Boating

Everything You Need to Know About Boating in Alaska

Everything You Need to Know About Boating in Alaska

By NBOA           May 29, 2024

Places to Go in Alaska

While Alaska boasts 3 million lakes and 12,000 rivers, don't miss out on these favorite boating locations:  1) Kenai Fjords 2) Resurrection Bay 3) The Inside Passage  4) Yukon River 5) Bristol Bay 6) Glacier Bay 

Alaska Boating Laws

Boating in Alaska comes with unique challenges, such as cold water temperatures and rapidly changing weather conditions. Always remember: 1) Never drink while boating. 2) Monitor the weather. 3) Prepare for cold water.  4) Make a float plan. 5) Consider Alaskan boat insurance!

Commercial Fishing

For hundreds of years, Alaska has been renowned for its bountiful seafood industry, making commercial fishing a significant piece of the state’s economy. It’s common to spot all sorts of fishing boats in Alaska, including trawlers, longliners, seiners, gillnetters, and crab boats.

Tourist Boating

From the fjords of Southeast Alaska to the rugged coasts of Southcentral Alaska, tourist boats play an integral role in Alaska’s thriving tourism industry. Sightseeing boats, whale-watching cruises, and fishing charters all offer an up-close and personal view of Alaska’s inspiring coastal views and incredible marine wildlife.

Boat Insurance

While Alaska boat insurance policies usually cover physical damages to the vessel, gear, and machinery as well as liability exposures for bodily injury and property damage, commercial and tourist boaters should also consider Protection & Indemnity, Jones Act Coverage, Charterer's Liability Insurance, and Pollution Liability.