Protect Your Boat from Mechanical Breakdowns: What You Need to Know
Hey there, fellow boaters! Let’s talk about something that doesn’t always get the spotlight but is super important—mechanical breakdown coverage for your boat. If you’re like most boat owners, you’ve probably wondered what happens if your engine gives out or if something major fails while you’re out on the water. The good news is that some insurance policies can actually help with that, but it’s not always as straightforward as we’d like. Let’s dive into the details and see what options are out there.
Travelers Boat Insurance 2.0: Coverage You Can Count On
Imagine this: you’re out enjoying a sunny day on the water when suddenly, your boat’s engine starts making a weird noise. You take a deep breath, because with Travelers Boat Insurance 2.0, you’ve got it covered. This policy is one of the few that offers mechanical breakdown coverage, and they’ve gone the extra mile by including wear and tear in their Drive System Protect Plus coverage. That means even if your boat’s mechanical parts start showing their age, you’re still protected.
Here’s what makes Travelers 2.0 stand out:
- Mechanical Breakdown Coverage: Covers repairs or replacement of your boat’s mechanical propulsion system, including wear and tear—something most policies won’t touch.
- Tailored Options: From ice and freezing coverage to agreed value loss settlements, you can customize your policy to fit your boating lifestyle.
- Separate Deductibles: Keep in mind that this coverage may come with its own deductible, separate from other parts of your policy, so be sure to check the details.
This coverage is typically available for newer boats, so it’s worth checking with us to see if your boat qualifies.
Progressive’s Propulsion Plus: A Solid Backup Plan
Next up, let’s chat about Progressive. They’ve got something called “Propulsion Plus” coverage, which is an excellent add on. This coverage steps in to protect the lower unit of your outboard motor or the outdrive of a sterndrive if they break down. Even better, it includes wear and tear, making it a solid choice for those who want extra peace of mind. It’s an affordable add-on to their standard policies, but here’s the catch—it’s only available for boats that are under 10 years old. So, if your boat is still in its first decade, now might be the time to add this protection.
Why you might want Propulsion Plus:
- Specific Protection: Covers the lower unit of an outboard motor or the outdrive of a sterndrive due to mechanical breakdown, including wear and tear.
- Age Limit: Only available if your boat is under 10 years old, so don’t wait too long to add this to your policy!
- Separate Deductibles: Similar to Travelers, this endorsement may also have a separate deductible, which means you’ll want to review your policy closely.
Chubb’s Mechanical Breakdown Coverage: Reliable and5 Straightforward
Then there’s Chubb, a name you probably recognize if you’ve been in the boating world for a while. Chubb offers mechanical breakdown coverage too, but it’s a bit more straightforward. They’ll cover unexpected mechanical failures, but they draw the line at wear and tear. So, if you’re looking for a more straightforward option, Chubb could be your go-to.
What to know about Chubb’s coverage:
- Mechanical Breakdown: Covers the cost of unexpected repairs due to mechanical failures.
- No Wear and Tear: Keep in mind, natural aging isn’t covered, so regular maintenance is key to avoiding surprises.
Why Choose On The Water Marine Insurance?
We get it—your boat is your pride and joy. That’s why we partner with top insurers like Travelers, Progressive, and Chubb to offer you the best options for mechanical breakdown coverage. Whether you’re cruising on a brand-new boat or taking care of an old faithful, we’ve got the expertise to help you find the right protection.
Here’s how we can help:
- Personalized Policies: We’ll work with you to tailor your insurance to your needs.
- Expert Advice: With over a decade in marine insurance, we know what works best for your boat.
- Access to Top Carriers: We offer options from industry leaders, so you’re never short on choice.
Don’t let a mechanical failure ruin your time on the water. Reach out to us today, and let’s make sure your boat is covered from bow to stern!
As always, remember to wear your life jacket and enjoy your time, On The Water!
Written by Eric Fisher
Agency President at On The Water Marine Insurance.
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