The Oregon Coast is a boater's paradise — from the protected harbors of Brookings and Gold Beach to the world-class salmon and tuna fishing grounds of the Pacific, from the scenic bays of Coos Bay and Newport to the river systems that wind through the Coast Range. But the Oregon Coast is also one of the most challenging marine environments in North America, with notorious bar crossings, powerful Pacific swells, and rapidly changing weather conditions. Proper boat insurance is not optional on the Oregon Coast — it is essential.

Does Your Homeowner's Policy Cover Your Boat?

Many Oregon boaters assume their homeowner's insurance covers their boat. In most cases, this assumption is wrong — or at best, dangerously incomplete. Standard homeowner's policies typically provide very limited boat coverage: usually only small boats (under 25 horsepower) or boats under a certain value, and only while the boat is on your property.

Once your boat is on the water — especially on the Pacific Ocean — your homeowner's policy provides little or no coverage. A dedicated boat insurance policy is essential for any watercraft used on Oregon's coastal waters.

What Boat Insurance Covers

• Hull Coverage: Covers physical damage to your boat from collision, sinking, fire, theft, and other covered perils. Available on agreed value or actual cash value basis.
• Liability Coverage: Covers bodily injury and property damage you cause to others while operating your boat. This is the most critical coverage — a collision can result in a multi-million dollar lawsuit.
• Medical Payments: Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers if injured in a boating accident, regardless of fault.
• Uninsured Boater: Covers your injuries if you are hit by an uninsured boater — unfortunately common on Oregon's coastal waters.
• Personal Property: Covers fishing equipment, electronics, safety gear, and other personal property on board.
• Towing and Assistance: Covers the cost of emergency towing if your boat breaks down on the water — essential on the Oregon Coast.
• Agreed Value: Pays the full agreed value of your boat in the event of a total loss, with no depreciation — the preferred option for most Oregon Coast boaters.

Commercial Fishing and Charter Boat Insurance

Commercial fishing is a cornerstone of the Oregon Coast economy, with major fishing fleets operating out of Brookings, Gold Beach, Coos Bay, and Newport. Commercial fishing vessels and charter boats require specialized marine insurance that goes beyond standard recreational boat coverage.

Gerald Ross Agency has specialized in marine insurance for Oregon Coast commercial fishing and charter operations since 1937. We work with marine insurance specialists who understand the unique risks of Pacific Coast fishing — from the bar crossings to the offshore grounds, from the crew liability to the catch coverage. Whether you operate a small charter boat or a large commercial fishing vessel, we can design a marine insurance program that fits your operation.