We’re in the Best Month for Boating

I’m fairly sure my best friend, Scott, coined the term, “Boatober.”  This is his term of affection for the month of October, which is, in my view, the best for boating here in NW Florida.  The seasonal boaters from Alabama have left, the tourist shuttle boats don’t run as much, and rental boats and jet skis seem to have magically disappeared.  It’s not brain-meltingly hot anymore, but the water is still balmy.  This is perfect fall weather for us locals to take back our bay and Shell Island.  

Bay County boaters need to have three very important things in place at all times. And, going into “Boatober” is a good time to check and make sure these things are secured:  a hurricane plan, a Sea Tow membership, and the correct insurance policy.  

A Sea Tow membership is a given, in my opinion, which is like a AAA membership for being on the water.  Murphy’s Law dictates that boats only break at the worst possible time, so I think this planning is essential.  Having a good hurricane plan is equally important to keep your boat safe from Mother Nature.  Where will you keep your vessel?  Are you hauling out?  If so, have you got the right trailer available?  What responsibility does the marina incur?  If your boat stays in the water, have you added extra mooring lines?  Does your insurance coverage require anything specific?  It’s better to think of these details, now, rather than after Jim Cantore arrives in town.

Finally, you need the correct insurance, and the good news is that watercraft insurance is still much more affordable than many other types of insurance.  You’ll need to be sure to cover the value of the boat, motor, trailer, and equipment, just as you do with your electronics.  Ask you agent if you can get “agreed value” coverage, which sets a fixed value rather than getting a lower payout as the boat ages.  It’s best to buy a fairly high liability limit, and strongly consider adding “uninsured boater” coverage, as well, since there is no requirement to carry boat insurance in Florida (as there is with auto insurance.)  Ask you local agent what coverage is appropriate for you, and then you can relax and really enjoy “Boatober.”  See you on the water!