New Zealand’s waters offer endless opportunities for adrenaline junkies, from jet ski racing on the Waikato River to wakeboarding in the Hauraki Gulf. Because, honestly, not everyone’s definition of a good time is binge-watching Netflix in pyjamas. If the growl of an engine, the spray of water, and the heart-pounding rush of flying across the surface set your blood on fire, then you get it: nothing else even touches this high.
But before you hit top speed or carve through the waves, one question looms large: does your boat insurance cover these high-octane activities? In this blog, we’ll explore how insurance works for racing and water sports, what factors influence coverage, and how you can ensure your policy matches your need for speed.
Understanding High-Speed Boating Risks
High-speed boating and water sports come with unique risks that standard boating might not encounter. Pushing your vessel to its limits increases the chance of accidents, equipment failure, or injury. Racing jet boats through narrow river channels or towing wakeboarders in choppy coastal waters demands more from your boat and your skills.
Insurers take these risks seriously, and your coverage depends on how your policy addresses them. Let’s break down the key elements that determine if your insurance keeps up with your high-speed lifestyle.
1. Type of Activity
Not all water-based thrills are treated equally by insurers. Racing, for instance, often falls into a different category than recreational water sports. Competitive events like powerboat races in Auckland Harbour might require specialised coverage due to the intense speeds and crowded conditions.
On the other hand, towing a skier or wakeboarder on Lake Wanaka might fit under a standard policy, provided the activity is disclosed. Always check with your insurer to confirm which activities your policy includes.
2. Boat Specifications
The type of boat you own plays a big role in your insurance options. A jet boat built for racing, with a powerful engine and lightweight frame, carries higher risks than a family runabout used for casual skiing.
High-performance vessels often face steeper premiums because repairs or replacements cost more. If your boat exceeds a certain horsepower or speed threshold, some insurers might exclude racing or water sports unless you add extra coverage.
3. Location of Use
New Zealand’s diverse waterways impact your insurance needs. Racing on the fast-flowing Shotover River near Queenstown poses different challenges than wakeboarding in the calmer waters of Lake Rotorua.
Coastal areas like the Bay of Islands, with heavy boat traffic and unpredictable swells, might increase your premium compared to inland lakes. Insurers assess the risks tied to your boating location, so be upfront about where you plan to chase your thrills.
Contact us today for a free quote and see how we can keep your high-speed dreams afloat.
