Special Insurance for Mexico

[sadia]

We just heard some "dock talk" that we need special insurance for cruising Mexico - this would be in addition to the boat insurance that we already carry. Does anyone know about this?

[GordMay]

Mexico requires Liability Insurance, provided by a Mexican Insurance Company.

[tardog]

I spent the last year in Mexico. Stayed in several marinas and visited many port captains. I did not have anyone ask for any insurance other than my insurance from the US (which did specifically cover cruising in Mexico)

Mexican liability insurance is cheap. Like $200/year.

[svcambria]

Mexico does not actually legally require insurance, liability or otherwise, for boats, cars, anything else. However... it is a really good idea to carry liability insurance, especially since it is available on-line for about $200. If you have American or other nationality issued liability insurance, if they state you are covered in Mexico, then you are covered in Mexico; the machinations for settling claims may be more difficult though them than with a Mexican company policy. Most marinas do require liability insurance to protect their property and the property of others in the marina.

Michael

[GordMay]

According to BoatUS, and other authorities: “... All boats are required under Mexican Law to have liability insurance issued through a Mexican Insurance Company. Without it, you could face serious consequences including fines, impoundment and/or imprisonment ...”
➥ BoatUS: Marine Insurance - Frequently Asked Questions

[sded]

I checked in and out at Ensenada in November. Check in with Port Captain (as well as Marina) required a copy of my Insurance. I had Mexican insurance, but marina said that Ensenada would also accept US insurance. Sounds like another "Port Captains Discretion" to be aware of.

[John A]

When I cruised thru Mexico, I first visited Downwind Marine in San Diago, a must for all who travel to Mexico. There they directed me to a local business, which will obtain all necessary papers to travel to Mexico. To be legal you must have Mexicain liablity insurance and a fishing license for everyone as well as both your boat and dinghy.

As with all insurance, you don't need it until you need it.

Without Mexician liability insurance, if a claim is filed on you or your boat while in Mexico, your boat may be impounded until resoluation of the claim.

Your choice.

[svcambria]

Well, the PAN political party in Mexico seems to have been busy cleaning things up. According to the US Department of State for travel in Mexico

Mexico

"Mexican insurance is required for all vehicles, including rental vehicles."

They don't mention it specifically but there is now a minimum liability limit - called a Civil Liability - of $5000. Like other nations in the world, one could probably post a bond in place of that to be legal. Live and learn...
The State Dept. doesn't say anything about recreational vessels.
In any event, liability insurance is a really good idea, considering that this covers what damage you or your property does to others (i.e. your fault) and is available over the Internet for pretty small premiums (on the order of $200 a year). Clean wake, etc. etc.
I am always wary of companies advising that one needs their product even if they are correct - the conflict of interest is just to prominent.

[kb79]

does anyone have recommendations for a good mexican liability insurance broker?

[John A]

Originally Posted by kb79

does anyone have recommendations for a good mexican liability insurance broker?

Doing a google search within the Latitude38 website gives the folowing results

Mexican Auto Insurance Online - Mexadventure.com

[TabbyCat]

Because we get asked about this all the time, IMIS is affiliated with a Mexican liability insurance company. you can just click on IMIS Online Services and scroll down to the section on Mexican liability insurance. They will give you a quote right on line.