If you’re a boat owner on the Texas Gulf Coast, it’s essential to have adequate insurance coverage for your watercraft. But did you know that insurance companies may have specific requirements for the age of your boat and your experience level as a boater? Here’s what you need to know about Texas Gulf Coast boat insurance.
One requirement that many insurance companies have is that boat surveys must be conducted on vessels older than 3-5 years. Most insurance carriers will not accept a marine survey that is 3-5 years old. A boat survey is a comprehensive inspection of a boat’s condition, including the hull, engines, electrical systems, and safety equipment. The purpose of the survey is to identify any potential safety hazards or issues that could affect the value or safety of the vessel and must be conducted by a NAMS or SAMS-certified surveyor and include in and out-of-water examination.
In addition to requiring boat surveys for newer vessels, insurance companies may also have restrictions on the size of boats that new boat owners can purchase. For example, some insurance companies may require that new boat owners can’t jump in size by more than 10 feet from their previous vessel. This restriction helps ensure that new boat owners have the experience necessary to handle larger boats safely.
Speaking of experience, many insurance companies also require boaters to have a certain level of experience before they can obtain insurance coverage. This requirement is especially true for larger boats, where the risk of damage or injury is higher. Insurance companies may require that boaters have a certain number of years of experience, completed a boating safety course, or hold a specific boating license or certification.
One agency that can help you navigate the requirements for Texas Gulf Coast boat insurance is McCorkle Insurance. McCorkle Insurance is a full-service insurance agency that specializes in marine insurance, including coverage for boats, yachts, and commercial vessels. The agency offers a range of insurance products to suit the needs of boaters of all types, from weekend cruisers to commercial fishing vessels.
Jason McCorkle, the manager of McCorkle Insurance, is an avid boater himself for 30 years. Started out with a 1994 Yamaha Waverunner and now owns a Formula 350 SS boat that he uses frequently in Clear Lake Texas with friends, the TOPPS group, and The Boat Club. Jason’s personal experience as a boater helps him understand the needs and concerns of other boaters, and he’s dedicated to providing personalized, expert service to his clients. We do several poker runs and boating events each year including Texas Outlaw Challenge, Tickfaw 200, Orange Beach, LOTO, and Key West World Championships
In conclusion, if you’re a boat owner on the Texas Gulf Coast, it’s crucial to have the right insurance coverage for your vessel. Keep in mind that insurance companies may have specific requirements for boat surveys, size restrictions, and experience levels. To ensure that you have the best coverage for your needs, work with an experienced marine insurance agency like McCorkle Insurance. With their help, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that you and your vessel are protected. www.insurethisboat.com