Don’t let an accident take the wind out of your sails.
As featured in:
For UK adventurers drawn to the sea's call, the promise of slicing through the waves along the storied coasts of the French Riviera or exploring distant archipelagos is an alluring one. Before you embark, consider anchoring your trip with travel insurance. Packing World Nomads travel insurance could ensure you're prepared; whether you’re dealing with a sprained wrist from handling the sails or facing unexpected stormy weather.
Let's set sail with realism: while we're not predicting rough waters, the unpredictable nature of sailing brings inherent risks. Imagine dealing with a sudden storm or a navigational mishap in unfamiliar waters – the challenges are magnified far from home. Coupling these potential scenarios with the complexities of international maritime response, costs can skyrocket quickly. Whether it’s a minor accident or a major emergency, having travel insurance helps you prepare for whatever the sea might throw your way.
Traveller tip #1: Verify that your UK boating and, if applicable, driving licences are valid in the destinations you plan to visit. Some countries may require international permits or specific local licenses.
From medical emergencies to lost gear overboard, ensure your sailing journey is memorable for all the right reasons. Let's make your nautical dreams a safe reality—hoist the sails, but anchor your risks first!
Under our Standard and Explorer plans, Level 1 coverage automatically includes sailing in inland or coastal waters and non-manual work related to your sailing adventures. Just make sure you’re guided by a certified professional or possess the necessary UK qualifications to manage the sailboat yourself.
If your nautical aspirations push you beyond coastal waters, consider upgrading to Level 2 coverage. There’s still rules though – you need to stay within 60 miles of a safe haven, and personal liability under Section 11 of the policy wording is not covered.
Here are a few more eventualities typically covered in World Nomads plans for inland sailing and coastal waters:
Even without wet decks and choppy seas, you could find yourself with a medical emergency, be it an ankle sprain or a collarbone fracture. Our coverage may help cover everything from the services of a physician to ambulance services and x-rays in the case of an accident or injury at sea or on shore. World Nomads policy holders also have access to 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance Team. The Standard Plan offers cover of up to £5,000,000 for emergency medical expenses and medical repatriation, and £10,000,000 on the Explorer Plan. Additional accommodation and travelling expenses are also included under both the Standard and Explorer plan.
Most of our earth is covered in water... which means you have plenty of places to sail but could easily hit a snag in a far-flung destination. Subject to approval of or 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance Team, your World Nomads policy may transport you by air ambulance to get treatment at an appropriate medical facility if deemed medically necessary.
Maybe your backpack slipped off the sopping wet stern, or your windbreaker got stolen right off the port. Our gear coverage can help replace your stuff, up to its actual cash value at the time of the loss. World Nomads provides baggage protection for lost or stolen items of up to £3,000 with the Explorer Plan and £1,500 with the Standard Plan. For high-value gear, consider upgrading for coverage up to £750 per item on the Explorer Plan and £400 per item on the Standard Plan, with maximum upgrade limits of £2,250 and £1,200 respectively.
Say a physician advises you not to travel until your health improves, or a hurricane at your destination renders your chartered course and your pre-sail accommodation totally unusable, you may be able to recoup some of your pre-paid, non-refundable travel expenses... handy when you’re ready to re-book the adventure. The Standard Plan provides up to £3,000 for trip cancelation and £5,000 under the Explorer Plan. These limits also apply if you have to cut your trip short.
Traveller tip #2: Always check weather and maritime forecasts before sailing, and plan your route with safe havens. Inform someone onshore of your itinerary. No matter your experience, review local navigation rules, tides, and hazards. Consider a refresher course if needed.
Besides sailing, World Nomads can offer cover for other water-based activities on island and coastal waters, such as:
For UK travellers, World Nomads extends its safety net far beyond the deck, offering coverage for over 150+ sports and activities. Whether you’re rockclimbing or rollerblading, check our comprehensive list of activities to ensure your adventure is covered.
Not every day is smooth sailing, but if you check the weather forecast, you can avoid some choppy waters. The same is true for travel insurance: if you know what’s excluded beforehand, you’ll be better equipped to navigate any unexpected losses. And sorry, we may not be able to cover you for:
In addition to life jackets, floatation devices and other safety gear, be sure to BYO sunscreen. For more travel info, read our Explore, Travel Safety, and Responsible Travel articles.
Traveller tip #3: Familiarize yourself with the details of your travel insurance policy to understand what activities are covered and any applicable conditions or exclusions.
If you need medical assistance or emergency medical evacuation our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Wherever you are, we’re here 24/7 to help you in any emergency.
Are you in need of Emergency Medical Assistance right now?
For policies purchased on or after 27 June 2024
+44 (0) 144 444 2021 (Call via an operator reverse charges. Not toll free.)
For policies purchased before 27 June 2024:
Phone: +44 (0) 203 093 1750 (Call via an operator reverse charges. Not toll free.)
Protect your trip from unexpected cancellation.
We’ve got your back.
Take the pain out of medical costs while traveling abroad.
We’ve got your back.
Expenses included in Emergency Medical limits.
Help starts here.
Cover your lost, stolen or damaged gear and tech.
Help starts here.
You are not eligible to buy a policy if you travel against medical advice, travel with the intention of receiving medical treatment, or have a terminal illness. World Nomads policies cannot cover claims due to Pre-Existing Medical Conditions (PEMC), regardless of whether the condition is serious or not. You can still purchase a World Nomads policy, but the PEMC exclusion cannot be removed, and you will be responsible for any related costs.
For information on travel insurance providers that offer cover on PEMC, visit Money Helper or call 0800 138 7777.
Here are our most frequently asked questions about buying travel insurance for sailing. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team.
Depending on your Country of Residence and the policy you choose, your boating in your desired destination could be just a gust of wind away. Get a quote today to see if your preferred destination is covered for sailing trips.
Before your trip, check the latest government advice for any travel alerts for your destination.