SPECIALTY LINES MARKETS

PERSONAL MARINE & RECREATIONAL VEHICLE MARKETS ABOUND

Markets plentiful for range of fun craft

By Wallace L. Clapp, Jr., CPCU

Insurance on yachts and pleasure boats, personal watercraft, houseboats and marinas and recreational vehicles are special classes of business not usually written by retail agents in their standard companies. For this reason, a number of specialty managing general agents have been established to handle yacht and pleasure boats or recreational vehicles as specialty lines. Many of these offices provide facilities only for watercraft. Others are exclusive managers of insurance for marinas and watersports rental. Some facilities handle all classes, while others, that offer a general line of property and casualty insurance products, include yachts and pleasure craft and recreational vehicles in their offerings to agents and brokers.

The following is a description of the classes of business for personal marine and recreational vehicles coverages, as well as a list of markets that offer coverages for these units.

Antique and Classic Boats Antique and classic boats are defined as vessels other than the ordinary manufactured pleasure boat. Standard insurers writing pleasure boats and yachts are not interested in most wooden-hull boats, custom-builts or boats of a highly unusual nature. Antique and classic boats are those built 25 or more years ago. Most wooden boats and some older classic fiberglass boats would qualify for this category. The boat must be seaworthy to qualify for coverage on an all-risk, full marine basis. Coverage is written for agreed value on the hull. The policy also includes liability coverage, uninsured boaters, medical payments, personal effects and trailers. Business is often produced on an association basis, i.e., all owners of Chris Craft antique boats.

High Performance Boats This is a type of pleasure boat designed to provide high performance for cruising, waterskiing, etc. Insurance is a broad form marine policy covering personal and business-owned vessels capable of speeds up to 100 m.p.h. Hull and liability coverage, including medical payments, personal effects, and uninsured boaters is usually sold as part of a package. Limits generally extend up to $500,000 for hulls and $1 million for liability. Policies are issued at agreed value with named operator warranty. Extended land transit coverage, transit and storage only, and machinery damage coverage are available as options. Extended navigation areas are available. Single or multi-hulls are eligible.

Houseboats Insurance underwriters consider houseboats in the same category as yachts and pleasure craft. Rates, insuring conditions and coverages are similar. Hull and liability coverages are written on the yacht form. Because of the construction of houseboats, they are more unwieldy than the sleeker yacht and therefore are not easily navigated and are less seaworthy in rough water.

The houseboat is usually powered by an inboard/outboard drive with single or twin engines up to 400 h.p. Values, including luxury fittings, may range up to $50,000 or more. The policy is underwritten on the basis of the experience of the owner or pilot, use of the boat, length of time in the water, and the rate area in which the boat is navigated. The policy includes hull, boat equipment, personal effects, liability, medical payments and uninsured boaters coverage. The policy is subject to a minimum deductible. Houseboats are rated according to the value of the boat. Most underwriters rate houseboats higher than sailboats but lower than powerboats. The liability and waterskiing/towing liability is rated as a flat charge in accordance to the limit of liability. Additional flat charges are made for miscellaneous boat equipment, personal effects and medical payments.

Personal Watercraft (Jet Skis) This class of watercraft encompasses a wide range of single-engine, inboard-powered vessels no greater than 16 feet in length and using a water-jet pump as the primary source of propulsion. Operators/passengers may either stand up, sit upon (motorcycle style), or sit in the unit depending on the manufacturer. Included in this class are jet ski, waverunner, tigershark, wet bike and sea dog "cycle" style models, as well as jazz and rage "mini boats."

Exposures include high performance and handling characteristics coupled with minimum operator and passenger protection. Waterskiing and other towing activities have become additional exposures as the power of these units increases. Coverage includes hull, liability and medical payments. Units are valued on an actual cash value basis. Trailers and waterskiing liability can be added. Personal watercraft insurance is rated on the basis of engine size for physical damage coverage. Liability, waterskiing liability, trailers and medical payments are added as a flat rate. Liability limits are available generally to $300,000.

Marinas This is an important class of business for yacht and pleasure boat owners. Marinas provide mooring facilities, repair, alteration, maintenance, storage, fueling, and many other services for the pleasure boat owner. Coverage under a marina package policy includes property, general liability, marina operators legal liability, protection and indemnity insurance, boat dealers inventory, work boat hull, and piers, wharves and docks coverage. The marina operators legal liability policy covers the legal liability of the marina operator for loss of or damage to private pleasure boats while in the operator's care, custody or control. The policy closes the gap left by the "care, custody and control" exclusion of the general liability policy. The premium is based on gross receipts. Watersports rental insurance is available for marinas that rent out personal watercraft, pleasure boats, kayaks, water skis and wind surfers. Insurance operations such as parasailing and chartered boats can be arranged.

Watersport Rentals Rental of all types of watercraft from personal watercraft to houseboats has become an increasingly popular alternative to ownership of a boat. Coverage is afforded to the owner of the rented watercraft not the renter. Liability, hull damage, and watersports liability coverages are available. Underwriters require use of a written rental agreement containing appropriate "hold harmless" language. Hull coverage is generally written on an actual cash value basis. Premium is based on gross receipts.

Yachts and Pleasure Boats Package policies are available for most types of power or sailing vessels. The policy is usually written on an all-risk basis covering both the physical damage (hull) and liability risks. Optional coverage is available for passenger liability, equipment, trailers and waterskiing liability and medical payments. Limits for hulls may be for small boats and yachts up to 60 feet for values up to $1 million. For larger "mega" yachts up to 200 feet, values may extend to $20 million. Liability limits are generally between $300,000 and $2 million, but some large yachts may be written for as high as $50 million. The usual limited liability available for waterskiing is $25,000. Premium is based on size of boat, horsepower, navigational range and experience of operator. Boats older than 25 years are generally written under separate antique and classic boat programs.

All-Terrain Vehicles These are vehicles that can travel anywhere--through water, snow, muck and sand--go up and down steep slopes and climb over rocks, tree stumps or brush. ATVs have four, six or eight wheels, depending on the type or model. The vehicle is excluded under auto and homeowners policies, but may be written on special combination physical damage and liability policies. Liability limits do not exceed $100/$300 or $250/$500. The coverage does not apply while these vehicles are being driven on public highways. The policies are rated similar to snowmobiles and motorcycles.

Motor Homes These are vehicles generally used for camping and other recreational purposes. They are defined as self-propelled land motor vehicles, designed and constructed to provide facilities for sleeping and cooking. Underwriters have designed special packages for the combination of physical damage and liability coverages. Policies include vehicles, permanently attached equipment, accessories and personal effects. Liability, medical payments coverage, collision and comprehensive, uninsured motorists and vacation expense insurance is included or optional.

