Boat Insurance in Alaska: What You Should Know

What Are Alaska’s Boat Insurance Laws?

Alaska does not legally require boat insurance for private use. However, if you’re financing your boat or storing it at a marina, insurance may be mandatory. Given Alaska’s vast and often remote waterways, unpredictable weather, and cold-water risks, boat insurance is strongly recommended for any vessel—especially for offshore or extended trips.

What Are Alaska’s Minimum Boat Insurance Requirements?

There are no state-mandated minimums for boat insurance in Alaska. That said, marinas or lenders may require:

• Liability coverage to help pay for injury or damage caused to others
• Hull coverage for damage to your boat

Even if not required, having coverage can protect you from major financial loss due to accidents, collisions, or environmental hazards like ice and storms.

How Much Is Boat Insurance in Alaska?

Alaska’s boat insurance premiums are influenced by vessel size, value, seasonal use, and saltwater exposure. Here’s a general range:

• Small boats (under 26 feet): $200–$400 annually for basic liability
• Larger vessels or commercial fishing boats: $500–$2,000+ annually, depending on usage

Saltwater use, winter storage risks, and emergency rescue access all contribute to higher rates in some areas.

How Do I Lower My Boat Insurance in Alaska?

You can reduce your premium through a few key strategies:

• Increase your deductible to bring down your premium
• Take a state-approved boater safety course—some insurers may offer a discount
• Store your boat securely in a climate-protected or locked facility
• Avoid high-risk use like commercial charters, racing, or long-range open water routes—these are often excluded from standard coverage
• Bundle your boat policy with home, auto, or umbrella policies for potential savings

Additional Requirements: Are You Financing a Boat?

If your boat is financed, your lender will almost always require extended coverage. That often includes:

• Agreed value or actual cash value hull coverage (Agreed value pays a fixed amount if totaled; actual cash value accounts for depreciation)
• Comprehensive and collision protection
• Liability insurance

Some lenders may also require specialty coverage such as fuel spill liability, salvage, towing, or emergency service reimbursement.

How to Get Boat Insurance in Alaska

You can easily get covered through a licensed insurer. Here’s how:

• Call us directly at (1-877-240-4678)
• Get a free, fast online quote through our portal

Be prepared to provide your boat’s make, model, hull ID, year, storage location, and whether you use the vessel on saltwater, freshwater, or both.

Alaska Boat Registration Information

All powered boats and sailboats over 10 feet must be registered with the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Registration is valid for three years. Decals must be placed visibly on both sides of the hull.

You’ll need proof of ownership (bill of sale or title), a completed application, payment, and a hull identification number (HIN) to register your vessel.

How Does Boat Insurance Differ Depending on Where I Live in Alaska?

Alaska’s diverse geography can lead to varying coverage needs and pricing:

• Coastal Areas (e.g., Anchorage, Juneau): Higher premiums due to saltwater use, weather exposure, and marina access
• Inland Lakes or Rivers: Lower rates, especially for seasonal use or dry storage
• Remote or Off-Grid Regions: Higher premiums for emergency access, towing, or limited service providers

Be sure to align your policy with your location and whether you operate in protected waters, offshore routes, or seasonal lakes.