If your boat falls within the 20 to 29-foot range, it is a prime target for theft. Larger boats typically lack a market, and smaller boats often aren’t worth the trouble for thieves. Fast boats, however, may attract criminals who intend to use them for illegal activities such as piracy or drug smuggling. In most cases, stolen boats are stripped for parts or repainted and sold to unsuspecting buyers who believe they’re getting a good deal on a secondhand vessel. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect your boat. Many of these measures are similar to common-sense practices used to prevent automobile theft. If your boat is stolen despite your precautions, here’s what to do.
Step 1: Contact the Police
While recovering a stolen boat is rare, it’s crucial to report the theft to the police. Prepare a spreadsheet with the following information: Hull Identification Number (HIN), engine serial number, registration certificate number, outdrive number, state registration number, transom assembly number, and serial numbers for the boat’s electronics. Keep all receipts, invoices, and sales documents to prove ownership. Photos of your boat can also help identify it if the identifying numbers are altered. Additionally, you may need a police report to file an insurance claim. An insurance agent will review your policy to determine the compensation you’re entitled to if the boat is not recovered.
Contact Securum in Lynnwood, WA
If you’re in the Lynnwood, WA area and need boat or watercraft insurance, contact Securum LLC. We’re here to help you protect your investment and provide support when you need it most.