There’s nothing like getting out and having funon the water. Boating is especially appealing in Florida thanks to ourextensive coastline, year-round excellent boating weather, and abundantmarinas, boat shows, and other boat-based activities. Given all of this, whowouldn’t want to heed the call of the water?
Perils on the Water
As tempting as it is to journey out at everyavailable opportunity, boating in Florida requires paying careful attention tothe many potential perils threatening to dampen an otherwise enjoyable day outon the water. These pitfalls include:
- Hazardous weather/water conditions – such as rip currents, lightning, thunderstorms, hurricanes and tropical storms
- Shallow water and hidden sandbars
- Equipment or mechanical failure
- High-traffic waterways – making collisions with boats, docks, or navigational markers more likely
- Propeller accidents
- Run-ins with large or dangerous sea life – including manatees, sharks, and more
- Overloading the vessel
- Human error
With1,030,053 registered vessels in Florida in 2024, it is essential to be aware of your surroundings and practiceresponsible boating. By far the biggest danger on Florida waterways stemsfrom people behaving badly. This includes boat operators who do nothave a proper look-out, are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, haveinsufficient boating knowledge/experience, are unaware of common boating safetypractices, or who flat-out recklessly operate their watercraft.
Sadly, Florida continues to lead the nation inboating accidents, and recent data shows the trend isn’t slowing. According tothe Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), there were 685boating accidents in 2024, an increasefrom the previous year. There were also 81fatalities, which is the highest recorded in over 10years, along with 394injured persons from reportable boatinginjuries in Florida – and not being alertwas the cause of most of those accidents
Top 10 Boating Safety Tips
Here are some essential boating safety tips to keep in mind and ensureyour Florida water adventures remain safe and fun.
1. Stay alert and payattention to your surroundings at all times
2. Wear a life jacket
3. Be aware of weatherconditions/forecasts
4. Choose a skipper whowill remain sober for the duration of the trip
5. Ensure your equipment isproperly maintained and in good working order, including a first aid kit and safetygear like an emergency locator beacon, fire extinguisher, flares, and a whistleor horn
6. Operate at a safe speed(e.g., if it’s crowded, slow down)
7. Get a free vessel safety check
8. Make sure you haveadequate watercraftinsurance
9. Complete a float plan before you headout
10. Take a state-approved boating safety class
And, if you live in Florida, you’re already wellaware of hurricane risks. In addition to preparing your home, make sure youknow how to properly prepare your boat for hurricane season, including how to secure it for an impending storm.
Why Every Boater NeedsWatercraft Insurance
As the FWC says, safe boating is achoice. When you’re on the water, even if you behave and operate yourvessel in a manner beyond reproach, you will likely still encounter those whodon’t – or won’t. Having watercraft insurance protects you, your boat, and others on the water while providingpeace of mind so you can safely enjoy your nautical adventures. In addition,you may be required to obtain insurance by your financial lender and/or themarinas you use.
With Florida’s high accident rate and densewaterways, carrying watercraft insurance is more essential.
What’s Covered
Insurance can protect you against the high costof repairs after a collision (with another boat, the dock, or navigationmarkers), fire, theft, vandalism, high winds, and lightning. Your vessel, itsmotor and associated equipment (trailer), and even your personal propertyaboard the boat are all covered with watercraftinsurance.
At The Windward Insurance Agency, wealso offer liability and medical expenses coverage in the event you’re foundliable for damage to another vessel or injuries to someone aboard yours. Youcan also get towing coverage (should you break down at sea and need to be towedback to port), as well as protection if you’re involved in a hit-and-run oraccident with an uninsured/underinsured boater.
We’ve Got theProtection Florida Boaters Need
Before you head out in your boat or personal watercraft (Jet Ski, Sea-Doo, WaveRunner, etc.) – make sure you’reproperly protected. This is where we come in. The Windward Insurance Agency has been helping Florida boaters and open-water adventurersobtain the insurance they need since 2016. Our watercraft insurance coverage is designed for vessels up to 26’ in overall length;larger watercrafts may qualify for yacht insurance.
Our knowledgeable agents can help you navigateall your insurance options. Get started with an online quote or call us todayat (866) 231-2433 for assistance.
