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What is Mexico Boat Insurance?

Mexico boat insurance provides liability protection for U.S. and Canadian boat owners navigating Mexican waters. Since U.S. and Canadian insurance policies are not recognized by Mexican authorities, having a Mexico boat insurance policy ensures compliance with legal requirements and offers financial protection if you are responsible for injuries or property damage to others.

What does Mexico Boat Insurance cover?**

Mexico boat insurance primarily focuses on third-party liability, meaning it covers damages or injuries you may cause to others while operating your boat in Mexico. Below are the key coverages available.

Civil Liability: Coverage for damage to others and other boats

Civil liability
Coverage for property damage or injuries to others

Covers damage to third-party property or injuries
This is the core coverage of your Mexico boat insurance policy. It is legally required in Mexican waters and protects you in case of an accident:

  • Bodily Injury Liability – Covers medical expenses, legal indemnity for death or disability, and funeral costs for third parties injured due to an accident involving your boat.
  • Property Damage Liability – Covers damage to another vessel, dock, or other third-party property caused by your boat.

Example: While maneuvering in a marina, you accidentally hit another boat, causing damage. This coverage helps pay for repairs to the other vessel.

Legal & Bail Bonds
Typically included with civil liability

This important coverage is included with civil liability. Why is it important? If an accident causes injury or property damage, you may be required to appear before a Mexican judge. Legal assistance coverage provides access to attorneys and covers legal fees, administrative fines, and bail bonds if needed.

Example: You are involved in a boating accident that injures a third party, and Mexican authorities detain you for questioning. This coverage helps secure your release and provides legal representation.

Medical Payments
Coverage for injuries to third parties

This coverage helps pay medical expenses for third parties injured as a result of an accident involving your insured boat. It does not cover injuries to the boat owner, passengers, or crew.

Example: A swimmer is injured after being struck by your boat. This coverage helps pay for their medical treatment.

What is typically NOT covered

The following coverages are not included in your Mexico boat insurance policy. You should check your U.S. or Canadian boat insurance policy to see if these coverages apply while navigating in Mexico.

Hull & Physical Damage

Your Mexico boat insurance does not cover damage to your own vessel. Check if your U.S. or Canadian boat policy includes coverage while in Mexico.

Theft Coverage

If your boat is stolen while in Mexico, this policy does not provide compensation. Review your U.S. or Canadian boat insurance to see if theft is covered.

Pollution Liability

This policy does not cover fuel spills or environmental damage. Some U.S. or Canadian policies may include this coverage, so check with your provider.

Towing & Assistance

If your boat becomes disabled, this policy does not include towing or emergency assistance. Some U.S. or Canadian boat policies provide towing coverage in Mexican waters, so verify with your insurer.

*The coverages described above vary by policy. Always review your policy details and exclusions to ensure you have the right coverage before navigating in Mexico. If your U.S. or Canadian policy does not provide coverage in Mexico, consider obtaining additional protection before your trip.