Boat insurance provides peace of mind for owners, but understanding the most common types of claims can help you reduce risks and avoid costly incidents. Whether you own a small runabout, fishing boat, or offshore cruiser, many insurance claims tend to follow similar patterns. Knowing what they are (and how they happen) can make you a safer and more prepared boater.

Collision Damage

Boat insurance provides peace of mind for owners, but understanding the most common types of claims can help you reduce risks and avoid costly incidents. Whether you own a small runabout such as a Quintrex boat, a fishing boat such as an Extreme aluminium boat, or an offshore cruiser such as a Cruise Craft boat, many insurance claims tend to follow similar patterns. Knowing what they are and how they happen can make you a safer and more prepared boater.

Groundings

Grounding claims happen when a boat runs aground on sandbars, reefs, or shallow areas. These incidents are particularly common in tidal waterways where water levels change rapidly. Groundings can damage hulls, keels, propellers, and lower units, and may also require costly towing assistance. Many groundings occur due to outdated charts, poor route planning, or unfamiliarity with local conditions.

Storm and Weather-Related Damage

Weather-related claims are another major category. High winds, heavy rain, hail, and rough seas can cause significant damage to boats, especially if they are poorly secured or left exposed. Common issues include torn bimini tops, broken windscreens, damaged electronics, and water intrusion. Boats moored during storms may also collide with other vessels or docks, leading to additional claims.

Theft and Vandalism

Boat theft is more common than many owners realise, particularly for smaller boats, tenders, and outboard motors. Electronics such as a fish finder with GPS, fishing gear, and safety equipment are also frequent targets. Vandalism claims include deliberate damage such as cut upholstery, broken fittings, or graffiti. Boats stored in unsecured locations or left unattended for long periods are at higher risk.

Fire and Explosion

Although less frequent, fire-related claims are often severe and costly. Fires may be caused by fuel leaks, electrical faults, overheating engines, or improper refuelling procedures. Even a small fire can result in extensive damage to the vessel and surrounding property. Many insurers report that poor maintenance and outdated wiring significantly increase fire risk.

Mechanical Failure and Engine Damage

While not always covered under all policies, mechanical failures can still lead to insurance claims, particularly when they cause secondary damage. Common issues include overheating engines, water ingestion, gearbox failure, and fuel contamination. Engine damage is often linked to a lack of servicing or ignoring early warning signs, such as unusual noises or warning lights.

Trailer and Towing Incidents

For trailer boats, towing-related claims are surprisingly common. These include accidents while transporting the boat, trailer rollovers, wheel bearing failures, and winch or strap failures. Poorly maintained trailers or incorrect loading are typical causes, and damage can occur both on the road and at the boat ramp.

Personal Injury and Liability Claims

Liability claims arise when someone is injured or property is damaged because of boating activities. Slips and falls on board, injuries from propellers, or collisions involving swimmers or other vessels can lead to costly legal and medical claims. These incidents highlight the importance of safety equipment, proper supervision, and responsible boating behaviour.