There are few better ways to spend a summer than on your boat. Whether speeding across the water with the wind in your hair, taking a swim, or doing some fishing, you can’t help but smile at the thought of freeing your vessel from its moorings. But before you get on the water, establish boat insurance to keep you and everyone on your boat safe this summer.

5 Insurance Suggestions for Boat Owners in Tennessee

1. Consider Additional Coverage

Boat insurance isn’t mandatory in Tennessee (unless you’re keeping it docked at a marina). Adding uninsured-boater protection can provide peace of mind if an uninsured-boater strikes your vessel. When shopping for a plan, make sure it also covers tow insurance, which will cover the cost of your boat’s recovery in case it breaks down in the water. This policy is usually part of a separate package—ask your insurance agent if you’re covered.  

2. Know What You’re Insuring

A sailboat and a motorboat will have different policy rates and features. Even vessels of the same type can vary in insurance cost when factors like size, horsepower, and intended use are considered. When shopping for boat insurance be as specific as possible, so you’re not paying yacht rates on a bass boat.

3. Establish “Lay-Up” Time Discounts

Lay-up time usually only applies to boaters in northern states who can’t use their vessels in the winter. However, Tennessee also has lay-up time insurance discounts for those who are only using their boats in the summer months.

4. Invest in Safety Features

Adding safety features will provide discounts on your boat insurance policy. You might already have radar and GPS, but consider adding a wireless marine safety device by Autotether™ that will automatically turn the vessel’s engine off in case anyone goes overboard. Other safety gadgets like Emergency Position Indicating Radiobeacon (EPIRB) and an automatic fire extinguisher system can also lower your rates and increase boat safety.

5. Take Boating Classes

Certain courses will save you money on your boat insurance. If possible, obtain certification in boating safety from the US Power Squadron or Coast Guard Auxiliary, which can provide you with a discount of up to 10%. 

If you need boat insurance this summer, reach out to Wilmoth Insurance Agency. They’re a family-owned agency with 80 years of experience in a variety of coverage fields. They customize every case to their clients needs, and as an independent agency, they work with a variety of insurance providers to ensure you get the right coverage at the best possible rate. If you’re in the Cookeville, TN area, schedule an appointment at (931) 526-6181. For more information on the many coverage areas, including health, life, and business insurance, visit their website.