Boat rental insurance

Do I need insurance when I rent a boat?

Only a few states require boat insurance. Whether or not you're required to carry insurance for a boat rental may depend on whom you’re renting from. Boat rental companies and marinas that offer boat rentals may mandate boat liability coverage or some form of boat insurance. For a peer-to-peer rental, the boat's owner may also stipulate that you get insurance against damage to the watercraft and injuries or damages you cause to another party. Learn more about boat insurance requirements by state.

How does boat rental insurance work?

If you’re involved in a boat accident while operating a rental boat and you're liable for damage to an object or someone's injuries, insurance for a boat rental may help cover the costs. Depending on your policy and the cause of damage, you may also be covered for damage to the rental boat. Check your policy to understand how you’re covered and the coverage limits.

If you’re already a boat owner and have boat insurance, your policy may pay for damages or injuries you cause while operating a rental boat up to your coverage limits. However, your personal boat insurance policy typically will NOT pay for damage to the rental watercraft.

If you need or want insurance when renting a boat, speak to the boat rental company or marina about all available options. If you're renting a boat from a private owner, contact your insurance provider or agent for a possible referral regarding boat rental insurance.

Does homeowners insurance cover boat rentals?

In certain circumstances, personal liability coverage on your homeowners insurance policy may pay for damages to a rented boat and injuries you cause while boating. However, your homeowners policy is not a substitute for boat insurance. You can buy a separate boat policy for protection against liability claims.