For many families in Windsor-Essex, summer means one thing: getting out on the water. With easy access to Lake St. Clair, the Detroit River, Lake Erie, and beyond, boating is more than a hobby; it's a way of life.
Whether you enjoy fishing, cruising, watersports, or simply spending a relaxing afternoon on the water, you'll enjoy your boating season even more when you have confidence in your insurance coverage.
Before you launch this season, take a few minutes to review your boat and your policy.
Has the Value of Your Boat Changed?
Many boat owners invest in upgrades over time without thinking about how those improvements affect their insurance coverage.
Have you recently added:
- New electronics or navigation equipment?
- Upgraded motors or mechanical components?
- A new trailer?
- Enhanced seating, flooring, or custom features?
- Fishing equipment or watersports accessories?
These upgrades can increase the value of your boat. If your policy hasn't been updated to reflect those changes, you may not have enough coverage if you experience a loss.
Don't Forget About Safety Equipment
A safe day on the water starts with proper preparation.
Before your first outing of the season, check that your safety equipment is present, in good condition, and easily accessible. This may include:
- Life jackets for all passengers
- Fire extinguishers
- Flares and signaling devices
- First aid supplies
- Emergency communication equipment
- Anchors and ropes
Taking a few minutes to inspect and organize your equipment can help keep everyone safe and make your boating experience more enjoyable.
A Simple Video Could Save You Thousands
One of the easiest things boat owners can do is create a detailed video inventory of their boat and its contents.
Using your smartphone, slowly record:
- The exterior of the boat
- The engine and mechanical components
- Electronics and navigation equipment
- Fishing gear
- Watersports equipment
- Safety equipment
- Personal items typically kept onboard
Narrate the video as you go, identifying major items and upgrades.
If you ever need to file a claim after theft, fire, vandalism, or storm damage, having a current video record can make the claims process significantly easier. It can help document what you owned, support replacement values, and save countless hours spent trying to remember every item that was on board.
Enjoy the Season with Confidence
Boating season is short, and every day on the water counts. Taking the time now to review your coverage, document your boat and equipment, and ensure your safety gear is up to date can help you avoid surprises later.
At Gibb Insurance Brokers, we're proud to help local boaters protect what matters most so they can focus on enjoying another great summer on the water. Please reach out if we can help you: 519-736-8228