Commandeers, if you're struggling to find coverage for your classic commander in Florida, as I was for a few years, turned away by most main agencies and being quoted outrageous figures by the specialty firms, I have good news. Just got a truly comprehensive policy through Tara John of State Farm. I'm not sure why this specific office chooses to insure boats older than 30 years when even other State Farms offices don't, but I'll take it. This is her info:
Tara Johns, Multiple Line Representative
Bus: 904-284-4800, ext 5.
1627 Idlewild Ave
Green Cv Spgs, FL 32043-3615
Thanks for sharing!! This is a recurring popular topic. New information is always welcome!
Rudi,
Thank you for the turn on! Yes, it's getting more difficult to find reasonable insurance for any older boat over 30 ft in Florida. We've been "Red Lined"! I've been with BoatUS for 43 years and now they want me to get a $1,000 survey that I don't need or want in order to continue paying them for Insurance that I've never used. I just got off the phone with Tara Jones and she quoted my a premium that was 1/2 of what BoatUS charges for the very same coverage. I'm gonna switch but she couldn't guarantee that I would also need a survey or not. Since we both have Commanders, mine is a 31, my question to you is were you required to get a survey after your policy was issued? Tim G.
Rudi,
I was able to get insurance from State Farm without a Survey and at a lower rate then from BoatUS for the very same coverage. After paying BoatUS premiums for over 44 years I switched when they insisted on a Survey and wanted me to pay for it.
Not to be the pooper, just the informer. Make sure it has all the EPA coverages in case of a spill/sinking. You marina will advise you if it doesn't when they receive the COI. Just trying to help here. As a business owner, insurance has gotten ridiculous with the marinas (Safe Harbor Marinas in particular) My coverages have been increased several times in a year as a service contractor and I hear constantly from owners that they are getting notices of Increased coverages and waivers as well. Just fyi.