Owning a business that owns or leases Commercial Watercraft exposes you to significant risks and liabilities. Understanding these risks and liabilities is what we focus our attention on at Charter Lakes. This enables us to provide the insurance protection our clients need at a price they can afford.  We have developed a new, highly competitive commercial Hull and P&I Program for owners and operators of commercial watercraft.
 

Commercial Watercraft Owners Features:

  • All Risk policy written on an occurrence basis
  • Hull and Machinery is written on an Agreed Value basis.
  • Protection and Indemnity (P&I) Liability
  • Broad Navigation Limits

Types of Risks We Insure:

  • Oil and Gas Contractor
  • Geophysical Contractor
  • Environmental Contractors
  • Pollution Remediation Contractor
  • Hydrographic Surveyors
  • Bridge Inspection
  • Vessel Assist Tow Boats
  • Municipality Patrol and Fire Rescue
  • Building and Marine Contractors
  • Aquatic Foliage Control Contractors
  • Commercial Fishermen
  • Land Surveyors

OPTIONAL COVERAGES:

  • Marine General Liability
  • Jones Act/Maritime Employment Liabilities
  • Cargo Legal Liability
  • Excess Liabilities
  • Additional Insured/Waiver of Subrogation
  • Pollution Liability Buy Back
  • Towers Liability
  • Medical Payments

Navigating the Commercial Marine Insurance market can be a challenge. Let Charter Lakes be your guide to finding the best insurance solution for your business and your budget.

As an avid angler you are serious about catching fish. Much of your success depends on your boat and equipment, so you don’t skimp on either. The same should be true of your insurance.  The Anglers Choice Insurance Program was developed for Anglers by Anglers to provide broad insurance protection at an extremely competitive rate - whether you fish just for fun or on the tournament trail.  Charter Lakes has been insuring Recreational Fisherman and Tournament Anglers for more than 30 years. That experience has resulted in an insurance policy designed specifically for owners of inshore and offshore fishing vessels.

Anglers Choice coverage features include the following:

  • Physical Damage – written on an Agreed Value basis
  • Consequential Damage Clause
  • Fishing Equipment
  • Protection & Indemnity (P&I)
  • Professional Angler Liability
  • Pollution Liability
  • Medical Payments 
  • Tournament Fee Reimbursement 
  • Towing and Emergency Assistance
  • Unlimited Trailering within the continental United States
  • 24 hour claims service

* Please consult one of our agents for complete explanation of coverage
** Standard program features shown above, optional coverage and higher limits are available

Putting our team behind your team is a winning combination

COMPARISON WITH OTHER PROGRAMS:

  • PROTECTION AND INDEMNITY LIABILITY P&I - This is the broadest form of marine liability insurance available.  Many policies only provide watercraft liability, not P&I, and only offer maximum liability limits of $500.000. Tournaments trails and corporate sponsors may require teams to carry $1,000,000 limits.
  • TOURNAMENT COVERAGE - The Anglers Choice policy specifically defines the use of vessel to include coverage for your vessel, machinery, equipment and your fishing gear while used in fishing tournaments. Most personal use policies exclude all “commercial use” of the insured vessel and will consider Tournaments “commercial use” as vessel is being used to generate income. They may refuse to pay your claim if you hit a rock, damage your boat/motor and the accident occurred while fishing a tournament.
  • PROFESSIONAL ANGLER LIABILITY - This is coverage is included for liabilities you may become liable for through your activities as a Professional Angler whether directly or indirectly associated with the insured vessel. Conducting fishing seminars, exhibiting at sport shows, distributor shows or dealer open house appearances are just some examples. Most personal polices DO NOT OFFER THIS.
  • FISHING EQUIPMENT - The Anglers Choice Policy extends coverage for your fishing equipment when it is in your boat, while stored ashore, or while locked in your vehicle. Other insurance policies merely afford coverage while the equipment is ABOARD THE BOAT ONLY. Note – A home owner's policy may not cover your fishing equipment at all as it is considered commercial property.

Charter Lakes specializes in boat insurance.  And while you might think all small boat insurance policies are the same, you would be wrong. Every boat insurance policy is written differently and can vary greatly in the amount of coverage provided. Charter Lakes represents the strongest marine insurance underwriters in the country. We understand the strengths and weaknesses of each our underwriter’s policies as well as the policies of our competitors. Our Account Executives will help you find the broadest insurance protection at the most affordable price.

