Boat Insurance

Set sail with confidence — protect your boat, passengers, and peace of mind.

Owning a boat opens up endless opportunities for adventure — from fishing on the Tennessee River to weekend outings on Pickwick or Tims Ford Lake. But just like your car, your boat is a significant investment that comes with risks. Storms, accidents, theft, or unexpected breakdowns can turn a day on the water into a costly financial setback.

That’s where boat insurance comes in. While Tennessee does not legally require boat owners to carry insurance, many marinas, lenders, and state-owned waterways do — and the financial protection it provides makes it a smart choice for any boater.

At Cothren Insurance Agency, we help boat owners across Tennessee find policies that cover more than just the basics, so you can enjoy the water without worry.

Coverage Options for Tennessee Boat Owners

Liability Coverage
Covers bodily injury or property damage you may cause to others while operating your boat. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, and even legal defense costs if you’re sued.

Collision Coverage
Pays for repairs or replacement if your boat is damaged in an accident with another watercraft, dock, or submerged object.

Comprehensive Coverage
Protects against non-collision losses such as theft, vandalism, fire, or storm damage — a key safeguard during Tennessee’s unpredictable storm seasons.

Uninsured/Underinsured Boater Coverage
Not every boater on the water carries insurance. This coverage helps protect you and your passengers if you’re injured or your boat is damaged by an uninsured operator.

Medical Payments
Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers in the event of a boating accident, regardless of fault.

Equipment & Personal Effects Coverage
Extends protection to fishing gear, life jackets, anchors, GPS systems, and other equipment stored on your boat.

Towing & Assistance
Helps cover the cost of emergency towing, fuel delivery, or mechanical assistance if you’re stranded on the water.

Why Boat Insurance Matters in Tennessee

  • Financial Protection – Repairing or replacing a boat can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Insurance helps you avoid out-of-pocket expenses after an accident.
  • Marina & Lender Requirements – Many marinas require proof of liability coverage before allowing dockage, and lenders often require full coverage until your loan is paid off.
  • Peace of Mind on the Water – From crowded lakes on holiday weekends to unexpected weather, you can focus on enjoying your time knowing you’re covered.
  • Local Risk Factors – Tennessee’s waterways bring unique risks — shallow areas, submerged debris, heavy holiday traffic, and storm activity — making proper coverage essential.

Why Choose Cothren Insurance Agency?

  • Local Knowledge – We know Tennessee waters and the risks local boaters face.
  • Custom Coverage – From fishing boats and pontoons to sailboats and jet skis, we’ll tailor a policy to fit your specific vessel and lifestyle.
  • Multiple Carrier Options – As an independent agency, we compare top insurance companies to find the right balance of coverage and cost.
  • Responsive Support – Whether you’re buying your first boat or filing a claim, we’ll be there every step of the way.