What Is Full Coverage Boat Insurance?<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\nLet’s start simple: Full coverage boat insurance is like putting your vessel in a giant invisible bubble made of safety and good decisions. It’s not just “oops, I hit a rock.” It’s “oops, I hit a rock, and then a seagull sued me” type of peace of mind. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Basic boat insurance usually just means liability, so if you damage someone else’s watercraft or dock, or hurt someone, your policy helps cover the costs. But full protection? That’s the deluxe package. That covers damage to your watercraft, too, plus all the chaos that comes with storms, theft, vandalism, and maybe even your cousin Kevin trying to do a backflip off the bow. And if you’re wondering, “Do I need boat insurance even when my vessel is drydocked at season’s end?”<\/a> \u2014 the answer is yes. <\/p>\n\n\n\nWhat Does Full Coverage for a Boat Typically Include?<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\nWhat does full coverage boat insurance cover<\/em>, anyway? Well, “full” can mean different things to different people. To your agent, it means “all the bells and whistles.” To you, it might mean the amount of coverage you need to keep your personal finances safe (in other words, the difference between what you can’t cover out of pocket and what you can self-insure). <\/p>\n\n\n\nLiability, Collision, and Comprehensive Coverage<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\nThat being said, the most common definition is the “big three.” Full coverage usually means you’re protected in these ways: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Liability coverage<\/strong>: You crash into another seafaring vessel because you were distracted by a floating log that looked like Bigfoot. Boat liability insurance covers the other person’s stuff and their medical bills. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
\n- Collision coverage<\/strong>: Covers some or all of your costs if you crash into something. Like a dock. Or another vessel. Or that same suspicious Bigfoot log. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
\n- Comprehensive coverage<\/strong>: This one’s for all the other stuff, like fire, theft, vandalism, and storm damage. If a tree falls on your watercraft during a classic Washington windstorm, this kind of comprehensive boat insurance saves the day. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
Basically, full coverage means that even if your boat takes a wild ride or a rogue moose with a grudge comes out of nowhere (hey, it’s Washington), you’re not stuck paying thousands out of pocket. <\/p>\n\n\n
\n![\"Funny](\"https:\/\/www.vernfonk.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/07\/vf-smooth-sailing-starts-here-inside-full-coverage-boat-insurance-2.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nWhat’s Not Covered Under Full Coverage?<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\nEven full coverage with a solid boat insurance policy isn’t a magic spell. There are still things it won’t cover \u2026 so don’t go thinking your policy is a license to do donuts around the Space Needle on a jet ski. Here’s what to keep in mind when you’re on the trek to find cheap boat insurance in Washington<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\nCommon Exclusions to Boat Insurance<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThere are four basic exclusions to know about. Also, be sure to ask your agent. They can guide you in the right direction on these common marine insurance exclusions: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Wear and tear<\/strong>: Your craft getting old and rusty? A regular policy isn’t gonna give it a makeover. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Lack of maintenance<\/strong>: If you ignore a leaky hull until your sailboat becomes an accidental submarine, that’s on you. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Racing and stunts<\/strong>: Full coverage doesn’t mean Fast & Furious: Lake Edition is a good idea. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- War, nuclear hazards, and sea monsters<\/strong>: Seriously. These are all in real policies. Sea monsters are not covered. Neither are alien invasions or nuclear reactions. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
How to Fill Coverage Gaps with Add-ons<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\nWant more peace of mind? You can even get some protection for pollution liability if your vehicle leaks fuel. That’s right. This type of product is eco-conscious now. You can add extras to your policy like: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Towing & assistance<\/strong>: If your engine dies in the middle of Lake Union, a rescue vehicle can tow you without draining your wallet. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Fishing equipment protection<\/strong>: Got expensive gear? Cover it. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Personal effects<\/strong>: Phones, coolers, designer sunglasses; whatever you bring aboard might need separate protection. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Factors That Influence Your Boat Insurance Coverage<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\nOK, so it’s time to figure out what makes sense for your specific <\/em>situation in the Pacific Northwest. When you’re deciding on what to cover (and how much), you should ask yourself a few key questions. Here’s what to consider when exploring the uncharted waters of boat insurance<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBoat Type, Age, and Usage<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\nIf you’ve got a brand-new powerboat, it’s gonna cost more to insure than your grandma’s old canoe with duct tape on the side. Also, using your craft every weekend for crab fishing in the Sound? Higher risk than someone who only takes their craft out once a year for Fourth of July fireworks (and possibly regrets it). <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Location and Seasonal Risk Considerations<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\nWashington’s weather is famously moist. Rain, wind, and seasonal storms can all increase your risk and your premiums. Storing your watercraft safely in the off-season can sometimes score you a discount, though. That’s why where and when you go matter just as much as how you take your vessel out. And yes, insurance companies know about “boating season.” No hiding behind cloudy days. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Protect Your Boat with the Right Coverage Today<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\nYou wouldn’t head out into Puget Sound without a life vest, right? So don’t take your vessel out there without solid insurance, either. Whether you’re into fishing, sailing, waterskiing, or just floating around with a sandwich, the right full coverage policy keeps your ride safe. Ready to cruise with confidence? Give Vern Fonk Insurance a call at (800) 455-8276<\/a>, get a quote online<\/a>, or visit one of our many offices in Washington<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\nYou’ll float better knowing you’re covered \u2026 unless you’re on a submarine, in which case we have questions. See you soon. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n
