Understanding Personal Property Coverage

For seasoned boaters, personal property coverage is one of those policy details that matters most when you actually need it. The simplest way to think about it? Turn the boat upside down and shake it: what falls out is personal property.

This typically includes items not permanently affixed to the vessel: fishing rods and reels, tackle boxes, portable coolers, clothing, handheld electronics, tools, and water toys. By contrast, boating equipment - GPS units wired into the helm, permanently mounted dinghy davits, built-in generators, fixed stereos - is considered part of the hull and covered under the hull limit, not personal property.

Personal property coverage limits often range from $5,000-$10,000 total, and may carry a deductible depending on the carrier. It’s also important to confirm whether coverage is written on an Actual Cash Value (ACV) basis (depreciated value at time of loss) or Replacement Cost (new-for-old, subject to policy terms).

If you routinely carry high-value gear aboard, our team at Sunset is happy to review your policy and ensure you're protected.