Small Boat Insurance Features:

  • All Risk Policy written on an Occurrence basis
  • “Agreed Value” Physical Damage Coverage
  • Protection and Indemnity Liability
  • Pollution Liability
  • Medical Payments
  • Trailer Coverage
  • Personal Property Coverage
  • Uninsured Boaters Coverage
  • Towing and Emergency Assistance

Because boat insurance is all we do at Charter Lakes, we offer much more to boat owners than can be offered by a general insurance agent.  Apart from representing a wide array of (A) rated underwriters and policy forms, we offer 24/7 claims service so you will have our support available in the unfortunate event of a claim. As a specialist, we are uniquely capable of acting as an advocate for our clients if there is ever a claim dispute with an underwriter. We have successfully gone to bat for our clients on many occasions.

Putting our team behind you is a winning combination.

Standard Charter Boat Policies Aren’t Enough – You Deserve Real Coverage, Real Protection  

Sudden weather shifts, passenger injuries, crew injuries, equipment breakdowns – the risks of owning a Charter Boat are real. A one-size-fits-all insurance policy won’t cut it when it comes to charter boat-specific realities. You need charter boat insurance that goes beyond standard boat policies.

  • Comprehensive Protection

    Broadest policy for charter operators

  • 24/7 Claims Support

    Help anytime, anywhere – you’ll never be stuck waiting on shore.

  • Agreed Value Settlements

    Peace of mind knowing that a total loss pays the full insured amount with no depreciation curveballs.

  • Fleet Discounts

    More vessels, more savings – competitive pricing for fleets.


START YOUR CUSTOM CHARTER QUOTE

From the Captains' Chairs

We have insured a number of boats with Charter Lakes Marine Insurance. Charter Lakes Marine always gives us a competitive price and excellent service.

Katrina Lavergne

Insurance That Covers Your Charter Boat Business

Every day you face the realities and risks of owning a charter boat  – we think your policy should, too. We tailor charter boat insurance policies around your life and your work on the water. With an all-risk charter insurance package, you can run trips without second-guessing your coverage.

  • Hull, Machinery & Equipment

    Protection against sinking, fire, collision, storms, theft, and more.

  • Medical Payments

    Coverage for small injuries to passengers and guests.

  • Protection & Indemnity (P&I)

    Liability coverage geared to cover Charter Boat Owner exposures.

  • Dockside Liability*

    Coverage that starts before passengers board and continues after they step off.

  • Passenger & Crew Coverage

    Structured to support commercial charter operations for Bodily Injury to your guests and crew.

  • Replacement Vessel Liability*

    Seamless protection if you need to operate a backup boat.

  • Uninsured/Underinsured Boater

    Because not everyone else on the water carries enough coverage.

  • Personal Property and Fishing Gear

    Protection for your personal items and expensive gear from damage or theft.

*Coverage may not be available in all programs.

Who you insure through matters 

Marine Coverage That Fits Your Charter Business

We're not here to change the way you guide. We're here to insure it - so you can ensure you're doing things your way. Our coverage works for guides who...

  • Sportfishing Charters
  • Excursion Charters
  • Sightseeing & Eco-Nature Tours
  • Multi-Boat & Fleet Operations
  • Whale Watching Tours
START CUSTOM QUOTE
Let's get your charter fully covered today.

Your operation: Protected with Extras That Others Miss

When it comes to your charter operation, the basics aren't enough. We can round out your custom policy with options that help you meet contracts, align with resort and marina requirements, and cover the unique risks of every trip.

  • High-Limit / Excess Liability

    Meet insurance requirements of resorts, marinas, and booking agencies without stress.

  • Captain & Crew Liability

    Coverage specifically tailored to the way you staff and run your operation.

  • Dockside Liability*

    Coverage that kicks in before passengers step on board and after they disembark. *Not available in every package

  • Equipment & Tackle Safeguard

    Protect your high-value gear and fishing tackle

Charter Coverage Built by Marine Insurance Specialists

For over 35+ years, Charter Lakes has been specializing in just marine insurance. Our marine experience provides faster, cleaner quoting, smarter coverage design, and support from those who actually understand the risks of owning a charter boat business.

What does that mean for you? Real marine coverage that covers real charter boat risks.

START YOUR CHARTER QUOTE NOW

Fast, easy, & secure!


Charter Boat Insurance: Frequently Asked Questions

Charter Lakes is a specialist in the marine insurance industry. We have numerous years of experience when it comes to providing you with the proper coverages for your boat. Whether you own a charter boat, a pleasure craft, or a commercial boat for hire we have both the knowledge and experience to meet your needs. We are an industry leader when it comes to marine insurance.

We offer multi-boat and fleet discounts. We may provide discounts for boater safety education course certifications, prior vessel ownership and operating experience, and clean driving records.

Yes, most insurance carriers offer several options to meet your needs. Ask your agent for specific details.

Typically we can bind coverage the same day as you receive your quote, but this may depend on the age of your vessel and the insurance underwriting subjectivities.

