Boat & Watercraft Insurance
What is Boat Insurance in California?
Boat insurance in California is coverage that protects boats and personal watercraft against damage, injuries, and liability. A boat insurance policy in California can help cover incidents such as collisions, theft, fire, vandalism, and weather-related damage while your vessel is on the water or in storage.
Depending on the policy, coverage can include liability protection for bodily injury or property damage you cause to others, along with physical damage coverage for repairs or replacement of your boat. Additional options may also cover equipment, personal belongings, towing, and emergency assistance.
With proper boat insurance in California, boat owners can enjoy time on lakes, rivers, or coastal waters knowing they have financial protection in place if something unexpected happens. Securing the right coverage helps protect both your investment and your peace of mind while out on the water.
Affordable Boat & Watercraft Insurance
Boat insurance can help you enjoy your time on the water without worrying about unexpected costs. Whether you need coverage for a new boat or personal watercraft, or are looking to switch to a better rate, Farmers Insurance - Young Douglas can provide the protection you need. Don't let an accident or mishap ruin your fun on the water - make sure you have the right boat insurance in place to keep you and your vessel safe.
What Types of Boats Are Covered Under Boat Insurance in California?
Most types of boats in California can be covered under a boat insurance policy, including personal watercraft, sailboats, fishing boats, speedboats, and motorboats. Many policies also extend coverage to jet skis and other recreational watercraft.
Coverage options may vary depending on the insurance provider, the size and value of the vessel, how it is used, and where it is operated or stored in California. Some insurers may have specific guidelines for high-performance boats or larger vessels.
Before securing boat insurance in California, it’s important to review the policy details carefully to understand what types of boats are eligible and what protections are included.
What Types of Incidents are Covered Under Boat Insurance?
Most boat insurance policies in California cover damage resulting from collisions with other boats, docks, or submerged objects. Coverage typically also includes protection against theft, fire, vandalism, and certain weather-related events such as storms or wind damage.
In addition to physical damage to your boat, many policies provide liability coverage. This helps pay for bodily injury or property damage you cause to other boaters, passengers, or third parties. Medical payments coverage may also be available to help cover injuries to you or your passengers, regardless of fault.
Depending on the policy, coverage can extend to equipment, personal belongings on board, fuel spill liability, towing assistance, and emergency services.
Because waterways and coastal conditions in California can vary, it’s important to review your policy carefully to understand what is included and whether additional endorsements are needed.
Can I Customize My Boat Insurance Policy in California?
Yes, most boat insurance providers in California offer flexible policy options that can be customized to fit your specific needs and how you use your boat.
Policyholders can adjust coverage limits, select different deductible amounts, and add endorsements for specific risks. For example, you may be able to add coverage for:
- Personal belongings and equipment stored on the boat
- Towing and on-water assistance
- Fuel spill liability
- Fishing gear or specialized equipment
- Agreed value coverage for higher-value vessels
You can also tailor your liability limits based on how often you operate your boat and where you use it, whether on inland lakes or along California’s coastline.
Customizing your boat insurance policy ensures you’re not paying for coverage you don’t need while still protecting your investment and finances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my boat need to be registered in California?
Any vessel with a motor must be registered with the DMV, no matter its size, and sailboats over eight feet long must be registered too. Canoes, rowboats, and other boats powered only by paddles or oars are exempt, along with sailboats shorter than eight feet. Keep your registration current, since your insurer will ask for your vessel details.
When do I have to report a boating accident in California?
A report is required for a death, a disappearance, an injury needing more than first aid, property damage over $500, or the complete loss of a vessel. Reports involving injuries, missing persons, or deaths within 24 hours are due within 48 hours. Property damage only cases are due within 10 days. Let us know right away too, so we can start your claim.
Can friends drive my boat or jet ski?
Before you hand over the keys, check two things. First, since January 1, 2025, all operators of motorized vessels in California must carry a California Boater Card, regardless of age. Second, confirm your policy covers other operators. Tell us who regularly drives your boat or personal watercraft, whether at Lake Perris or on the Colorado River.
Is someone I am towing on skis or a tube covered?
Coverage for water skiers, wakeboarders, and tubers depends on your policy, so it is worth asking before summer. Liability coverage may help if a person you are towing is hurt and you are found responsible, and medical payments coverage may help with their bills. We can review your policy and point out any limits or exclusions.
Your local agent for Inland Empire boaters
Inland Empire boaters head to Lake Perris, Lake Elsinore, and the Colorado River, and many tow their boats across the region every weekend. Our Ontario office helps local boat and jet ski owners protect their watercraft on the water, on the trailer, and in storage.
3602 Inland Empire Blvd #C330, Ontario, CA 91764
Office hours: 9:00 to 5:30, visits by appointment
Phone: (909) 972-0699
We insure boaters throughout the Inland Empire, including Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga, Chino Hills, Chino, Upland, Fontana, Montclair, and Eastvale, and across California.
Boat or personal watercraft insurance questions
Is boat insurance required in California?
California doesn't require boat insurance by state law, but many marinas, lakes, and lenders do. It also protects you if someone is injured or property is damaged.
Do I need a California Boater Card?
Since January 1, 2025, California requires all operators of motorized boats and personal watercraft, regardless of age, to carry a California Boater Card. Check the California Division of Boating and Waterways for current rules.
Does homeowners insurance cover my boat?
Homeowners policies usually offer very limited coverage for boats, often small boats only and with low limits. Most boats and jet skis need their own policy.
Is my boat trailer covered?
Trailer coverage can often be added to your boat policy. Liability while towing usually comes from your auto policy.
Can I insure a jet ski or personal watercraft?
Yes. We help with jet skis, Sea-Doos, and other personal watercraft, along with ski boats, fishing boats, and pontoons.
More coverage for your toys
Farmers Insurance, Young Douglas. CA License #4091974. Coverage, discounts, and eligibility vary and are subject to underwriting.
Disclaimer
Farmers Insurance - Young Douglas provides home, auto, life, and commercial insurance products independently. References to mortgage brokers, real estate agents, or other professionals are for convenience only and do not imply a referral arrangement or financial affiliation.