Docked For The Season? What You Need To Know About Boat Insurance During Lay-Up

As boating season winds down and your vessel is secured for winter storage, it might feel like the need for insurance sails away with it. But seasonal lay-up periods—when your boat is out of commission for an extended time—can significantly affect your coverage, and understanding these changes is critical for staying protected and saving money.
​
Lay-up provisions in your boat insurance policy can limit coverage while your boat is stored, but they also offer an opportunity to reduce premiums. However, the wrong assumptions during this off-season could leave you vulnerable to unexpected risks like theft, vandalism, or weather damage.

What Is a Lay-Up Period?
A lay-up period is the designated time in your boat insurance policy during which your vessel is out of active use—typically during the fall and winter months. During this time, your insurance provider may reduce your premium because you're not using the boat, but this also means limitations on coverage while it’s laid up.

Lay-up provisions are most common in regions with cold climates where boating activity naturally decreases. If you take your boat out during the lay-up period without notifying your insurer, you could void your coverage.


Key Considerations During Lay-Up Season

1. Understand the Dates in Your Policy
   Lay-up dates are often fixed in your policy (e.g., November 1 to April 1). Operating your boat during this time without prior approval could lead to denied claims.
   
   
2. Coverage Doesn’t Disappear—It Changes
   Most policies still cover theft, fire, vandalism, and storm damage during lay-up—but exclude damage from navigation or use.
   
   
3. Notify Your Insurer of Any Changes
   Planning to use your boat for a warm-weather vacation or an early spring ride? Inform your insurer in advance to adjust your policy.
   
   
4. Storage Location Matters
   Coverage may vary based on whether your boat is stored at a marina, in a garage, or in a boatyard. Confirm your insurer’s requirements to avoid lapses.
   
   
5. Keep Up With Off-Season Maintenance
   Damage from neglect or improper winterization might not be covered. Routine maintenance helps preserve your boat and your coverage eligibility.

Benefits of a Lay-Up Clause

• Lower Premiums
  Insurers often offer discounted rates during inactive months since the risk of collision or personal injury is minimized.
  
  
• Customizable Coverage
  Some policies allow flexible lay-up periods or “navigational endorsements” if you need to use the boat off-season.
  
  
• Year-Round Protection
  Even when docked, your boat is vulnerable to hazards like theft, rodents, or harsh weather. Lay-up insurance ensures these risks are still covered.

Why Boat Insurance Still Matters in the Off-Season
Just because your boat isn’t in the water doesn’t mean it’s out of danger. Boat insurance protects your investment year-round, not just when you're actively cruising.

From dockside fires to break-ins at storage facilities, off-season risks can cause serious damage or financial loss. Comprehensive coverage during the lay-up period provides peace of mind, so you’re not left unprotected when something unexpected happens.


Final Thoughts
Lay-up season may signal a pause in your boating adventures, but your responsibility as a boat owner doesn’t end when the engine cools down. Understanding how your insurance policy adjusts during this time—and making sure you're still adequately protected—can save you money, hassle, and regret when the new season rolls in.

So dock smart. Store smart. And stay insured—because safe boating doesn’t stop at the shoreline.

At Arnold Insurance Agency, LLC, we do our best in making sure that our clients are well-protected with affordable and comprehensive policies. We make sure to go the extra mile to help you with your needs. To learn more about how we can help you, please contact our agency at (318) 965-5953 or CLICK HERE to request a free quote.

Disclaimer: The information presented in this blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. It is crucial to consult with a qualified insurance agent or professional for personalized advice tailored to your specific circumstances. They can provide expert guidance and help you make informed decisions regarding your insurance needs.