Does Boat Insurance Cover Towing or Salvage?

If your boat breaks down or ends up stranded, the costs of getting it back to shore or removing it after an accident can be steep. Many boat owners assume towing and salvage are automatically included in their insurance — but that’s not always the case.

Boat insurance coverage for towing and salvage varies by insurer, policy type, and location. Understanding the difference between these services, and when they may be covered, can help you avoid unexpected bills.

Towing vs. Salvage: What’s the Difference?

Towing

Marine towing refers to moving your disabled boat from the water to a safe harbor or dock. Common reasons include mechanical failure, dead batteries, or running out of fuel.

Salvage

Salvage is the process of recovering a boat that has sunk, run aground, or otherwise needs removal to prevent damage to property or the environment. This is typically a more complex — and more expensive — operation than towing.

How Boat Insurance May Cover Towing

Many standard boat insurance policies offer towing coverage, but it’s often an optional add-on.

Towing coverage may help pay for:

• On-water assistance for breakdowns
• Fuel delivery
• Jump-starts or battery replacements
• Transportation to the nearest repair facility

Important: Policies may set per-incident or annual maximums. Some insurers partner with towing service providers like TowBoatUS or Sea Tow.

How Boat Insurance May Cover Salvage

Salvage coverage is usually separate from towing and may be included in hull coverage. It can help pay for:

• Removing a stranded, grounded, or sunken boat
• Specialized equipment and crews
• Wreck removal required by law or harbor authorities

Because salvage operations can run into the tens of thousands of dollars, some insurers cover it up to the boat’s insured value, while others limit it to a percentage of that value.

Common Limitations to Know

• Not all situations qualify: Routine maintenance trips or moving a boat for convenience are typically not covered.
• Environmental liability: Fuel spill cleanup may be covered under a separate fuel spill or pollution liability endorsement.
• Geographic restrictions: Coverage may only apply within your navigation limits.
• Deductibles: You may need to pay your deductible before towing or salvage coverage applies.

How to Make Sure You’re Covered

1. Review your policy — Check if towing or salvage is included or if it’s an optional rider.
2. Confirm limits — Understand the dollar caps per incident and annually.
3. Know your navigation limits — Especially if boating offshore or in another country.
4. Consider memberships — Organizations like TowBoatUS can supplement insurance for frequent boaters.

Bottom Line

Boat insurance may cover towing and salvage, but terms vary widely. Towing is often an add-on, while salvage is usually tied to hull coverage. Understanding the difference — and your policy’s limits — can save you from big out-of-pocket costs when something goes wrong on the water.

‍Disclaimer: This article provides general information and is not legal or insurance advice. Coverage availability, terms, limits, and costs vary by insurer, policy, and location. Always confirm your specific coverage details with a licensed insurance provider before making decisions.