What Does Full Coverage for a Boat Typically Include?<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\nWhat does full coverage boat insurance cover<\/em>, anyway? Well, “full” can mean different things to different people. To your agent, it means “all the bells and whistles.” To you, it might mean the amount of coverage you need to keep your personal finances safe (in other words, the difference between what you can’t cover out of pocket and what you can self-insure). <\/p>\n\n\n\nLiability, Collision, and Comprehensive Coverage<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\nThat being said, the most common definition is the “big three.” Full coverage usually means you’re protected in these ways: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Liability coverage<\/strong>: You crash into another seafaring vessel because you were distracted by a floating log that looked like Bigfoot. Boat liability insurance covers the other person’s stuff and their medical bills. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
\n- Collision coverage<\/strong>: Covers some or all of your costs if you crash into something. Like a dock. Or another vessel. Or that same suspicious Bigfoot log. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
\n- Comprehensive coverage<\/strong>: This one’s for all the other stuff, like fire, theft, vandalism, and storm damage. If a tree falls on your watercraft during a classic Washington windstorm, this kind of comprehensive boat insurance saves the day. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
Basically, full coverage means that even if your boat takes a wild ride or a rogue moose with a grudge comes out of nowhere (hey, it’s Washington), you’re not stuck paying thousands out of pocket. <\/p>\n\n\n
\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nWhat’s Not Covered Under Full Coverage?<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\nEven full coverage with a solid boat insurance policy isn’t a magic spell. There are still things it won’t cover \u2026 so don’t go thinking your policy is a license to do donuts around the Space Needle on a jet ski. Here’s what to keep in mind when you’re on the trek to find cheap boat insurance in Washington<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\nCommon Exclusions to Boat Insurance<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThere are four basic exclusions to know about. Also, be sure to ask your agent. They can guide you in the right direction on these common marine insurance exclusions: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Wear and tear<\/strong>: Your craft getting old and rusty? A regular policy isn’t gonna give it a makeover. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Lack of maintenance<\/strong>: If you ignore a leaky hull until your sailboat becomes an accidental submarine, that’s on you. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Racing and stunts<\/strong>: Full coverage doesn’t mean Fast & Furious: Lake Edition is a good idea. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- War, nuclear hazards, and sea monsters<\/strong>: Seriously. These are all in real policies. Sea monsters are not covered. Neither are alien invasions or nuclear reactions. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
How to Fill Coverage Gaps with Add-ons<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\nWant more peace of mind? You can even get some protection for pollution liability if your vehicle leaks fuel. That’s right. This type of product is eco-conscious now. You can add extras to your policy like: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Towing & assistance<\/strong>: If your engine dies in the middle of Lake Union, a rescue vehicle can tow you without draining your wallet. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Fishing equipment protection<\/strong>: Got expensive gear? Cover it. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Personal effects<\/strong>: Phones, coolers, designer sunglasses; whatever you bring aboard might need separate protection. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Factors That Influence Your Boat Insurance Coverage<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\nOK, so it’s time to figure out what makes sense for your specific <\/em>situation in the Pacific Northwest. When you’re deciding on what to cover (and how much), you should ask yourself a few key questions. Here’s what to consider when exploring the uncharted waters of boat insurance<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBoat Type, Age, and Usage<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\nIf you’ve got a brand-new powerboat, it’s gonna cost more to insure than your grandma’s old canoe with duct tape on the side. Also, using your craft every weekend for crab fishing in the Sound? Higher risk than someone who only takes their craft out once a year for Fourth of July fireworks (and possibly regrets it). <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Location and Seasonal Risk Considerations<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\nWashington’s weather is famously moist. Rain, wind, and seasonal storms can all increase your risk and your premiums. Storing your watercraft safely in the off-season can sometimes score you a discount, though. That’s why where and when you go matter just as much as how you take your vessel out. And yes, insurance companies know about “boating season.” No hiding behind cloudy days. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Protect Your Boat with the Right Coverage Today<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\nYou wouldn’t head out into Puget Sound without a life vest, right? So don’t take your vessel out there without solid insurance, either. Whether you’re into fishing, sailing, waterskiing, or just floating around with a sandwich, the right full coverage policy keeps your ride safe. Ready to cruise with confidence? Give Vern Fonk Insurance a call at (800) 455-8276<\/a>, get a quote online<\/a>, or visit one of our many offices in Washington<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\nYou’ll float better knowing you’re covered \u2026 unless you’re on a submarine, in which case we have questions. See you soon. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n
