Boat Insurance in Rhode Island

Boating in Rhode Island 

With 400 miles of coastline, Rhode Island residents have a number of options when it comes to boating. “The Ocean State” has many boating destinations, from coves and islands, to dock-to-dining restaurants. Whether you are planning a beach picnic, a fishing trip, or just out exploring, Rhode Island is a paradise for boat owners.

Are You Required to Have Boat Insurance in Rhode Island? 

Currently, there are no laws in Rhode Island that require boat insurance. However, having coverage for you boat is wise for a number of reasons. Many marinas and most lenders require some form of insurance.  Even if not required by a marina or a lender, maintaining boat insurance on your watercraft is a good idea.

The cost of boat insurance is far less expensive than replacing your boat or paying for the costs involved in a lawsuit. If you’re at-fault in an accident, you could be responsible for paying damages to the injured party either through a negotiated settlement or as part of a judgment following trial. Depending on the circumstances, damages could include, among other things, payments for the injured party’s medical bills, pain and suffering, lost income, and the cost of repairing or replacing their damaged property. In addition, you could incur substantial legal fees in connection to defending the claim. Plus, you’ll still have to pay for any necessary repairs to your own boat, too.

Boat Insurance Cost for Rhode Island 

Wondering how much you will pay to insure your sailboat, pontoon boat, personal watercraft, or other boat in Rhode Island? Boat insurance premiums are calculated on factors such as value, length, type, age, usage, territory of use, and your claims history. For example, newer boats are typically more expensive to insure than older boats. To get a picture of what it could cost to insure your boat, request a quote.

A sailboat in Newport, Rhode Island, USA

Boat Insurance Quotes Rhode Island 

When shopping for insurance for your boat, it helps to compare quotes and have options. At Cross Insurance, we work with over 100 insurance carriers, which means more options for our clients. We are a local insurance agency with a team based out of East Providence. Requesting a quote for your boat is as simple as filling out our form here. If you prefer to call someone to start the quoting process, you can find our office contact information here.

Ways to Potentially Save on Boat Insurance 

Saving on boat insurance can be as easy as placing your coverage with another carrier who already insures other property you own. Many insurers offer a multi-policy discount. Talk to your local insurance agent to see if you can bundle your home or auto policy to save on your premium.

Some insurers offer discounts of up to 10 percent if you take a boating safety course through the U.S. Coast Guard or other specified organizations. You may also qualify for a discount if your boat is equipped with items such an alarm or built-in fire extinguisher system.

What Does Boat Insurance Typically Cover? 

Boat Insurance policies can vary. You should review your policy with an insurance agent to be sure that you have appropriate coverage for your boat. Typically, boat insurance covers a number of situations and incidents, including but not limited to:

  • Liability
  • Fire
  • Theft
  • Collision
  • Boat Accessories

yacht club marina in East Greenwich, Rhode Island

Optional Coverages for Boat Insurance 

Depending on which carrier you choose to purchase your boat insurance through, there are a number of other optional coverages that you can add. These can include, but are not limited to:

  • Fuel Spill Liability & Wreckage Removal
  • Personal Items Coverage
  • Emergency Assistance
  • Unattached Equipment Coverage
  • Agreed Value Coverage  

Insuring Boats in Storage

Should you insure your boat while it is in storage? In the winter, you may be tempted to not cover your boat. However, if you leave your policy active throughout the year, generally it can cover things such as theft and certain other covered hazards that can occur while your boat is in storage. Ultimately, deciding to leave your boat covered throughout the year is up to you and depends on your level of risk tolerance. Some carriers will allow to adjust certain coverages throughout the year, which may make the most sense for you.

Does Boat Insurance Cover My Trailer? 

When it comes to insurance coverage for your boat trailer, you can add it to your boat insurance policy, but it also may potentially be covered by your auto policy if it is involved in a loss while being towed by your vehicle. Additionally, in some limited circumstances your homeowners policy can cover your trailer for certain types of perils. Talk with your local insurance agent to see what coverages you may need for your boat trailer.

boats at yacht club marina in East Greenwich Rhode Island

Other Insurance Coverages for Rhode Island 

Looking for options to cover your car, motorcycle, or ATV in Rhode Island? We can help find coverage options for you and look at possible bundling options. If you are looking for commercial insurance options for your business, we can help with that too. Reach out to our office today to speak to one of our experienced team members at our Rhode Island office.

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This article is for general informational purposes only and is not to be relied upon or used for any particular purpose. Cross Insurance shall not be held responsible in any way for, and specifically disclaims any liability arising out of or in any way connected to, reliance on or use of any of the information contained in this article. The information contained or referenced in this article is not intended to constitute and should not be considered legal, insurance, accounting or other professional advice, nor shall it serve as a substitute for the recipient obtaining such advice. The views expressed in this article are that of its author and do not necessarily represent the views of Cross Financial Corp. and its subsidiaries and affiliates (“Cross Insurance”) or Cross Insurance’s management or shareholders.

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