Watercraft exposures continue to evolve, from higher‑value recreational boats to diverse commercial operations on inland lakes and waterways. As insureds expand how they use their vessels, independent agents need flexible solutions that address ownership structures, navigation needs and liability concerns. Arlington/Roe’s watercraft offerings are designed to help agents confidently place both recreational and commercial marine risks with coverage that responds to how boats are actually used.
Recreational Watercraft Built for Today’s Owners
Recreational watercraft risks are no longer limited to a simple weekend runabout. Owners may share vessels, hold title in an LLC or trust or use their boats for extended stays or limited chartering. Our recreational watercraft programs accommodate a wide range of vessels, including pontoons, personal watercraft, sailboats, performance boats, yachts and antique and specialty boats.
Coverage flexibility is a key differentiator. Policies can be written with agreed value, replacement cost or actual cash value, allowing agents to align coverage with the client’s financial goals. Broad navigation territories support clients who travel beyond local waters, while liveaboard eligibility addresses those who spend extended time aboard. For fishing enthusiasts, tournament reimbursement can be included, and yacht owners can access protection and indemnity coverage tailored to larger vessels.
Additional enhancements, such as extended parts replacement and consequential damage coverage, help address the real‑world costs associated with mechanical failure and modern marine equipment. These options allow agents to move beyond a basic hull-and-liability conversation and deliver a more comprehensive risk-management solution.
Commercial Marine Solutions That Reflect Real Operations
Commercial watercraft risks vary widely depending on how the vessel is used, and our offerings are structured with that diversity in mind. Programs are available for rental operations, including houseboats, pontoons, runabouts, personal watercraft, kayaks and canoes. Charter operations are also eligible, whether the exposure involves guided fishing, sightseeing, bareboat charters or sportfishing.
Beyond tourism-focused risks, coverage is available for commercial fishing boats and niche operations, such as bed-and-breakfast vessels. Owner-operator exposures can be written for a variety of business uses, including artisan work, client entertainment, environmental services, photography, real estate support, safety or security patrols and weed control or workboats.
Policies can be structured as package or liability‑only placements, depending on the insured’s needs. Additional coverages include business interruption, watersports liability and premises or slip liability, allowing agents to address both on‑water and dockside exposures in a single placement.
A Wholesale Partner That Understands Marine Risks
Watercraft risks often fall outside standard personal or commercial markets, especially when ownership, usage or vessel value becomes more complex. Our watercraft team understands those nuances and works with agents to identify appropriate coverage structures before gaps appear. Whether the risk involves a shared‑ownership recreational boat or a commercial operator with multiple revenue streams, agents can rely on underwriting experience that reflects the realities of today’s marine exposures.
See our watercraft team here.