Does Boat Insurance Cover Theft?

Yes—boat insurance can cover theft, but only if your policy includes comprehensive coverage. This optional coverage helps pay to replace your boat if it’s stolen, minus your deductible. Without it, theft-related losses likely aren’t covered.

Theft is one of the top concerns for boat owners, especially during the busy season. The good news? There are simple ways to protect your boat, from hitch locks and wheel locks to alarms and storage choices.

Does your policy include comprehensive coverage? At The Huneycutt Group, we’ll guide you through what it means, what it covers, and whether you have the protection you need. And if something goes wrong, we’re here to walk you through every step—from filing the claim to getting back on the water with confidence.

Key Takeaways:

• Boat theft is only covered if your policy includes comprehensive coverage.
• Trailers, accessories, and equipment may require additional protection.
• Simple steps like using locks and alarms can help prevent theft.

How Common Is Boat Theft?

Boat theft isn’t as rare as most people think. According to data from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), thousands of watercraft are stolen every year in the U.S.—many from marinas, docks, driveways, or trailers.

Boats are attractive targets: they’re valuable, mobile, and often left unattended. Thieves aren’t just going for the vessel—they’re also after electronics, outboard motors, and trailers. Whether you own a small fishing boat or a luxury yacht, the risk is real.

How Boat Insurance Covers Theft and Stolen Boats

Most boat insurance policies do cover theft, but how that protection applies depends on your policy’s terms and coverage options.

If your policy includes comprehensive coverage, you’re likely protected against theft, vandalism, and similar non-collision losses.

Here’s what a theft-related claim usually covers:

• The replacement value or actual cash value of your stolen boat, depending on which you chose when your policy was written
  
• Theft of the entire boat, or certain permanently attached equipment
  
• In some cases, the trailer and outboard motor
  

Just make sure you’ve got the right policy type and limits. Not all policies are created equal—some may exclude theft unless you’ve added specific endorsements. That’s where we come in. The Huneycutt Group helps you build a policy that matches your boat, your budget, and your risk exposure.

Are Accessories and Equipment Covered by Boat Insurance Theft Claims?

This is a big one. Many owners like you invest in upgrades—GPS, fish finders, stereo systems, safety gear—and they want to know if these items are protected.

Here’s the deal: some accessories are covered, but not always by default.

• Permanently attached accessories are usually included under your main boat coverage.
  
• Removable or portable equipment (like life jackets, coolers, or portable electronics) may require a separate endorsement or personal property coverage add-on.
  

It’s important to review your policy’s definitions and limits. If you’ve made recent upgrades or added new gear, talk to us to make sure they’re fully protected.

Does Boat Insurance Cover Theft of a Trailer?

Yes, many boat insurance policies cover trailer theft—but it’s not always automatic.

Some insurers:

• Include the trailer under comprehensive boat coverage
  
• Require a separate endorsement or list the trailer explicitly
  
• Limit coverage based on where and how the trailer was stored
  

If your trailer is valuable or regularly left unattended, make sure your policy reflects that. We’ll review your policy for free and help you fill in any gaps.

How to Prevent Boat Theft

While insurance is important, prevention is your first line of defense. Thieves look for easy targets. Here’s how to make sure your boat isn’t one of them.

Store Your Boat in a Secure Area

Use a locked garage, fenced yard, marina with security, or storage facility. Boats on trailers are especially vulnerable when left in driveways or yards, believe it or not.

Install a Boat Alarm

Modern alarm systems with GPS tracking can help deter theft and improve recovery chances if your boat is stolen.

Use a Hitch Lock and Wheel Locks

Trailer theft is one of the most common types of boat theft. Hitch and wheel locks add a physical barrier that makes stealing your boat much harder.

Never Leave Keys in the Boat

It may sound obvious, but it’s one of the most common mistakes. Always take the keys with you.

Lock Everything Together

Secure your outboard motor, trailer, and removable equipment with heavy-duty marine-grade locks. A thief’s worst enemy is time and noise.

What to Do if Your Boat Is Stolen

Despite your best efforts, theft can still happen. Here’s what to do next:

File a Claim Online with Your Insurance Company

Most insurers offer online claims portals where you can submit details and documentation quickly. Be ready to provide:

• Policy number
  
• Boat registration
  
• Photos (if available)
  
• Police report
  

File a Claim Online with The Huneycutt Group

If you’re insured through us, we’ll help guide you every step of the way. You can start your claim online or call us directly—we’ll help gather the needed documents and communicate with your carrier.

Call Us

Need to talk it through? Just call. We’re real people, and we understand how stressful a theft can be. We’re here to help you recover what was lost and get you back on the water.

How Much Is Boat Insurance?

Boat insurance costs vary depending on several factors:

• Boat type, size, and value
  
• How and where it’s stored
  
• Your boating experience
  
• Coverage options and limits
  

On average, you might pay anywhere from $200 to $1,000 per year. Specialized or high-value boats may run higher. The best way to find out? Let’s talk. We’ll shop multiple carriers to find the coverage that fits your needs and budget.

Do You Need Boat Insurance?

Bottom line- yes. Especially if you want to protect your investment. While some states don’t legally require boat insurance, marinas and lenders often do.

Even if it’s not required, going without coverage is risky. A single theft, accident, or liability claim can be financially devastating. Comprehensive boat insurance gives you peace of mind whether your boat is in the water, on the trailer, or in storage.

Is There Insurance for Boat Docks?

Yes, but it usually isn’t part of your standard boat insurance policy. If you own a private dock or lift, you may need to insure it separately—either through:

• A boat insurance endorsement
  
• Your homeowners insurance policy
  
• A standalone dock insurance policy
  

Let’s talk about your setup and we’ll point you in the right direction.

Secure Your Boat with the Right Policy

Theft can happen fast—but the right coverage gives you lasting peace of mind. Let’s make sure your policy protects everything you’ve worked hard for. Whether you’re a new boat owner or a seasoned skipper, The Huneycutt Group is here to help you navigate insurance the right way.

Request your coverage review and custom quote today.

FAQ: Does Boat Insurance Cover Theft?