Motorcycles Special policies, either combination physical damage and liability or liability only coverage, are available for motorcycles, mountain bikes or dirt bikes. Coverage under package policies includes the vehicle and accessories, liability, uninsured motorists and medical services. Passenger liability may be added. Liability limits rarely exceed $250/$500/$100. Programs are available for big bikes and classic and vintage bikes. Policies are rated on the basis of CC displacement, age of the vehicle and age of driver.

Snowmobiles These vehicles are written under special physical damage and liability combination policies. They are off-road vehicles and are ineligible under auto and homeowners policies. Accessories and medical payments coverages may be added. The policies are rated similar to motorcycles and ATVs.

Trailers and Campers These are vehicles pulled by automobiles to camping sites. Programs are for regular use including comprehensive coverage, personal effects and off-road liability. For stationary use coverage includes comprehensive, adjacent structures, personal effects and comprehensive personal liability.

Markets

Alexander Underwriters General Agency, Inc., P.O. Box 105051, Atlanta, GA 30348-5051; (770) 981-7100; (800) 241-2330; fax: (770) 593-2121 (Benny Byrd). This managing general agency offers a boatowners program for insurance on pleasure outboard motor boats, stern drive (I/O) boats and sailboats. The boats must be less than 26 feet, not more than 10 years old, or have a value of more than $25,000. Inboard powered engines, speeds in excess of 45 m.p.h., wood hulls and houseboats are ineligible for this program.

Maximum liability limits are $300,000; medical payments, $1,000; and physical damage is $25,000. The basic policy covers the boat, its motor, trailer and equipment. The coverage is available in AL, FL, GA, IN, LA, MS, MO, SC, TN and TX.

Atlantic Insurance Alliance, Inc., P.O. Box 653, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32170; (904) 427-0061; (888) 281-0583; fax: (904) 428-5580 (Jim Burt). This agency writes a liability policy especially developed for retail rental of mopeds and motor scooters. The policy has recently been expanded to include 4-wheel ATVs. Limits of liability are up to $1 million. The policy is underwritten by Evanston Insurance Co. It is available to insurance agents in most states on a nonadmitted basis.

American Collectors Insurance, Inc., 498 N. Kings Hwy., P.O. Box 8343, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002-0343; (609) 779-7212; (800) 257-5758; fax: (609) 779-7289 (Orlando Morales). This specialty broker offers an antique boat program for pleasure boats that are 25 years old and older. Replicas of antique vessels are also eligible. The program covers agreed value on the hull; liability coverage (up to $300,000); uninsured boater (up to $5,000); medical payments (up to $5,000); personal accident; emergency service; personal effects; and trailer coverage.

The program is available in the following states: AL, CA, CO, CT, FL, GA, IL, IN, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MO, NH, NJ, NY, OR, PA, TX, VT, VA, WA and WI. Coverage is underwritten by the American Bankers Insurance Co.

American Modern Insurance Group, P.O. Box 5323, Cincinnati, OH 45201; (800) 759-9008, ext. 2828; fax: (513) 943-1503 (Kevin M. Morreale). This specialty insurer writes a personal lines boatowners package and a personal watercraft package.

Hull limits are available up to $60,000; maximum liability limits are $300,000. The insured boats are limited to 40 feet and speeds of up to 60 m.p.h. The package covers the boat, equipment, motor, and watercraft/waterskiing liability. Miscellaneous boat equipment, trailers, medical payments and personal effects may be added optionally. Houseboats and pontoon boats are eligible.

The personal watercraft package covers personal watercraft up to 850 CC displacement and mini jet boats. Physical damage, liability (up to $300,000), medical payments and trailers are covered in the policy. It is available to agents, brokers and managing general agents appointed by the insurer in all states.

Brauer & Associates, Inc., P.O. Box 20232, Columbus, OH 43220; (614) 451-7174; (800) 695-0934; fax: (614) 451-8810 (Paul Brauer, Jr.). This office handles insurance on yachts and pleasure craft with agents in 28 states in the Midwest, Southwest and southeastern parts of the U.S. Hull insurance may be written on craft with values up to $50 million. The P&I (liability) limits are generally between $300,000 and $500,000, although there are some accounts with P&I as high as $50 million. The primary markets are Cigna and USF&G.

J. E. Brown & Associates, 2255 Ygnacio Valley Rd., N-1, Walnut Creek, CA 94598: (510) 947-2990; (800) 955-8213; fax: (510) 947-3978(J. E. Brown). This agency provides pleasure boat insurance and personal watercraft insurance for agents and brokers in California for risks located in AZ and CA. Coverage is available for hulls up to $60,000; liability, $300,000 maximum (boats) and $100/$300/$50 maximum (jet skis).

Ineligible for the program are boats in excess of 40 feet, except house and pontoon boats; boats with maximum speed in excess of 60 m.p.h.; and air boats, inflatable boats or high performance jet boats. The pleasure boat policy covers the hull, watercraft and waterskiing/towing liability, boat equipment, trailer, medical payments and personal effects. The jet ski program provides coverage for the hull, liability and medical payments. Limited waterski liability ($25,000) and trailer coverage may be added. The underwriting company is American Modern Insurance Group.

The firm also offers a motor home program for AZ and CA. This is a complete package, not an add-on to auto coverage. It offers replacement cost on units less than five years old. Replacement cost on personal effects is available as well as vacation expense, Mexico coverage and full-time occupancy. This program will write motor homes up to 20 years old. Contact Marty or Wendy for more information.

Cape Cod Surplus Insurance (a division of XS Brokers Insurance Agency), 342 Gifford St., Homeport, Falmouth, MA 02540; (508) 495-2989; (888) 628-1905 (MA); fax: (508) 495-2806 (Adam W. Devine). This surplus lines broker offers programs for yachts and pleasure craft, personal watercraft and high performance boats. Snowmobile insurance is also available through this agency.

All programs cover hull, liability, equipment, uninsured boater, and trailers. The watercraft program covers boats with speeds up to 55 m.p.h. The high performance program is targeted at boats over 21 feet and with speeds between 55 and 100 m.p.h. The yacht program is written on vessels greater than 26 feet with speeds less than 55 m.p.h.

Hull limits are available up to $400,000 and liability limits, to $1 million. Geographical territory is the Atlantic coast. The agency serves agents and brokers only in CT, ME, MA, NH, RI and VT. Underwriters include Markel American, Merrimac Group of FL, U S. Specialty Insurance and Florida International Underwriters.

Castagna Specialty Risk, 10235 W. Sample Rd., Ste. 105, Coral Springs, FL 33065; (954) 341-5690; (888) 277-7475; fax: (954) 341-5873 (Paul Castagna). This wholesale broker writes yachts and pleasure boats and marinas on a national basis.

