Boat ownership is popular across Missouri and Arkansas, but being on the water comes with real risk. Whether you enjoy lakes, rivers, or reservoirs, having the right boat insurance helps protect both your investment and your liability exposure.
Many boat owners assume their homeowners policy will fully protect their watercraft. In reality, coverage is often limited—and may not apply once your boat leaves your property.
What Does Boat Insurance Cover?
A dedicated boat insurance policy typically provides protection for:
- Physical damage to your boat’s hull, motor, and permanently attached equipment
- Theft and vandalism
- Liability coverage for bodily injury or property damage
- Medical payments coverage
- Uninsured or underinsured boater coverage
- Towing and on-water assistance
- Coverage for fishing gear, electronics, and trailers
Liability coverage is especially important. Accidents on the water can involve other boats, docks, swimmers, or passengers—and lawsuits can be expensive.
Why Homeowners Insurance May Not Be Enough
Many homeowners policies provide only limited coverage for small boats and may:
- Cap coverage at a low dollar amount
- Exclude certain types of watercraft
- Provide limited or no liability protection
- Exclude coverage once the boat leaves your property
If you regularly trailer your boat, store it offsite, or use it frequently, relying solely on a homeowners policy can create significant gaps.
Mandatory Boat Safety Equipment Checklist
In Missouri and Arkansas, boaters are required to carry specific safety equipment. Requirements can vary based on boat type and length, but commonly required items include:
✅ Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)
- One U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket for each person on board
- Proper size and accessible (not sealed in storage)
✅ Throwable Flotation Device
- Required for boats 16 feet or longer (Type IV device such as a cushion or ring buoy)
✅ Fire Extinguisher
- Required for most motorized vessels
- Must be properly charged and easily accessible
✅ Sound-Producing Device
- Whistle or horn capable of producing an audible signal
✅ Navigation Lights
- Required when operating between sunset and sunrise or during reduced visibility
✅ Registration & Displayed Numbers
- Proper state registration and validation stickers
Additional requirements may apply depending on vessel size, fuel type, and usage. Always review current boating regulations before heading out.
Match Your Insurance to How You Boat
Coverage needs vary depending on:
- Boat size and horsepower
- Freshwater vs. larger bodies of water
- Frequency of use
- Storage location
- Passenger capacity
For boat owners in Missouri and Arkansas, reviewing your insurance before boating season begins is one of the smartest steps you can take. A properly structured boat policy helps protect your watercraft, your passengers, and your financial future.
Before your next day on the water, make sure your boat—and your insurance coverage—are ready to go. 🚤