PWC Insurance in Florida: What You Should Know

What Are Florida’s PWC Insurance Laws?

Florida does not legally require personal watercraft (PWC) insurance to operate your Jet Ski, Sea-Doo, or WaveRunner. However, due to Florida’s year-round boating season and high accident rates, many marinas, lenders, and rental facilities require proof of coverage. Even if it’s not mandated by law, insurance is highly recommended to protect yourself from liability, medical costs, theft, and storm-related damage.

What Are Florida’s Minimum PWC Insurance Requirements?

There are no state-mandated minimum insurance requirements for personal watercraft in Florida. That said, marinas often require liability coverage, and lenders usually mandate full coverage for financed PWCs. You may also need insurance to participate in organized watercraft events or to qualify for certain docking or storage arrangements.

How Much Is PWC Insurance in Florida?

Because Florida has high boating activity and weather-related risk, PWC insurance premiums tend to be higher than the national average. Here’s what you can expect depending on provider and coverage:

• Basic liability coverage: Starts around $125–$175 annually
• Extensive coverage: Typically ranges between $250–$600 per year

Premiums are higher in coastal regions due to exposure to hurricanes, saltwater corrosion, and theft risk.

How Do I Lower My PWC Insurance in Florida?

You can lower your premium by making a few smart choices:

• Choose a higher deductible to lower your monthly premium
• Store your PWC in a secure location such as a garage or covered marina
• Avoid high-risk activity like racing or trick riding (often excluded from coverage)
• Ask about bundling or multi-unit discounts if you own multiple watercraft

Remaining claim-free and choosing seasonal lay-up options during off-use months can also help reduce long-term costs.

Additional Requirements: Are You Leasing?

If you’re leasing or financing a PWC, your lender will almost certainly require extended coverage, including:

• Collision coverage – May pay for damage from crashes
• Comprehensive coverage – May cover theft, vandalism, fire, and weather-related losses

Keep in mind that different lenders may have their own specific insurance requirements beyond standard coverage. Some may ask for proof of policy before releasing funds, and others might require higher liability limits or additional protections. If your PWC is brand new or tends to depreciate quickly, consider asking about GAP coverage—this optional add-on can help pay off the remaining balance on your loan if your watercraft is totaled and its actual value falls short.

How to Get PWC Insurance in Florida

Getting covered is simple and fast. You can buy a PWC insurance policy:

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

Be ready with your watercraft’s make, model, year, VIN/HIN, and usage info.

Florida Registration Information

All motorized watercraft in Florida must be titled and registered with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). Registration is valid for one or two years and must be renewed on time to remain active.

You’ll need proof of ownership, a completed application, payment of registration fees, and a bill of sale. Registration decals must be displayed on both sides of the PWC.

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

Your location in Florida can significantly affect your premium and coverage needs:

• South Florida (Miami, Fort Lauderdale): Higher rates due to storm exposure, theft, and saltwater corrosion
• Central Florida Lakes: Lower rates with fewer environmental risks
• Panhandle Region: Varies based on seasonal storms and local marina requirements

Marina rules and coverage recommendations may also vary depending on whether you're in a tourist-heavy or residential boating zone.