Mild temperatures and miles of coastline make Florida an ideal spot for boating. “Whether you are enjoying leisure or recreational time, a day spent on the water in Florida makes for an outstanding time,” says Dustyn Shroff, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s leading independent boat insurance agency.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) announced Friday, Florida has over 1 million registered recreational vessels across the state. The top five counties for vessel registration in Florida include: Miami-Dade (74,622), Pinellas (53,867), Lee (50,304), Broward (47,741) and Hillsborough (41,495).
“Florida, with its great year-round weather and plenty of access to fresh and salt water, is the ‘Boating Capital of the World’,” read a statement from the FWC.
As Florida passes the 1 million vessel benchmark, the commission took the time to give a reminder of the importance of boating safety.
Maj. Rob Beaton, leader of the commission’s Boating and Waterways Section says, “A safe day while boating is a great day. Nothing can ruin a fun and memorable experience on the water faster than a boating accident.”
“Whether you are in a powered vessel or non-motorized vessel, reviewing safety guidelines is important with so many boaters on the water,” says Buck, with GreatFlorida Insurance.
Some basics are as follows:
- Boaters are always encouraged to wear a life jacket on board
- Maintain 360-degree awareness
- Know the dangers and penalties for operating a vessel while impaired
The U.S. Coast Guard reports alcohol is the leading known contributing factor in fatal accidents.
While Florida does not require boat owners to obtain boat insurance, several homeowners policies and marinas may require boat insurance. Florida also has the highest rate of boat loss and boat damage across the U.S.
GreatFlorida Insurance covers all types of vessels. We can provide insurance against physical damage, sinking or collision, bodily injury or death, comprehensive coverage as well as property damage and boat trailer coverage.
