So why is it that every time this issue comes up (usually on
rec.boats.cruising) that the
unanimous opinion is the Boat/US is good insurance.

Jeff, if you're serious about this, e-mail me off list and I'll explain how
BoatUS depreciates gear for claims worse than any other insurance co. For
instance, if you lose your mast, BoatUS won't pay for it unless it's less than
7-10 years old. This happened to the fellow who bought my friends Typhoon after
a powerboat hit it. It also happened to my friend with a Tartan 33. They are
the worst unless you lose the boat entirely.

RB