The marine protector plan is a package policy available to owners of pleasure craft for hull and liability insurance coverage. This policy is designed to underwrite vessels that typically are avoided by the standard market, such as older vessels, those with a cruising area including the entire Caribbean, paid crews, maximum speed to 80 m.p.h., and owners and operators with more than one traffic violation.

The policy provides hull limits up to $500,000, liability limits ranging from $100,000 to $1 million, and optional liquor liability coverage.

Central INSUREX Agency, 800 S. Washington St., Van Wert, OH 45891; (419) 238-4101; (800) 736-7131; fax: (800) 736-7026 (Kurt Muntzinger, CPCU).

This managing general agency offers a yacht insurance program for pleasure boats with hull limits of $50,000 or higher and liability limits up to $1 million. Coverage restrictions are North Atlantic Ocean, or Gulf of Mexico. Agents in IL, IN and OH are serviced. The underwriting company is Fireman's Fund Insurance Co.

The agency also has insurance coverage available for motor homes and travel trailers. Eligible for the motor home policy are those vehicles for personal use only or used as a primary residence. High value units are eligible. Liability limits are written up to $300/$500/$100 with higher limits subject to approval. Travel trailers are written for regular use for full-timers and as a primary residence. Risks rented to others may be covered. The underwriter for the motor home and travel trailer coverage is Foremost Insurance Co.

Century Underwriters, Inc., 1414 Investment Bldg., Pittsburgh, PA 15222; (412) 281-7252; (800) 242-8042; fax: (412) 281-9415 (Leslie O'Brien). This general agency offers insurance for pleasure boats and personal watercraft. Maximum length is 30 feet and maximum horsepower is 300. Personal watercraft is 15 feet, 11 inches and speed up to 1300 CC displacement engine capacity. Liability limits are available to $100/$300. The agency services agents in PA only. Underwriters are Midwestern Mutual Insurance Co. and Windsor Mt. Joy Insurance.

Policy coverage is also available for motorcycles, snowmobiles, motor homes and travel trailers. Motorcycle insurance is written through Midwest Mutual for standard and ATV types and Harley-Davidson Tourrider/Saferider. Liability limits are available up to $100/$300/$50. Aegis Insurance offers a standard or elite program with maximum liability coverage of $50/$100/$25.

A snowmobile policy is available through Midwest Mutual for vehicles with maximum limits of $50/$100/$25. A full combination package is written with a six-month lay-up provision providing liability, comprehensive and collision insurance. A budget package provides no collision, six-month lay-up for liability and comprehensive.

Travel trailers and motor homes are written with Aegis Insurance. For travel trailers the choice is comprehensive with $50 deductible collision; comp with $100 deductible collision, or comp only. Personal effects, fire department service protection, emergency expense, towing and labor, vacation liability are added at no additional cost. Motor homes are written with liability limits up to $100/$300/$50. Basic first-party benefits include medical expense, income loss benefits and funeral expense. Optional coverages in addition to those provided for travel trailers are personal effects, scheduled medical benefits, secured interest protection and extraordinary medical benefits.

Cigna Recreational Marine, 1601 Chestnut St., Two Liberty Pl., TLP 34, Philadelphia, PA 19192-2345; (215) 761-6835; fax: (215) 761-5471 (Richard S. Weidman, Jr.). This insurer writes yachts and pleasure boats and marinas in all states. Maximum hull coverage is $20 million or more. Maximum primary and excess liability limits vary according to vessel and program.

Business is emphasized from the Great Lakes, West Coast, Chesapeake Bay and upstate New York, and storm-protected East Coast regions. The coverage includes towing, uninsured boater, newly acquired boats and legal expenses.

Commodore Marine Insurance, 2400 E. Katella Ave., Ste. 300, Anaheim, CA 92806; (800) 221-3884; fax: (714) 939-5602 (David Worden). This marine specialist writes personal boat and yacht coverages, ranging from personal watercraft to mega yachts, jet skis, waverunners, runabouts, ski boats, houseboats, sailboats, cruisers, sportsfishers, multi-hull boats. Hull values may be covered up to $50 million in value. Navigational limits fall within the capabilities of the vessel and her owner.

The firm also has facilities for marinas, boat dealers.

The agency can service agents in most states, but the concentration of business is written in CA and the West Coast. Lead companies include Cigna, Northland, Fireman's Fund, Zurich/Maryland.

Connecticut Underwriters Inc., 329 Main St., P.O. Box 316, Portland, CT 06480-0316; (860) 342-0713; (800) 243-3712 (o/s CT); fax: (860) 342-4392 (Christine A. Curran). This specialty wholesaler writes yachts and pleasure boats, jet skis, houseboats and marinas. The agency services agents and brokers in New England.

The agency offers a yacht and pleasure boat program and a personal watercraft program through American Modern Insurance Group. Coverage is available for the average boat up to 40 feet and $60,000 in value. This program includes jet skis, houseboats, jet and bass boats. A marina program is available.

The yacht and pleasure boat package includes hull and motors, miscellaneous boat equipment, trailers, watercraft liability and waterskiing/towing liability, medical payments and uninsured boater coverage. Personal effects coverage is optional.

The agency also has access to markets at Lloyd's, Cigna, Royal and U.S. Specialty.

The firm also writes travel trailers and motor homes in all New England states except MA.

Continental Special Risks, P.O. Box 1820, Roswell, GA 30077; (770) 442-0727; (800) 877-2463; fax: (770) 751-0871 (Julie Branch). This managing general agency handles hull and liability insurance for yachts and pleasure craft, including inboard, outboard, small boats, pontoon boats, bass boats, inboards/outboards, houseboats and jet skis.

The program includes coverage for the hull and all permanently installed equipment to a maximum value of $60,000. Also available is coverage for miscellaneous equipment and accessories and for trailers. Watercraft liability can be written up to a limit of $300,000. This includes medical payments. Uninsured boater insurance and waterskiing/towing liability is also available.

Watercraft coverage is available only in the state of GA, but the agency also services agents in AL, SC and TN. Insurers include: American Modern Insurance Group, Scottsdale, National Casualty, Lloyd's, Sphere Drake, Commercial Underwriters Insurance Co., U.S. Liability, Mt. Vernon Fire and Acceptance Insurance Co.

Cycle Insurance Agency, Inc., 318 Huntingdon Pike, P.O. Box 5077, Philadelphia, PA 19111-0577; (215) 379-2100; (800) CYCLE-99; fax: (215) 379-1666 (Rudolph H. Franklin, president). This general agency offers insurance coverage for personal watercraft, motorcycles, ATVs and snowmobiles. In Pennsylvania only, the agency has a program for off-road units, such as personally owned golf carts.

Personal watercraft and jet boat insurance is written for boats with maximum liability limits of $100/$300/$25. Policies are available for liability only; physical damage, including comprehensive, fire and theft and collision; or package policies with liability, comp and collision.

