Get Boat Insurance Without a Marine Survey Required

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Credit: pexels.com, Wooden boats moored under pier on lake

If you're in the market for boat insurance, you might be relieved to know that you can get it without a marine survey required. This means you can purchase a policy without having to hire an expert to evaluate the condition of your boat.

You can get boat insurance without a survey if you're purchasing a new boat, as most manufacturers provide a warranty that covers the vessel for a certain period. This warranty often includes coverage for mechanical issues and other defects.

For older boats, some insurance providers offer a "no survey" option, which can be a cost-effective alternative to hiring a surveyor. However, be aware that this option may come with higher premiums or stricter policy terms.

Getting Insurance Without a Survey

Some insurance companies make it easy to get a policy without a survey. For example, Progressive allows you to get a policy without a survey, even for used boats.

However, there are some exceptions. Gallagher Skippers' Plan no longer requires a marine survey for boats under 30 feet in length with a market value under $50,000.

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What Is a Marine Survey for Insurance?

White And Brown Wooden Boat On Body Of Water
Credit: pexels.com, White And Brown Wooden Boat On Body Of Water

A marine survey is a crucial step in determining the value and condition of your boat, especially for used boats with potential operating issues. This is because a marine survey can uncover any underlying problems with your boat and identify necessary upgrades to get it into a safe operating condition.

The survey can establish the current value of your boat, which is essential for insurance purposes. This information can help you get a fair insurance quote.

Progressive makes it easy to obtain boat insurance without a survey, even for used boats. This means you can get a policy without the added expense and hassle of a marine survey.

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Boats Under $50K Exempt from Surveys

Gallagher Skippers' Plan has waived surveys for boats under $50,000 and 30 feet in length.

This change is a result of an initiative requested from AVIVA Elite Insurance Company.

Surveys are still required for Agreed Value Coverage or Sea Doo jet boats, and Aviva may request a marine survey at any time.

Flat Bottom Boat On Water
Credit: pexels.com, Flat Bottom Boat On Water

To meet this new requirement, you'll need to provide 6-8 photos that show the boat's condition above and below the waterline, interior, and engine compartment.

Surveys provide peace of mind when purchasing a boat, identify potential safety and maintenance issues, and determine if the boat is over or under insured.

Boat owners can expect to pay hundreds to over a thousand dollars for surveys every 5 years, depending on the boat's size.

Boat Insurance Options

If you're looking for boat insurance without a survey, you have several options to consider.

One such option is third-party only insurance, which is the minimum required by law. This type of insurance covers damage to other people's boats or property, but not your own vessel.

Some insurance companies offer a "new for old" policy, which means they'll replace your boat with a brand new one if it's a total loss. This can be a great option for boat owners who want to ensure they have a new vessel.

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Brown Wooden Boat Beside Body of Water
Credit: pexels.com, Brown Wooden Boat Beside Body of Water

Another option is to choose a higher excess, which can lower your premium costs. For example, if you're willing to pay a higher deductible, you may be able to get a lower premium.

You can also consider a boat insurance policy that includes a "named perils" clause, which covers damage caused by specific events such as fire, theft, or collision. This can provide more comprehensive coverage than a basic policy.

Some insurance companies also offer a "black box" policy, which tracks your boating habits and can help you qualify for a lower premium. This type of policy can be a great option for experienced boat owners who want to save money on their premiums.

Gretchen Gerhold

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Gretchen Gerhold has established herself as a prolific writer, covering a diverse range of topics including logistics, trade, and economic development. Her articles on container terminals and the logistics sector in India provide deep insights into the complexities of modern supply chain management. Focusing on the state of Kerala, her work on the economy and transport in Kochi highlights the region's significant contributions to India's economic landscape.

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