Boat & Jet Ski Insurance
Smooth Sailing, Safe Riding
Whether it’s coastal cruising, fishing missions, or adrenaline-fuelled jet ski runs, New Zealanders love time on the water. But even the best day out can go sideways. Boat and jet ski insurance protects your craft against theft, damage, sinking, fire, and liability so you can enjoy the ride without worrying about what could go wrong.
What does boat and jet ski insurance typically cover?
Your policy will generally protect against:
- Accidental damage (whether you’re on or off the water)
- Theft or attempted theft (including whilst in storage)
- Sinking, capsizing, fire, or explosion
- Weather-related damage from storms, wind, or lightning
- Salvage, towing, and emergency assistance
- Transit cover when you’re trailering your boat or jet ski
Third-party liability is also crucial coverage, protecting you if you cause:
- Damage to other boats, property, or marina facilities
- Injuries to others caused by your vessel
Optional extras can include racing cover, protection for personal items onboard, and extended cruising areas if you want to head offshore or to the islands.
Who needs this cover?
- Boat owners (runabouts, trailer boats, yachts)
- Jet ski and PWC (personal watercraft) owners
- Weekend warriors and seasonal boaties
- Anyone storing their vessel at home, a marina, or dry stack
What’s typically not covered?
- Wear and tear or damage from poor maintenance
- Operating without a valid licence (where one’s required)
- Using your boat for commercial or charter purposes (unless you’ve declared this)
- Racing or offshore cruising beyond set limits (without the right optional extensions)
Other insurance to think about
You might also want vehicle insurance for the car towing your boat, and contents insurance for personal items you keep at home. If you’re planning to take your boat to other regions or islands, travel insurance could be worth considering. For transporting large marine craft, transit insurance might also be relevant.