Robert Wilson Insurance Agency, Inc. office on South 7th Street in Terre Haute

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Coverage

Boat & Watercraft Insurance

A homeowners policy gives a boat very little protection, and almost none out on the water. A dedicated boat policy covers the boat, the motor, the trailer, and your liability to everyone else on the lake.

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The Details

What Boat Insurance Covers

Every carrier's policy wording differs a little. This is how boat coverage typically works, and where people most often get surprised at claim time.

Typically covered

The core protections in most policies.

Hull and motorPhysical damage to the boat and engine from collision, sinking, fire, theft, and storms.
TrailerDamage to or theft of your boat trailer, often included or available for a small added cost.
Boating liabilityInjuries to others and damage to other boats, docks, or property caused while operating your boat.
Medical paymentsMedical bills for you and your passengers after a boating accident, regardless of fault.
Uninsured boaterProtects you when another boater causes an accident and has no insurance, which happens often since Indiana does not require boat insurance.
Towing and on-water assistanceHelp when you break down, run aground, or run out of fuel away from the dock.

Usually not covered

The gaps worth asking about before you need them.

Wear, rot, and mechanical failureGradual deterioration and engine breakdown from age or neglect are maintenance issues.
Freeze damage if not winterizedMany policies exclude freezing damage when the boat was not properly winterized. Indiana winters make this one worth taking seriously.
Racing and commercial useSpeed contests and chartering the boat for pay are typically excluded.
Coverage under homeowners aloneHomeowners forms usually cap watercraft coverage at a low value and horsepower, with little or no liability on the water.

How It Works

Getting a Boat Quote From Us

Tell us what you have

A short call or the quote form. Have your current declarations page handy if you already carry coverage.

We shop the carriers

As an independent agency we quote it with several companies, not just one, and compare the actual coverage, not only the premium.

You choose, we stay with you

We walk you through the options, set it up, and handle renewals, changes, and claims help from our office on South 7th Street.

Local Perspective

Boat Coverage in the Wabash Valley

Between Sullivan Lake, the reservoirs, and the Wabash itself, boating is a big part of summer here. We make sure your policy fits where you actually launch and how long the boat sits in storage each year.

Call (812) 234-0766 Take the 2-Minute Checkup

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Boat Insurance Near You

Sullivan, IN Terre Haute, IN Clinton, IN All service areas →

Common Questions

Boat Insurance FAQ

Is boat insurance required in Indiana?

Indiana does not require boat insurance by state law, but lenders require it on financed boats, and many marinas and lakes require proof of liability coverage. Without it, you are personally responsible for any injuries or damage you cause.

Does my homeowners policy cover my boat?

Only in a limited way. Most homeowners policies cover small boats up to a low dollar amount and horsepower, often with no liability once you are on the water. Anything bigger than a canoe or small jon boat generally needs its own policy.

Does boat insurance cover a pontoon or jet ski?

Yes. Pontoons, bass boats, ski boats, and personal watercraft can all be written on a boat policy, each with coverage fitted to the craft.

Can I lower my premium in the off-season?

Many carriers price in the fact that Indiana boats spend months in storage, and some offer lay-up periods. Keeping comprehensive coverage in place for theft and storage damage is still smart.

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