There’s nothing quite like summer in Canada. Long weekends, cottage escapes, and afternoons spent on the lake or trail are what memories are made of. Whether it’s launching your jet ski, hitching up the trailer, or kicking up some dust on your ATV, those summer toys bring freedom and fun. But before the adventures begin, it’s worth asking: are they properly insured?
Many people assume their home or auto insurance covers their recreational vehicles and watercraft, only to discover gaps in coverage when it’s too late. Summer toys often need their own policies – or at least endorsements – to ensure you’re protected if something goes wrong. Let’s take a closer look at how insurance works for boats, ATVs, jet skis, and trailers, and why recreational insurance should never be overlooked.
Boat and Personal Watercraft Coverage
Whether you’re cruising the lake in a pontoon or speeding across the water on a Sea-Doo, your watercraft deserves its own protection. Basic homeowner’s insurance might offer limited coverage for smaller, low-horsepower boats while they’re stored on your property. But once that vessel hits the water, you’ll likely need a dedicated boat insurance policy to cover damage, liability, theft, and even environmental cleanup if there’s a spill.
Jet skis, in particular, are often excluded from standard policies because of their higher risk profile. Insurers see them as more prone to accidents and damage, so they typically require specialized personal watercraft coverage. That policy can protect you from the cost of repairs, third-party injuries, and property damage – something that becomes especially important when you’re riding at high speeds in crowded waters.
ATVs and Off-Road Vehicles
ATVs and and dirt bikes are a staple for summer fun in rural areas, trail networks, and cottage country. But just like cars or trucks, these machines need proper insurance to hit the trail legally in most provinces. Basic auto insurance won’t cover off-road vehicles, and homeowner’s insurance might only offer limited protection if the ATV is stored on your property – not if it’s being used.
Off-road vehicle insurance typically covers liability (if you injure someone or damage their property), collision (if you crash into something), and comprehensive risks like theft, fire, or vandalism. It’s also smart to make sure your ATV policy extends to all potential riders in your household, not just the person named on the insurance.
Trailers and Seasonal Vehicles
Campers and utility trailers are another summer staple, especially for those who love to explore or haul equipment to the lake or campsite. While your auto insurance may provide liability coverage while the trailer is hitched to your vehicle, that doesn’t usually extend to physical damage. In other words, if the trailer is stolen, vandalized, or damaged in a storm, you could be on the hook – unless you have a separate trailer insurance policy.
And what about seasonal vehicles like classic cars or summer-only motorcycles? These too may need specialized coverage based on usage, mileage, and storage periods. Many insurers offer seasonal policies that reflect the reduced risk during the off-season, when your vehicle is parked or stored. The cost is often lower than year-round coverage, but it still protects against things like theft, fire, or accidental damage while the vehicle’s not in use.
When Seasonal Insurance Matters Most
Seasonal coverage is ideal for recreational vehicles and toys that are only used a few months out of the year. These policies can be turned on and off or adjusted depending on the time of year, saving you money while maintaining protection against unexpected loss or damage.
Just remember: seasonal doesn’t mean optional. Even if your jet ski or trailer is tucked away in the garage for the winter, it’s still vulnerable to theft, fire, or other insured perils. Cancelling coverage entirely during the off-season can leave you exposed, especially if something happens while it’s in storage.
It’s also important to note that some seasonal policies automatically reduce or suspend certain coverages during the off-season. Always read the fine print and talk to your broker to make sure you understand what’s included year-round, and what isn’t.
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Your summer toys are more than just expensive equipment – they’re the key to unforgettable experiences with family and friends. But those memories can be quickly overshadowed if something goes wrong and you’re left without proper coverage.
Before you head out on the lake or trail this summer, take a few minutes to review your insurance. A conversation with your broker can help you understand where your current policy stands, where gaps may exist, and what steps you need to take to protect your seasonal assets properly. Reach out to our team and set up a policy review, today.
