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If you own a boat, chances are you also own a trailer. It’s what gets your boat from the driveway to the launch ramp—and it’s just as exposed to damage, theft, and accidents as the boat itself.
But many boat owners don’t realize that trailers aren’t always automatically covered under a boat insurance policy. Coverage depends on how the policy is set up and what options you choose. Related protections are often optional as well, which is why this guide on boat insurance towing and salvage coverage is helpful when reviewing add-ons.
Here’s how trailer coverage typically works, and what to look for when reviewing your boat insurance.
Disclaimer: Boat insurance coverage varies by company and policy. The information below is general and may not reflect the exact features offered by your insurer. Always review your policy documents or speak with a licensed agent to understand your specific coverage.
In many cases, boat insurance can include coverage for your trailer, but it’s often:
Some policies include a small amount of automatic trailer coverage, while others require you to specifically list the trailer and select a coverage limit.
If the trailer isn’t listed or insured, damage or theft may not be covered.
Similar gaps can exist with other policies, which is explained in this comparison of boat insurance versus homeowners insurance.
When trailer coverage is added to a boat insurance policy, it may help protect against:
Coverage usually applies whether the trailer is attached to your vehicle, parked at home, or stored at a marina—depending on policy terms.
Even with trailer coverage in place, policies typically do not cover:
It’s also important to note that auto insurance generally does not cover boat trailers, except in very limited liability situations. Proper towing setup matters too, which is why this guide on choosing the right truck for towing your boat is worth reviewing. Physical damage to the trailer itself is usually excluded from auto policies.
In most cases, you don’t need a separate trailer policy if your boat insurance includes trailer coverage. However, this depends on:
Higher-value or custom trailers often benefit from being specifically insured to avoid low default limits.
Another driver clips your trailer while changing lanes, damaging the frame and lights.
Depending on how your policy is set up:
Without trailer coverage on the boat policy, you may be responsible for the repair costs.
Boat trailers are constantly exposed to risk—on highways, at launch ramps, in parking lots, and while stored. Storage choices can also affect risk, which is discussed in this article on where to store your boat in the off-season. Repair or replacement costs can add up quickly, especially for tandem-axle or specialty trailers.
Adding trailer coverage helps ensure that both your boat and the equipment that transports it are protected, not just the vessel itself.
Boat insurance doesn’t automatically cover every trailer—but coverage can be included when properly set up. Reviewing your policy and listing your trailer with the right limits can help prevent costly surprises.
Want to make sure your boat and trailer are properly protected?
Get a free boat insurance quote from Sun Coast General Insurance Agency today.
