Read the lay-up clause

Boat insurance and winter storage

Most boat policies cover storage ashore, but the details matter: lay-up dates, freeze damage, theft from yards and what the marina requires from you. This is a checklist, not advice. Ask your broker.

Covered yachts stored for winter beside a frozen Toronto marina

Five things to check

Lay-up period

Some policies have a lay-up period when the boat must be out of the water. Using it then may not be covered.

Freeze damage

Often excluded if the boat was not properly winterized. Keep the invoice or your own checklist.

Storage location

Tell the insurer where the boat is stored. Some ask about fencing or indoor storage.

Liability

Many marinas ask for liability cover, often $1M to $2M, and to be named on the certificate.

Theft of gear

Electronics and engines are prime targets. Check limits and deductibles for equipment.

Questions

Does the marina’s insurance cover my boat?

Usually not. Marina insurance covers their liability. Your boat needs its own policy.

Tell us about your boat. We find the spot.

Storage type, LOA, region and season. We check what is open near you and reply by email with options and prices.

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