boat insurance for older boats: 7 Powerful Ways to Secure 2025

Navigating the Waters of Classic Vessel Protection

There’s something magical about the gleam of polished mahogany and the gentle purr of a vintage marine engine. If you’ve fallen under the spell of a classic boat, you’re not just a boat owner – you’re a custodian of maritime heritage. But with that joy comes responsibility, and finding the right boat insurance for older boats can feel like charting unfamiliar waters.

I’ve spent over two decades helping fellow New Englanders protect their vintage vessels. As president of Stanton Insurance Agency, I’ve watched the market evolve, sometimes not in favor of classic boat enthusiasts. While nearly half of marine insurers have abandoned this specialized market in recent years, quality coverage options still exist for those who know where to look.

“Can you insure a 30-year-old boat? The answer is yes, but it’s a pain,” a colleague once told me. This perfectly captures the challenge many vintage boat owners face. Standard insurers often view boats older than 20-30 years as risky propositions, but specialized carriers understand that your restored Chris-Craft isn’t just transportation – it’s a passion project and potentially a valuable investment.

Boat insurance for older boats requires policies that recognize historical significance, restoration value, and specialized maintenance needs. Rather than standard depreciation-based coverage, vintage vessels typically benefit from agreed value policies that establish a fixed payout amount upfront – critical for irreplaceable classics.

Here’s what every vintage boat owner should know about securing proper protection:

Quick Guide to Boat Insurance for Older Boats:

• Boats are typically considered “older” at 20-25 years of age
• Three main coverage types: Agreed Value, Actual Cash Value, and Liability-only
• Most insurers require a marine survey for vessels over 20-25 years old
• Specialized carriers offer specific classic boat programs
• Expect higher premiums due to parts scarcity and increased repair costs

Understanding these classifications isn’t just about semantics – insurers use these distinctions to assess risk and determine coverage eligibility. A pre-1918 historic vessel presents different challenges than a 1960s classic runabout, and your policy should reflect these unique considerations.

Before you begin your search for coverage, I recommend gathering documentation about your vessel’s condition, history, and any restoration work. Quality photographs and maintenance logs can make all the difference when applying for specialized coverage.

Still wondering about the basics? You might find these resources helpful:
– Do I need boat insurance
– How much does boat insurance cost

At Stanton Insurance Agency, we believe your classic vessel deserves protection as special as its heritage. The right boat insurance for older boats doesn’t just cover accidents – it honors the craftsmanship and history your vintage boat represents.

Understanding What Makes a Boat “Older,” “Classic,” or “Antique”

When you’re searching for boat insurance for older boats, knowing how vessels are classified isn’t just interesting trivia—it’s essential for finding the right coverage. Insurance companies don’t simply look at the calendar age of your boat. Instead, they categorize vessels based on specific time periods that reflect historical significance, design elements, and how they were built.

The Antique and Classic Boat Society (ACBS) has established classifications that most insurers recognize:

• Historic: These grand old ladies were built up to and including 1918
• Antique: Vessels crafted between 1919 and 1942
• Classic: Boats built during the post-war boom from 1943 to 1975
• Late Classic: More recent treasures from 1976 to 25 years before today
• Contemporary: The youngsters of the bunch—less than 25 years old

It’s worth noting how these classifications have evolved. In the past, wooden boats were given preferential “classic” status almost automatically. Today, aluminum and fiberglass vessels can proudly wear the classic badge if they meet the age requirements and represent significant design or historical value.

At Stanton Insurance Agency, when we help New England boaters secure boat insurance for older boats, our first step is determining which category their pride and joy falls into. This classification directly impacts what coverage options are available and what underwriting hoops you’ll need to jump through.

Why Insurers Care About Age Categories

Insurance companies aren’t trying to be difficult when they give older boats extra scrutiny—they’re responding to real risk factors and claims data. Here’s the honest truth about why your boat’s age matters to insurers:

Parts for boats built 30-40 years ago can be as rare as hen’s teeth, making repairs surprisingly expensive. This is especially true for wooden vessels, where finding craftspeople skilled in authentic restoration techniques is both challenging and costly.

The risk profile changes significantly with age. Marine insurance claims data shows older vessels experience higher rates of certain failures—particularly those related to electrical systems, through-hull fittings, and structural integrity. It’s just reality.

Many vintage boats were designed before modern safety features became standard. They may lack automatic bilge pumps, updated navigation systems, and hull designs that incorporate decades of safety improvements.

