Recreational boating brings joy and relaxation to so many people. Whether it lasts a few hours or several months, an excursion on the water creates wonderful memories. Careful boating practices offer a lot of protection against mishaps, but accidents still happen. Liability insurance covers a lot of your expenses if you’re at fault in a boating accident but may not be enough to cover damages. Umbrella insurance provides an extra layer of protection against overwhelming financial liabilities. Umbrella policies cover personal automobiles and properties, but many people don’t realize they cover boats, too. Buying OC umbrella insurance safeguards your finances and gives you added peace of mind.

Watercraft & Umbrella Insurance

Imagine this scenario: You’re out on the water, having a great time when you accidentally hit a wave too fast. One of your passengers falls on the boat and is injured. Your liability insurance covers $200,000, but the injured party sues you for $1 million because of lost wages and mental anguish. Without umbrella coverage, your assets and wages would be on the line for the remaining $800,000 on top of your legal expenses and lost income. One mistake leads to severe financial stress.

On the other hand, if you have umbrella insurance for your watercraft, the added coverage would spare you all of that stress. Most umbrella policies offer $1 million to $5 million in coverage, meaning the policy would pay for the remaining $800,000 in addition to some other expenses you incur.

Coverage for Dependent Children

Watercraft umbrella policies don’t just cover the boat owner’s mistakes. They also cover accidents caused by the owner’s dependent children. This extra liability protection can boost your sense of security as you cruise or sail with your family.

Points to Keep in Mind

It’s a good idea for boat owners to carry umbrella insurance, but there are several points to remember when purchasing a policy.

It is Secondary Insurance

Your OC umbrella insurance covers legal expenses beyond what is covered by your liability policy. It is not a replacement for general liability insurance. Many insurance providers require proof of existing coverage before approving an umbrella policy.

It is Not Health Insurance

An umbrella policy extends liability coverage on boating insurance, as well as auto and property policies. They do not apply to health insurance, so you are still responsible for any medical expenses your health plan doesn’t cover.

Exclusions Apply

Even the most comprehensive umbrella policy won’t cover everything. Policies won’t cover damages arising from high-risk activities like racing. They also won’t cover you if you act with criminal intent, meaning you won’t be protected if you or a dependent child:

• Operate a watercraft under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Assault somebody
• Intentionally harm someone
• Intentionally damage property

Call an insurance provider for more information on umbrella insurance coverage and exclusions.

About Mariners Insurance

Mariners General Insurance Group was founded in 1959 to protect boat owners and marine business clients. We are marine insurance experts and insure boats worldwide – in every ocean on the planet. Marine insurance is critical if you own a boat or nautical business. Trust the professionals with all of your Boat Insurance needs – trust Mariners Insurance. Call us at (888) 402-5018 any time you have questions or concerns about insurance for your vessel or marine business.