Unforeseen Accidents: Why Every Boat Operator Needs Insurance

Posted on November 28, 2025November 19, 2025 by admin

It’s easy to assume that you won’t need boat insurance if you plan on sailing out into the lake or ocean occasionally. However, there are a host of potential accidents waiting to happen at any moment. Even if you’re not in a heavily populated area, chances are that there are risks you’re overlooking when you’re considering whether to insure your boat. Here’s why every boat operator needs insurance and how you can get boat insurance with us at Surety Ins Inc., serving Alabama.

Why Should Every Boat Operator Have Boat Insurance?

You never know when something’s going to happen on the water. A good boat insurance policy won’t just cover accidents with other boaters in your area. You’ll also get support if:

Waves cause your boat to crash into a dock, or another boater runs into your boat while it’s docked.
Something on your boat breaks and causes you to become stranded on the water. Many boat insurance policies come with features that could help you when you need to be towed off the water.
A fire burns down your boat, or if a thief decides to run off with your boat and its contents.
You spill fuel and are charged for the cleanup.
Your boat becomes damaged to the point that it has to be pulled out of the water.

Prepare for Every Scenario With Boat Insurance

Surety Ins Inc. will work with you to find high-quality boat insurance so you can go out on the water with peace of mind. We’re currently serving Alabama.

Pontoon vs. Bass Boat: Which is Right For You?

Posted on December 23, 2024December 22, 2024 by admin

Many Alabama residents enjoy being out on the water, so it comes as no surprise when you have to decide whether to choose a pontoon or a bass boat. One may be a better option, depending on when and how you plan to use your boat.

Boat Size

When you compare these two boats, keep in mind that they are very different in size. The pontoon boat can carry 8-10 people, while the bass boat can carry only 3-4 at a time. Depending on your family size, a bass boat might be all you need, or you may have to upgrade to a pontoon.

Agility and Speed

If you’re in a bass boat, they are narrower and can fit into smaller areas in the river and lakes. This can be ideal for fishing and getting out of the way of the main traffic area. Pontoon boats aren’t as agile and can only fit in large open areas while out on the water.

Bass boats can also reach high speeds quickly. Pontoon boats can reach a decent speed, but because of their size, it takes a while.

Fishing and Entertaining

Both of these boats are great for fishing and make it easy to enjoy this activity in many areas of Alabama’s water. However, if you want to entertain a large group and make a day of it, you need a pontoon boat with more room. These boats have couches and a step-down ladder that easily lets riders on and off the boat into the water.

Once you decide on the right boat for you, ensure you get it insured so that you have full protection and peace of mind out on the water. At Surety Ins Inc., we can help you with a personal insurance quote today.

How to Increase Boating Safety

Posted on January 22, 2024January 24, 2024 by admin

Operating a boat can be a lot of fun. However, it is important to take steps to increase boating safety. Unfortunately, boating accidents and other incidents can occur. People could end up hurt and property could be damaged. This makes it crucial to take steps to reduce the risks of accidents and also to ensure that you are covered with the appropriate boating insurance policy. If you’re looking for boating insurance in Alabama, feel free to contact Surety Ins Inc.

A Closer Look at Increasing Boating Safety

The right steps can mitigate many risks when operating a boat. First, you’ll want to make sure that your boat is in good working order and that there are enough life jackets for everyone on board. You should also check the weather before hitting the water. If there is a risk of high wind, storms, or whatever else, you’ll have to exercise extra caution.

Further, make sure you always have at least one reliable communication device on board and safely secured. Should you end up in an accident or another emergency arise, it may be crucial to contact the authorities right away for assistance.

It’s also crucial that anyone who is operating the boat is properly trained. Parents who plan to let their kids drive (once they reach the required age and have a license) need to closely supervise their children and ensure that they understand not only how to operate the boat but that they know how crucial it is to exercise safety.

Every boat should be insured. The right insurance plan can protect your property, provide funds for medical care, and otherwise help you mitigate risks. Of course, it’s essential to closely review any boating insurance policies you’re considering.

Reach Out To Us

If you live in Alabama and are considering boat insurance policies, get in touch with Surety Ins Inc.

Boat Insurance FAQs

Posted on February 14, 2023June 21, 2023 by admin

Many people like to do recreational activities in the summer, such as boating, waterskiing, and swimming. With each activity, there are things you should do to keep yourself and your finances safe. One way to keep your finances safe when you are out on a boat is to have insurance. Surety Ins Inc is here to assist Alabama boat owners in getting vital coverage for their watercraft.

Here are some answers to popular questions about boat insurance:

What is not covered by boat insurance?

Boat insurance will not cover damage from insects, marine life, mold, general wear and tear, or maintenance.

How much coverage should you have on a boat?

Professionals recommend that you have at least $1,000,000 of liability for a power boat and a minimum of 100,000 for a small sailboat. The amount of insurance you need depends on several factors, such as the size of the boat, your assets, and your risk factors.

What types of coverage are typical in a boat owner’s policy?

The types of coverage offered in a policy depend on the insurance company, but several types of coverage are similar across the board. These include liability, personal effects, uninsured/underinsured, and comprehensive and collision.

What happens when insurance totals your boat?

If the insurance company totals your boat, they usually pay the actual cash value or the insured value. Whichever cost is lower is the one they will pay you.

Does boat insurance cover hitting a dock?

In most cases, boat insurance will cover damage to the dock if you hit it. You must check your policy, though, to be safe.

Give Us A Call

If you own a boat and need insurance for it, contact us at Surety Ins Inc. We are here to assist Alabama boat owners.

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Category: Boat/Watercraft Insurance