Motorcycles (ATVs and dirt bikes) and snowmobiles are written with maximum liability limits up to $100/$300/$25. Most types of standard motorcycles are eligible with "sportbikes" surcharged. In addition to physical damage coverage and liability on the vehicle, the policy covers accessories, helmets, safety apparel, trip interruption benefits and nonstandard equipment.

ATVs, scooters, mopeds and snowmobiles are also covered for physical damage and liability coverages. The agency provides a special program for vintage and classic motorcycles with replacement value insurance or stated amount value. This policy also provides coverage at club activities, demonstrations, parades and exhibitions.

The agency services agents in DE, MD, MI, NJ, NY and PA. The underwriter is the Recreational Products Insurance division of Universal Underwriters Insurance Co. (A+).

Federau Group, Premier Marine Division, 4151 Okemos Rd, Okemos, MI 48864; (517) 349-4230; (800) 968-5432; fax: (517) 349-9108 (Rob Lamma). This agency writes personal recreational watercraft, yachts and charter boats. Under most of the programs available the firm can write unlimited hull. Liability limits range from maximums of $500,000 to as high as $5 million, depending on the insurer. Navigational limits include all of U.S. waters. Several insurers can write wider ranges.

The agency serves agents in most states. Underwriters include Cigna, Commercial Union, Premier Marine, Reliance, Royal and Wolverine.

First Premium Insurance Group, P.O. Box 77, Covington, LA 70434-0077; (504) 892-7428; (800) 256-2171; fax: (504) 892-4282 (Richard W. Jenkins, CIC). This specialty general agency writes boat programs through Markel American Insurance Co. which consists of a boatowners program, a small boat program, yacht and jet ski program. It also insures commercial boating ventures.

The boatowners program covers all types of pleasure boats, including inboards and outboards, inboard/outboard drive, jet boats, bass bats, jet skis, personal watercraft, sail boats, pontoon boats, houseboats, kayaks, rowboats, canoes and mini boats. Coverage is provided for the hull and equipment, personal effects and miscellaneous equipment, boat trailers, watercraft liability, waterskiing liability and medical payments. Maximum hull limits are $400,000 and maximum liability limit is $1 million. Maximum medical payments is $5,000. Personal watercraft are not written in this program. Boats that operate or are moored in coastal waters of NY and northern NJ are not written.

The jet ski/personal watercraft program provides hull and trailer, liability coverage and medical payments. Basic liability limits are $10/$20/$5 and can be extended to $300,000 csl. Hull coverage is written on an actual cash value basis. Policies are subject to a minimum $250 deductible. The agency solicits agents and brokers only in AR and LA.

Florida International Underwriters, 2300 Glades Rd., E. Tower, Ste. 135, Boca Raton, FL 33431-7335; (561) 392-1323; (800) 275-4348; fax: (561) 392-2995 (Colin Fellows). This marine insurance program manager provides a personal lines boatowners package policy and an ocean marine yacht insurance policy. Any size or value of boat is eligible. Maximum liability limits written are up to $5 million primary and $10 million excess. Hulls are valued at agreed value, actual cash value or replacement cost. A high performance boat program is offered. Marinas and personal watercraft are also written. The agency has an exclusive charter boat program. The office serves agents and brokers in all states. It also writes coverage in the Caribbean.

Keith R. Franson Insurance Services, 49430 Rd. 426, Ste. B., Oakhurst, CA 93644; (209) 642-4600; (800) 993-9398; fax: (209) 642-4633 (Keith R. Franson). This marine wholesale broker offers insurance facilities for yachts and small pleasure boats and marinas. The firm represents 10 marine carriers, including Commercial Union, Cigna, Maryland/Zurich and Reliance.

Limits vary between carriers, but for yachts and pleasure craft, the agency can write most risks from runabouts to mega yachts, with P&I limits available to $25 million on certain qualified yachts. The agency is licensed to write in AZ, CA, ID, NV, OR, UT and WA.

The firm also writes a program for yachts with owners living full-time on the vessel. This is available in all licensed states except WA.

Global Marine Insurance Agency, P.O. Box 392, Traverse City, MI 49865-0392; (616) 947-9611; (800) 748-0224; fax: (616) 947-4407; Web site: www.globalmarineinsurance.com (Gordy Fitch). This marine wholesale agency, a division of Guyot Hicks Anderson & Associates, specializes in boat insurance only, including private passenger boats up to 200 feet, personal watercraft (jet skis), performance boats and charter boats.

The agency does business in all states. Insurers represented are: Cigna, Reliance, Commercial Union, Zurich, Chubb, USF&G, American Yachts/UIC, St. Paul, American Modern Insurance Group, U.S. Specialty and Lloyd's. The agency offers special programs for antique and classic wood runabouts through Cigna and a Rinker Boat Co.-endorsed program through American Modern Insurance

Hagerty Marine Insurance, P O. Box 87, Traverse City, MI 49685; (800) 762-2628; fax: (616) 933-1581; Web site: www.hagerty.com (Paul Schneider). The agency specializes in providing insurance coverage for classic wooded boats and some older classic fiberglass boats. Coverage is written on an agreed value basis. Maximum hull limit is $500,000, and maximum liability limit is $500,000.

Coverage is limited to private pleasure use only; no live-aboard risks are accepted, and no houseboats. The facility is licensed to write and service agents and brokers in all states except AK. The insurer is Greenwich Insurance Co.

Hanover Excess & Surplus, Inc., P.O. Box 1411, Wilmington, NC 28402; (800) 672-9006; fax: (800) 426-5566 (Ashley Roe). This MGA writes a personal lines boatowners package and an ocean marine yacht insurance policy. Maximum speeds up to 70 m.p.h. can be covered. Maximum limits for liability coverage are $500,000. Hulls are valued on an ACV or agreed value basis. Uninsured boaters coverage is available up to $50,000. Waterskiing liability, trailers, miscellaneous equipment, personal effects coverages are optional. Personal watercraft and charter boat programs are also available.

The agency serves agents in MD, NC, SC, TN and VA. Insurers include Jefferson/Monticello, Windsor Mt. Joy and Republic Insurance.

Insurance Center Special Risks, Ltd., P.O. Box 1185, W Springfield, MA 01090; (413) 781-7475; (888) 773-7475; fax: (413) 781-0050 (David T. Florian). This managing general agency writes personal watercraft, recreational watercraft, yachts, high performance yachts and marinas. It also has facilities for snowmobiles and ATVs and motorcycles.

The personal watercraft program covers all jet drive vessels up to 16 feet. Liability limits are available to $1 million. The agency serves agents in CT, ME, MA, NH, NY, RI and VT. Underwriter is Markel American Insurance Co.(except NY).