Many insurance companies use the 26 feet and less in length to classify a boat and over 26 feet to be classified in their yacht program.

Real Fishing Guides Need Real Insurance Coverage

You know that guiding is so much more than boating. If your vessel is your office and your tackle is your tackle box, you need the peace of mind of all-risk coverage so you can guide confidently.
Your clients’ safety is in your hands – for that, generic boat insurance just won’t cut it. You need fishing guide insurance that protects what matters most: your passengers, you, and your boat.

What Our Fishing Guides Can Count On:

  • Agreed Value Settlements

    Full insured value in a total loss — no surprise depreciations.

  • Professional Angler Liability*

    Coverage for seminars, sport shows, and public events.

  • Protection & Indemnity (P&I)

    Broad liability coverage for property damage and bodily injury.

  • Tournament Fee Reimbursement*

    Recover entry fees if a covered claim keeps you from competing.

  • Pollution Liability

    Protection for accidental fuel spills or discharges.

  • Medical Payments

    Quick protection for guest or crew injuries.

  • Dockside Liability*

    Guests are covered before they board and after they disembark.

  • Personal Property and Fishing Gear

    Safeguards your expensive gear even when stored ashore or in a vehicle.

  • Replacement Vessel Liability

    Seamless coverage when operating a backup boat, while your vessel is out of commission for a covered loss

  • START YOUR QUOTE TODAY

    Don't settle for less than you deserve! Your fast, easy, & secure quote starts here.

*coverage may not be available in all programs

Words Straight From the Helm

"Thank you very much for all your help. I will definitely refer your company for these types of services! It has been a very pleasant experience! Thank you again.”

Aubrey Haskins

Extras & Add-Ons for Fishing Guides’ Real-World Risks on the Water

When you’re guiding, no two days are the same — as the weather, client expectations, and gear needs shift, so does your risk. Our fishing guide insurance is designed specifically for the way you work, with protection tailored to your on-the-water realities.

  • High-Limit / Excess P&I

    Meet resort, marina, and agency contracts without stress.

  • Charter Legal Liability

    Coverage when subcontracting trips or using non-owned vessels.

  • Captain & Crew Liability

    Structured around your staffing model.

  • Wade Fishing Liability

    Coverage for clients fishing off the boat.

Who you Insure Through Matters

Your Operation, Our Fishing Guide Coverage – Designed to Cover Your Risks

We’re not here to change the way you guide. We’re here to insure it – so you can ensure you’re doing things your way. Our coverage works for guides who…

  • Run guided sportfishing trips
  • Lead inshore & offshore excursions
  • Offer wade fishing or shore-based experiences
  • Operate multi-boat or fleet guide services
START CUSTOM QUOTE
Whatever your setup, we’ve got your coverage.

Coverage Built by Marine Insurance Specialists

With over 125 combined years of marine insurance experience, we don’t dabble in boats — we specialize in them. That focus means faster quotes, smarter coverage design, and claims support that actually understands your work.

Fishing Guide Insurance - Frequently Asked Questions

Core Coverage Questions

Typically we can bind coverage the same day as you receive your quote but this may depend on the age of your boat and if there are any underwriting subjectivities to bind.

We extend coverage for your fishing equipment(tackle, rods, reels, etc.) when it is in your boat, while stored ashore, or locked in your vehicle. Other Fishing Guide programs offer coverage while the equipment is aboard the boat only.

It provides additional coverage for participating in Professional Angler Activities such as fishing tournaments or charity fishing events, conducting fishing seminars or workshops, and working sport shows.

Our program allows other activities such as scenic tours, eco tours, shelling, bird watching, snorkeling, swimming, etc, not just fishing (snorkeling or swimming requires additional endorsement and premium, subject to risk approval)

Yes.

Yes.

Pricing & Discounts

We offer multi-boat and fleet discounts. We may provide discounts for boater safety education course certifications, prior vessel ownership and operating experience, and clean driving records. Your Charter Lakes agent will provide all credits available within the product guidelines.

As a passenger vessel owner you are serious about the condition of your boat and the experience of your crew. Both are critical to your success so you don’t skimp on either. The same should be true of your insurance. You need a commercial insurance policy that provides broad physical damage coverage and protection from potential liabilities to passengers, crew and other third parties. The Passenger Vessel Policy offered by Charter Lakes provides broad insurance protection at substantial premium savings.

Standard Coverage:

  • Physical Damage– Agreed Value
  • Disappearing Hull Deductible
  • Passenger Liability– Protection and Indemnity (P&I)
  • Dockside Liability
  • Pollution Liability
  • Medical Payments Coverage
  • Personal Property Coverage
  • Towing and Emergency Assistance
  • Equipment Stored Ashore Coverage
  • 24 Hours Claims Service

*Please consult one of our account executives for complete explanation of coverages.

