Boat Insurance in Florida: What You Should Know

What Are Florida’s Boat Insurance Laws?

Florida does not require boat insurance by law for recreational use. However, due to the state’s high boating activity, tropical weather risks, and marina density, insurance is often required by lenders, marinas, and storage facilities. Even when it’s not mandatory, having a policy can protect you from major losses related to theft, weather, liability, or accidents on the water.

What Are Florida’s Minimum Boat Insurance Requirements?

Florida has no state-mandated minimum boat insurance requirements. However, if you dock at a marina or finance your boat, you’ll likely be required to carry:

• Liability insurance for bodily injury or property damage to others
• Hull insurance to protect against physical damage to your vessel

In high-traffic boating areas, coverage for uninsured boaters, salvage, and fuel spills may also be strongly recommended or required by facility operators.

How Much Is Boat Insurance in Florida?

Florida boat insurance rates tend to be higher than the national average due to year-round use, storm exposure, and saltwater risks. Here’s a general pricing range:

• Small boats (under 26 feet): $250–$500 annually for basic coverage
• Larger vessels or coastal cruisers: $600–$2,000+ annually depending on value, size, and mooring location

Boats stored in hurricane-prone areas or used offshore may face increased premiums due to elevated exposure risks.

How Do I Lower My Boat Insurance in Florida?

You can lower your premium by taking advantage of discounts and reducing risk:

• Choose a higher deductible to lower your annual cost
• Store your boat in a hurricane-rated dry dock or secure marina
• Avoid high-risk uses like offshore racing, commercial activity, or chartering—these are often excluded from standard policies

Additional Requirements: Are You Financing a Boat?

If your boat is financed, your lender will most likely require extended coverage, which typically includes:

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

Some lenders may also require you to carry additional coverage for salvage, towing, fuel spills, or emergency haul-out during hurricane warnings.

How to Get Boat Insurance in Florida

Getting boat insurance in Florida is easy and can usually be done online or over the phone. You can:

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

Have details ready, including the boat’s make, model, year, hull ID, mooring location, and how often you use it.

Florida Boat Registration Information

All motorized vessels operated in Florida waters must be titled and registered through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). Registration must be renewed annually or biennially, depending on your preference.

To register, you’ll need proof of ownership, a completed application, payment of fees, and a valid hull identification number (HIN). Decals must be clearly displayed on both sides of the boat.

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

Location significantly affects your premium and policy type:

• South Florida (e.g., Miami, Fort Lauderdale): Higher rates due to year-round use, saltwater exposure, and storm risk
• Central Florida Lakes: Moderate premiums, often with fewer hurricane-related coverage needs
• Florida Panhandle: Variable rates depending on hurricane exposure and marina location

Many marinas and yacht clubs require a certificate of insurance each year to maintain access to slips or facilities.