Spring in Michigan is the unofficial start of boating season. Many of us can’t wait to get back on the water; this is why we live here in the land of 11,000 lakes. If you’re buying a new wake boat or cruiser, you’re probably dreaming of lake days, glassy water, and good times. But before you hitch that brand-new vessel to your trailer or dock it for the summer, there’s one critical thing you must do: get the right insurance for your marine vehicle.

Winter is coming. As the temperatures drop and you place your watercraft into storage for the winter, it’s easy to assume your vessel is safe and your insurance can take a break. Unfortunately, that assumption could cost you. Many boat owners don’t realize that the off-season is one of the most vulnerable times for their watercraft. Not all marine insurance policies offer the protection they think they do. 

For many people in Michigan, boating isn’t just a hobby–it’s a way of life. With access to the Great Lakes, thousands of inland lakes, and miles of rivers, Michiganders are never far from water. But while the joys of boating are many, the risks are just as real. Whether you own a fishing boat, personal watercraft, or a high-value yacht, navigating those risks starts with having the right insurance and working with someone who truly understands it, a marine insurance expert.