As one insurance industry veteran told me (off the record): “Insurers don’t exist to indemnify you from financial loss; they exist to make a profit.” This blunt assessment explains why many standard carriers have simply walked away from insuring older vessels—their data identifies these boats as higher-risk investments.

The situation has gotten even tighter since Hurricane Ian’s devastating impact in 2022, which displaced over 7,100 boats on Florida’s west coast. About half of marine insurers have exited the boat insurance market entirely in recent years, making specialized knowledge of remaining options incredibly valuable.

Primary Eligibility Checkpoints

Before we dive into specific coverage options, let’s talk about what insurers look for when determining if they’ll cover your classic beauty. Here are the main checkpoints we help our clients steer at Stanton Insurance Agency:

Construction Material matters enormously. Wooden boats often face the strictest scrutiny due to their maintenance requirements. Fiberglass vessels from the 1970s-1990s may raise eyebrows due to potential osmotic blistering or core degradation. Aluminum boats generally fare better in underwriting but still face age-related concerns.

Your claims history tells a story to insurers. A clean record of ownership with minimal or no claims is like music to their ears. Previous damage, especially structural repairs, requires detailed documentation. And if your boat has a salvage title or total loss history, many standard carriers will simply say “no thanks.”

How you use your boat significantly impacts insurability. Weekend recreational cruising typically receives more favorable treatment than extensive offshore trips. Commercial use requires specialized commercial marine coverage. And if you’re participating in races or offshore events, expect either exclusions or higher premiums.

Where you boat matters too. Coastal areas, especially in hurricane zones, face much stricter underwriting for older vessels. Northern inland waters often offer more favorable rates and availability. Some insurers even impose navigational limits for boats over a certain age.

I remember a client with a gorgeous 1968 Chris-Craft who came to us after being rejected by three carriers. We helped him document recent upgrades, including completely rewired electrical systems and updated through-hull fittings. With proper documentation and a clean survey, we secured comprehensive coverage at a reasonable premium. It just goes to show that preparation and knowing what insurers require can make all the difference in protecting your vintage vessel.

Learn more about boat classification standards from the ACBS

Boat Insurance for Older Boats: Core Coverage Options

When you’re searching for boat insurance for older boats, understanding your coverage options isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. The right policy can make all the difference between heartbreak and proper protection when something goes wrong with your vintage vessel.

Think of boat insurance like a menu where you select different types of protection based on your vessel’s value, your budget, and how you use your boat. Let’s walk through the main options so you can make the best choice for your cherished watercraft.

Choosing Between Agreed Value and ACV for boat insurance for older boats

The biggest decision you’ll face when insuring a vintage boat comes down to how value is determined if something happens to your vessel. This choice affects both what you’ll pay now and what you’ll receive later.

Agreed Value Policies are generally the gold standard for vintage boat owners. With this type of coverage, you and the insurance company agree upfront on your boat’s value. If your boat is declared a total loss, you receive that full amount—no questions, no depreciation calculations, no haggling.

For that 1965 Chris-Craft you’ve lovingly restored, or the vintage sailboat that’s been in your family for generations, Agreed Value offers peace of mind that you’ll receive the full insured amount if disaster strikes. Yes, you’ll pay higher premiums, but many vintage boat owners find this worthwhile for irreplaceable vessels.

As one of our clients with a restored 1958 Century Coronado put it: “I didn’t spend three years restoring this boat just to have an insurance company tell me it’s only worth half what I put into it.”

Actual Cash Value (ACV) Policies work differently. They pay based on your boat’s depreciated value at the time of the loss. For a 30-year-old boat, that depreciation can be substantial.

While ACV policies offer lower premiums—sometimes significantly lower—they come with an important tradeoff. If your older boat suffers major damage, you might receive far less than you need for proper repairs or replacement.

I remember a client with a 1980s sailboat who chose ACV coverage to save money. When his mast was damaged in a storm, he was shocked to receive a check for only 60% of the replacement cost. The insurer had applied a 40% depreciation factor due to the mast’s age. This real-world example shows why understanding your policy type matters so much.

Here’s a simple comparison of how these policies might pay out:

Policy Type	Insured Value	Scenario	Payout
Agreed Value	$25,000	Total loss	$25,000
ACV	$25,000	Total loss	$15,000 (after 40% depreciation)

Liability-Only Coverage represents a third option that focuses solely on protecting you from claims if you damage someone else’s property or cause injury. This bare-bones approach provides no coverage for your own boat but meets marina requirements and protects your personal assets at minimal cost.

