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AW Burchell Agency Inc

114 River St
Cortland, NY 13045

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Category: Boat/Watercraft Insurance

Seasonal vs. Year-Round Boat Insurance

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Owning a boat is a great way to explore waterways, lakes, and surrounding rivers. If you own a boat, choosing between seasonal and year-round insurance depends on how frequently you use your boat and the risks you want to cover throughout the year. While both options provide protection, they differ in price, scope, and flexibility. At AW Burchell Agency Inc., serving Cortland, New York, we work with clients who require both seasonal and year-round boating insurance to find the best rates possible.

What Is Seasonal Boating Insurance?

Seasonal boating insurance is designed for boaters who utilize their vessels during specific times of the year, or particular months. Coverage is active during the boating season and may be limited and/or reduced during the off-season. Some of the benefits of seasonal boating insurance include:

  • Reduced premiums compared to traditional year-round policies
  • Ideal for boats that are stored during the winter

What Is Year-Round Boat Insurance?

If you’re someone who enjoys boating year-round, year-round coverage is ideal. With year-round coverage, you’ll have protection and continuous coverage, regardless of season or potential downtime. This includes protection when your boat is in use, docked, or even in storage. Some of the most notable benefits of year-round coverage include:

  • Protection against off-season risks (including weather, fire, or theft)
  • Ideal for warmer climates, when boating is more common throughout the year
  • No coverage gaps while your boat is in storage or currently in transit, making it ideal for full coverage needs.

Anytime you’re investing in a boat, choosing the right insurance policy is key. If you’re unsure of whether you require seasonal or year-round boating insurance, working with an agency can help. To learn more about your insurance options in and around Cortland, New York, contact AW Burchell Agency Inc. for your quote and consultation today.

Can You Bundle Your Boat Insurance Policy With Auto Insurance?

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With so many costs rising, protecting your boat in New York with insurance is a wise move. However, you may wonder how you can save money on policy premiums. Many people know that bundling auto and home insurance is common, but does the same practice apply to insuring your watercraft? AW Burchell Agency Inc., serving Cortland, New York, can help you find an economical boat insurance policy.

Common Policy Types for Bundling Boat Insurance

Possibly the most common policies to bundle boat insurance with are auto and home insurance.  Other standard bundles involve motorcycle and RV insurance. Some companies offering renters’ insurance allow you to bundle a boat policy if your watercraft is small.

Benefits of Bundling

Buying more than one insurance policy from the same company provides several benefits. The most significant advantage of bundling is cost savings, as insurance companies offer discounts when you have multiple policies with them. Bundling also offers significant convenience because you only have to deal with one company. This advantage makes payments, claims, and a single renewal date much easier to manage. These cost savings can be substantial, but you have to weigh them against other advantages that might be served by having a non-bundled policy.

Additional Considerations

Before bundling your boat policy with other insurance policies, you need to ensure that a good rate offsets what you may receive from another company, like broader coverage. Some companies may impose a cross-policy impact. That means if you file a claim on your auto policy, it may affect the premiums on your boat or other bundled policies. You should also review the policies of other companies to ensure you receive the best coverage for your money.

Learn how bundling could save money on your boat insurance coverage by contacting AW Burchell Agency Inc., serving Cortland, NY and surrounding areas. Contact our office today for an appointment.

Guidelines When Storing Your Boat at A Marina

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Use some guidelines to keep your boat secure while it is stored at a marina. Your efforts will prevent theft and damage, reducing the need to file an insurance claim.

Inspection

Having your boat inspected by a licensed inspector can benefit you. The inspection process will determine its current status.

It will also reveal any mechanical issues or cosmetic flaws that may require you to seek repairs. Once the inspection process is complete, you can confidently store your watercraft at a marina. 

Protection From The Elements

The marina you select may offer covered and uncovered storage areas. If you are placing your boat next to a boat slip, for instance, you may need to take some measures to protect it from the elements.

A fitted cover can keep your boat clean and dry. If you store your boat indoors, it will be protected from the elements 24/7.

Surveillance Equipment

Before you rent space at a marina, find out what surveillance equipment is used to monitor the storage areas. This will protect your boat from theft and vandalism.

The marina may use remote monitoring or another strategy to keep a close eye on the status of the boats that are stored onsite.

An Itemized List

Prepare an itemized list that outlines the boat accessories that will be stored at the marina. This list will help you keep track of your possessions.

Contact AW Burchell Agency Inc.

Contact a representative of AW Burchell Agency Inc. if you have to make any changes to your existing boat insurance policy. A representative who serves the New York region will be available to assist.

Essential gear to keep on your boat

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Everyone who owns a boat here in New York and Pennsylvania knows that the right gear is essential for safety and comfort on the water. Whether you’re heading out for a leisurely afternoon of fishing or embarking on an extended voyage, having the right equipment on board can make all the difference. Here are some essential items we at AW Burchell Agency Inc. think you should keep on your boat to ensure an enjoyable experience.

Essential gear to keep on your boat

1. Life Jackets:

All boaters should wear life jackets while out on the water, so it’s important to make sure you have plenty of them for everyone in your party. Make sure they fit properly and are U.S. Coast Guard-approved for your peace of mind. 

2. Safety Equipment:

A first aid kit is always a good idea in case of injury or illness while at sea, as well as flares and other signaling devices in case you need help from someone else on the water. 

3. Navigation Tools:

Whether it be paper maps or digital GPS navigational systems, having these tools will help you stay aware of where you are and get back safe if you ever become disoriented during your trip. 

4. Communication Devices:

A VHF radio is an invaluable tool to reach out to marina staff and fellow boaters in an emergency situation, so make sure you have one with working batteries just in case. 

5. Emergency Supplies:

In addition to having a first aid kit, it’s also wise to keep an emergency bailing bucket (for flooding situations) as well as fire extinguishers aboard your vessel at all times just in case something goes wrong while out at sea. 

Reach Out To Us

For more tips, give us at AW Burchell Agency Inc. today.  We serve clients in New York and Pennsylvania.

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