If you’ve spent any time on the water, you know how thrilling and freeing boating can be. But with that freedom comes responsibility, and sometimes, the unexpected happens. Engine breakdowns, dead batteries, running aground, or even running out of fuel can leave you stranded far from shore. When that happens, knowing you have reliable boat towing coverage can make all the difference between a minor inconvenience and a costly, stressful ordeal.
Boat towing coverage is more than just a luxury, it’s a smart investment for any boat owner. Understanding how it works, what it covers, and how to choose the right plan can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about boat towing coverage in 2025, so you can make an informed decision and enjoy your time on the water with complete peace of mind.
What Is Boat Towing Coverage?
Boat towing coverage is a service or insurance policy that provides assistance if your boat becomes disabled or stranded on the water or on the road while trailering. Similar to roadside assistance for cars, boat towing coverage secures that professional help is just a call away.
There are typically two types of towing coverage: on-water towing and roadside towing for trailers. On-water towing covers incidents that happen while you’re out boating, such as engine failures, fuel depletion, or mechanical breakdowns. Roadside towing covers issues that occur while you’re towing your boat on the highway, such as trailer breakdowns or flat tires.
Boat towing coverage can be purchased as a standalone membership through services like TowBoatUS, or it can be added to your boat insurance policy as an endorsement. Knowing the difference between these options helps you choose the coverage that best fits your needs.
Types of Boat Towing Coverage
On-Water Towing Coverage
This is the most common type of boat towing coverage. It provides towing assistance if your boat becomes disabled while out on the water. Services typically include:
- Towing your boat to the nearest marina or repair facility.
- Fuel delivery if you run out of gas.
- Battery jump-starts for dead batteries.
- Soft ungrounding assistance if you get stuck in shallow water.
Roadside Assistance Towing Coverage
Roadside assistance towing covers problems that occur while transporting your boat on a trailer. Services often include:
- Towing your trailer to a repair shop if it breaks down.
- Tire changes if you experience a flat.
- Assistance with dead batteries or mechanical issues related to your towing vehicle.
Comprehensive Towing Plans
Some towing services offer plans that cover both on-water and roadside assistance. These comprehensive plans are perfect for boaters who want full coverage for both their vessel and trailer.
What’s Typically Covered Under Boat Towing Insurance?
When you invest in boat towing coverage, you’ll generally receive the following services:
- Emergency Towing: Covers towing your boat to the nearest marina, dock, or service station. Coverage distances vary, but many plans offer towing up to 25 miles or more.
- Fuel Delivery: If you run out of gas, a towing service can deliver fuel to get you back on your way.
- Battery Jump-Starts: Dead batteries are common on the water. Towing coverage often includes jump-start services.
- Soft Ungrounding: If you run aground in soft sand or mud, a tow service can help get your boat free.
- Roadside Assistance for Trailers: Includes towing your boat trailer, changing flat tires, or addressing minor mechanical issues while trailering.
What’s Usually Not Covered?
While boat towing coverage is comprehensive, there are some exclusions you should be aware of:
- Salvage and Recovery: If your boat sinks or is severely damaged, salvage operations are usually not covered under standard towing plans.
- Hard Groundings: Assistance for hard groundings on rocks or reefs often falls under salvage, not standard towing.
- Accident Damage: Coverage typically doesn’t include repairs for damage caused by collisions or accidents.
- Mechanical Repairs: Towing services provide basic assistance but do not cover complex repairs.
Understanding these limitations can help you set realistic expectations and avoid surprises.
How to Choose the Right Boat Towing Coverage
Selecting the right boat towing coverage involves several considerations. Here are eight tips to help you make the best choice:
1. Assess Coverage Areas
Make sure the towing service covers the locations where you frequently boat. Whether you’re on lakes, rivers, or coastal waters, you need coverage that matches your boating habits. Some providers offer nationwide coverage, while others are limited to specific regions.
2. Evaluate Response Times
When you’re stranded, a quick response time is crucial. Look for providers with a reputation for fast and reliable service. Many top services aim to reach you within an hour or less. Customer reviews can offer insight into real-world response times.
3. Compare Membership Costs and Benefits
Boat towing memberships typically range from $100 to $200 per year. Compare the costs and benefits of different plans. Look for plans that include towing, fuel delivery, battery jump-starts, and soft ungrounding. Some memberships also offer discounts on fuel, repairs, and boating supplies.
4. Consider 24/7 Availability
Emergencies can happen at any time, so choose a towing service that operates 24/7, 365 days a year. A reliable 24-hour hotline ensures help is always available when you need it most.
5. Look for Experienced and Certified Operators
Make sure the service employs experienced and certified captains who can handle a variety of situations. Certifications from organizations like the U.S. Coast Guard indicate professionalism and competence.
6. Read Customer Reviews and Testimonials
Customer feedback can help you gauge the reliability and quality of a towing service. Look for consistently positive reviews regarding response times, professionalism, and overall service quality.
7. Check for Additional Services
Some towing services offer extra benefits like fuel delivery, battery jumps, and minor repairs. These additional services can be a lifesaver and help you avoid the need for a full tow.
8. Compare Customer Service Quality
Good customer service is essential during stressful situations. Choose a provider with friendly, responsive, and helpful support staff. Clear communication and accurate updates can make a big difference.
The Cost of Boat Towing Coverage
The cost of boat towing coverage varies based on the provider and the level of coverage. On average, annual memberships range from $100 to $200. Factors influencing cost include:
- Type of Coverage: On-water only vs. comprehensive (on-water and roadside).
- Coverage Limits: Distance limits for towing services.
- Additional Benefits: Extra perks like discounts on repairs, supplies, and fuel.
Compared to the $250 to $500 per hour cost of an out-of-pocket tow, a towing membership quickly pays for itself.
Benefits of Having Boat Towing Coverage
Boat towing coverage offers peace of mind, knowing that help is just a call away if you encounter engine trouble, run out of fuel, or face other unexpected issues on the water. It provides crucial financial protection by avoiding costly out-of-pocket towing fees, which can range from $250 to $500 per hour.
The convenience of quick and professional assistance ensures that minor problems don’t escalate into major disruptions, allowing you to get back to your trip smoothly. Additionally, 24/7 support means you’re covered any time of day or night, giving you the confidence to enjoy boating without worrying about being stranded.