Liability, Collision, and Comprehensive Coverage<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\nThat being said, the most common definition is the “big three.” Full coverage usually means you’re protected in these ways: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Liability coverage<\/strong>: You crash into another seafaring vessel because you were distracted by a floating log that looked like Bigfoot. Boat liability insurance covers the other person’s stuff and their medical bills. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
\n- Collision coverage<\/strong>: Covers some or all of your costs if you crash into something. Like a dock. Or another vessel. Or that same suspicious Bigfoot log. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
\n- Comprehensive coverage<\/strong>: This one’s for all the other stuff, like fire, theft, vandalism, and storm damage. If a tree falls on your watercraft during a classic Washington windstorm, this kind of comprehensive boat insurance saves the day. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
Basically, full coverage means that even if your boat takes a wild ride or a rogue moose with a grudge comes out of nowhere (hey, it’s Washington), you’re not stuck paying thousands out of pocket. <\/p>\n\n\n
\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nWhat’s Not Covered Under Full Coverage?<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\nEven full coverage with a solid boat insurance policy isn’t a magic spell. There are still things it won’t cover \u2026 so don’t go thinking your policy is a license to do donuts around the Space Needle on a jet ski. Here’s what to keep in mind when you’re on the trek to find cheap boat insurance in Washington<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\nCommon Exclusions to Boat Insurance<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThere are four basic exclusions to know about. Also, be sure to ask your agent. They can guide you in the right direction on these common marine insurance exclusions: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Wear and tear<\/strong>: Your craft getting old and rusty? A regular policy isn’t gonna give it a makeover. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Lack of maintenance<\/strong>: If you ignore a leaky hull until your sailboat becomes an accidental submarine, that’s on you. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Racing and stunts<\/strong>: Full coverage doesn’t mean Fast & Furious: Lake Edition is a good idea. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- War, nuclear hazards, and sea monsters<\/strong>: Seriously. These are all in real policies. Sea monsters are not covered. Neither are alien invasions or nuclear reactions. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
How to Fill Coverage Gaps with Add-ons<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\nWant more peace of mind? You can even get some protection for pollution liability if your vehicle leaks fuel. That’s right. This type of product is eco-conscious now. You can add extras to your policy like: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Towing & assistance<\/strong>: If your engine dies in the middle of Lake Union, a rescue vehicle can tow you without draining your wallet. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Fishing equipment protection<\/strong>: Got expensive gear? Cover it. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Personal effects<\/strong>: Phones, coolers, designer sunglasses; whatever you bring aboard might need separate protection. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Factors That Influence Your Boat Insurance Coverage<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\nOK, so it’s time to figure out what makes sense for your specific <\/em>situation in the Pacific Northwest. When you’re deciding on what to cover (and how much), you should ask yourself a few key questions. Here’s what to consider when exploring the uncharted waters of boat insurance<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBoat Type, Age, and Usage<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\nIf you’ve got a brand-new powerboat, it’s gonna cost more to insure than your grandma’s old canoe with duct tape on the side. Also, using your craft every weekend for crab fishing in the Sound? Higher risk than someone who only takes their craft out once a year for Fourth of July fireworks (and possibly regrets it). <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Location and Seasonal Risk Considerations<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\nWashington’s weather is famously moist. Rain, wind, and seasonal storms can all increase your risk and your premiums. Storing your watercraft safely in the off-season can sometimes score you a discount, though. That’s why where and when you go matter just as much as how you take your vessel out. And yes, insurance companies know about “boating season.” No hiding behind cloudy days. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Protect Your Boat with the Right Coverage Today<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\nYou wouldn’t head out into Puget Sound without a life vest, right? So don’t take your vessel out there without solid insurance, either. Whether you’re into fishing, sailing, waterskiing, or just floating around with a sandwich, the right full coverage policy keeps your ride safe. Ready to cruise with confidence? Give Vern Fonk Insurance a call at (800) 455-8276<\/a>, get a quote online<\/a>, or visit one of our many offices in Washington<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\nYou’ll float better knowing you’re covered \u2026 unless you’re on a submarine, in which case we have questions. See you soon. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Collision coverage<\/strong>: Covers some or all of your costs if you crash into something. Like a dock. Or another vessel. Or that same suspicious Bigfoot log. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Comprehensive coverage<\/strong>: This one’s for all the other stuff, like fire, theft, vandalism, and storm damage. If a tree falls on your watercraft during a classic Washington windstorm, this kind of comprehensive boat insurance saves the day. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
