With specialist insurance for outdoor adventures in place and proper education around how to keep equipment and leisure vehicles in good nick, intrepid South Africans can enjoy safe travels and smooth waters over the long weekends to come.
South Africans are known for loving outdoor adventures – whether towing a caravan into the bush, launching a boat into open waters, or embarking on a cross-border 4×4 expedition.
For Cross Country Insurance, holiday seasons are the busiest times of the year, ensuring that leisure enthusiasts have the right coverage for their travels. I recently spoke with Ian Georgeson, Managing Director of Cross Country Insurance, about the evolution of their specialist insurance offerings, common risks adventurers face, and how they help clients navigate the unexpected.
Cross Country Insurance began 27 years ago as an underwriting management agency (UMA) focused on serving the niche leisure lifestyle market. “When we started, repatriation services for cross-border travellers weren’t even available,” Ian reflected.
Over time, their product range expanded beyond cross-border assistance to 4×4 vehicles, marine insurance, and adventure-related coverage. This evolution was driven by a growing demand for specialised protection, especially as more South Africans invested in high-value leisure assets.
“The industry is incredibly competitive,” Ian noted, “but our focus has always been on providing comprehensive coverage that gives clients peace of mind – especially during peak travel seasons.”
Understanding the risks of outdoor travel
The thrill of outdoor exploration comes with its risks, and Ian highlighted some of the most common issues Cross Country Insurance encounters.
One of the biggest challenges is equipment maintenance – or the lack thereof. Many insurance claims arise from negligence, particularly when it comes to trailers. “A lot of people focus on their boats or vehicles but forget to check their trailers, leading to breakdowns en route,” Ian explained.
Overloading is another frequent problem, with boat owners stacking on extra weight without checking their trailer’s load capacity. Cross Country’s breakdown and repatriation cover provides crucial support when things go wrong.
One particularly striking case involved a boat destroyed under mysterious circumstances in Mozambique, resulting in a claim of half a million rand. While such incidents are rare, Ian emphasised the importance of having adequate coverage – especially for high-value marine equipment.
Simplifying Marine Insurance with tailored solutions
For boat owners, insurance can be surprisingly complex, particularly when factoring in the cost of accessories like navigation systems, rod holders, and canopies. “In many cases, the extras on a boat can cost more than the boat itself,” Ian noted.
To simplify this, Cross Country Insurance offers a blanket cover of up to R75 000 for accessories, ensuring that clients have a safety net even if they forget to specify certain items in their policy.
Another common issue is underinsurance. As the cost of boat motors and other marine equipment continues to rise, many owners don’t regularly update their valuations, leading to shortfalls when they claim. Cross Country actively educates clients on the importance of reviewing their insured values annually to avoid surprises.
Partnering with brokers and outdoor communities
Strong broker relationships play a crucial role in Cross Country’s success. While many brokers handle leisure insurance as part of their broader portfolio, others specialise in this niche – often through partnerships with boating and fishing associations.
These collaborations allow Cross Country to offer tailored policies and preferential rates, benefiting both brokers and their clients. Beyond just providing insurance, the company is also deeply involved in outdoor communities.
“We sponsor events like the Sodwana fishing competition and actively engage with adventure groups,” Ian shared. “For us, it’s about more than just business – it’s about being visible, building trust, and supporting the communities we serve.”
Helping clients prepare for the unexpected
A proactive approach is key to reducing risk, and Cross Country places a strong emphasis on education. From reminding clients to check their trailers before a long journey to advising boat owners on safe maintenance practices, the goal is to prevent issues before they happen. “Simple steps – like ensuring a boat engine is flushed after taking on saltwater – can make a huge difference,” Ian noted.
And when things do go wrong, speed is critical. Whether it’s coordinating a rapid recovery effort or guiding clients through emergency procedures, Cross Country’s hands-on approach helps prevent further damage and ensures a smoother claims process.
Passion for adventure and insurance
Throughout our conversation, Ian’s enthusiasm for both insurance and the adventure lifestyle was evident. “I love what I do,” he said. “Helping people enjoy their passion without worrying about financial setbacks is what keeps me motivated.”
When South Africans set off on their holiday adventures, Cross Country Insurance will be working behind the scenes, ensuring that clients can explore the outdoors with confidence. With decades of experience, a deep understanding of specialist risks, and a commitment to innovation, Ian Georgeson and his team continue to be a trusted partner for adventure enthusiasts.
