Snowmobile insurance in Manitoba

In Manitoba, snowmobiling isn't just a hobby; it's a way of life for many residents. From cottage country in Whiteshell to the Interlake beyond, riders take to the trails and frozen lakes all winter long. Whether you're out for a weekend getaway or using your sled for work, one thing remains the same: you need the right insurance coverage in place before you head out into the great outdoors.

[phone]

BrokerLink compares rates from a wide range of providers, ensuring you get the best deals available.

What is snowmobile insurance in Manitoba?

Snowmobile insurance policies are a financial protection that covers you, your snowmobile, and others if something goes wrong while you're out riding. While registering with Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) is mandatory for all off-road vehicles, including snowmobiles, the coverage you receive with your registration is limited. Along with your registration certificate, you'll receive the following coverage with the MPI:

Basic third-party liability coverage: You'll get $500,000 in liability protection in the event you cause a bodily injury or property damage to a third party while operating your snowmobile on public property.
Snopass (public trails permit): If you want to use your snowmobile on groomed public trails across Manitoba, you must purchase a snowpass. If you decline it at registration, you have to sign a declaration saying you won't ride on groomed trails. Riding without a pass can result in a $500 fine.

Together, MPI registration insurance and a weekly or annual Snopass are a legal baseline you must comply with to ride. However, it does not provide coverage for other risks such as theft, vandalism, severe weather damage, and other risks.

Why you need snowmobile insurance in Manitoba

If you operate a snowmobile in Manitoba, you must register it and carry basic coverage through Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI). However, what protection you need depends on how and where you ride. Basic MPI typically includes accident benefits and third-party liability, but it does not cover physical damage to your sled. Many riders choose private coverage to close those gaps, especially for risks common in Manitoba like theft from cabins or driveways, collisions with hidden stumps or ice ridges, and severe winter weather.

Common add-ons include comprehensive (theft, vandalism, fire, weather) and collision (impact with objects, ice, or other riders), plus higher third-party liability limits (often $1–2 million). You can also add uninsured/underinsured rider protection and coverage for accessories, trailers, and riding gear.

A hypothetical example would be you hit a concealed stump while on Whiteshell trail that causes you to flip your snowmobile. Without private insurance in place, the repairs and medical expenses you incur would be paid for out-of-pocket. But with accident benefits, collision coverage, and other policies, your insurance company would help absorb most of these costs.

Snowmobile insurance for Manitobans

To use your snowmobile or other recreational vehicle beyond your private property, you will need to purchase the following mandatory insurance from MPI. Because MPI insurance does not protect your sled or gear, private insurance is available to fill these gaps. Some additional policies you may want to consider are also included below.

Mandatory

Optional

With MPI insurance, you will receive $500,000 in liability coverage. This coverage kicks in if you cause bodily injuries or property damage to someone else while riding your snowmobile. For example, if you accidentally crash into your neighbour's fence, damaging it, your liability would pay for any repair or replacement costs incurred. Other expenses this policy covers include legal fees, medical expenses, and settlement costs.

Snopass is a trail permit that is required if you plan on riding on Manitoba's 12,000 kilometres of groomed snow trails across the province. The cost to add this to your plan is $150 per season. However, short-term passes are also available.

Collision coverage will cover damage to your snowmobile if you get into an at-fault accident with another rider or a single-vehicle collision. For example, if your sled collides with a tree, fence, rock, or other off-road vehicle, this policy will cover your repair or replacement costs. All you would need to pay is your deductible.

Comprehensive coverage protects you against non-collision incidents, including theft, vandalism, fire, and storms that cause physical damage to your snowmobile. Again, you would only be responsible for paying your deductible, and your insurance company will cover the remaining costs.

Opting for higher liability limits ensures that if you injure someone or damage their property, you would be comprehensively protected against any out-of-pocket expenses. Most riders opt for coverage limits up to $1 or $2 million to ensure they have enough coverage should something happen.

Trailer insurance coverage protects your snowmobile trailer or hauler while you are transporting your sled. Should a snowmobile collision, theft, or damage occur during transportation, your insurance company will cover the cost of repairs or replacements if your sled is a total loss.

Accident benefits, also known as personal injury protection, cover your medical expenses, rehabilitation, and loss of income if you or your passengers are injured while riding. Ultimately, this policy supplements MPI's personal injury protection plan, which is limited.

Accessory and gear coverage protects your helmets, jackets, GPS devices, sled racks, and other aftermarket equipment you may have stored on your snowmobile, ensuring you're not absorbing all expenses that may arise following theft or damage.

A lot of Manitoba residents use their snowmobiles for commercial purposes. Whether you're operating tours, renting snowmobiles out to others, or grooming trails, this commercial policy offers liability and property protection to you while you're out conducting your business activities.

A road use endorsement is another coverage option if you need to navigate public roads with your snowmobile. This allows you to cross short roads with your snowmobile and protects you against potential accidents that may occur.

During the off-season, this form of lay-up protection allows you to drop your liability coverage while your snowmobile is left in storage, while maintaining protection against theft, vandalism, and weather damage.