Charter Lakes has been insuring passenger vessels for more than 30 years. We understand the business and the risks associated with operating a passenger vessel.  We also understand how important it is to your business to keep operating costs under control. We have priced our passenger vessel policy according to the exposure so you do not pay for coverage you do not need. The result is an affordable insurance policy designed specifically for owners and operators of passenger vessels.

While passenger vessels face similar exposures, the business operations can be very different. We have developed optional coverage(s) to meet specific needs of passenger vessel owners.

Optional Coverages:

  • Maritime Employment Liability Coverage (to cover liabilities to your crew employees)
  • Marine General Liability for land based or floating support operations
  • Liquor Liability
  • Excess P&I/Bumbershoot Liability Coverage
  • Shoreside Property and Casualty coverage.
  • Additional interests and waivers of subrogation

Additional Features:

  • Payment Plans – We offer several interest free payment plans and a 10 month premium finance option depending on your needs.
  • Risk Management – Charter Lakes provides a wide array of risk management services which could even include loss control inspections. We can also help our clients with vessel leases, liability releases and indemnification contracts.
  • Interactive Access - Clients have 24 hour on-line access to their policy and their vessel documents which we store in a secure paperless environment. Clients can also request policy changes, file a claim, or make payments online.

Our clients include:

  • Party Fishing Vessels
  • Multi-Day Expedition Vessels
  • Dinner Cruise Boats
  • Replica Pirate Ships
  • Whale Watching Vessels
  • High Performance Jet Boats
  • Eco and Scenic Tour Boats
  • Environmental Education
  • Dive and Snorkel Boats
  • Airboats
  • Passenger Ferry Boats
  • Duck Boats
  • Paddle Wheelers
  • Sailing Vessels

Yachts are valuable assets worthy of the best insurance protection. And while yachts differ by construction, size and value they also differ in the way they are used and how they are navigated. Understanding the risks inherent with yacht ownership is critically important to being able to properly insure the yacht. That is why working with a Yacht Insurance Specialist is so important to procure the broadest protection available at the most affordable price. That is the definition of true value and that is what we are passionate about here at Charter Lakes.  Our account executives will help you design a policy that precisely fits your needs.  We have 24/7 claims service, so you will have support available when you need it in the unfortunate event that you have a mishap on the water.

Please note: Every yacht insurance policy is written differently and can vary greatly in the amount of coverage it provides. Charter Lakes represents the largest, most financially sound yacht insurance underwriters in the country. We understand the strengths and weaknesses of each underwriter’s policy form, including those of our competitors. Our Account Executives will help you find the right policy to precisely fit your needs and your budget.

Basic Yacht Policy Features Include:

  • All Risk policy form written on an occurrence basis
  • Physical Damage is written on an Agreed Value basis
  • Protection and Indemnity Liability
  • Pollution Liability
  • Medical Payments
  • Personal Property Coverage
  • Uninsured Boaters Liability
  • Towing and Emergency Assistance

Did you know that many yacht insurance policies specifically exclude loss caused by mechanical breakdown? That may not be surprising to you since your automobile policy excludes mechanical breakdown as well. However, we sell several policies that do not exclude mechanical breakdown loss. This could mean the difference between having a $ 50,000 engine failure covered or not.

The yacht Insurance marketplace can be challenging. Working with a Yacht Insurance Specialist is the best way to procure the broadest insurance protection at the most affordable price.

Putting our team behind you is a winning combination.

Charter Lakes specializes in marine artisan and boat insurance.  And while you might think all small business insurance policies are the same, they would be wrong.  We know and understand the marine insurance world.  Every boat you work on can vary greatly in the type of work, skill needed and exposure. Charter Lakes represents the strongest marine insurance underwriters in the country. We understand the strengths and weaknesses of each our underwriter’s policies as well as the policies of our competitors. Our Account Executives will help you find the broadest insurance protection at the most affordable price.

Basic Features Include:

  • Personal and Advertising injury
  • Liability
  • Products completed Operations
  • Medical Payments
  • Property Damage
  • Personal Property Coverage
  • Damage to property rented by you

Because boat insurance is all we do at Charter Lakes, we offer much more to those that’s business is working on boats, than can be offered by a general insurance agent.  Apart from representing a wide array of (A) rated underwriters and policy forms, we offer 24/7 claims service so you will have our support available in the unfortunate event of a claim. As a specialist, we are uniquely capable of acting as an advocate for our clients if there is ever a claim dispute with an underwriter. We have successfully gone to bat for our clients on many occasions.

Putting our team behind you is a winning combination.