Florida Boat Insurance in the Midst of COVID-19

Florida boat insurance policyholders, you can thank goodness for wide-open waterways – they offer plenty of space for social distancing. During the COVID-19 outbreak, boaters are breathing a collective sigh of relief at their ability to set sail. While others remain cooped up inside, they’re trolling for bait and spending long hours exploring different channels.

So be prepared – opt for the right Florida boat insurance policy. And enjoy the salt life (or lake life, if that’s your preference) while staying far from coronavirus exposure. Here’s how:

Check for marina updates

That marina you plan to dock at may well be closed. Marina owners are advised to be transparent and timely about issuing status reports. You can access more information here.

Consider the provisions you’re taking on board

That standard stash of Doritos, Lunchables and fresh fruit needs a solid wiping before you dig in. Even better, put what you can on the bow of the boat after disinfecting, and let it sit out for a few hours.

Remember the ‘6 feet away’ rule

That applies to the person who helps you tie up the vessel when you refuel, too. After they toss that rope back to you, reach for the hand sanitizer. And remember that rule your grandma repeated ad nauseum: Don’t touch your face.

If anyone comes on board with you, wipe the vessel down thoroughly afterward. People can be carriers of the coronavirus for days without knowing it, so a lack of visible symptoms does not mean you’re safe.

Is your vessel shipshape? Do you have all safety protocols in place? Is your Florida boat insurance up-to-date? This is not the time to run out of fuel, etc. Any rescue mission brings with it plenty of potential for COVID-19 exposure. If you’re not quite sure of the status of your battery, don’t go out on the water. The ramifications of requesting help during a pandemic spread much further than just the physical state of your boat.

For yacht owners, hiring a crew at this point is extremely risky. If you need to do so, ask detailed questions regarding your applicant(s). Have they been to widely populated areas within the last few weeks? Do they feel sick? Better yet, save that crew-assisted voyage for after the pandemic has fizzled. If you do hire a captain or mate, call your marine advisor to be sure you have crew coverage on your policy before your voyage begins.

Boating is such an incredible luxury, and it’s even more so now that nationwide, many of us are being advised to stay home. When it’s undergone purposefully, and with thought to sanitation and CDC guidelines, boating can offer a safe respite from COVID-19. Make sure you follow the above tips to keep it as safe as possible.

Make sure you are prepared. Contact the specialists at W3 Insurance at 727-522-7777 or submit a quote request.