Know Your Navigation Limits
Buying insurance for your boat can be confusing, especially when you have questions about exclusions and limitations. When you live on the coast, you may want to take your boat on the open ocean. But keep in mind that insurance companies may have certain limitations on how far you can travel offshore and still be within their scope of coverage.
The term coastal navigation typically refers to the operation of a watercraft in saltwater along the coastline. When buying insurance for your boat, it is helpful to understand what your coastal navigation coverage is. Insurance has certain navigational limits that will only protect the insured vessel within those parameters. These will depend on the insurance company and will vary from policy to policy. It is important for the boat owner to know what those limits are and, if venturing outside those limits, understand that additional coverage may be required.
Will You Require Additional Coastal Navigation Coverage?
Whether you will primarily use your boat inland or offshore, where you will be operating your vessel will have an effect on what you will pay in insurance premiums. Insurance rates in coastal waters, especially those frequently experiencing hurricanes and tropical storms, can be more risky for an insurance company and the premiums measurably higher than those for inland watercraft. Always be aware of how far offshore your policy covers you. Different insurance companies will have different criteria on your coastal navigation limits and will dictate how far offshore you can navigate your boat and still be covered by insurance.
Navigational Limits Will Vary By Company
Coastal insurance companies will impose limits ranging from 5 miles to no limit at all. Your needs and the size of the vessel will dictate the amount of navigational coverage you will require. Prior to taking any boat out along the coastline, it is important to understand the limits on your particular insurance policy. If you require coverage outside your limits for a temporary time, your underwriter can provide an endorsement to cover that time period.
Shop With Peace of Mind
When you are shopping for boat insurance, make sure to inform your agent of how far offshore you are planning to travel with your vessel and shop for your insurance accordingly. That way, you can make certain that you will be covered no matter where you travel. At InsureAnyBoat.com, we work with multiple insurance carriers so you are able to explore the right options for your situation. We would be glad to discuss the navigation coverage of the companies we represent for your peace of mind.
Call 1-800-585-1665 today to request a quote from InsureAnyBoat.com