Recreational watercraft covers all types of watercraft. Maximum liability limits are available up to $300,000, and maximum hull is $60,000. Maximum speed is 60 m.p.h. and maximum length is 40 feet. The firm serves agents in CT, ME, MA, NH, NY, RI and VT. The underwriter is Northland Insurance Co.

The yacht and high performance boat program has a maximum liability limit of $1 million and maximum hull and equipment limit of $400,000. Maximum speed is 100 m.p.h. The agency writes in same states as other boat programs. The underwriters are Old United Casualty Co., Chubb and Commercial Union.

Marinas are written in the same states. The underwriters are Essex Insurance Co, Markel American, Great American and AIG.

Snowmobiles and ATVs are written for physical damage only with a minimum deductible of $500. This program is available in CT, MA and RI through Lloyd's of London. Motorcycles are written for maximum limits of $100/$300 in the states of CT, ME, NH, NY, RI and VT. The underwriters are Northland Insurance Co. and Aegis Security.

K & K Insurance Group, P.O. Box 2338, Fort Wayne, IN 46801-2338; (219) 459-5000; (marinas) (800) 552-9253; (watersports) (800) 927-4756; fax: (219) 459-5511 (Angie Poulos). This group, part of Aon Corp., specializes in insurance coverages for sports, leisure and entertainment fields. It offers two programs for pleasure boating enthusiasts: a marina program and a watersports rental program.

The marina program provides property, marina operators legal liability, protection and indemnity, work boat hull, boat dealers coverage, inland marine, general liability, auto and excess coverages.

The watersports rental program covers operations including boat rental, parasailing, bareboat charters, 6 pack charters, small tour boat operations and schools (windsurfing, waterskiing, sailing, surfing and kayaking).

Hull and primary and excess liability limits are variable. The program covers the continental U.S. The firm serves agents in all states.

LoVullo Associates Inc., 689 Main St, Buffalo, NY 14230; (716) 856-3065; (800) 876-3065 (NY); fax: (716) 84-BOATS (David W. Pietowski). This managing general agent writes pleasure craft, such as high performance, antique boats and wooden boats, ski boats, sailboats, pontoon boats, houseboats and bass boats. It also writes rental risks for jet skis, ski boats, pontoons, sailboats, canoes and rowboats. Marinas, boat dealers and yacht clubs are also available.

A new program has been added for personal watercraft, including jet skis, mini jet boats, skidos and waverunners. Unlimited hull values and liability limits up to $10 million are available. Geographical territory is inland waters, Great Lakes and Atlantic coast. The agency does business in CT, MA, ME, MI, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI and VT. Insurers used are: American Modern, Markel American, Cigna, Great American, Midwestern Mutual, Security Insurance Co. of Hartford, Commercial Union and Fireman's Fund.

Maritime General Agency, Ltd., 81A Fort Salonga Rd., Northport, NY 11768; (516) 757-1100; (800) 366-8086; fax: (516) 757-1063 (Christopher L. Pesce). This firm is the exclusive MGA for personal yacht business for New Hampshire Insurance Co. (AIG). The agency handles personal yachts, marinas, boat dealers and yacht clubs for the New Hampshire.

Hull limits range from $10,000 to $4 million; liability limits extend up to $5 million. Maximum speed must be under 45 m.p.h. No wood hulls are written. The vessel cannot be in Florida for the hurricane season, but winter coverage is available in Florida. Geographical limits are on the east and west coasts, Great Lakes and inland rivers and lakes throughout the country. The firm is an MGA for Old United Casualty for inland boats and yachts up to $2 million. It is also offering a new mechanical breakdown coverage for boats and personal watercraft.

The agency serves brokers in all states. Underwriters used are: New Hampshire, Royal and Old United Casualty Co.

Marine Underwriters Agency, Inc., P.O. Box 8699, Red Bank, NJ 07701; (908) 741-2800; (800) 631-2147; fax: (800) 548-0501; Web site: www.multiplex.com/L/A/MUA (Bob Kinsey). This marine insurance specialist has been operating for 40 years. It provides insurance policies for private pleasure boats and yachts of any value. Liability limits are available up to $5 million. Personal watercraft and jet skis are also written. Coverage is written in all states except the Pacific coast states. The agency represents various insurers including Commercial Union, Cigna, Reliance and Royal.

Markel American Insurance Co., P.O. Box 906, Pewaukee, WI 53072; (414) 548-9880; (800) 236-2862; fax: (414) 544-4443 (Karen Hildenbrand). This insurer, a division of Markel Insurance Co., writes programs for high performance boats, recreational watercraft and personal watercraft.

The high performance boat insurance program covers boats with speeds up to 100 m.p.h. and up to 1200 horsepower. Liability limits are available to $1 million and hull values, up to $400,000. The recreational watercraft program insures pleasure boats, including houseboats, bass boats, ski boats, older boats, wooden hulls and homemade boats. Liability limits are available to $1 million; and hull limits to $400,000. Coverage includes insurance on vessel, equipment, uninsured boater and trailer. Boats with speeds up to 55 m.p.h. are eligible.

A seasoned yacht program is available for well-maintained older yachts over 10 years old. Coverage applies to vessels at least 26 feet and speeds up to 55 m.p.h. Personal watercraft insurance is also available for jet skis, waverunners and similar boats.

Coverage is written in all states and is available to agents and managing general agents.

McGraw Group, 3601 Haven Ave., Menlo Park, CA 94025-1033; (415) 780-4800; (800) 828-3003; fax: (415) 780-4848 (Michael McGraw). The agency is the nation's largest writer of personal watercraft insurance. The product is available in all 50 states. Pleasure boats are written only in CA.

The pleasure boat program covers skiboats, jet boats, runabouts, sailboats and performance boats. Eligible boats must not exceed $35,000 in value and no more than 26 feet (except 32 feet for sailboats). Package programs include hull ($5,000 to $36,000); liability ($25/$50/$10); medical payments; and trailers and equipment. Limits for liability may be extended to $300,000.

The personal watercraft package program includes jet boats under 16 feet, jet skis and wetbikes. Coverage includes $15,000 liability, hull coverage, watersports liability (waterskiing and other activities). Optional coverages are medical payments, increased liability limits of up to $300,000 and trailer coverage. Insurers used are Pacific Specialty Insurance Co. and American Reliable Insurance Co.

Mid-South Insurance Specialists, Inc., 2000 Richard Jones Rd., Ste. 150, P.O. Box 150606, Nashville, TN 37215; (615) 269-6155; (800) 633-1552; fax: (615) 269-9576 (Richard J. Petri, president). This managing general agency offers insurance on pleasure boats, yachts, personal watercraft, as well as motorcycles and travel trailers.

