South Carolina does not legally require insurance for most recreational boats. However, if you're financing your vessel, your lender will almost certainly mandate physical damage (collision and comprehensive) coverage. Even without a legal requirement, boat insurance is strongly advisable — a single accident on the water without liability coverage can result in significant out-of-pocket costs.

Some homeowners policies provide very limited coverage for small boats with low-horsepower motors — typically capped well below the boat's actual value. Larger motorboats, pontoons, yachts, jet skis, and most performance boats are generally excluded from homeowners coverage. A dedicated boat insurance policy ensures your full investment is protected.

Common rating factors include the type and size of your vessel, engine horsepower, the boat's age and value, your boating experience and safety course completion, where the boat is stored, the coverage limits you select, and any prior claims history. Discounts are often available for completing a Coast Guard-approved boating safety course.

Many boatowners policies extend collision and comprehensive coverage to your trailer while it's being used to transport your insured vessel. However, trailer coverage while stored separately or coverage for a trailer used for other purposes may not be included — your auto policy may need to fill that gap. We'll walk you through exactly what's covered.

Personal watercraft (PWC) like jet skis are typically covered under a separate watercraft policy, not a standard boatowners policy. Some carriers offer combined policies or endorsements that include PWC alongside traditional boats. Contact our office and we'll find the right solution for your specific watercraft lineup.

Yes — with the right endorsements. Fishing equipment coverage protects rods, reels, tackle, and gear damaged while on or being transferred to/from your insured boat. Electronics such as fish finders, GPS units, and radios may also be covered as permanent or portable boating equipment. Coverage limits and terms vary by carrier, so we'll help you confirm exactly what's included.

Actual cash value (ACV) pays the depreciated value of your boat at the time of a covered total loss. Agreed value pays the amount you and your insurer agree upon at the policy's start — with no depreciation deducted. For newer or higher-value vessels, agreed value coverage provides significantly better protection.

Yes. Many carriers offer lay-up credits or seasonal rating that reduces your premium during months when the boat is in storage and not in use on the water. Let us know your typical boating season and we'll factor that into finding you the most cost-effective policy.