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Why a specialized Bahamas insurance policy is a must

The Bahamas (Nassau, Freeport, Exumas, Abacos, Eleuthera) is a flagship destination for Quebec boaters who descend by the Gulf Stream or transfer their boat by semi-trailer to Florida before the crossing. Insuring a boat sailing in the Bahamas requires an explicit bluewater policy.

Assur360 underwrites Canada + Caribbean policies with specialized programs (Marine Underwriters, Lloyd’s, Pantaenius, Markel). 2026 Premiums: $1,500 to $6,800 USD/year depending on size, value and frequency of sailing in the Bahamas. All our brokers are AMF and Chamber of Insurance certified.

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4 things to know before sailing in the Bahamas

Gulf Stream and offshore navigation

The Florida-Bimini crossing (80 km of high seas) requires a bluewater policy — excluded by default from coastal policies. Without it, a disaster on the high seas is not covered.

Official cyclone zone (June-November)

The Bahamas is in the middle of a hurricane corridor. Separate hurricane premiums: deductible 5-10% of the value during the season, obligation to anchor in a protected port or go up to Florida (Lake Worth, St Augustine).

Immigration and Temporary Importation

Your boat enters the Bahamas under Cruising Permit (US$150-350). The insurance must display the Bahamas territorial coverage in clear text — Bahamian customs check this.

Remote Support

The Bahamas has few shipyards apart from Nassau and Freeport. Always purchase marine towing coverage (SeaTow, BoatUS) — a tow to Florida can cost $5,000-15,000 USD.

Bahamas Boat Quote — 3 minutes

Specialized offshore analysis + service in French.

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Navigation areas covered

Our offshore policies cover: Nassau (New Providence), Paradise Island, Freeport (Grand Bahama), Bimini, Abacos (Marsh Harbour, Hope Town), Exumas (Great Exuma, Staniel Cay), Eleuthera, Long Island, Cat Island, San Salvador, Turks and Caicos (Supplemental Endorsement).

How to get your Bahamas policy in 4 steps

1
Form + Area Covered — Vessel, Value, Bahamas Home Port, Offshore Navigation Experience (LTI, RYA).
2
Offshore analysis — our broker analyzes the cyclone risks, the type of navigation (coastal vs. bluewater), the periods of use.
3
3 quotes compared — Canadian vs. U.S. vs. Lloyd’s programs, with explanations of hurricane and excluded area deductibles.
4
Bilingual Issuance + Certificate — accepted by all Bahamas marinas and customs.

Frequently Asked Questions — Bahamas Boat Insurance

1. Does my Quebec boat insurance cover the Bahamas?

Generally no, or with significant limitations. Standard policies cover adjacent Canadian and U.S. waters, but not extended use in the Bahamas or offshore navigation. A specific endorsement or dedicated policy is required.

2. How much does Bahamas-based boat insurance cost?

From $900 to $6,800/year depending on size, value, cyclone zone, and frequency of use. A 45-foot yacht docked in Miami costs about $2,200 – $3,500; in Nassau, $2,800 – $4,500.

3. What is a hurricane deductible?

During hurricane season (June 1 – November 30), several insurers apply a separate deductible of 5% to 10% of the insured value for damages related to a named cyclone. For a $200,000 boat, that’s a $10,000 – $20,000 deductible.

4. Should I transfer my Canadian policy or purchase in the USA?

Two options: (1) keep your Quebec policy with a multi-territory endorsement (simpler, billed in CAD, service in French), or (2) purchase a U.S. policy (often cheaper for large boats, but in USD and in English). Our insurance broker will advise you.

5. Is the Gulf Stream a risk area?

Yes. The Miami-Bimini crossing (80 km offshore) presents cross waves of 2-4 m, northeast current, and the presence of semi-trucks and cargo ships. A explicit bluewater policy is necessary — it represents 20-40% of the cost of a coastal policy.

6. Is my boat reassembled in Quebec for the summer covered?

Yes, multi-territory policies automatically cover the return to Canada — by semi-truck or by waterway (Intracoastal Waterway + Long Island Sound + canals). Check the “transport” section of the contract.

7. What areas are covered?

According to the contract: Nassau (New Providence), Paradise Island, Freeport (Grand Bahama), Bimini, Abacos (Marsh Harbour, Hope Town), Exumas (Great Exuma, Staniel Cay), Eleuthera, Long Island, Cat Island, San Salvador, Turks and Caicos (additional endorsement). Cyclone zones may require a seasonal endorsement.

8. Is cyclone damage (Ian, Ida, Maria) covered?

Yes, under an all-risk bluewater policy, after applying the hurricane deductible (5-10% of the value). Damages are assessed in Miami or Nassau by a local marine expert appointed by the insurer.

9. Can I rent my boat in the Bahamas (charter)?

No under a recreational policy. Any rental (with or without crew) requires a commercial charter policy — usually 4-8% of the value per year, with an audit of the skipper and engaged crews.

10. How do I claim a claim outside Quebec?

Call 1-866-357-4451 — our Quebec team coordinates with local experts (in Florida or the Bahamas). Document photos, witnesses, Coast Guard report (Coast Guard, Royal Bahamas Defence Force) according to the location. Reimbursement in USD or CAD depending on the policy.

Why Assur360 for your boat in Bahamas

Offshore + bluewater expertise
AMF + Chamber of Insurance certified brokers
Lloyd’s + US Marine Programs
Service in French, CAD billing possible
Remote claims coordination
100,000+ Quebecers insured

Helpful Resources

Consult: boat insurance hub · Boat in Florida · Boat in the Bahamas · yacht · Boat Guide 2026 · Dwelling (combo). External references: AMF, Insurance Bureau of Canada, Transport Canada, National Hurricane Center (NOAA).

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