There are hundreds of canals running through the UK countryside, and have become a popular option for holidaymakers since they are no longer used for industrial work. If you have purchased a canal boat for renovation, leisure or any other reason, it is important that it is adequately protected. A satisfactory canal boat insurance policy should fully cover you and your boat in the event of an accident, damage, or theft.

The type of canal boat insurance cover you opt for ill depend on the how you intend to use the vessel, are you using it for pleasure or to live on? Canal boats face the same eventualities as any marine vessel; they can still sink, go on fire or cause damage to other peoples property. It is common sense to ensure that you obtain cover for any possible event.

If you are going on an organised canal holiday and renting a canal boat, the insurance should be covered by the operator, although you will still need to take care. Some holiday operators will require you to take out personal injury and theft insurance but not canal boat insurance. If you are travelling in your own boat, you will need to obtain adequate insurance to ensure that you are not left out of pocket.

Canal boat policies are all different and tailored to your personal requirements; however there are a number of things which are not typically included into a policy across the board:
Loss or damage intentionally caused by you
Cost of repair of an existing problem
Loss or damage caused by wear and tear
Loss or damage caused by marine life
Theft of belongings unless following forced entry into your canal boat

Unless you do live on your canal boat, the majority of owners only use their boat for a few short weeks of the year which is the main reason for owners failing to insure their craft. It is important to remember that the same accidents can happen on the waterways, as the road, so ensure you dont lose out due to your own negligence.