Why Boat Insurance Matters in North Carolina
Whether you’re cruising along the Intracoastal Waterway, fishing off the coast, or enjoying a lake weekend, owning a boat comes with risks—accidents, theft, weather damage, and liability claims. While North Carolina doesn’t legally require boat insurance for all watercraft, many marinas, lenders, and storage facilities do. More importantly, having the right coverage keeps you financially protected when the unexpected happens.
What Does Boat Insurance Cover?
A standard boat insurance policy can include:
- Physical Damage Coverage – Pays to repair or replace your boat if it’s damaged by a covered event like collision, theft, fire, or storm.
- Liability Coverage – Protects you if you’re responsible for injuries or property damage while operating your boat.
- Medical Payments – Helps cover medical expenses for you or your passengers after a boating accident.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Boater Coverage – Covers you if another boater causes damage but doesn’t have adequate insurance.
- Personal Effects Coverage – Protects fishing gear, electronics, and other personal belongings on board.
- Towing and Assistance – Pays for towing, fuel delivery, or on-water repairs if you’re stranded.
Special Considerations for North Carolina Boaters
- Hurricane and Storm Risk – Coastal boat owners in places like Wilmington, Morehead City, and the Outer Banks may need higher wind and storm coverage limits.
- Seasonal Use – Boats stored during the winter still need protection from theft, vandalism, and storage-related damage.
- Marina Requirements – Many North Carolina marinas require proof of liability coverage before docking.
- Different Watercraft Types – Policies can be tailored for sailboats, fishing boats, pontoon boats, jet skis, and more.
How Much Does Boat Insurance Cost?
Premiums vary based on your boat’s type, size, age, storage location, and how you use it. In North Carolina, coverage can range from under $200 a year for smaller boats to over $1,000 for larger vessels.
How Sizemore Insurance Helps
As an independent North Carolina insurance company, we:
- Compare rates from multiple trusted boat insurance carriers
- Customize coverage for your boat type, location, and usage
- Help you understand deductibles, exclusions, and add-ons
- Offer advice on bundling your boat policy with home or auto for extra savings
Get a Boat Insurance Quote in North Carolina
Protect your boat year-round with coverage built for the way you use it. Start your quote online in minutes or call (910) 791-1011 to speak with a Sizemore Insurance advisor.