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Water sports travel insurance

Watersports are a popular activity for holidaymakers. But, it's important to know that your policy might not cover you for these activities.

This can lead to a major headache if you need to make a related claim, only to discover that your policy won't pay out!

Don't worry, though, we're here to help. Below, we'll guide you on how to get the right coverage if you're planning to enjoy some adventerous watersports on your holiday. Read on!

Alvaro Iturmendi - Confused.com travel insurance expert

Reviewed by Alvaro Iturmendi Travel insurance expert 4 min read | Published 30/10/2024

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Does standard travel insurance cover watersports?

Standard holiday insurance can cover you for watersports, but it'll usually only cover lower risk activities

Here's a breakdown of what it typically does and doesn't cover:

Activities normally covered by travel insurance:

Swimming: This is generally covered, as it's considered low risk by insurers.
Snorkelling: As it's usually done in shallow waters, snorkelling is often covered because it poses minimal risk.
Stand-up paddleboarding: This popular watersports is often included in most standard travel insurance policies.
Sailing: This is usually covered. But, if you're planning to race or travel far from shore, you might need extra coverage.
Bodyboarding: This is considered a relatively safe activity, so it's often covered by standard policies.

Activities that might need specialist water sports cover:

Surfing: Even though it's fun, surfing is seen as higher risk. So, it might not be covered by standard policies.
Jet skiing: Jet-skiing is generally considered a 'high-risk' watersport. So, you'll probably need extra cover for this, or maybe even specialist high-risk travel insurance.
Deep scuba diving: Scuba diving may be covered, but only up to a certain depth. You'll need extra cover for deeper dives.
Kite surfing: Since kite surfing involves speed and strong winds, it usually needs a higher level of cover.
White water rafting above certain grades: Easier courses may be covered by standard policies, but most will exclude rafting down higher-grade lines.

Can I get cover for riskier watersports?

Yes, you should be able to.

When you get a quote, just be sure to let your insurer know what activities you're planning. That way, your insurer can tailor your coverage to fit exactly what you need.

For the risky watersports you plan to do, you'll likely need to enhance your policy with watersports insurance. But, just keep in mind that this may come with an additional cost.

Oh, and don't just assume you're automatically covered for all watersports! If you're planning to do various water activities while abroad make sure you let your provider know. This way, they can ensure you're fully protected for everything you want to do.

How do I add watersports cover to my travel insurance policy?

Compare quotes

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Pick your policy

Pick the policy that best suits your needs, and your budget.

Ask to add on cover

Contact your insurer and ask to add on cover for the water sports you'll be doing.

Head's up: Sometimes, insurers might offer watersports travel insurance as a 'policy add-on' during checkout. In this case, you can just select the additional cover you need this way.

What our travel insurance expert says

"If you're just taking a quick dip, snorkelling or riding some waves on a bodyboard, standard travel insurance should be all you need. But, if you're planning to dive into some more adventurous watersports, you’ll probably need extra cover. So, after you've got a quote, just reach out to your insurer to ask about adding on cover for the activities you'll be doing. They’ll be happy to help!"

Alvaro Iturmendi Travel insurance expert

What will my watersports travel insurance cover?

The amount of cover you get can vary depending on your insurer. So, make sure you're reading those terms and conditions!

Generally, you can expect cover for the following:

Travel insurance usually covers:

Medical bills: If you’re injured while doing your chosen watersport.
Search and rescue: If you’re injured or lost while doing a certain watersport and need saving. Without cover, you could be held liable for the costs!
Damage to your kit: If your watersport equipment gets damaged, such as your surfboards or kayak. Some insurers can have a single item limit for each piece of equipment. So, make sure you check your policy to see what your coverage is.
Emergency repatriation: If you’re injured while participating in your chosen watersport, your insurance's repatriation cover could help with the costs of safely returning you home.
Theft of or damage to your possessions: If your luggage or personal possessions are damaged, stolen or accidentally lost, your policy's baggage cover can help.
Travel disruption: If you're unable to make your onward travel plans, your policy's travel disruption cover could help.

It won't normally cover:

Competitive water sports: Since insurers typically only cover watersports for recreational purposes, you'll likely need specialist insurance for things like speed trials and races.
Professional water sport athletes: If you're a professional or semi-professional watersports athlete, standard travel insurance usually won't cover you. You'll likely need specialised cover.
Venturing too far from land: Some policies limit how far from the shore you're covered. If your adventure takes you beyond the allowed distance, you might not be covered.
Travelling against FCDO advice: If you trvel to your destination against warnings given by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) your insurance won't cover you.
Incidents involving drugs and alcohol Issue that occur while you're intoxicated may not be covered.
Changing your mind: Your policy won't cover any claims for compensation if you change your mind and decide to cancel your holiday.

Top tip: Confused on what you've got cover for and what you don't? Don't stress it—read your policy terms and conditions to see exactly what level of cover your insurer offers for watersports.

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