This option makes sense for boats with limited market value or those facing challenges securing full coverage. It’s also popular among owners of project boats that aren’t yet water-ready but still need some protection.

Add-On Protections Vintage Owners Shouldn’t Skip

Beyond the basic coverage types, several specialized add-ons deserve consideration for your vintage vessel. These aren’t just upsells—they’re targeted protections that address the unique risks older boats face.

Restoration coverage is invaluable if you’re actively restoring your classic boat. It protects your vessel during the restoration process, including while it’s in repair facilities. For wooden boats especially, this coverage can save you from starting over if a fire or theft occurs during restoration.

Trailer coverage extends protection to your boat while it’s being transported. For those who frequently take their vintage craft to shows or events, this coverage ensures you’re protected on the road as well as on the water.

One of our clients with a beautiful 1940s mahogany runabout trailered his boat to a show in Connecticut when a blowout caused the trailer to swerve. The damage would have cost thousands to repair, but his trailer endorsement covered the repairs completely.

Marine environmental damage coverage has become increasingly important as regulations tighten. This affordable add-on covers cleanup costs if your vintage vessel accidentally releases fuel or oil into the water—a risk that increases with older fuel systems and tanks.

Towing and assistance services are particularly valuable for older boats, which statistically experience more breakdowns. For just a few dollars monthly, you can avoid the hefty expense of an emergency tow back to harbor.

Specialized equipment protection ensures that vintage hardware, original fittings, and period-correct accessories are properly covered. These items often carry value beyond their functional worth and can be difficult or impossible to replace.

At Stanton Insurance Agency, we’ve seen how these specialized coverages have saved vintage boat owners from significant out-of-pocket expenses. When a client’s 1950s wooden runabout suffered smoke damage during a fire at a repair shop, his restoration coverage made the difference between a devastating loss and a complete restoration.

For more information about comprehensive protection options for your cherished vessel, visit our boat insurance page.

What Drives Premiums and Approval for Vintage Vessels

Securing boat insurance for older boats requires understanding the factors that influence both premium costs and insurability. These considerations help explain why vintage vessels often face higher rates or limited coverage options.

When we talk with boat owners at Stanton Insurance Agency, many are surprised by how different factors weigh into their vintage vessel premiums. Your boat’s age and size matter significantly – vessels over 20-25 years typically face higher premiums simply due to their perceived risk profile. Larger boats (especially those over 26 feet) generally require more comprehensive surveys, and insurers pay special attention to what we call the “ten-foot jump” rule. If you’re upgrading to a boat that’s 10-12 feet larger than your previous vessel, expect extra scrutiny.

The condition of your boat speaks volumes to insurers. Well-maintained vessels with documented service histories receive much more favorable treatment. I’ve seen premiums drop considerably for clients who keep meticulous maintenance logs. Recent professional restorations with proper documentation can positively impact both insurability and rates. For wooden boats especially, structural integrity becomes a critical evaluation point.

Where you plan to boat also significantly affects your premium. As one industry insider told me: “Climate-change-driven storms are prompting half of marine insurers to exit the market.” This market contraction has made coastal waters, particularly in hurricane zones, trigger substantially higher premiums. Some policies now restrict travel south of 32°N latitude (approximately Savannah, GA) during hurricane season. If you’re planning to enjoy inland waters, you’ll typically find more favorable rates and fewer restrictions.

Typical Insurer Requirements & How to Pass Them

Most carriers have specific requirements for boat insurance for older boats that must be satisfied before coverage can be bound. Here’s what to expect and how to prepare:

The out-of-water survey is perhaps the most critical hurdle. Nearly every insurer requires a professional marine survey for boats over 20-25 years old, typically conducted within the past 12-36 months. These findings directly impact whether you’ll get coverage and what you’ll pay. Budget about $20-$25 per foot for most vessels – it’s an investment that pays dividends in securing appropriate coverage.

Documentation expectations go beyond just the survey. Keep detailed maintenance logs showing regular upkeep and save receipts for significant repairs or upgrades. Take plenty of photographs documenting your boat’s current condition (especially important for wooden boats). Insurers will also want to see your previous insurance history and any claims information.

Valuation verification becomes crucial when seeking agreed value policies. For rare or historically significant vessels, professional appraisals carry substantial weight. Having comparable sales data that supports your agreed value requests helps tremendously. If you’ve invested in restoration, document those improvements with before-and-after photos and detailed receipts.

