Sail Away Protected with Western's Boat Insurance

Stephanie Pasmans, Assistant Manager, Underwriting for National Insurance Operations in Victoria, explains the advantages of Western’s boat insurance and how it protects boaters.
Why should boaters get their boat insurance from Western Financial Group?
Western’s boat insurance provides tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of our customers. We are committed to delivering great customer experience through streamlined processes and an easy claims service, ensuring smooth and hassle-free interactions. With our customer-centric approach, transparency, and continuous improvement, we offer a reliable and innovative choice for boat insurance coverage.
What are the coverage advantages for boaters when they get a boat insurance policy with Western?
Western's boat insurance covers damage to your boat and its equipment. It also covers legal costs if you hurt someone or damage their property while using your boat. Medical costs for injuries to you or your passengers are covered, no matter who is at fault. If you have an accident with another boater who doesn't have enough insurance, you're protected. You also get help if your boat breaks down, like towing and fuel delivery. Plus, it covers personal items like fishing gear and safety equipment.
If you get a boat insurance policy from Western, does it include coverage for lightning, wind, fire, theft, and hail damage?
Yes, these types of damage are included in the physical damage coverage of the policy. It's important to review your specific policy details to understand the coverage limits and any exclusions that may apply.
Let’s say that squirrels have damaged my boat over the winter. Does Western offer boat policies with rodent coverage?
Yes, rodent damage is covered under Western's boat policies. However, it's important to note that if the boat is not properly maintained or winterized, a claim for such damage could be declined.
Is my pet covered under a boat policy with Western?
Yes, Western's boat insurance includes coverage for your pet. If your pet dies due to a boat accident, the policy provides a $1,000 accidental death benefit.
What do you tell people when they say their home insurance covers their boat?
While home insurance might offer some coverage for your boat, it's advisable to get a dedicated boat insurance policy for increased protection. Home policies can have limited coverage, usage allowances, and may not cover certain risks specific to boating such as protection for wreck removal, fuel leaks, and rescue if your boat breaks down.
Is a boater’s trailer covered under their boat policy with Western?
Yes, but you need to add it to your policy. Boat insurance typically offers more comprehensive coverage for the trailer itself, which can be crucial if your trailer is valuable or if you have invested in high-quality equipment. When added, a boat policy also covers your trailer even when it's not attached to the towing vehicle and offers bundling benefits, making it more cost-effective and convenient.
What happens if a boater with no boat insurance hits, damages my boat, and injures one of my passengers? How does Western cover that?
If a boater without insurance hits and damages your boat and injures one of your passengers, your boat insurance can help cover the costs through uninsured/underinsured boater coverage and personal injury protection. Having comprehensive boat insurance ensures you are protected in such situations.
What’s an all-risk boat policy?
An all-risk boat policy provides comprehensive coverage for a wide range of potential losses, except those specifically excluded in the policy. It is important to review the policy details to understand any exclusions or limitations.
What are typical exclusions in boat insurance? What coverages are optional in boat insurance?
Common exclusions include wear and tear, infestations of marine life, mechanical failures, unauthorized operators, racing, and geographic limits. Optional coverages can be added, such as a boat trailer, other additional equipment such as an auxiliary outboard, tenders and dinghies, and fishing equipment.
Why is liability insurance so important for boaters?
Liability insurance protects you financially if you cause an accident that injures someone or damages property. It covers medical bills, legal fees, and repair costs, so you don't have to pay out of pocket.
Western’s boat insurance experts will get you boat insurance that protects you, your passengers, and your boat.