More time on the water. Less time worrying.
Lake weekends. Gulf Coast adventures. A boat full of your favorite people. Here's what Texas boat owners should know about protecting their vessel, passengers and everything in between.
Lake days are calling.
Let's get you covered.
From Lake Travis and Lake Texoma to Galveston Bay, Texas has plenty of ways to enjoy life on the water.
Whether you've just bought your first boat or have been cruising for years, understanding your insurance options can help you spend less time worrying and more time boating.
Do you need boat insurance in Texas?
Texas generally doesn't require insurance for privately owned recreational boats.
But your lender may require coverage if you're financing your boat, and some marinas require liability insurance before allowing you to dock.
What about homeowners insurance?
Your homeowners policy may provide limited protection for certain boats, but coverage amounts and liability protection can be restricted.
A dedicated boat policy can offer coverage designed for your vessel and how you use it.
What can boat insurance cover?
A boat policy can combine several kinds of protection. Available coverage depends on your vessel and insurer.
Your boat itself.
Can help pay for covered damage to your vessel from events such as collisions, theft or storms.
Accidents on the water.
Can help if you're legally responsible for injuries or property damage to others.
For onboard injuries.
May help with certain medical expenses following a covered boating accident.
When the other boat isn't covered.
Optional coverage may help with qualifying injuries caused by an uninsured boater.
When the engine says no.
Optional coverage may help pay for emergency towing or certain on-water assistance.
The extras matter.
Depending on your policy, you may be able to cover your trailer, fishing equipment and other accessories.
Blue skies now.
Storm clouds later.
Texas boating comes with some very Texas weather risks. Make sure you understand your storm coverage before the forecast turns ugly.
Hail & severe storms
Covered physical damage may include hail and certain storm-related losses. Check your exclusions and deductible.
Hurricanes & named storms
Coastal policies may have special deductibles, exclusions or storm preparation requirements. Ask what happens when a named storm approaches.
Where you keep your boat
Coverage can depend on whether your boat is docked, stored ashore, trailered or kept in another location.
Heading into the Gulf?
Some policies limit how far offshore you can travel or which coastal waters are covered. Check your navigation limits.
What happens if it's totaled?
Boat policies can value covered losses differently. Understanding the difference matters before you buy.
A value you agree on.
You and your insurer agree on a value for the boat when the policy begins. Total-loss payments are subject to policy terms.
Depreciation matters.
Payment reflects the boat's value at the time of loss, accounting for depreciation.
Replacing your vessel.
Certain policies may offer replacement cost coverage for qualifying boats, subject to eligibility and policy limits.
Your share of the claim.
Check your standard deductible and whether separate storm deductibles apply.
A little paperwork. Then the lake.
Insurance is only part of responsible boat ownership. Make sure your registration and safety requirements are handled too.
Texas generally requires registration for motorized vessels and nonmotorized vessels 14 feet or longer, with certain exemptions.
Texas requires qualifying operators born on or after September 1, 1993 to complete approved boater education.
Check life jacket, fire extinguisher, lighting and other requirements for your vessel.
Watch for thunderstorms, strong winds and changing conditions before heading out.
Let's find your kind of policy.
The right boat insurance depends on your vessel, where you keep it and how you use it.
Inland lakes, coastal bays and offshore trips may have different coverage requirements.
Ask about trailers, fishing gear, electronics and other valuable accessories.
Policies may restrict younger operators or require certain boating experience.
Some policies include layup periods when the boat must remain out of use.
Renting your boat out?
Tell your insurance agent before using your vessel for rentals, charters or other commercial activities. A recreational policy may exclude these uses.
Oh yeah.
Insurance.
You've got the boat. You've picked your favorite stretch of water. Now let's make sure your coverage makes sense.
Hey Charley is independent, so we can help you explore available boat insurance options from multiple carriers.
Whether you're buying your first boat, upgrading your current vessel or reviewing your policy before boating season, we're here to help.
You've got the boat.
Let's talk coverage.
From weekend fishing trips to Gulf Coast adventures, let Charley help you explore coverage for your boat and everything that comes with it.
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