents, you’re still exposed to liability risks. Without enough liability coverage, you may put your passengers and your aquatic investment at risk.2

What does boat insurance cover?

With so many variables to watch out for, what does boat insurance cover? Boat insurance policies like those offered by Nationwide can be customized to cover your boat, passengers, personal possessions, and yourself.

Boat coverage options from Nationwide include:

  • Bodily injury liability
  • Property damage liability
  • Medical payments
  • Uninsured/underinsured boaters bodily injury
  • On Water Towing
  • Collision
  • Comprehensive
  • Personal effects
  • Fishing equipment
  • Roadside assistance

Learn more about the different types of boat insurance coverage options. It’s easy to get a boat insurance quote that’s tailored to your specific needs.2

Boat insurance cost breakdown

Many factors are used to determine the cost of a boat insurance policy, and they vary among insurers. From the length and type to the value and age of your boat, these are just some of the factors that will determine cost. Discover additional factors that may influence how much it costs to insure a boat.

How to save on boat insurance

If you're looking for affordable boat insurance but still want reliable coverage, you can take advantage of Nationwide's boat insurance discounts. With a multi-policy discount, you can get a discount when you combine your boat insurance with home, vehicle, or life insurance policies. And a multi-boat discount saves you money when you insure more than one boat. Completing an approved water safety course can also save you money.

You could also get more affordable boat insurance rates with a 12-month premium paid in full. You can also receive a discount when it’s time to renew if you remained claims-free during the prior policy term.3

Start saving money on boat insurance today

Owning a boat is one of life’s great joys. All the more reason to ensure your boat has the proper coverage. Get a free boat insurance quote from Nationwide and discover how affordable it can be to protect your boat.

[1] “Boat Insurance,” Nationwide, https://www.nationwide.com/personal/insurance/boat/ (Accessed February 16, 2023)

[2] “Do I Need Boat Insurance?” Nationwide, https://www.nationwide.com/lc/resources/powersports/articles/do-i-need-boat-insurance (Accessed February 16, 2023)

[3] “Boat Insurance Discounts,” Nationwide, https://www.nationwide.com/personal/insurance/boat/pages/discounts (Accessed February 16, 2023)

boat icon
Learn about Nationwide motorcycle, boat or personal watercraft insurance.

Product, coverage, discounts, insurance terms, definitions, and other descriptions are intended for informational purposes only and do not in any way replace or modify the definitions and information contained in your individual insurance contracts, policies, and/or declaration pages from Nationwide-affiliated underwriting companies, which are controlling. Such products, coverages, terms, and discounts may vary by state and exclusions may apply.

The information included here is designed for informational purposes only. It is not legal, tax, financial or any other sort of advice, nor is it a substitute for such advice. The information may not apply to your specific situation. We have tried to make sure the information is accurate, but it could be outdated or even inaccurate in parts. It is the reader’s responsibility to comply with any applicable local, state or federal regulations. Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company, its affiliates and their employees make no warranties about the information nor guarantee of results, and they assume no liability in connection with the information provided. Nationwide and the Nationwide N and Eagle are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2024 Nationwide