The recreational watercraft program covers inboards, outboards, and I/O drive boats including bass boats; sailboats; houseboats and pontoon boats; jet boats; windsurfers, kayaks, rowboats and canoes. Maximum liability limit is $100/$300/$50 for boats with a designed maximum speed of over 45 m.p.h. Boats with speeds over 70 m.p.h. are ineligible. The package policy includes watercraft and equipment, personal effects and miscellaneous boat equipment, trailers, watercraft liability. Waterskiing liability, medical payments, overland transportation and machinery damage may be added.

The personal watercraft program insures vessels up to 16 feet in length for all risks of physical damage and liability. Options include watersports liability, medical payments, trailers ad accessories. Basic liability limit is $15,000 and is available to $100,000. Physical damage coverage is subject to a $250 deductible.

Motorcycles are written with liability limits up to $100/$300 for operators 26 and over and up to $50/100/$25 for operators 15 through 25. Passenger liability is available. Uninsured motorists liability and physical damage, accessories and medical services are optional. Big bike and tour bike insurance may be written for operators over 26. Liability limits may be increased to $250/$500/$100.

Travel trailers, camping trailers, fifth wheel and truck mounted campers may be written under a regular program for comprehensive and collision coverage on the trailer, personal effects, fire department service, towing and labor, emergency vacation expense and first-aid expense. Off-road liability is available optionally up to $100,000. The stationary program adds burglary coverage on personal effects, additional living expense. Optional coverages are adjacent structures, 30-day trip collision and comprehensive personal liability (up to $100,000). Risks in the state of Tennessee only are handled. Insurers are Northland Insurance Co. and American Reliable Insurance Co.

Midwestern General Agency Inc., 255 N.W. Blue Pkwy., Lee's Summit, MO 64063-1869; (816) 246-1200; (800) 788-4347; fax: (816) 246-1290 (Joseph D. Timmons, CPCU). This wholesale managing general agent offers a program for pleasure craft. The coverages available are: hull, liability, medical payments, rentals, marinas and marina operators legal liability.

Limits are $125,000 for hull and $500,000 for liability. Higher horsepower and high speed watercraft must be submitted to underwriters for approval. The agency services producers in MO and surrounding states. Underwriting companies include American Modern Insurance Group, Midwestern Mutual, First Marine Insurance Co. and Lloyd's.

M.I.P., Inc. (Marina Insurance Program), P.O. Box 52, Wyckoff, NJ 07481-0052; (201) 891-4286; fax: (201) 891-6632 (Bill Botz). This firm writes a package policy for marinas, boat yards and boat dealers. The facility is open to agents and brokers in all states.

Included in the package is insurance on: property, commercial general liability, marina operators legal liability, protection and indemnity, piers and wharves, boat dealers inventory and other coverages, such as contractors equipment, owned watercraft, builders risk, auto and umbrella. Unacceptable risks are jet ski and watercraft rental exposures and boat builders.

National Marine Underwriters, Inc., 410 Severn Ave., Ste. 207, P.O. Box 4636, Annapolis, MD 21403; (410) 268-3100; (800) BOAT-INS; fax: (410) 268-9764; Web site: www.nmu.com (John Beachley). The agency writes full coverage agreed value policies on personal pleasure boats, yachts, personal watercraft and six passenger charter boats.

Hull and liability limits for pleasure boats and yachts are $1 million. Liability on personal watercraft is $100,000. Navigational coverage extends nationwide up to 4 miles offshore. Extended limits are available. Caribbean coverage is offered for sailboats.

The agency services agents and brokers in all states. Underwriters are: Massachusetts Bay Insurance Co. and Chatham Reinsurance Corp.

Old United Casualty Co., 8500 Shawnee Mission Pkwy., P.O. Box 795, Merriam, KS 66202; (800) 666-6090, ext. 271; fax: (800) 777-BOAT (2628) (Douglas E. Semler). The insurer writes a personal lines boatowners package and an ocean marine yacht insurance policy. Largest single watercraft written is for unlimited length; varied horsepower; speed: boats 65 m.p.h.; yachts, 55 m.p.h.; value up to $2 million. Primary limits are $500,000 for boats and $1 million for yachts. Hull coverage is written on an agreed value basis.

Medical payments, uninsured boaters, personal effects and emergency service/towing are available at no charge on the boatowners policy. Containment spill liability coverage up to $500,000 is available at a nominal additional premium. Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation coverage is available in the yacht policy. An optional mechanical breakdown insurance endorsement is available and emergency towing/service coverage up to $10,000.

The facility services agents in all states except AK, FL, HI, ME, NH, NJ, RI, VT and WV.

Recreational Products Insurance Division, United Underwriters Insurance Co., 6363 College Blvd., Overland Park, KS 66214; (800) 238-2446; fax: (800) 425-4111; Web site: www.uuic.com/rpi (Glenna Menard). This company offers liability only and package coverage for personal watercraft and jet boats. Liability limits are $15/$30/$10 basic, extending to a maximum of $100/$300/$25. There are no restrictions on value, CC size and length, except that all boats must be jet driven. Ineligible risks are hovercraft, swamp buggies, airboats, toobies, amphibious risks and homemade units.

The company also writes ATVs, motorcycles and scooters, mopeds and dirt bikes.

RPI's programs are available to agents and brokers in all states, except AK, AZ, HI, LA, MA, MS, NE, NM, ND, SD and WV.

Bruce V. Schneider Associates, 45 Middle Country Rd., Middle Island, NY 11953; (516) 698-3558, (800) 224-1707, fax (516) 698-6128 (Scot Schneider). Marine Insurance General Agents, devoted exclusively to marine insurance, has a number of programs for high-performance, yachts, PWC, small boats, charters, MOLL, BDLL, commercial, and more.

They offer the most extensive high-performance program in the industry specifically designed for vessels over 21' capable of speeds 55 mph to 100 mph, V-Bottoms and Cat-Hulls. Hull values to $500,000 and liability limits to $1 million. The yacht program covers vessels over 26' Hull values to $1.5 million and liability limits to $1 million with excess available to $10 million. The personal watercraft program covers jet skis, waverunners and jet boatqs with liability limits to $1 million. The small boat program covers pontoons, houseboats, sailboats, family sportboats, and small cruisers. Their commercial program covers 6-pac charters, small owner-operated workboats, marinas, sightseeing, water-taxi, marine artisans, waverunner and powerboat rentals, bareboat rentals, etc. The agency also has a special program designed for older yachts over 26', any age, even wooden hulls. Full navigation extended, Hull values to $500,000 and liability limits to $1 million with excess available to $10 million.

The agency services agents and brokers in all states. Issuing carriers are Markel American, American Modern Home, Great American, Old United, and Royal.

Sea to Sea Underwriters, 6515 S. 102nd St., Omaha, NE 68127-5413; (402) 594-2222; (800) 732-2732; fax: (402) 593-6677 (Kurt Limbo). This agency offers a wide variety of policies for vessels from manually powered boats to high performance boats. Preferred as well as difficult-to-place risks are accepted.

