As temperatures rise and lakes begin to thaw, boating season in Northern Ontario is just around the corner. Whether you’re an experienced boat owner or thinking about hitting the water for the first time, now’s the time to make sure you’re prepared—both for a safe season and for the unexpected.

In this post, we cover two key areas: how existing boat owners can reduce their risk of a claim, and why those without protection should consider insuring their watercraft today.

Prepare Your Watercraft Before You Launch

Before you head out on the water, inspect and maintain your boat. Early-season preparation can prevent costly mid-season repairs—or, worse, accidents.

• • Inspect and maintain: After winter storage, check the hull, propeller, and engine for damage. Even small cracks can become major problems.
  • Battery & Fuel System: Charge or replace your battery, and inspect all fuel lines for wear, cracks, or leaks.
  • Safety Equipment Check: Make sure life jackets, marine radios, flares, fire extinguishers, and other required safety gear are onboard and in good condition.
  • Update Your Insurance Policy: Review your policy to ensure your watercraft is fully protected for the upcoming season. A quick call to your broker can give you peace of mind.

Practice Safe Boating Every Time

• • Never drink and boat—just like on the road, impaired operation is dangerous and illegal.
  • Only let licensed and experienced individuals operate your boat.
  • Be cautious with activities like water skiing and tubing. Always have a spotter and follow safety guidelines.
  • Consider enrolling in a boating safety course through the Canadian Power and Sail Squadrons, Canboat Sudbury, or Sudbury Yacht Club, which offer recognized courses that can increase your confidence and skill on the water.

Stay Safe in Northern Conditions

Boating in Northern Ontario comes with unique considerations:

• • Cold Water Safety: Even in late spring, lake temperatures can be dangerously cold. Wear thermal flotation gear when necessary.
  • Check Local Water Conditions: In early spring, lakes may still have ice or floating debris. Stay alert and plan your routes.
  • Weather Awareness: The Great Lakes can change quickly. Always check marine forecasts and wind conditions.
  • Remote Location Readiness: Cell service can be unreliable. Carry a VHF radio or emergency beacon, especially in remote areas.
  • Know the Regulations: Transport Canada sets strict rules for licensing, safety gear, and navigation. Make sure you’re compliant before every trip.

Prevention is Protection

Following these steps won’t just keep you safer—they’ll help you avoid claims that can increase your premiums. Staying proactive protects you, your passengers, and your watercraft investment.

References:
Why boat insurers are starting to feel more like car insurers these days ➧
How boating accident sparked dispute between insurers ➧
Transport Canada: Boating Safety & Resources ➧

Do you have a boat or watercraft that is not currently insured with us? Here’s why it should be.

Watercraft insurance isn’t just a luxury—it’s essential.

• • Protect Your Investment: Protection helps with losses due to accidents, weather, theft, or liability claims.
  • Compliance Requirements: Insurance is often required for boat financing and may be mandatory at specific marinas.
  • Northern-Specific Risks: Our weather patterns, remote lakes, and short boating season mean you face unique risks that should be addressed in your policy.

Protection Options

We offer flexible watercraft insurance through trusted providers, including Intact, Premier Marine, and April Marine. Here’s a quick overview of what’s available:

1. Core Protection

• • All Risk Coverage: Covers accidental losses unless specifically excluded.
  • Named Perils Coverage: Covers only named risks like fire, theft, or collision.
  • Liability Coverage: Covers injury or property damage you cause.
  • Medical Payments Coverage: Pays medical expenses after an accident.
  • Uninsured/Underinsured Boater Coverage: Protects you if hit by someone with inadequate insurance.

2. Physical Damage Protection

• • Hull Coverage
  • Outboard Motor Coverage
  • Trailer Coverage
  • Personal Effects Coverage (e.g., fishing gear)

3. Specialty Protection

• • Emergency Towing & Assistance
  • Wreckage Removal
  • Pollution Liability
  • Agreed Value Coverage
  • Navigational Territory Extension
  • Lay-Up Period Coverage
  • Fishing Equipment/Tackle Coverage
  • Charter/Commercial Use Endorsements

And yes—you can bundle your boat insurance with your home policy for savings and simplicity.

Learn More about Watercraft Protection

Real Claim Story: Why Insurance Matters

When a client’s pontoon boat detached from its trailer and crashed on the highway, it resulted in a chaotic and costly scene—scattered debris, damaged highway signs, and significant recovery efforts. Between repairs, towing, emergency storage, transportation, and other related expenses, the total claim exceeded $70,000. Fortunately, the client was protected by Northern Insurance Brokers. Their policy provided the full original purchase price of the boat and motor under a Valued Form and protected all associated costs. This real-life claim story is a powerful reminder that proper coverage isn’t just about paperwork—it’s about peace of mind when the unexpected happens.

Without protection, this would have been a financial disaster. Fortunately, the right insurance meant she was protected—and could get back on the water without a massive personal loss.

Ready to Review or Start a Policy?

Whether you’re a seasoned boater or just buying your first vessel, we’re here to help you stay protected. Contact us today to review your policy—or to get a quote and see just how affordable peace of mind can be.

Enjoy your time on the water—and don’t risk not being protected.

Contact Us and ask about how you can protect your watercraft