One final type of optional auto insurance coverage popular among Manitobans is accident forgiveness. Accident forgiveness coverage is additional coverage that can be added to your car insurance policy as an endorsement to protect your driving record and to help prevent your insurance premium from increasing if you have an at-fault accident claim.

Let us be your resource for all things motorcycle insurance

[phone]

Why BrokerLink

Discover what sets BrokerLink apart. Our commitment to personalized service, expert advice, and comprehensive coverage options ensures you get the best protection tailored to your needs.

Our reviews

22597+ Reviews

Average rating of 4.6

Greg Silver

Excellent service, rates and customer service. Highly recommended.
Andy Rohansingh

Very easy to do business with this company. They handle all of my past, current and will be doing my future vehicles also. They listen and get you the insurance that you want and need.
Ian Roome

I've always had a great experience with their agents/brokers when I've had questions about my policy. Agents are always polite, professional and able to answer my questions.
Clara Furlano

Honestly, they have the best advisors. Ones who take their time to understand your insurance needs.
Joyce Kivuyo-Kisamo

I have been with BrokerLink for over 5 years and have never been disappointed; my issues have been always solved promptly and efficiently, they even found me a cheaper motor insurance with same qualit...
Terry Mason

I find Brokerlink to be better priced than most of their competitors. I have received good, prompt advise and always deal with a live agent.
Sandi G

Excellent, hands-on, personable service. I feel like I haven't had a broker like this, in a long time
DANI L

The best client experience!!! Honest, genuine, professional. They explain AND LISTEN! Trust no one else ❤️

Our numbers speak for themselves

Ways to save on snowmobile insurance in Manitoba

Riding throughout Manitoba's many trails and stretches of back country with the right insurance in place doesn't mean you can save money on your coverage without sacrificing the level of protection you have. When you go to purchase insurance for your snowmobile, here are some tips and tricks you can use to keep more money in your pocket:

Discounts

Bundle your snowmobile coverage with home or auto insurance

Bundle your car insurance, home insurance, and snowmobile insurance with the same provider to save up to 15% off each premium. Not only does this keep more money in your pocket, but it also makes managing your policies a lot easier, which is a bonus.

Store in a locked shed

Regardless of whether you live in a more urban area like Winnipeg or a more suburban, rural area like Steinbach, keeping your sled secure in a locked garage or shed is essential. Storing your sled outdoors puts you at a higher risk of theft, which will increase your insurance rates.

Install safety features

Safety features like locks, GPS trackers, and alarms to deter theft can qualify you for a discount with your insurance company by lowering your overall risk profile.

Choose seasonal use suspension

Many Manitobans only ride snowmobiles between the months of December and March, before the spring melt begins. Ask your broker about seasonal coverage for your snowmobile to save money during the off-season.

Take a rider safety course

Taking an accredited snowmobile safety course and showing a valid snowmobile safety course card to your insurance company or insurance broker can help you save up to 5% on your premiums. These courses help keep riders and trails safe, which will lower your risk profile, keeping more money in your pocket. The Canada Safety Council and Safety Services Manitoba offer courses, you may wish to consider.

Ask about claims-free or loyalty discounts

When you insure your snowmobile, don't be afraid to ask about other available discounts. Most insurers provide discounts for remaining claims-free and for being a loyal customer, which can help you save up to 5% on your premiums.

Savings Options

Raise your deductible

Increasing your deductible can lower your premiums slightly, as you're essentially agreeing to take on more of a financial burden in the event you need to file a claim. However, it also means you will need to pay more out of pocket as well, before your provider covers any remaining costs.

Avoid expensive modifications

Modifications like overside engines or flashy devices are great and all if you want to enhance the performance of your snowmobile. However, adding these to your ride can increase your premiums, as these aftermarket add-ons increase the overall value of your sled, which will cost more to insure.

Compare snowmobile insurance quotes

When you go to insure your snowmobile, don't restrict yourself to a single provider. You can benefit from shopping around, comparing rates, and coverages from different providers to find the best one. You can do this alone, or work with a broker who has access to numerous policies from different providers, like BrokerLink!

Pay your premium upfront

Most insurance companies add a surcharge to your premiums if you choose to pay for your coverage monthly. This is because it costs your insurance company money to process each of these payments throughout the year. Therefore, a simple way to avoid these surcharges and save money is to purchase your insurance upfront in a single payment if you can afford to do so.

Factors influencing your snowmobile insurance costs

The cost of snowmobile insurance in Manitoba can vary based on several factors that are unique to you and your riding profile. Some factors an insurer will look at include:

Sled type (performance vs utility)

The make, model, and year of your snowmobile significantly impact your premiums. High-performance sleds or brand new snowmobiles often come with higher repair and replacement costs, which will increase your rates. In contrast, older or less expensive models may be more affordable to insure.

Engine size and top speed

Engine size is also considered. Sleds used for racing or extreme off-trail adventures are a higher risk than snowmobiles used for farming tasks. For example, a 2025 Ski-Doo MXZ 850 will generally have a higher premium than a 2010 Polaris Indy 550.

