Paddle boarding is a thrilling sport that has rapidly grown in popularity. However, similar to other forms of aquatic recreation, it is not risk-free. The need for insurance is a common concern among paddle boarders. In this article, we will explore the query do I need insurance to paddle board and provide you relevant information on the subject.
Do I need insurance to paddle board?
Even though paddle board insurance is not mandated by law, it is highly advised if you plan on instructing others in the sport, helping tourists, or running a business related to paddle boarding. In this manner, if you or someone else is ever involved in a collision on the water, you won’t have to pay for the full extent of the damages.
Why Do I Need Paddle Board Insurance?
A paddle board insurance policy can help cover the costs of theft, damage, or loss. You are also protected against claims made by third parties if you injure someone else or damage their property while paddling. Having paddle board insurance can protect you financially in the event of an accident.
There are many reasons to invest in paddle board insurance, including:
- Pick a plan with coverage levels that work for you financially. Marine legal protection, zero excess, and personal enjoyment are some add-ons available with some projects.
- You can include your family members and paddle boards on the same plan to save money and time.
- With the right travel insurance, you can go paddle boarding in the coastal and inland waters of Europe, the United Kingdom, and other countries.
- You can avoid paying substantial fines or compensation claims if you are proven responsible for injuring someone or damaging their property while paddle boarding.
What does Paddle Board Insurance cover?
Paddle Board Insurance includes protections such as:
- Your windsurfing or paddle boarding adventure up to £5 million in third-party liability protection.
- It included protection against theft and transport damage.
- European coverage for 30 days.
- Careful ownership of your board or windsurfer earns you a no-claims discount.
- Access your insurance coverage and make changes online.
- Coverage of sporting goods costing up to £5,601 can be purchased as an add-on.
- Coverage for accidents, lost wages, and legal liabilities is optional.
Best Paddle Board Insurance 2023
The good news is that paddle boarders can choose from various insurance plans and perks from multiple insurers. Here are a few of the best examples:
Veracity Insurance Solutions:
SUP teachers, guides, and rental businesses can get insurance from Veracity Insurance Solutions. Optional sexual abuse and molestation, professional liability, excess liability coverage, and liability, property, and inland marine coverage are all available.
Aegis Insurance Markets:
Paddle boarding is only one of many outdoor activities covered by Aegis Insurance Markets. Coverage for vehicles, buildings, and equipment is standard. In contrast, workers’ comp, umbrella, and cyber liability coverage are available as add-ons.
Outdoor Insurance Group:
The Outdoor Insurance Group covers paddle boarding activities like renting boards, taking lessons, and hosting events. They offer coverage for general liability, retail operations, special events, and liquor liability, in addition to protecting against accidents involving watersports and boats.
Bishop Skinner Marine:
Paddle boarders can get insurance from Bishop Skinner Marine in the United Kingdom. Legal defence costs are covered up to £100,000, and third-party liability is up to £5 million. Personal accident coverage is available up to £25,000.
Insure4Boats:
Stand-up paddle boarders all over the world can get insurance from SUPInsure.com. They provide:
- Personal accident coverage of up to £50,000.
- New-for-old replacement for boards up to three years old1.
- Third-party liability coverage of up to £10 million.
British Stand-Up Paddleboard Association (BSUPA):
The UK’s paddle boarders and windsurfers can get insurance from Insure4Boats. They provide liability coverage for up to £5 million, accidental damage, theft, and fire protection for up to £10,000 in boards and equipment, personal accident protection for up to £20,000, and legal expense protection for up to £100,000.
British Stand Up Paddleboard Association (BSUPA) members have access to insurance discounts and other benefits. They provide up to £10 million in liability for third parties, up to £25,000 in personal accident coverage, and savings on gear and events.
How Much Does Paddle Board Insurance Cost?
Paddleboard insurance premiums can range from inexpensive to prohibitively expensive, depending on the degree of protection you require and the brand of board you own. Here are some ballpark figures for paddle board insurance based on some online research:
Stand-up paddleboarding insurance from SportsCover Direct includes travel, add-on, and sports accident insurance. How many persons and paddle boards you want covered, where you’re going, and how long depends on your policy price. A policy covering you and your board for sports accidents in the event of an accident would cost you £25.20.
Insure4Boats covers paddle board, SUP, and ISUP loss, theft, and damage for up to £3 million in Third Party Liability. A $500 paddle board policy costs £18 without additional features. Instead, a $1,000 paddle board policy with European and personal accident coverage costs $36 per year.
Stand-up paddle board insurance is available through SUPInsure.com. Both insurance provide £5 million public liability, personal accident, new-for-old, and foreign coverage. Your paddle board’s value and coverage level affect your premium. A £500 paddle board costs £49 to insure annually, while a £1,000 board costs £69.
Towergate4 provides paddle board and windsurf insurance with up to £5 million in Third Party Liability and theft reimbursement. Up to 30 days of European coverage per year is offered. Premiums depend on equipment value and coverage. Compare the annual premium of $42.00 for $1,000 of equipment without European coverage to £28.00 for the same equipment with European coverage.
What type of insurance do I need for paddle boarding?
While stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a lot of fun, it is not without its dangers. You may require specific policies depending on where you go paddle boarding and what gear you use. Some alternatives are as follows:
Stand-Up Paddleboarding Insurance:
Stand-up paddleboarding insurance is designed to protect your paddle board, SUP, or ISUP in the event of theft, damage, or loss. In addition, you’re covered for up to £3 million in Third Party Liability should you injure someone else or damage their property while out on your paddle board12. Extras like European coverage and personal accident insurance are available as add-ons.
Travel Insurance:
If you are traveling internationally and want to paddle board, whether for fun or as part of a competitive event, consider purchasing a travel insurance policy that includes paddle boarding. This will protect you from financial loss in an accident, illness, or natural disaster while away from home. Suppose your current travel insurance policy does not provide coverage for paddle boarding. In that case, you may be able to purchase a “bolt-on” policy from another carrier.
Sports Accident Insurance:
It is recommended that British paddle boarders carry personal accident, income protection, and personal liability insurance in the event of an accident while out on the water1.
Homeowners or Renters Insurance:
You can include your paddle board in your homeowners or renters insurance as a scheduled item or a personal possession, depending on the terms of your policy; if something happens to your paddle board while in your control or transportation, it will pay for repairs or replacement. But this won’t protect your paddle board when used or submerged in water.
If your health insurance policy classifies paddle boarding as a “water sport,” you may not be covered for injuries experienced while participating in the activity. Before you go paddle boarding, you should check with your health insurance provider to determine what sort of coverage you have and what restrictions may apply.
Do I need insurance to paddle board | Conclusion
Paddle boarding is a lot of fun, so don’t let the fact that you need to consider insurance prevent you from giving it a shot. Suppose you have the financial capacity to buy or rent a board without insurance (meaning not to purchase insurance and suffer the risk of theft yourself). In that case, you can avoid hassles and enjoy yourself on the water.