Typical types of vessels written are: houseboats, personal watercraft, jet boats, outboards, bass boats, airboats, sail boats, cruising yachts, catamarans and high performance boats. The agency will write homemades, inflatables, wood hulls and other hard-to-place vessels. Personal watercraft rentals are a specialty.

Hull limits to $1.5 million are available. Liability limits are written to $1 million on a primary basis. It does not write risks harbored outside of or navigated beyond continental U.S. coastal waters. Business is written in most states and agents are serviced in all states. Insurers are Markel American Insurance Co. and Old United Casualty Co.

Seahorse Underwriters, a division of McGriff, Seibels & Williams, 2211 7th Ave., S., Birmingham, AL 35233; (800) 277-6698; fax: (205) 581-9447 (Susan A. Falcon). This agency offers boat/yacht and personal watercraft insurance programs. Hull limits are available on an agreed value up to $225,000; liability limits to $1 million. Boats faster than 60 m.p.h.; older than 20 years; and boats in Dade and Broward counties in Florida are not accepted.

Navigational limits are east coast and Gulf coast; southern inland lakes and rivers; northern inland lakes and rivers; Chesapeake Bay and tributaries; Long Island Sound; west coast; Puget Sound; Alaska, Hawaii, Bahamas; and Caribbean. This agency serves agents and brokers in all states. The underwriting company is The St. Paul.

The boat/yacht and personal watercraft programs provide coverage for hull and equipment, tenders, personal effects, trailers, and towing charges, liability, medical payments, uninsured boaters, and Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation.

Service General, Personal Lines division, a Burns & Wilcox, Ltd., Co., 30833 Northwestern Hwy., Ste. 220, Farmington Hills, MI 48334; (800) 521-1918, ext. 258; fax: (810) 932-9040 (William McCord, CPCU). This managing general agency writes hull and liability coverages for small pleasure boats, charters, personal watercraft and yachts. Additional coverages include towing and uninsured boater. There is no limit on either hull or liability insurance. Boats over 100 m.p.h. are not written, and surveys are needed for boats over 20 years old. The agency services agents and brokers in 46 states (excludes AK, HI, ME and NY). Policies cover navigation in all states where policy is written. Yacht coverage is available in the Caribbean if the home port is in the U.S. Insurers used are American Modern Insurance Co., Cigna, Zurich, Jefferson and Lloyd's.

Ski-Safe, a division of Sullivan & Strauss Agency, One Hollow Lane, Lake Success, NY 11042; (800) 225-6560; fax: (800) 225-6560 (press 6) (Howard Reiff). This agency is a program manager for yachts and pleasure boats and personal watercraft for Cigna Property & Casualty.

The agency offers a special policy for members of the Chris-Craft Antique Boat Club. This policy provides hull insurance at an agreed value, full navigation, liability limits up to $1 million, pollution liability and uninsured boaters coverage. The agency also offers special programs for ski boats and personal watercraft with limits up to $1 million available and discounts for seasonal lay-ups.

The Ski-Safe program is endorsed by the U.S. Water Ski/American Water Ski Association. All programs are available to licensed agents and brokers.

South and Western General Agency, P.O. Box 551119, Dallas, TX 75355; (972) 855-2900; (800) 492-5351 (TX); fax: (972) 855-2970 (Albert Ostermann, Jr.). This managing general agency has programs for pleasure boats, personal watercraft, yachts and marinas. The agency is licensed and accepts risks only in TX.

Pleasure boats are written with hull values to $50,000, up to 25 years old and 32 feet. Liability limits are $100/$300. Physical damage, watersports liability and medical payments are available. Personal watercraft is written on an ACV basis; $300,000 liability limit. Physical damage, watersports liability and medical payments may be added. Northland is the insurer for pleasure boats and personal watercraft programs.

Yachts are written with no maximum value or age restrictions; liability limit is $1 million with excess available. Marinas are considered on a submit basis. No maximum values of property; liability limit is $1 million and excess. Various markets are available for yachts and marinas.

The agency also has various markets for motorcycles, ATVs, scooters, motor homes and travel trailers. One of these is Northland Insurance Co.

Southern Home Underwriters P.O. Box 2720, Boone, NC 28607; (704) 265-1037; (800) 777-9040; fax: (704) 262-0754 (Mary Hopkins). This personal lines MGA offers insurance programs for pleasure watercraft, personal watercraft, high performance boats, yachts, and rental of boats and jet skis and fishing charters.

Limits of liability for all programs are $1 million. Hull limits are up to $400,000 for pleasure watercraft, high performance boats, yachts and rental operations.

Optional coverages for personal watercraft include increased medical payments, watersport liability and trailer coverage. For the regular boat program, coastal navigation up to 25 miles offshore is available. Optional coverages include medical payments, trailers, personal effects, uninsured boater, watersport liability and slip and mooring liability. Under the high performance boat program, average speed may not exceed 100 m.p.h. Options are the same as boat program. The yacht program is for boats between 26 and 65 feet with maximum speed of 55 m.p.h. The programs are available to units moored in NC, SC and VA.

Specialized Insurance & Services, 455 Rte. 112, Patchogue, NY 11772; (516) 758-6780; (800) 360-5988; faxes: (516) 758-6781 (for watercraft) and (516) 447-6153; (800) RV-INS75 (for recreational vehicles) (Richard Rossi). This general agency offers insurance programs on high performance boats, pleasure boats and yachts, houseboats, sailboats and personal watercraft. Coverage is also available for boat and jet ski rentals and operations and 6-Pack sportsfishing charters, as well as marinas, boat dealers and watersport coverages. Liability limits are available to $10 million. Navigational limits extend to U.S. and Caribbean waters.

Underwriters represented include Cigna, Metropolitan, U.S. Specialty, American Modern, Ranger, Markel American, Reliance, Maryland, Northland, New Hampshire, Royal, Commercial Union and Great American. The firm is licensed to do business in CT, DE, FL, MD, MI, NH, NY, PA, SC, VA and VT.

Recreational vehicle coverages offered include motor homes, travel trailers, pop-up campers, motorcycles, sportbikes, tourcycles, scooters, ATVs and snowmobiles.

Stuckey and Company, 100 Centre on the Lake, Lake St Louis, MO 63367; (800) 873-0228; fax: (314) 625-8897; Web site: www.stuckey.com (Dwight Stuckey). The agency writes pleasure boats and personal watercraft. Boats up to $60,000 in value, 26 feet in length and no older than 26 years are acceptable. Eligible watercraft include: runabouts, houseboats, pontoons, jet skis, wetbikes, waverunners and mini jet boats.

Coverage is provided for the hull and motors, miscellaneous boat equipment, trailer, watercraft liability, waterskiing liability, medical payments, uninsured boater and towing and assistance. The programs are available countrywide. The underwriter is America Modern Insurance Group.