Basically, full coverage means that even if your boat takes a wild ride or a rogue moose with a grudge comes out of nowhere (hey, it’s Washington), you’re not stuck paying thousands out of pocket. <\/p>\n\n\n
\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nWhat’s Not Covered Under Full Coverage?<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Even full coverage with a solid boat insurance policy isn’t a magic spell. There are still things it won’t cover \u2026 so don’t go thinking your policy is a license to do donuts around the Space Needle on a jet ski. Here’s what to keep in mind when you’re on the trek to find cheap boat insurance in Washington<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Common Exclusions to Boat Insurance<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
There are four basic exclusions to know about. Also, be sure to ask your agent. They can guide you in the right direction on these common marine insurance exclusions: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Wear and tear<\/strong>: Your craft getting old and rusty? A regular policy isn’t gonna give it a makeover. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Lack of maintenance<\/strong>: If you ignore a leaky hull until your sailboat becomes an accidental submarine, that’s on you. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Racing and stunts<\/strong>: Full coverage doesn’t mean Fast & Furious: Lake Edition is a good idea. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- War, nuclear hazards, and sea monsters<\/strong>: Seriously. These are all in real policies. Sea monsters are not covered. Neither are alien invasions or nuclear reactions. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
How to Fill Coverage Gaps with Add-ons<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Want more peace of mind? You can even get some protection for pollution liability if your vehicle leaks fuel. That’s right. This type of product is eco-conscious now. You can add extras to your policy like: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Towing & assistance<\/strong>: If your engine dies in the middle of Lake Union, a rescue vehicle can tow you without draining your wallet. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Fishing equipment protection<\/strong>: Got expensive gear? Cover it. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Personal effects<\/strong>: Phones, coolers, designer sunglasses; whatever you bring aboard might need separate protection. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Factors That Influence Your Boat Insurance Coverage<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
OK, so it’s time to figure out what makes sense for your specific <\/em>situation in the Pacific Northwest. When you’re deciding on what to cover (and how much), you should ask yourself a few key questions. Here’s what to consider when exploring the uncharted waters of boat insurance<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Boat Type, Age, and Usage<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you’ve got a brand-new powerboat, it’s gonna cost more to insure than your grandma’s old canoe with duct tape on the side. Also, using your craft every weekend for crab fishing in the Sound? Higher risk than someone who only takes their craft out once a year for Fourth of July fireworks (and possibly regrets it). <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Location and Seasonal Risk Considerations<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Washington’s weather is famously moist. Rain, wind, and seasonal storms can all increase your risk and your premiums. Storing your watercraft safely in the off-season can sometimes score you a discount, though. That’s why where and when you go matter just as much as how you take your vessel out. And yes, insurance companies know about “boating season.” No hiding behind cloudy days. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Protect Your Boat with the Right Coverage Today<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
You wouldn’t head out into Puget Sound without a life vest, right? So don’t take your vessel out there without solid insurance, either. Whether you’re into fishing, sailing, waterskiing, or just floating around with a sandwich, the right full coverage policy keeps your ride safe. Ready to cruise with confidence? Give Vern Fonk Insurance a call at (800) 455-8276<\/a>, get a quote online<\/a>, or visit one of our many offices in Washington<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
You’ll float better knowing you’re covered \u2026 unless you’re on a submarine, in which case we have questions. See you soon. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n
- Personal effects<\/strong>: Phones, coolers, designer sunglasses; whatever you bring aboard might need separate protection. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Fishing equipment protection<\/strong>: Got expensive gear? Cover it. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Towing & assistance<\/strong>: If your engine dies in the middle of Lake Union, a rescue vehicle can tow you without draining your wallet. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- War, nuclear hazards, and sea monsters<\/strong>: Seriously. These are all in real policies. Sea monsters are not covered. Neither are alien invasions or nuclear reactions. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Racing and stunts<\/strong>: Full coverage doesn’t mean Fast & Furious: Lake Edition is a good idea. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Lack of maintenance<\/strong>: If you ignore a leaky hull until your sailboat becomes an accidental submarine, that’s on you. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Wear and tear<\/strong>: Your craft getting old and rusty? A regular policy isn’t gonna give it a makeover. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Comprehensive coverage<\/strong>: This one’s for all the other stuff, like fire, theft, vandalism, and storm damage. If a tree falls on your watercraft during a classic Washington windstorm, this kind of comprehensive boat insurance saves the day. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n