Now that spring has arrived and the weather is warming up, many boat enthusiasts are anxious to get their watercraft in the water. Whether you own a jet ski, a boat under 26 feet, or a yacht (26 feet and over), taking the proper safety and maintenance precautions is necessary to ensure a smooth and enjoyable season. Let’s dive into these marine terms to help you get your watercraft ready for the waves.
Service & Inspection – Just like a car, maintaining your watercraft is a prudent safety factor that should be done annually or seasonally. Breaking down and getting stranded on the water is never fun! To ensure safe and optimal performance, boats and jet skis should be checked and inspected regularly for routine maintenance.
Insurance & Registration – Proper insurance and up-to-date registration are essential before hitting the water. There are state requirements that must be followed to remain legal, and most importantly, the insured needs to understand how coverage is provided. How does a policy respond in different situations? Are there any restrictions, limitations, or exclusions?
If the primary mooring location is a marina, they have insurance requirements for stowing your boat. To have your watercraft pass inspection, they will need to see active insurance.
Seaworthy– A key safety factor is ensuring your watercraft is seaworthy, meaning it is in good condition and properly maintained. Ask yourself these questions:
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Is the vessel in good repair with no defects and core maintenance?
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Is the captain and crew competent, sober, healthy, and physically fit? Are they trained and certified?
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Is the vessel being used as designed and intended? What modifications, if any?
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Are there adequate supplies, fuel, navigation charts, and emergency equipment on board?
Survey – For boat and yacht owners, a marine survey is often required to ensure its seaworthiness. This identifies the current state of the vessel and any problems that need to be fixed. Key components, including the engine, propellers, the inside and outside of the hull, and onboard safety equipment, must be in proper working order before setting sail.
Navigational Waters – Another important factor to let your insurance agent know is where you plan to operate your watercraft. This could be inland waters (such as lakes, bays, or rivers) or bigger bodies of water (like the Atlantic Ocean or Gulf of Mexico). Regardless, coverage applies to the navigation waters on your application. Traveling beyond your navigational waters ceases coverage.
Before heading out on the water this season, take the time to inspect, insure, and prepare your watercraft. Need help reviewing your policy? Contact McConkey today, we’ll make sure you the coverage you need to enjoy the water worry-free!
