Watercraft Theft Drops in 2018: A Comprehensive Look at the NICB Report

Watercraft Theft Trends in 2018

The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) reported an 8% decrease in watercraft theft in 2018 compared to the previous year. A total of 4,499 watercraft were reported stolen in the U.S. between January 1 and December 31, 2018. This decline is a positive sign for boat owners, who can now enjoy their summer activities on the water with a bit more peace of mind.

Top States for Watercraft Theft

Florida topped the list as the state with the highest number of watercraft thefts, followed by California, Texas, Louisiana, and North Carolina. Personal watercraft were the most likely type of watercraft to be stolen, followed by runabouts, utility boats, cruisers, and sailboats. These statistics highlight the importance of taking preventive measures to protect your watercraft.

Preventive Measures and Useful Tips

The NICB recommends several tips to protect watercraft from theft, including securing the boat to the dock with a steel cable, removing expensive equipment when not in use, and chaining and locking detachable motors to the boat. Additionally, it is crucial not to leave title or registration papers in the craft, disable the craft by shutting fuel lines or removing batteries, and use a trailer hitch lock after parking a boat on its trailer. Installing a kill switch in the ignition system and ensuring your marine insurance policy includes your equipment, boat, and trailer are also essential steps. Taking photos of the boat and marking it with a Hull Identification Number (HIN) can further deter theft.