What you use your sled for

Insurance rates can also vary based on whether you ride for recreation, work, or other business purposes. For example, groomers, tours, or rentals typically require higher coverage limits, given the liability risks they're exposed to, while recreation riders using trails through Duck Mountain or Falcon Lake typically pay less.

Where you live

Where you live also plays a role in your overall risk profile. Urban areas like Winnipeg or Brandon may experience higher theft rates, while rural locations such as the Interlake or Whiteshell areas may have terrain-related risks that need to be considered.

Modifications (affect value and risk)

Aftermarket modifications like engine upgrades, track extensions, and other high-performance parts increase risk and replacement costs, which can raise your premiums.

Storage method (garage vs shed)

Storing your snowmobile in a secure garage reduces risk exposures and can lower premiums. Outdoor storage, on the other hand, comes with a higher risk level, especially in areas that are prone to high theft rates and extreme, unpredictable weather conditions.

Coverage limits and add-ons

Opting for higher liability limits and optional policies beyond basic coverage will increase your premiums. However, the trade-off to this is that you will receive more financial protection in the event of a snowmobile collision or if another peril happens.

Driver age and experience

Younger riders or those with limited experience are viewed as higher risks than experienced riders with a history of safe riding. The best thing you can do to lower your premiums over time is to practice safe riding habits to avoid collisions and injuries.

Additional information about snowmobile insurance you should know

Before purchasing snowmobile insurance in Manitoba, here's some additional information we think you should know!

Home insurance and snowmobiles

Many Manitobans assume their home insurance covers their snowmobile when stored at their property. But in most cases, exclusions apply unless otherwise stated. Therefore, if your sled is stolen from your private property, you would be on the hook for any replacements, unless you purchase comprehensive insurance through a private insurance company.

Replacement cost vs actual cash value

When buying snowmobile insurance, it's important to understand the difference between a replacement cost endorsement and an actual cash value policy.

Replacement cost coverage

Replacement cost reimburses you for the full cost to replace your snowmobile with a new, equivalent sled, without factoring in depreciation. For example, if your 2023 Polaris 850 is stolen, this endorsement would pay for a brand-new model, even though your sled was used.

Actual cash value

Actual cash value, on the other hand, reimburses you for the current market value of your snowmobile at the time of the loss. For example, if your 2015 snowmobile is stolen, your provider would reimburse you for its depreciated value, meaning less money in your pocket.

How to choose

Opting for a replacement cost policy will cost you more in premiums, but it does mean you would be compensated more by your insurance provider in the event of a loss. If you have a high-value sled, this coverage is recommended.

On the other hand, actual cash value comes with lower premiums, but you wouldn't receive as much compensation following a loss. Therefore, this policy is recommended for older sleds as it provides a cost-effective alternative while still offering more protection than basic MIP insurance.

Get affordable insurance for your snowmobile in Manitoba with BrokerLink today

Your snowmobile is more than a vehicle. It's your ticket to adventure across Manitoba's trails and a machine you depend on to complete daily tasks as a farmer and business owner. Don't let theft, collisions, or liability claims put your winter fun at risk.

With BrokerLink, you get to work with a local Manitoba insurance broker who understands the trails, terrain, weather conditions, and other unique risks the province faces. We'll help you find affordable, customized coverage that fits your sled, riding style, and budget.

1-855-451-8748 Visit a branch

Resources

Check out our wide range of resources, offering valuable information and tools, all in one convenient place.

Check out blog

Service and claims

Visit a branch

About us

FAQs on snowmobile insurance in Manitoba

Have questions? Our FAQ section has the answers you're looking for. Find helpful information to guide you through your options.

Do I need snowmobile insurance in Manitoba?

Yes, all snowmobiles must be registered with MPI to operate in public areas. Additionally, you will need to purchase Snopass to ride on groomed trails across the province.

Can I insure my sled during storage months?

Yes. Most Manitoban insurers offer off-season coverage that protects your snowmobile while it is in storage, offering coverage for theft, vandalism, fires, and severe weather damage.

Is my snowmobile gear covered?

Not automatically. Your GPS units, jackets, helmets, and other gear will require accessories insurance in your policy to receive protection if they are stolen or damaged.

What happens if my sled is stolen?

If your sled is stolen and you do not have comprehensive insurance from a private insurance company added to your plan, you would be responsible for paying for any replacements out of your own pocket.

What does MPI registration cover?

MPI registration coverage providers $500,000 in liability insurance, which allows you to ride legally outside of private property. It does not cover theft, collisions, or damage to your sled.

Do I need trailer insurance for my snowmobile hauler?

Yes. If you transport your sled with a trailer, separate trailer insurance is needed. This policy ensures that damage to your trailer, theft, and accidents are covered while you are towing your sled.

Can youth riders be insured in Manitoba?

Yes. Riders under the age of 18 can be insured with parental or guardian consent. Coverage is typically available for riders 16 and older, provided that they complete a safety course.