Protect Your Boat with The Huneycutt Group
Boating along North Carolina’s beautiful coastlines, lakes, and rivers is a rewarding experience, but it comes with risks. At The Huneycutt Group, we understand the unique needs of boat owners in Wilmington, NC.
As an independent insurance agency in North Carolina, with over 50 years of combined experience, we’ve built solid relationships with dozens of insurance companies so that we can offer you the coverage you need at the best rate.
Whether you own a small fishing boat, a sailboat, or a luxury yacht, we offer tailored boat insurance solutions to protect your investment and give you peace of mind.
Our team of licensed insurance experts works with you to ensure your boat, passengers, and crew are well-covered, so you can enjoy the water without worry.
Why You Need Boat Insurance In North Carolina
Boat ownership comes with inherent risks, both on and off the water. Accidents, weather damage, theft, or liability from injuries are all potential hazards boaters face.
Boat insurance protects you financially in the event of an unforeseen incident, ensuring that repair costs or legal fees don’t come out of your pocket. Even if you’re an experienced boater, you can’t control every situation on the water, making proper coverage essential for peace of mind.
Whether you’re navigating the Cape Fear River or sailing offshore, the right policy safeguards your assets and keeps you focused on the joy of boating.
We have multiple carriers that continue to be competitive and often save our clients up to 40%. Call us today for a free auto quote!
Pro tip: While getting a good deal is important, prioritize getting the right coverage for your needs. Skimping on essential coverage to save a few bucks might leave you financially exposed in case of a serious boating accident.
What Does A Boat Insurance Policy Cover?
Boat insurance is designed to cover a range of scenarios to protect both your boat and the people who use it. Policies typically include:
Liability Coverage
This protects you in case you cause damage to other boats or property, or if someone gets injured while on your boat. It can also cover fuel spills.
Physical Damage
Covers repairs or replacement costs for your boat if it’s damaged in an accident or natural disaster.
Un/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
UM/UIM provides protection if you’re involved in an accident with a boater who doesn’t have sufficient insurance coverage.
Medical Payments
Provides coverage for medical bills if you or your passengers are injured while on the boat.
Theft and Vandalism
If your boat or equipment is stolen or vandalized, boat insurance helps cover the costs of replacement.
Specific coverage for outboard motor insurance, sailboat insurance, and yachts insurance ensures that no matter what type of boat you own, you’re protected.
What Boats Qualify for Coverage?
At The Huneycutt Group, we provide coverage for a wide variety of boats, including:
- Sailboats: From small, personal sailboats to larger vessels, sailboat insurance offers protection against damage and liability.
- Powerboats and motorboats: Outboard motor insurance helps cover your boat’s motor, one of the most valuable parts of the vessel.
- Yachts: Owning a yacht is a significant investment, and yachts insurance ensures that you have comprehensive coverage for all risks associated with operating a larger vessel.
- Fishing boats: Whether you’re an occasional fisherman or a professional, craft insurance ensures that your boat is protected while you’re out on the water.
No matter what type of boat you own, we work with you to customize a policy that fits your needs.
How Much Is Boat Insurance In North Carolina?
The cost of boat insurance in North Carolina depends on several factors, including the type of boat, its value, how often you use it, and your experience as a boater.
North Carolina is considered a medium-cost state when it comes to boat insurance costs. On average, it can range from $200 to $500 annually for smaller boats, while larger or more expensive vessels like yachts can see premiums exceeding $1,000 per year.
Additional coverage options, like power boat insurance or outboard motor insurance, may also influence the price.
At The Huneycutt Group, we help you find the best coverage that fits within your budget while ensuring you have adequate protection.
Does North Carolina Require Boat Insurance?
While North Carolina does not legally require boat owners to carry insurance, it’s highly recommended.
Boating accidents, whether involving property damage or personal injury, can lead to significant financial burdens. Boat insurance helps mitigate these risks and protects your assets.
Additionally, if you finance your boat or dock it at a marina, your lender or marina may require insurance as part of their agreements.
Having boat insurance not only ensures you’re covered in the event of an accident but also provides peace of mind while you’re enjoying the water.
Bundle Boat, Auto & Homeowners Insurance And Save
You’ve heard that bundling your auto insurance and home insurance can save you money. If you are looking to reduce your auto insurance rates, The Huneycutt Group can bundle your auto and home insurance together to save you even more.
Get Started Today
Contact The Huneycutt Group today for a personalized boat insurance quote. No matter what type of boat you’re cruising, we can help you find the right boat insurance in Wilmington, NC to protect your investment and keep you safe on the road.
North Carolina Boating Laws
If this is your first vessel and you’re just getting started being on the water, understanding local boating laws is essential for any boat owner in Wilmington, NC.
North Carolina requires anyone born on or after January 1, 1988, to complete a boater education course to operate a boat powered by a motor of 10 horsepower or greater. Additionally, all boats must be registered with the state, and specific safety equipment like life jackets must be onboard. The state also enforces regulations related to boating under the influence (BUI), which can result in fines or loss of boating privileges.
For more detailed information on local regulations, you can visit the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission’s boating regulations page.
Boat & Auto Insurance Companies We Represent
Progressive
National General
Travelers
Hagerty
PURE
Boat Insurance FAQs
What types of boats require insurance?
Boat insurance is recommended for all motorized boats, sailboats, and yachts, regardless of size. It’s particularly important if your boat has a high value or if you frequently operate in busy waterways.
How much is boat insurance in North Carolina?
Boat insurance premiums can vary based on the type of boat, its value, and your coverage needs, but it typically ranges from $200 to over $1,000 annually.
Does North Carolina require boat insurance?
Boat insurance is not mandatory by law in North Carolina, but it’s highly recommended to protect against liabilities and unexpected damages.
What factors influence the cost of boat insurance?
The boat’s size, value, engine type (outboard motors, for example), and your experience as a boater all play a role in determining insurance premiums.
Are there NC boat insurance requirements?
There are no legal requirements for boat insurance in North Carolina, but financial institutions and marinas may require you to have it for loans or docking purposes.