Written in partnership with MD Marine: Being Confident with your Boat Insurance!
June 12, 2025
Your guide to a worry-free summer on the water.
From the Great Lakes to the Maritimes and the stunning coastline of British Columbia, summer boating in Canada offers breathtaking experiences. Before setting sail, ensuring your boat insurance is up to date is crucial. The right coverage protects your investment and allows you to enjoy your time on the water with peace of mind.
Check your coverage before you go
Imagine this: you’re gearing up for a weekend on the lake, the sun is shining, and your boat is ready to go. But then, an unexpected issue arises—your boat won’t start, or worse, you find yourself stranded in the middle of the water. Without proper coverage, situations like these can quickly turn a relaxing trip into a stressful ordeal. That’s why it’s essential to review your boat policy before you get on the water.
Boat insurance costs vary based on your vessel and travel plans, so reviewing your policy beforehand ensures a worry-free experience.
Emergency on-water services: a safety net when you need it
Breakdowns happen when you least expect them. Having Emergency On-Water Services Coverage means you have access to help when you need it most—without the added worry of costly repairs or towing fees. Coverage typically includes:
- Towing back to the nearest marina or repair facility
- Fuel delivery, covering both the service and the fuel cost.
- Emergency labour at the site of disablement.
Best of all, using these services doesn’t count as a claim or require a deductible, giving you added peace of mind.
Loss of Use Coverage: keeping your summer plans Intact
You’ve planned a perfect weekend on the water, only to have your boat in for repairs after an approved claim. Without a boat, those plans can quickly fizzle.
That’s where Loss of Use Coverage comes in. Depending on your provider, this coverage can help you rent a boat while yours is being repaired so you can keep your adventures on track.
Note that this coverage may be increased for a higher limit of coverage, contact your broker for further details.
Additional coverage to consider
Beyond the essentials, boat insurance providers offer various coverage options that could provide additional protection based on your needs. Some noteworthy options include:
• Vermin protection
• Theft coverage
• Agreed value coverage
• Personal effects coverage
• Additional expenses
• Claims handling support
• Pet coverage
• Liability coverage
What you need before calling your insurance provider
Getting your boat insured should be simple. Have the following details ready when speaking to your provider:
- Year, make, and model of your boat
- Serial numbers for boat, motor, and trailer
- Purchase price and bill of sale (if applying for Guaranteed Replacement Cost coverage)
- Recent out-of-water marine survey (for boats over 20 years old, over 30 feet, or valued at $50,000+.
- Key questions about your policy, such as:
- Is my trailer covered?
- Are my personal belongings covered in case of theft or an accident?
- Am I covered if I hit a rock?
- Am I covered for tubing, wake surfing, or water skiing?
A quick call to your provider ensures you have the right protection in place.
Enjoy the water with confidence
By reviewing your coverage, understanding your policy, and prioritizing safety, you’ll be fully prepared for an unforgettable summer on Canada’s waterways.
At MD Marine, we make boat insurance easy with a client portal for 24/7 access to policy documents, in-house claims specialists, and coast-to-coast business hours. Ensure your policy meets your needs—reach out to your provider and confirm your coverage today.
For questions or to secure the best protection, contact MD Marine at 877-627-4633. Let’s make sure you’re ready for a great season on the water!
https://mdmarine.ca/md-advantage