I remember working with a client who approached us with a 35-year-old wooden sailboat that had been denied coverage by two standard carriers. By obtaining a comprehensive marine survey that documented recent upgrades to the electrical system, replacement of through-hull fittings, and professional hull maintenance, we successfully secured agreed value coverage that recognized the vessel’s restored condition rather than just its age.

Smart Ways to Lower Your Quote for boat insurance for older boats

While boat insurance for older boats often comes with higher premiums, several strategies can help control costs without sacrificing necessary protection:

Education pays off in boat insurance just as it does in life. Completing approved boater safety courses can reduce premiums by 5-15%. The Coast Guard Auxiliary and US Power Squadrons offer recognized courses, and many online options provide convenient certification for busy boat owners. One client shaved nearly 10% off his premium simply by completing a weekend safety course.

Bundle your policies whenever possible. Combining your boat coverage with home, auto, or other policies can yield 10-25% savings. Beyond the financial benefit, bundling often provides simplified billing and unified claims service. For boats that might be borderline insurability cases, the relationship value of having multiple policies can tip the scales in your favor.

Seasonal boaters should always specify a lay-up period. By documenting when your boat will not be used (typically winter months), you can reduce premiums by 10-30% depending on the length of time. This strategy is particularly valuable for our New England clients who don’t boat during the colder months.

Modern safety equipment installations can significantly impact your premium. Updating to automatic fire suppression systems, bilge pump alarms, and EPIRBs shows insurers you’re serious about risk management. GPS tracking and anti-theft devices may qualify for specific discounts with certain carriers. These investments not only make your vintage vessel safer but also more insurable.

Don’t overlook the power of adjusting your deductible. Accepting higher deductibles (typically 1-2% of hull value) can significantly lower premiums. Just be sure you’re comfortable with the potential out-of-pocket expenses in the event of a claim. This approach works especially well for boats with higher agreed values.

At Stanton Insurance Agency, we helped a Maine client with a 1972 sailboat reduce his premium by 22% by documenting his Coast Guard Auxiliary membership, installing updated navigation electronics, and accepting a slightly higher deductible. These combined strategies made his vintage vessel coverage much more affordable while maintaining comprehensive protection.

For more insights on controlling boat insurance costs, visit our guide on how much does boat insurance cost.

Step-by-Step: Securing Coverage on Your Vintage Boat

Obtaining boat insurance for older boats requires a systematic approach to steer the challenging market successfully. Follow this proven process to secure appropriate coverage for your classic vessel.

Step 1: Document Your Vessel’s Condition and Value
– Compile maintenance records, upgrade receipts, and restoration documentation
– Take detailed, high-resolution photos of all aspects of the boat
– Gather any previous insurance policies and claims history
– Research comparable sales for similar vintage vessels

Step 2: Obtain a Professional Marine Survey
– Schedule an out-of-water survey with a credentialed marine surveyor
– Ensure the surveyor has experience with your specific type of vintage vessel
– Address any recommendations or requirements noted in the survey
– Request digital and printed copies of the completed survey

Step 3: Determine Your Coverage Needs
– Decide between Agreed Value, Actual Cash Value, or Liability-Only coverage
– Identify necessary endorsements (restoration, trailer, equipment)
– Establish appropriate liability limits based on your boating area and activities
– Consider specialized coverage for vintage components or collectible aspects

Step 4: Work with a Knowledgeable Agent
– Seek an agent with specific experience in boat insurance for older boats
– Provide complete documentation package from steps 1-2
– Be transparent about the vessel’s history, condition, and intended use
– Request quotes from multiple specialized carriers

Step 5: Review and Compare Offers
– Examine coverage limits, exclusions, and navigational restrictions
– Compare premium costs relative to coverage provided
– Check for survey compliance requirements or conditional approvals
– Verify that specialized needs (restoration, shows, etc.) are addressed

Step 6: Bind Coverage and Maintain Documentation
– Complete all application materials accurately and thoroughly
– Pay initial premium and confirm coverage is bound
– Store policy documents securely with vessel documentation
– Calendar renewal dates and survey requirement deadlines

One New Hampshire client followed this exact process for his 1965 Chris-Craft runabout. Despite initial rejections from standard carriers, our methodical approach—including a detailed condition survey, professional appraisal, and documentation of recent electrical system upgrades—secured comprehensive agreed value coverage that properly recognized both the boat’s market value and its historical significance.

