The Importance of Insuring Your Jet Ski (Personal Watercraft)

Looking for an adventurous activity on the water? Hop on a jet ski! Also known as personal watercraft, jet skis offer a thrilling and exciting way to get the most out of living in the Sunshine State. However, like any other watercraft, jet skis also come with risks. That's why it's important to secure Florida personal watercraft insurance.

Let’s discuss the importance of insuring your jet ski and essential safety tips to ensure a smooth ride.

Reportable Personal Watercraft Accidents

According to the 2022 Boating Accident Statistical Report by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, personal watercraft only accounted for 16% of all registered vessels in Florida, but were involved in 24% (174) of reportable boating accidents. Additionally, 54% (95) of these accidents involved a collision with another vessel.

If you own a personal watercraft, it's important to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to protect yourself and your investment by purchasing Florida personal watercraft insurance from American Integrity Insurance

Florida Personal Watercraft Insurance for Jet Skis

Personal watercraft (jet ski) insurance covers a range of risks, including damage to your personal watercraft, bodily injury to yourself or others, and liability for damage caused to other property. Florida personal watercraft insurance from American Integrity offers these protections: 

  • Hull coverage, liability coverage, or both 
  • Policy premium calculated by Agreed Hull Value basis or an Actual Cash Value basis
  • Liability coverage up to $500K as a Combined Single Limit or Split Limit
  • Uninsured Boater coverage included with Boating Liability 
  • Fuel spillage coverage 
  • No navigation plan required 

We also offer Supplemental Liability Coverage for rental boats that are similar to the boat(s) covered on your base policy. 

It's important to understand that your standard homeowner’s or auto insurance policy may not cover your jet ski. That's why purchasing a separate insurance policy specifically designed for personal watercraft is essential.

Taking Safety Classes and Wearing Life Vests

In addition to purchasing proper insurance coverage, taking safety classes and wearing life vests while riding your jet ski is essential to successful watercraft ownership. Safety classes can teach you how to operate your personal watercraft with caution and avoid accidents. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission lists approved boater safety classes across the state. Choose one near you and become educated about safe boating and personal watercraft operation. 

Note: Anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1988, must have a Boating Safety Education Identification Card to operate a boat in Florida legally. 

Wearing a life vest can also help protect you in the event of an accident, especially if you're thrown from your jet ski. Florida is a leader in promoting boating accident prevention. The “Wear It Florida” campaign encourages boaters to wear life jackets anytime they are on the water and educates boaters about the ease and convenience of inflatable life jackets.

By taking these safety steps, you can help reduce the risks associated with operating a jet ski, and protect yourself and your investment. With American Integrity, you will also qualify for insurance premium discounts by completing an approved state boating safety course. 

Protect Yourself and Your Investment

Owning a jet ski can be a fun and exciting way to enjoy the water in Florida. However, it's important to be aware of the risks and take steps to protect yourself and your investment. This includes purchasing proper insurance coverage, taking safety classes, and wearing a life vest while operating your personal watercraft.

If you're in the market for jet ski insurance, contact an agent with American Integrity Insurance and discover how affordable and easy it is to invest in Florida personal watercraft insurance.