When purchasing something as valuable as a boat, it’s in your best interest to ensure that it’s insured appropriately. Boat insurance can be complex, and determining what coverage you need may be confusing. However, you can think of boat insurance similarly to vehicle insurance, it’s meant to protect you financially in the case of theft, sabotage, or unforeseen weather damage. Here are five helpful boat insurance tips to help you get the protection you need:

1. Compare quotes from multiple insurers
Many boat insurance experts recommend you compare quotes from multiple insurers to determine the best month rates for boating insurance. This may mean doing some legwork by shopping around for the best deal. Gathering multiple online boat insurance quotes from well-known companies is a good starting point. From there, your independent insurance agent can help you choose the coverage that best fits your requirements and budget.

2. Insure all year for offseason protection
One of the primary motivations for discontinuing boat insurance coverage at the end of each season is to save money. However, fire, weather, and theft are perils that may occur on a boat at any time of year. Boatyards tend to be closed during the winter months, which increases the likelihood of unexpected accidents. Therefore, it is good to insure all year for protection from offseason damage risks like weather and vandalism. Annual boat insurance may save you tens of thousands of dollars a year if your boat suffers an unforeseen accident during winter.

3. Complete nautical training courses
You can use several strategies to lower the cost of your boat insurance upfront. For instance, you might save money by enrolling in a boating class or a course that teaches marine safety to boat owners. A complete nautical training course will give you a clear understanding of safely operating a marine craft. I can also cover practical topics like boat insurance. Through interactive boating workshops, you will learn how to react in nautical emergencies and what safety equipment to have on board when operating your watercraft.

4. Combine boating insurance with auto and home insurance
Another good option for boat coverage is to combine your boating insurance policy with auto or home insurance under an umbrella policy to save money. Bundling insurance under the same policy and insurance provider can save you a great deal of money. You can save additional funds on insurance rates by maintaining a clean driving and boat operating record, comparing quotes from multiple insurance providers, and remaining claims free.

5. Get the best coverage with an all-risks policy
When selecting boat insurance, it is good to get the most coverage possible with an all-risks policy. This type of policy provides coverage for all types of losses, except those specifically excluded in your policy—such as risks and perils due to weather, accidents or unforeseeable incidents like malicious damage. Just be sure to read the exceptions to your “all-risk” policy carefully by paying attention to the small print.