Terheggen/Malone Marine Insurance Services, Inc., 4100 Bellflower Blvd., P.O. Box 1099,Lakewood, CA 90714; (562) 496-2444; (800) 223-6268; fax: (562) 496-4490 (Jeff Malone). This agency has offered a boat insurance program for 40 years. The program covers most types of boats including jet boats, speedboats, I/Os, yachts, cruisers and sailboats. Maximum liability limit is $500,000. Hull limits vary depending on the type of boat and market used.

The speed boat program covers navigation in AZ, CA, NV and UT. Other programs have various territorial limits. The agency services agents in AZ and CA. Underwriters are Marine Office of America, Old United Casualty and U.S. Specialty.

T.H.E. Insurance Co., 10451 Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island, FL 33706; (813) 367-6900; fax: (813) 367-9803 (Chuck Rosser). This insurer is a member of Allied Specialty Insurance Group. It offers a program of insurance for marinas. Covered under the program is property insurance (up to $2 million); general liability (up to $1 million) including marina operators legal liability and protection and indemnity; boat dealers inventory; auto; and special coverages for watersports rentals, restaurants, bars, boat shows and fishing tournaments. Coverages are written in all states except VT.

Thum Insurance Agency, 6119 29th St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546; (616) 957-2400; (800) 866-0777; fax: (616) 957-1204 (Larry Thum and Lori Cooper). This managing general agent offers insurance for recreational vehicles including travel trailers and motor homes.

Coverage for travel trailers includes personal use, stationary trailers, (no collision), full coverage including comp and collision, trailers rented to others and commercial use. Limits are available up to $150,000 for physical damage and full liability to $2 million. Vacation liability is available to $1 million.

Motor home coverage is written for regular personal use (full coverage or liability), professional bus conversions, commercial use and commercial rental. Physical damage limits are up to $1 million; liability to $2 million (vacation liability, $1 million).

All coverage is available in all states except HI. Underwriters are National Interstate, Great American, Foremost and Progressive.

United States Liability Insurance Group, 1030 Continental Dr., P.O. Box 1551, King of Prussia, PA 19406-0951; (610) 688-2535; (800) 523-5545, ext. 281; fax: (610) 688-4391 (John Donahue). This company is offering a personal excess watercraft liability insurance program written on a nonadmitted basis through the Mt. Vernon Fire Insurance Co. (A++). The company also writes excess snowmobile coverage as well.

The program covers houseboats, sailboats, inboards, outboards and personal watercraft. The maximum length is 50 feet and speed is up to 50 m.p.h. Minimum attachment point for the excess coverage is $100/$300/$50. Limits up to $10 million are available. The product is distributed nationally through the company's network of appointed wholesale agents.

Van Wagoner Cos., 1100 Juniper Rd., Ste. 121, Dallas (Plano) TX 75074; (214) 423-6614; (800) 727-9999; fax: (214) 423-7770 (Paul Van Wagoner). This wholesale broker provides insurance coverages for all personal recreational boats. Limits are $1 million hull and $1 million liability. Geographical limits are U.S. except FL. The firm solicits agents in all states except FL. Lloyd's is the underwriter.

Veitenhaus Agency, Inc., 4260 S Howell Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53207; (414) 483-0220; (800) 537-1501; fax: (414) 483-4330 (Thomas A Veitenhaus). This managing general agency writes all types of boats, including pleasure boats/yachts, personal watercraft, marinas and boat dealers and boat rentals. The firm can handle vessels of unlimited length, horsepower, speed and value. There is no maximum liability limit.

Coverage applies to coastal navigation, including FL. Worldwide and Caribbean coverage is available. Administrators of "Cruisers" insurance program. The firm represents 18 insurers. Solicits agents and brokers in all states.

The agency also writes insurance on motor homes, motorcycles, snowmobiles and ATVs.

Voyager Marine, 7011 Main St., P.O. Box 8000, Frisco, TX 75034; (800) 342-4444; (972) 712-0000; fax: (972) 712-4400 (John Harvey). The firm offers a personal lines boatowners package and an ocean marine yacht insurance policy. Unlimited length, horsepower, speed and value. Primary liability limits are available to $2 million, excess obtainable to $10 million. Hull coverage is written on an agreed value, replacement cost basis. Uninsured boaters coverage is an option. Coverage is also available for personal watercraft and boat rentals. Firm solicits agents in all states except FL. Insurers used are: Reliance, St. Paul, U.S. Specialty, American Modern Insurance, Old United Casualty, Commercial Union, USF&G, Recreational Products Insurance division, Universal Underwriters Insurance Co. and Lloyd's.

Westphalen, Bradley & James, P.O. Box 18477, Oklahoma City, OK 73154; (405) 751-0433; (800) 777-7412; fax: (405) 751-0192 (Kelly Harper). This managing general agency offers a yacht program and a motorboat program.

The motorboat program is for boats powered by outboard, inboard/outboard, sail or inboard motors. Length is from 13 to 28 feet. Navigational area includes lakes of AR, KS, MO, OK and TX. Optional coverage is available for rivers. Coverage provided is hull ($40,000), liability ($100,000, $200,000 or $300,000), miscellaneous boating equipment, medical payments, and machinery depreciation waiver. On the yacht program, size is from 13 to 85 feet. Hull coverage is $1 million; liability $100,000, $300,000 or $500,000. Personal effects, medical payments and machinery depreciation waiver. The coverage is available to agents only in the state of OK. Insurer is First Marine Insurance Co.

J. M. Wilson Corp., 8036 Moorsbridge Rd., Portage, MI 49024; (800) 282-8113; fax: (616) 327-2620 (Cathy Baldwin or Karen Otten). This managing general agent writes programs for pleasure boats, yachts, marinas, motorcycles, ATVs, rental, snowmobiles and travel trailers.

Hull and liability limits for watercraft are $150,000 maximum for hull; and $300,000 for liability. The agency can write coverage and service agents in FL, IL, IN, MI, OH, PA and WI. Underwriters are Jefferson, American Modern Insurance Group, Markel American, Northland and Aegis.

Worldwide Marine Underwriters, 1500 Kendale Blvd., Ste. 206, E. Lansing, MI 48823; (517) 333-4100; (800) 339-1235; fax: (517) 333-4200 (Bob Luellen). Coverage is written for personal lines boatowners policy and an ocean marine yacht policy. Unlimited length, horsepower, speed and value. Maximum primary liability limits are $5 million; maximum excess limit is $25 million. Hulls are written on an agreed value basis. The agency specializes on high performance watercraft and yachts valued more than $250,000. Coverage is solicited from agents on a worldwide basis. *

©COPYRIGHT: The Rough Notes Magazine, 1998