Sam SmithFlorida is a boater’s paradise—with over 8,000 miles of shoreline, countless lakes, and year-round sunshine. But with paradise comes risk: hurricanes, crowded waterways, and costly salvage laws make boat insurance not just smart—but essential.
Unlike gardens or boardwalks, boat insurance isn’t one-size-fits-all. The “best” provider depends on your boat type, usage, location, and budget. That’s why this guide skips generic rankings and instead offers a curated list of top-rated insurers, grouped by their strengths, followed by a Florida-specific checklist to help you choose the right policy.
Top-Rated Boat Insurance Providers in Florida
1. BoatUS (underwritten by GEICO)
BoatUS is a leading name in marine insurance, offering specialized coverage tailored to recreational boaters. Backed by GEICO’s financial strength, it provides agreed value policies, on-water towing, fuel spill liability, and salvage coverage. Members also benefit from discounts, advocacy, and access to BoatUS services like marina listings and safety resources. With a strong reputation for claims handling and customer service, BoatUS is ideal for Florida boaters who want comprehensive protection and peace of mind on the water—especially those who frequently cruise, fish, or travel offshore.
2. Progressive
Progressive is one of the most popular insurers for boaters in Florida, known for its competitive pricing and customizable policies. It offers coverage for a wide range of watercraft, from small fishing boats to yachts, with options like total loss replacement, roadside and on-water assistance, and personal effects protection. Progressive’s online quote tools and bundling discounts make it a convenient choice for those who already insure their home or auto with the company. Its strong financial backing and responsive claims service make it a reliable option for both new and experienced boaters.
3. GEICO Marine Insurance
GEICO Marine, formerly Seaworthy Insurance, offers boat insurance through a partnership with BoatUS. It provides specialized marine coverage, including agreed value policies, liability protection, and emergency towing. GEICO’s user-friendly online platform makes it easy to get quotes and manage policies, while its affiliation with BoatUS adds value through member benefits and marine expertise. With strong financial ratings and a reputation for efficient claims service, GEICO Marine is a solid choice for Florida boaters seeking affordable, dependable coverage tailored to their specific vessel and usage.
4. Allstate
Allstate offers boat insurance with the convenience of local agents and the flexibility of customizable policies. Coverage options include liability, collision, comprehensive, and optional add-ons like towing, fishing equipment, and uninsured boater protection. Florida boaters benefit from Allstate’s bundling discounts when combining boat insurance with home or auto policies. The company’s strong customer service and claims support make it a dependable choice, especially for those who prefer working with a dedicated agent who understands the local boating environment and can tailor coverage accordingly.
5. State Farm
State Farm provides reliable boat insurance backed by a vast network of local agents across Florida. Policies can include liability, medical payments, wreck removal, and optional coverage for fishing gear and trailers. Known for its personalized service, State Farm is a great option for boaters who value face-to-face support and the ability to bundle with other policies. Its financial strength and responsive claims process make it a trusted provider, particularly for families and recreational boaters looking for straightforward, comprehensive protection on Florida’s busy waterways.
6. Chubb
Chubb is a premier insurer for high-value yachts and luxury watercraft, offering tailored coverage with high limits and global navigation options. Its policies include agreed value coverage, liability, crew coverage, and protection for fine art, electronics, and tenders. Chubb is known for its white-glove service, risk management expertise, and fast, fair claims handling. For Florida yacht owners who demand elite protection and personalized attention, Chubb delivers peace of mind and exceptional service—especially for vessels that travel internationally or require complex underwriting.
7. Markel
Markel is a specialty insurer with deep expertise in marine insurance, offering flexible policies for boats, yachts, and personal watercraft. Coverage includes agreed value, liability, medical payments, and optional endorsements for fishing gear, trailers, and towing. Markel is known for insuring unique or higher-risk vessels, including older boats or those with prior claims. Florida boaters appreciate its tailored underwriting and willingness to cover situations that mainstream insurers may decline. With a strong reputation for customer service and claims support, Markel is a go-to for specialized marine coverage.
8. National Marine Underwriters
National Marine Underwriters specializes in boat and yacht insurance, offering policies designed for recreational and commercial vessels. Coverage includes hull protection, liability, towing, and personal effects. Known for its knowledgeable underwriters and marine focus, NMU works with independent agents to craft policies that suit each boater’s needs. Florida boaters benefit from its experience with hurricane-prone regions and complex risk profiles. NMU is a strong choice for those seeking personalized service and comprehensive protection for their vessel, whether docked locally or cruising offshore.
