For many Hays County residents, summer isn’t complete without a few weekends spent on the cool, clear water of Canyon Lake. A boat is your ticket to fun and making memories, but it’s also a significant investment that comes with unique risks. Many new boat owners are surprised to learn that their homeowners policy offers little to no coverage for their watercraft.

A specialized boat insurance policy is essential to protect your vessel, your passengers, and your finances. Here are the key coverages every boat owner should understand.

1. Liability Coverage

On a busy weekend, the lake can be as crowded as I-35. If you’re involved in an accident that causes injury to another person or damages their boat or dock, liability coverage is your financial protection. It can cover everything from the other party's medical bills to their boat repair costs, protecting you from a devastating lawsuit.

2. Physical Damage Coverage

This is the part of the policy that protects your boat itself. It’s typically broken into two parts:

• Collision: Covers damage to your boat from a collision with another boat, a submerged object, or a dock.
• Comprehensive: Pays for non-collision damage, including things like theft, vandalism, fire, or storm damage.

3. Uninsured Watercraft Coverage

Just as Texas has a high rate of uninsured drivers on the road, many boaters on the water may not have insurance. If you or your passengers are injured by an uninsured boater, this vital coverage helps pay for 

your medical expenses.

4. Essential Add-Ons for Peace of Mind

Beyond the basics, you can tailor your policy to your lifestyle:

• On-Water Towing: If you have a dead battery or engine trouble on the water, this works like roadside assistance to get you back to the dock.
• Personal Effects: Covers the personal belongings you bring on your boat, like coolers, water skis, and fishing gear.
• Wreckage Removal: Helps cover the costly and often legally required process of removing your boat from the water if it sinks.

Enjoy the Water Worry-Free

Your boat is for relaxation, not for worrying about what-ifs. As your local independent agency, we can help you find the right boat insurance policy to make sure you don’t have any gaps in your coverage.

Give San Marcos Insurance Agency a call today before you head to the lake. A quick chat can ensure your good time is protected!