California Boat Insurance

Owning a boat means freedom. But out on the water, anything can happen.

A collision. A sudden storm. A theft at the dock.

In California, where the coastline stretches for miles and lakes draw crowds year-round, having the right boat insurance isn’t optional—it’s essential.

At IronPoint Insurance Services, we make California boat insurance easy to understand and even easier to buy. Fast quotes. Smart coverage. Personal advice.

When you’re out on the water, you don’t want surprises.

Here’s what a strong California boat insurance policy usually covers:

A policy built for real-world boating, not just sunny days.

Special Risks California Boat Owners Should Know

Boating in California brings beauty—and risks.

• Saltwater Exposure: Boats used along the coast need extra protection from corrosion and wear.
• Theft: Marina and storage thefts are a real concern in California’s busy harbors.
• Environmental Fines: Spill fuel or oil into state waters and you could face heavy fines. Proper liability coverage matters.
• Year-Round Season: Longer seasons mean more time on the water—and more exposure to accidents, storms, and theft.

Smart coverage isn’t just about your boat. It’s about protecting everything your boat connects to.

Other Protection Options to Consider

Every boat and every boater is different.

Smart owners often add these coverages:

• Trailer Coverage: Protects your boat trailer against damage or theft.
• Agreed Value Coverage: Locks in your boat’s full value—no depreciation.
• Fishing Equipment and Gear Coverage: Protects expensive gear like rods, reels, and GPS systems.
• Personal Effects Coverage: Covers your personal items like phones, cameras, and clothing while aboard.

Protect more than your boat. Protect your adventure.

California Boating Laws and Insurance Tips

In California, boat insurance isn’t required by law. But that doesn’t mean you can sail without it.

• Marinas often require proof of insurance to rent slips or dock space.
• Lenders require coverage if you financed your boat.
• Boating safety certificates are required for younger operators under the California Boater Card law.
• Homeowners’ policies usually offer very limited boat coverage—and often exclude larger or faster boats.

Additional info

1. Did you know? Beginning January 1, 2025, all boaters must carry a California Boater Card when operating on state waterways.
2. California boating law requires a boater to be 16 years of age or older — and in possession of his/her California Boater Card — to legally operate a watercraft powered by a motor of 15 hp or more.
3. Boaters owning a sailboat over eight feet long or a boat/vessel with a motor must register the boat with the California DMV to operate on California waterways.

Insurance isn’t just paperwork. It’s permission to enjoy your boat with real peace of mind.

How to Save on California Boat Insurance

Protecting your boat doesn’t have to empty your wallet.

You can often save by:

• Completing an approved boating safety course.
• Bundling your boat and auto insurance.
• Installing approved safety equipment like GPS, fire extinguishers, and alarms.
• Choosing a lay-up period if your boat is stored part of the year.
• Keeping a clean boating record free of accidents and claims.

The safer you are, the more you save.

Why Choose IronPoint for Your California Boat Insurance?

You don’t just need any policy. You need the right policy.

At IronPoint Insurance Services, we:

• Work with California’s top-rated marine insurers.
• Know the coastline, lakes, rivers, and risks.
• Offer personal advice—not just cookie-cutter coverage.

Get a policy built for real California boaters. And get it from people who know the water.