9. AVEMCO (now part of Markel)
AVEMCO, now under the Markel umbrella, offers direct-to-consumer boat insurance with fixed premiums and simplified underwriting. It’s ideal for boaters who prefer to manage their policies without going through agents. AVEMCO provides essential coverages like liability, hull protection, and medical payments, with optional add-ons for towing and personal effects. While it may not offer the most extensive customization, its straightforward approach and transparent pricing appeal to Florida boaters seeking quick, reliable coverage for smaller or mid-sized vessels.
10. Marine Underwriters Agency
Marine Underwriters Agency is a specialty wholesaler focused exclusively on marine insurance. It partners with agents and brokers to place coverage for boats, yachts, and personal watercraft, including hard-to-insure or high-risk vessels. Coverage options include hull, liability, towing, and pollution liability. Florida boaters with unique needs—such as older boats, liveaboards, or vessels with prior claims—often turn to MUA for access to niche markets. Its marine-only focus ensures knowledgeable underwriting and tailored solutions for complex or non-standard risks.
Major National Specialists
These companies dominate the market with strong reputations, broad coverage, and digital convenience.
| Provider | Strengths |
|---|---|
| BoatUS (GEICO) | Agreed value policies, towing coverage, backed by GEICO’s financial strength |
| Progressive | Competitive rates, online tools, bundling discounts |
| GEICO Marine | Easy quotes, solid coverage, strong claims reputation |
| Allstate | Personalized service via local agents, bundling options |
| State Farm | Reliable coverage, strong agent network, good for multi-policy discounts |
Specialty & High-Value Yacht Insurers
Ideal for yachts, custom vessels, or complex coverage needs.
| Provider | Strengths |
|---|---|
| Chubb | High-limit coverage, elite service for luxury vessels |
| Markel | Deep marine expertise, flexible policies |
| Global Marine Insurance | Strong service, tailored yacht coverage |
| United Marine Underwriters | Dedicated marine focus, good for unique boats |
| SkiSafe | Great for jet skis, speedboats, and performance craft |
Florida-Focused & Regional Carriers
These companies understand Florida’s unique risks—especially hurricanes and coastal exposure.
| Provider | Strengths |
|---|---|
| Tower Hill | Florida-based, strong storm coverage |
| Florida Peninsula | Regional expertise, often available through agents |
| Frontline Insurance | Coastal focus, good for bundling with home insurance |
| ASI (Progressive) | Florida presence, backed by Progressive |
Providers for Unique or Higher-Risk Situations
Good for older boats, unusual watercraft, or hard-to-insure cases.
| Provider | Strengths |
|---|---|
| Foremost (Farmers) | Covers older boats, flexible underwriting |
| NBOA Marine | Member-based policies, partners with top marine insurers |
| Marine Underwriters Agency | Wholesale broker, places complex risks with specialty markets |
Florida Boat Insurance Checklist
Before you buy, make sure your policy includes these critical protections:
Must-Have Coverages
- Agreed Value Hull Coverage – Full payout for total loss, not depreciated value.
- Liability Coverage – Protects against injury or damage to others; aim for $500K–$1M.
- Uninsured Boater Coverage – Covers injuries from uninsured or underinsured boaters.
- Wreck Removal & Pollution Liability – Required by Florida law if your boat sinks or leaks fuel.
- Emergency Towing & Assistance – Covers towing, fuel delivery, and soft un-grounding.
- Personal Effects & Fishing Gear – Protects your onboard electronics, rods, and reels.
Florida-Specific Clauses to Watch
- Named Storm Deductible – Often 5–10% of hull value. Know this number.
- Storm Prep Requirements – Some policies require relocation during hurricane warnings.
- Navigation Limits – Make sure your policy covers trips to the Keys, Bahamas, or Gulf.
- Exclusions for Ice/Freezing – Less relevant in Florida, but still worth checking.
How to Find Your Best Policy
- Start with Quotes – Use Progressive, GEICO Marine, and SkiSafe for fast online estimates.
- Consult an Independent Agent – They can shop multiple carriers and explain fine print.
- Compare Apples-to-Apples – Match deductibles, limits, and coverage types across quotes.
- Check Financial Ratings – Use A.M. Best or S&P to confirm insurer stability.
- Read Claims Reviews – Focus on how companies handle real losses—not just price.
Closing: Protect Your Boat, Your Wallet, and Your Peace of Mind
Florida’s waters are stunning—but unpredictable. From hurricanes to crowded marinas, the risks are real. The right insurance policy isn’t just about compliance—it’s about confidence. With this guide, you’re equipped to choose a provider that understands Florida’s unique boating landscape and offers coverage that truly protects you.
So whether you’re cruising the Intracoastal, fishing the Gulf, or island-hopping to the Bahamas, make sure your boat is backed by a policy that’s seaworthy, storm-ready, and tailored to your journey.