What is PWC insurance?

Do you need insurance for a PWC?

Arkansas, Utah, and Hawaii are the only states with laws requiring PWC insurance, but lenders may require coverage if you finance your PWC, and many marinas require proof of insurance before you can dock or launch. Even when optional by law, PWC insurance may help protect you if your watercraft is damaged, stolen, or involved in an accident that causes injury or property damage.

Find out more about boat insurance requirements by state.

Does homeowners insurance cover a PWC?

Your homeowners policy typically doesn't cover your personal watercraft. However, depending on your policy and insurer, homeowners insurance may cover your PWC against theft and vandalism, up to a specified limit on your policy — which may not come close to the actual cash value of the PWC.

What is considered a PWC?

A personal watercraft (PWC) is a small watercraft propelled by an inboard water jet engine. Riders sit or stand on the vessel rather than inside it. Because a small number of brands dominate the market, people often refer to these vessels by brand names rather than as "personal watercraft."

Types of PWCs that can be insured

Stand-up

Personal watercraft were originally popularized with stand-up models. Some manufacturers still make this style because of its agility and athletic riding style. Manufacturers may not list this as a separate category in their catalog but instead offer stand-up options in their other types of vessels.

Performance

As the fastest, most powerful style of PWC, these are intended for experienced riders looking to get the most out of their vessel. Stand-up PWCs are often found in this category because they appeal to more athletic riders.

Recreation

The most popular category thanks to their approachability, power, and storage is recreational PWCs. These are good boats for families, beginners, and casual riders. Most rental PWCs are in this category because they're easy for beginners to get the hang of but still powerful enough to feel thrilling.

Rec-lite

These budget models are comparable to recreation PWCs but with less powerful engines and lighter weight. They don't have as many features and may be less stable than their recreation-class cousins but can be a good entry point for curious buyers shopping for a first watercraft who aren't ready to commit to the cost of a full recreation model. Learn about buying a boat for the first time.

Luxury/Touring

These bigger PWCs have more powerful engines and increased storage and range that make them a better fit for long trips and different water conditions.

Tow sports

Some manufacturers make PWCs specifically designed for tow sports like wakeboarding.

Sport fishing

Another specialized type of PWC can include features you'd find on a bass boat or other fishing boats, such as live wells for catch-and-release fishing and fish finders.

What does PWC insurance cover?

A PWC policy provides boat liability coverage if you're responsible for injuries or damages to another party. Boat comprehensive and collision coverage protects against collisions as well as damage to your PWC beyond your control such as fire, weather, and vandalism. Comprehensive can protect against theft even while your boat is in storage. You can also add optional coverages for medical payments, on-water towing, and accessories like trailers or custom equipment.

Learn more about boat insurance coverages.

How much does PWC insurance cost?

The cost of PWC insurance depends on several factors, such as your location, PWC make and model, and claims history. Other factors may include which coverages you select, your comprehensive and collision deductibles, and boating experience. At Progressive, you can get affordable insurance for a Jet Ski, WaveRunner, or Sea-Doo for as low as $100/year ^* a liability-only policy.

Find out how to score cheap boat insurance and the average cost of boat insurance by state.

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