Boating is a recreation enjoyed by many and most people purchase boats for other recreations such as fishing or just lounging around the lake on a hot summer day; however, the recreation of boating is not immediately fun and games. You must also take responsibility for your boat and protect yourself and others, by purchasing an insurance policy for your boat.

Insurance companies vary when it come to the kinds of coverage they offer with their difference types of insurance policies, whether you are purchasing an insurance policy for your car or your boat. Because of these variations, shopping for an insurance policy for anything can be a very confusing process. When it comes to boats, though, there are four basic coverage options you should consider when you start browsing and shopping for the different insurance policies available for your boat, regardless of the variations,

Look for an insurance company that offers you an insurance policy for your boat that –

• Covers property damages to your boat. Maybe your boat becomes vandalized and covered in graffiti. Maybe your mast gets struck by lightening. Make sure your boat’s insurance policy covers these repairs.

• Provides liability coverage in the event that your boat causes damage due to your negligent operation and/or ownership.

• Covers the medical costs of anyone injured on your boat, or because of your boat.

• Offers uninsured coverage in the even that you, your passengers, and/or your boat sustain damages from another boat that is not insured.

Remember, just because you use your boat for recreation and enjoyment does not mean that accidents will not happen. Whether your boat provides family recreation or a personal getaway, make sure to purchase an insurance policy for your boat that will cover all four of the above situations before you hit the water; that way, you can enjoy yourself knowing you and your boat are protected after you set sail.