Mississippi Boat Insurance 101

Boat InsuranceWhether you own a pontoon boat to float down the river on weekends or a fishing boat that helps you bring home dinner for the family, it’s important to protect your watercraft. Keep your boating passion afloat by learning more about Mississippi boat insurance requirements, coverage, and cost considerations. Additionally, please reach out to Hawsey insurance agents with any questions you may have regarding your current boat insurance policy.

Does Mississippi Require Boat Insurance?

Mississippi law doesn’t mandate boat insurance. However, many boat owners purchase their vessel on loan. In this case, your creditor will probably require you to maintain insurance coverage on your jet skis, pontoon, or motorboat. Do you store your boat in a boatyard or marina? If so, you may have to carry a minimum amount of coverage.

Besides requirements by third parties, it makes sense to invest in boat insurance in Mississippi. With unpredictable weather becoming more frequent, insurance coverage can serve as your port in a storm. Chances are, you’ve saved up for years to buy your vessel. Don’t let a single storm or freak accident wash away all the time and money you’ve put into your boat.

Types of Watercrafts Covered

At Hawsey Insurance, our independent agents will help you find the best coverage for your boat. Typically, the same policy can cover several types of watercrafts including the following:

  • Jet Skis
  • Pontoon boats
  • Sailboats
  • Fishing boats
  • Bass boats
  • Bay Boats
  • Ski boats

If you have an unusual craft or would like to come in for a face-to-face discussion, make an appointment at any of our three offices in Jackson, Southaven, and Madison, MS.

Damages Covered by Boat Insurance

Boat insurance typically covers physical damage, watercraft liability, and medical payments in the case of an accident or injury. With the right insurance policy, you can receive reimbursement in case of damage to your boat, equipment, or trailer. It’s important to work with your agent to ensure that all the things you want covered are listed on the declaration page.
Watercraft liability protects you from property damage or bodily injury if you cause an accident or other incident while operating your boat. Similar to auto insurance, boat insurance helps to cover payments for necessary medical care incurred due to injury in a watercraft accident.

How High Are Boat Insurance Premiums?

As you may have guessed, the cost of boat insurance in Mississippi varies widely depending on the type of craft you have, the age of your boat, and how you use and store your vessel. For example, a luxury cruiser costs a lot more to insure than a modest pontoon boat. Storing your boat in a marina or protected harbor can positively impact your insurance premiums. Additionally, using your boat less frequently may result in lower rates.

Get a free quote online today!

Optional Coverage

There are several options available to expand your boat insurance in Mississippi. Your insurance agent can help you draft the appropriate endorsement to cover the following options, if available:

  • On and off water towing
  • Personal property coverage
  • Protection for your valuable fishing equipment, jet skis, and other items

Contact Hawsey Insurance online or give us a call at 601-856-7707 to find out more about the benefits of boat insurance in Mississippi. We serve clients throughout the state of Mississippi and surrounding states.