Anchors Aweigh: Guide to Safe Boating on the New England Coast
Summer in New England is a time of fun in the sun & relaxation. From the rugged, salt-sprayed coastline of the Atlantic to the serene, crystal-clear waters of Lake Winnipesaukee and Sebago Lake, our region offers some of the best boating in the country.
Whether you are a local homeowner heading out for a weekend cruise, a business owner hosting a corporate retreat, or a vacationer renting a vessel, the water is a place of endless joyâprovided you respect it. At Slawsby Insurance, we want to ensure your time on the water is memorable for all the right reasons.
Here is your guide to navigating a safe and insured season on the water.
Boating Safety: Respecting the Atlantic & Our Inland Lakes
New England waters are beautiful, but they can be unpredictable. Whether you are navigating the tidal currents of the ocean or the busy harbors of our favorite lakes, safety is non-negotiable.
1. Know the Coast Guard Requirements Before you leave the dock, ensure you are compliant with U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) regulations. Every vessel must have a Coast Guard-approved life jacket for every person on board. If you are on the ocean, ensure you have proper visual distress signals and a working fire extinguisher. Check your flare expiration datesâdon’t let safety equipment expire while sitting in a storage locker!
2. Master the “No Wake” Etiquette “No Wake” zones are there for a reason: they protect fragile shorelines from erosion, safeguard swimmers, and prevent damage to moored vessels.
The Rule: A “No Wake” speed means the slowest speed at which you can steer your boat while creating the least amount of wake.
The Etiquette: Donât just drop your throttle and glide; watch your stern. If your boat is still throwing a significant wave, you are going too fast. Being a polite boater makes the lake or harbor safer for everyone.
3. Respect the Environment From the unpredictable Atlantic tides to the hidden stumps in some of our inland lakes, local knowledge is key. Always keep a current nautical chart or GPS on board, and never operate a boat under the influence of alcohol. It is the leading cause of boating accidents, and the laws on the water are just as strict as they are on the road.
Protect Your Investment: A Note on Boat Insurance
Boating is an investment, not just in a vessel, but in your lifestyle. When you sit down to review your insurance policy, it is crucial to understand how your boat is valued. If an accident or total loss occurs, the type of policy you hold dictates what you get back.
Actual Cash Value (ACV) vs. Agreed Value
Actual Cash Value (ACV): This is the market value of your boat at the time of the loss, minus depreciation. Because boats (like cars) depreciate over time, this can be risky. If your boat is a total loss, the check you receive may be significantly less than what you paid for it or what it would cost to replace it.
Agreed Value: This is generally the preferred choice for serious boat owners. In an Agreed Value policy, you and your insurance company agree on the value of the boat when the policy is written. In the event of a total loss, the insurer pays you that agreed-upon amount (minus your deductible), regardless of depreciation.
For many New Englanders, the boat is a prized possession. We always recommend discussing your specific needs with a Slawsby Insurance agent to determine which valuation method protects your assetsâand your peace of mindâbest.
Ready to Set Sail with Peace of Mind?
Whether youâre captaining a sailboat off the coast of Maine or cruising a pontoon on Lake Winnipesaukee, weâre here to help you navigate the complexities of coverage. From liability protection to hull damage, Slawsby Insurance provides comprehensive policies tailored to the unique risks of New England boating.
Donât let a lapse in coverage sink your summer plans.
Letâs ensure youâre protected so you can spend less time worrying and more time enjoying the wind in your hair and the water beneath your hull.
Want more info on NH Boating Education and Licensing? Click here to visit nhsp.dos.nh.gov.
Anchors aweigh, New England!
