Marine insurance is one of the least-understood parts of cruising life — until you need it. These guides explain what boat insurance policies actually cover, when and why surveys are required, and what the claims process looks like from first incident to settlement.
Boat Insurance for Cruisers: What Your Policy Actually Covers
Agreed value vs. actual cash value, blue water vs. coastal limits, navigational warranties, hurricane plans, charter exclusions, and the coverage gaps that catch offshore sailors off guard.
- Agreed value vs. ACV explained
- Navigational territory limits
- Hurricane storage requirements
Marine Surveys: What They Cover, Cost, and Why Insurers Require Them
What a marine survey actually inspects, when insurers require one, how to choose a surveyor, what the report means for your coverage, and how survey findings affect premium and insurability.
- Typically required every 5 years
- NAMS vs. SAMS certified surveyors
- How findings affect premiums
How Marine Insurance Claims Work
What happens after an incident — the claims adjuster process, surveyor inspection, total loss vs. repairable determination, salvage rights, documentation requirements, and average time to settlement.
- 30–90 days average settlement
- Deductibles $1,000–$5,000 typical
- Total loss vs. repairable threshold
Buying Your First Cruising Boat: What Nobody Tells You
The survey, hidden costs, where to buy, the sea trial checklist, fiberglass problems, and why listing price is just the starting point — including calling your insurer before you make an offer.
- Call insurer before you offer
- The survey is non-negotiable
- 10–30% deferred maintenance budget
About These Guides
These are educational resources, not legal or financial advice. Insurance terms, coverage limits, and regulations vary by insurer, vessel type, and jurisdiction. Always review your specific policy documents and consult a licensed marine insurance broker for coverage decisions. The marina directory includes facility details for marinas across North America, many of which can recommend local marine insurers.