Florida · Since 1984

Florida boat insurance,
from a team that's been here.

Headquartered in Sarasota. We've been insuring Florida boats through hurricane seasons, storm surges, and everything in between for 40+ years.

Florida is different

Not like anywhere else.

Florida has more registered recreational boats than any other state — and marine insurance here is genuinely different from anywhere else in the country.

Higher hurricane risk. Year-round boating exposure. Carrier restrictions that don't exist in landlocked states. Bahamas access that changes your navigation requirements entirely. This is our home market, and we know the coverage landscape better than anyone.

Hurricane season

What to know before the season starts.

Florida's hurricane risk is the biggest driver of unique insurance requirements in the state. Depending on your carrier and vessel type, you may encounter:

Named storm deductibles — typically 2–5% of agreed hull value (not a flat dollar amount)
Hurricane plan requirements — a documented plan for where the vessel will be stored during a named storm
Haul-out requirements before a named storm makes landfall
Seasonal restrictions — some carriers require boats to be moved out of Florida during peak hurricane season
Resident owner requirements — some carriers require full-time Florida residency

Coverage limits

Restrictions to know.

Many carriers limit length and value of vessels they'll insure in Florida to manage catastrophe exposure
Progressive will not cover boats over 35 feet or valued over $175,000 in Florida — NBOA places this coverage with carriers who don't have this restriction
Catamaran coverage can be difficult — some carriers won't insure catamarans at all in Florida. NBOA works with carriers who will
Carbon fiber mast coverage requires a separate deductible at many carriers
Older vessels (20+ years) often require an out-of-water survey before coverage is bound

Bahamas + extended nav

Coverage that goes where you go.

Florida boaters regularly cruise to the Bahamas, Turks & Caicos, and along the Exumas. Standard policies limit your navigation territory — venturing outside those limits voids your coverage mid-trip.

NBOA specializes in Florida/Bahamas coverage combinations. We can add Bahamas navigation extensions, Turks & Caicos coverage, and in some cases broader Caribbean navigation to your policy. Ask specifically about this when you get your quote.

Features to know

Florida carrier-appetite specifics.

Beyond the hurricane and Bahamas-coverage specifics above, standard Florida carrier rules to confirm before binding:

Sailboats typically earn a credit (less hazardous than speed boats)
Auxiliary motor on sailboats may be required or may earn a premium credit
Carbon fiber masts carry a separate, higher deductible — full replacement is typical if damaged
Age minimum — many carriers require the boat be under ~20 years old, or require an out-of-water survey for older hulls
Catamaran coverage is difficult to place — specialty carriers only
Waterskiing — confirm it's not an excluded coverage on ski-boat policies
High-speed / go-fast boats — different underwriting guidelines apply

Frequently asked

Questions & answers

Is boat insurance required in Florida?

Florida does not require boat insurance by state law for most recreational vessels. However, most marinas require proof of liability insurance to rent a slip, and any financed vessel will require coverage per your lender's terms. Given Florida's hurricane exposure, uninsured boaters face enormous financial risk.

Does my homeowners insurance cover my boat in Florida?

A homeowners policy may offer minimal coverage for small boats, but it won't cover hurricane damage, liability on the water, fuel spills, or navigation outside protected inland waters. A dedicated marine policy provides far broader protection.

Can I get Bahamas coverage in Florida?

Yes. NBOA specializes in Florida/Bahamas policies. We can add Bahamas navigation coverage, Turks & Caicos extensions, and in some cases broader Caribbean coverage. This is a standard request for our Florida customers — ask about it when you start your quote.

What happens if my boat is damaged in a hurricane?

Your policy's named storm deductible applies — typically 2–5% of agreed hull value. NBOA works with your carrier directly to ensure claims are handled properly. Members with NBOA's towing supplement also have emergency dispatch available 24/7 during and after storms.

Progressive won't cover my boat in Florida — what do I do?

Progressive limits Florida coverage to vessels under 35 feet and valued under $175,000. If your boat exceeds those limits, NBOA works with multiple carriers who specialize in larger Florida vessels, yachts, and high-value craft. Start a quote and tell us your vessel size.

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