Where to Find Specialized Classic Boat Carriers

The market for boat insurance for older boats has contracted significantly, making knowledge of specialized carriers particularly valuable. Here are the primary sources for vintage vessel coverage:

Dedicated Classic Boat Programs:
– Several carriers offer programs specifically designed for antique and classic boats
– These programs typically feature agreed value coverage as standard
– Many include specialized endorsements for shows, restoration, and transportation
– Often affiliated with classic boat clubs or associations

Collector Vessel Specialists:
– Some insurers primarily serving the collector car market also cover vintage boats
– These carriers understand the unique valuation considerations of collectible vessels
– May offer better rates for boats used primarily for shows or limited pleasure use
– Often more flexible on age restrictions than standard marine insurers

High-Net-Worth Insurance Programs:
– Carriers focusing on affluent clients may include vintage boat coverage
– These programs typically offer broader terms and fewer restrictions
– Often provide higher liability limits as standard
– May bundle coverage with home, auto, and other valuable collections

While standard marine insurance markets have contracted dramatically—with about half of carriers exiting the boat insurance market in recent years—these specialized providers continue to offer solutions for vintage vessel owners.

Using Independent Agents to Steer the Market

When seeking boat insurance for older boats, working with an independent agent offers significant advantages over direct writers or captive agents. Here’s why this approach is particularly valuable for vintage vessels:

Market Access and Expertise:
– Independent agents can access multiple specialized carriers
– They understand which insurers are most receptive to specific boat types and ages
– An experienced agent can anticipate underwriting concerns and address them proactively
– As one industry expert noted, “An experienced broker can be worth their weight in diesel fuel”

Custom Coverage Configuration:
– Independent agents can mix and match coverage elements from different carriers
– They help identify gaps in standard policies that may affect vintage vessels
– Ability to negotiate special endorsements for unique situations
– Can recommend appropriate liability limits based on navigational area and usage

Documentation and Presentation:
– Skilled agents know how to present your vessel in the most favorable light
– They can help organize and format documentation for maximum impact
– Experience with survey requirements and compliance verification
– Ongoing support for policy management and claims advocacy

At Stanton Insurance Agency, we specialize in helping New England boat owners steer these complex waters. Our independent status allows us to shop the market for the most appropriate coverage for your specific vintage vessel, whether it’s a wooden Chris-Craft, a classic fiberglass sailboat, or a restored aluminum runabout.

For personalized assistance with your vintage vessel, visit our boat insurance page or contact our office directly.

Frequently Asked Questions about Vintage Vessel Policies

Can I insure a 40-year-old wooden yacht?

Yes, you absolutely can insure a 40-year-old wooden yacht, though I won’t sugarcoat it – the process takes more effort than with newer vessels. I’ve guided many clients through this exact scenario at Stanton Insurance Agency.

The magic ingredients for insurability boil down to a few key factors. First, current condition speaks volumes. A wooden yacht that’s been lovingly maintained with regular care will open many more doors than one showing signs of neglect. Those beautiful wooden hulls require consistent attention!

A professional survey is non-negotiable – expect insurers to require a comprehensive out-of-water inspection within the past 12-36 months. This becomes your golden ticket to coverage. Pair this with documented maintenance records showing your dedication to hull integrity, electrical systems, and through-hull fittings maintenance, and you’re setting yourself up for success.

“You can’t get insurance for a boat more than 20 years old” is one of those persistent myths I hear all the time. While mainstream markets might indeed turn you away, specialized carriers actually understand and appreciate vintage wooden yachts.

Just last month, I helped a client in Maine secure comprehensive coverage for his 1978 wooden ketch after three standard carriers had declined him. We gathered a detailed condition survey, documented his recent upgrades, and approached markets that specialize in boats with character. The result? An agreed value policy that properly honored both the vessel’s restored condition and its historical significance. Persistence pays off!

Will a recent restoration raise or lower my premium?

Good news – a professional restoration typically helps lower premiums for boat insurance for older boats. However, the impact varies based on what exactly you’ve upgraded.

Elements that generally make insurers smile (and potentially lower your premiums) include documented professional work addressing structural integrity, electrical system upgrades to modern standards, and replacement of through-hull fittings and seacocks. Installing updated safety equipment and maintaining professional documentation of all work also helps tremendously.

That said, certain factors might increase premiums despite your restoration efforts. If your restoration significantly boosts the agreed value, incorporates rare materials that would be expensive to replace, or requires custom craftsmanship that would cost a fortune to replicate, you might see higher premiums reflecting this increased replacement cost.

