engineering insurance

Boat Insurance in California

✆ Call An Agent Now ➜

8:30am - 5:00pm Mon-Fri

Request an Assessment

We'll Reply in 15min*

California is a great place for boating enthusiasts, thanks to its long coastline and many lakes and rivers. However, boating also comes with risks, such as accidents, injuries, deaths, and property damage.


According to a recent California boater card report, a total of 593 boating accidents occurred in the state in 2021. These accidents resulted in 256 injuries and 44 deaths. Among the 670 operators who were involved in a boating accident, 37 faced a fatal outcome.


This highlights the importance of having proper boat insurance coverage in California. The right policy can provide financial protection against various losses and liabilities associated with boating, such as property damage, medical bills, and legal fees.


We are a Trusted Boat Insurance Agency in California


Western Insurance Marketing Corporation is a trusted boat insurance agency in California. We can help you compare rates and coverage from multiple Boat Insurance companies so that you find the policy that best fits your needs.


Our experienced agents can help you choose the right policy for your boat, providing coverages for towing and salvage, personal items, medical payments, and more. We also offer liability coverage options that provide protection from lawsuits arising from accidents or injuries caused by you while operating a watercraft.


Get in touch with us today to learn more about our services and get the best boat insurance coverage in California.

Forms of California Boat Insurance Coverage


Depending on your policy, California boat insurance may cover:


  • Damage to your boat and its permanently attached equipment, such as anchors, motors, and navigation systems. This can include damage caused by fire, lightning, collision, vandalism, theft, or sinking.
  • Liability for property damage or bodily injury that you cause to others while operating your boat. This can include damage to other boats, docks, marinas, or personal property, as well as medical expenses, legal fees, and lost income for injured parties.
  • Guest passenger liability for injuries or damages caused by someone else who is authorized to drive your boat with your permission.
  • Medical payments for you and your passengers if you are injured in a boating accident, regardless of who is at fault.
  • Uninsured/underinsured boater coverage for injuries or damages caused by another boater who has no insurance or insufficient insurance to cover your losses.
  • Wreckage removal and fuel spill coverage for the costs of removing your boat from the water and cleaning up any spilled fuel or oil if your boat sinks or is damaged beyond repair.
  • Personal effects coverage for the loss or damage of your personal belongings on board your boat, such as fishing gear, clothing, electronics, or jewelry.
  • Towing and assistance coverage for the costs of emergency services if your boat breaks down or runs out of fuel on the water. This can include on-water towing, jump starts, fuel delivery, or minor repairs.
  • Watersport liability coverage for injuries or damages caused by activities such as water-skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, or parasailing behind your boat.
  • Agreed value or actual cash value coverage for the settlement amount you will receive if your boat is totaled. Agreed value means you will get the amount you agreed upon when you bought the policy, while actual cash value means you will get the current market value of your boat at the time of the loss.
  • Loss-of-use coverage for rental costs while your boat is being repaired or replaced.

Optional Coverage


In addition to the coverage options mentioned above, you can purchase optional forms of boat insurance. These may include:


  • Coverage for navigation equipment, such as marine radios or GPS units.
  • Coverage for fishing equipment, such as rods and tackle boxes.
  • Liability coverage for damage caused by your watercraft trailer.
  • Deductible buy-back, which eliminates the need to pay a higher deductible when filing a claim.
  • Disappearing deductibles, which reduce the deductible amount each year that you don’t make a claim.


Most boat insurance companies have specific requirements for coverage, so it’s important to speak with an agent to make sure you get the right coverage for your needs.

Common Exemptions and Restrictions


When purchasing boat insurance, there are some common exemptions and restrictions to be aware of.


  • Coverage may not be available for boats over a certain age.
  • Older boats may require additional inspection or maintenance before coverage is granted.
  • Coverage may not be available for boats with inboard motors, jet skis, or high-performance watercraft.
  • Boats used for racing, chartering, or commercial purposes may not be eligible for coverage - unless a specific policy is purchased for these uses.
  • Coverage may be limited or excluded for boats in areas prone to hurricanes, flooding, or other natural disasters.
  • Coverage may be limited for boats kept in storage or on a trailer outside of your home.
  • Boats with salvaged titles may not be eligible for full coverage.
  • Certain types of damage, such as wear and tear or mechanical breakdowns, may not be covered.


It is important to speak with an insurance agent about the specific coverage requirements for your boat and any restrictions or exemptions that may apply. This way, you can rest assured that you have the right coverage to keep your boat safe and secure.

How Much Does Boat Insurance Cost in California?


The average cost of boat insurance in California is around $350 per year, based on the average of several sources. However, this cost can vary depending on several factors, such as:


  • The type of boat you have: Different types of boats have different risks and values, which affect the insurance premium. For example, a speedboat may cost more to insure than a fishing boat.
  • The details of your boat: The age, length, value, and engine size of your boat can also influence the cost of insurance. Generally, newer, larger, and more expensive boats will have higher premiums than older, smaller, and cheaper ones.
  • Where you keep your boat: The location and security of your boat when not in use can affect the insurance cost. For example, if you keep your boat in a marina with surveillance and locks, you may pay less than if you store it in an open yard or dock.
  • Your driving record and claims history: Your personal history of boating accidents and violations can impact your insurance rate. If you have a clean record and no claims, you may qualify for discounts and lower premiums. Conversely, if you have a history of accidents or claims, you may pay more for insurance.
  • Whether you have completed a boating safety course: Taking a boating safety course can demonstrate your responsibility and skill as a boater, which can lower your insurance cost. Some insurers may offer discounts for boaters who have completed a certified course.
  • The coverage options you choose: The amount and type of coverage you choose for your boat insurance policy can affect the cost. For example, if you choose higher liability limits or add optional coverages like comprehensive, collision, or fishing equipment coverage, you may pay more for insurance.
  • The deductible amount you select: The deductible is the amount you agree to pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. Choosing a higher deductible can lower your premium, but it also means you will pay more in case of a claim. Choosing a lower deductible can raise your premium, but it also means you will pay less in case of a claim.
  • The discounts you are eligible for: Some insurers may offer discounts for various reasons, such as bundling your boat insurance with other policies, paying your premium in full or online, having safety features on your boat, or being a loyal customer. Discounts can lower your insurance cost significantly.


Other ways to lower your boat insurance cost in California include shopping around for the best rate, asking your insurer about additional discounts, and raising your deductible. Additionally, taking steps to reduce risks, such as installing safety measures and avoiding bad weather, can also help you save on insurance.

Get The Best Rates on California Boat Insurance


Let the skilled team at Western Insurance Marketing Corporation help you find the best coverage and rates on boat insurance in California. We understand the complexities of boat insurance policies and can help you choose a policy that meets your needs and fits your budget. 



Contact us today for more information.

REQUEST A QUOTE

Speak with a CA Boat Insurance specialist today!

Get started today!

Prefer to speak with an agent now?

Contact Us

Share by: