6 Tips for Protecting You and Your Boat this Summer


The sound of wind, the beauty of the horizon and the joy of time spent on the boat.  It is the time of year to begin dusting off the cobwebs and preparing for summer.  At dbi Brokers Ltd we want you to enjoy your time boating and have the peace of mind knowing that your boat insurance will protect you.

With the excitement of the season it is easy to forget the responsibility of owning and protecting your boat, and unfortunately mistakes and accidents do happen.  So make sure you are protected.

6 Tips to protect you and your boat this summer:

  1. Your canoe, kayak or any watercraft without a motor can potentially get rolled into your home or seasonal home insurance policy. Speak with a dbi Broker to find out more about your liability limits.

  2. The onus is on you to prevent damage or loss but those damages or losses out of your control will most likely be covered by your insurance policy

  3. A boat worth very little could cost you a lot. Even if your boat is not worth insuring for theft or damage. Without liability protection if you boat causes harm to someone or something, you’ll be on the hook for the damages, losses, or injuries

  4. For larger boats liability and damage insurance is highly recommended and often policies will cover the boat and additional equipment.

  5. Similar to car insurance there are a wide range of factors that will affect your boating insurance policy. Which can include the size of the boat, size of the motor, its value, the location that you use it, and more. Make sure you speak with a broker to make sure your policy fits your needs.

  6. You need to hold a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (sometimes referred to as a boating license) in order to operate a boat in Canada. Without this, not only do you risk a $250 fine but it also may void your policy.

Additional questions for your broker:

What are the navigational limits for my boat?
Navigational limits, ask your broker where you can operate your boat and still be covered under your policy.

What is my lay-up period?
Lay-up period refers to a specific time frame when your boat is out of the water. If your boat is in the water during this time, you will not be covered by your policy.

Is my boat covered while is it being stored in the off-season?
Winter storage for boats in Canada creates a risk of snow load, this is something to ask your broker if your boat will be covered during the off-season.

Are there age restrictions on policies?
Current age / horsepower restrictions:
Under 12 years of age with no direct supervision, a person may operate a boat with up to 7.5 kW (10 hp);
Ages 12 to under 16 with no direct supervision, a person may operate a boat with up to 30 kW (40 hp);
Under 16 years of age, regardless of supervision may not operate a PWC;
16 years of age or older: no horsepower restrictions

Speak with a broker today so that you can sail into the beautiful days of Ontario summer when they get here!