Documentation is your best friend here. I remember working with a client who owned a gorgeous 1960s wooden runabout. After completing a professional restoration – including hull recaulking, engine rebuilding, and modernizing the electrical system – his premium actually decreased by 15%. The before-and-after photos and detailed invoices proved the vessel’s improved condition and demonstrated a reduced risk profile.

My advice? Before diving into a major restoration project, give your insurance agent a call to understand how specific improvements might affect your coverage and premiums. A little planning goes a long way!

Are there seasonal lay-up requirements I must follow?

Many vintage vessel insurers do indeed impose seasonal lay-up requirements, especially for boats in our chilly New England waters. These requirements significantly impact both coverage and premiums for boat insurance for older boats.

Typical lay-up requirements specify a period when your boat must not be used (usually winter months), define acceptable storage conditions (in-water versus on-land), and outline required winterization procedures. Many policies also include geographic restrictions during hurricane season, often prohibiting operation south of 32°N latitude (roughly Savannah, GA).

The silver lining? These restrictions usually come with premium discounts ranging from 10-30% depending on how long your boat hibernates. They reduce risk exposure during treacherous weather periods and sometimes make coverage available for boats that would otherwise be declined.

Be warned though – violating these provisions can lead to claim denials if a loss occurs during your declared lay-up period, policy cancellation, loss of discounts, and difficulty securing future coverage.

One of my Massachusetts clients with a classic sailboat enjoys a substantial premium reduction by specifying a November-April lay-up period with on-land storage. His policy allows occasional maintenance visits during this time but prohibits water operation.

Interestingly, some specialized classic boat policies offer more flexible terms, particularly for southern climate boats or those used for shows during traditional lay-up periods. At Stanton Insurance Agency, we help clients steer these requirements to find the sweet spot between appropriate coverage and reasonable costs.

Remember – while these requirements might seem restrictive, they’re designed to protect your vintage vessel during the most vulnerable seasons. And that’s something we can all appreciate!

Conclusion

Securing boat insurance for older boats presents unique challenges, but with the right approach and specialized knowledge, vintage vessel owners can obtain appropriate coverage at reasonable rates. The market has undeniably tightened, with approximately half of marine insurers exiting the boat coverage space in recent years, but quality options remain available through specialized carriers and programs.

The key to success lies in understanding the specific considerations that apply to classic, antique, and vintage vessels. Knowing whether your boat qualifies as Historic, Antique, Classic, or Late Classic affects available coverage options and underwriting requirements. This classification is your first step toward proper protection.

Thorough documentation serves as your vessel’s best advocate with insurers. When we work with clients at Stanton Insurance Agency, we emphasize the importance of maintenance records, professional surveys, and detailed photography to demonstrate your vessel’s true condition and value. These documents tell the story of your boat’s care that numbers alone cannot convey.

The choice between Agreed Value, Actual Cash Value, and Liability-Only coverage isn’t just about premiums—it’s about matching protection to your vessel’s unique characteristics and your financial considerations. Many of our clients find that spending a bit more for Agreed Value coverage provides invaluable peace of mind for their cherished classic craft.

Working with carriers that truly understand and appreciate vintage vessels makes all the difference. Standard underwriting criteria often fail to recognize the care and craftsmanship that goes into maintaining classic boats. We’ve built relationships with specialized markets that see the value in these floating treasures.

“A well-maintained older boat is generally safer to operate and can secure more favorable premiums,” as one industry expert noted. This insight captures the essence of successfully insuring vintage vessels—demonstrating through documentation and care that your boat represents a well-managed risk despite its age.

At Stanton Insurance Agency, we’ve helped countless New England boaters steer these complex waters. Our expertise in boat insurance for older boats across Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine has enabled vintage vessel owners to protect their investments while enjoying their classic craft with confidence.

Whether you own a carefully restored wooden Chris-Craft, a classic fiberglass sailboat, or a vintage aluminum fishing boat, we understand the unique insurance considerations these vessels present. I’ve seen how disheartening it can be when a standard carrier dismisses a lovingly maintained classic boat based solely on its age. Our independent status allows us to access specialized markets and craft customized coverage solutions that recognize both the historical value and the practical needs of your vintage vessel.

The satisfaction of helping a client secure proper coverage for their pride and joy—a boat that may have been in their family for generations—is why we specialize in this challenging niche. We believe your vintage vessel deserves protection as unique as its history.

For personalized assistance with insuring your classic boat, contact Stanton Insurance Agency today. Our team of experienced marine insurance specialists will help you secure the protection your vintage vessel deserves, so you can focus on creating memories on the water rather than worrying about coverage gaps.