Reflections on Specialist Insurance: A Conversation with Ian Georgeson
Tony van Niekerk, Editor at COVER
The end-of-year season is synonymous with adventure for many South Africans. Whether it’s boating on open waters or venturing into the bush, December brings the promise of recreation.
For Cross Country Insurance, this period also marks the height of activity as they ensure enthusiasts are adequately covered for their pursuits.
In a recent conversation with Ian Georgeson, Managing Director of Cross Country Insurance, we delved into the history, challenges, and unique insights of their specialist insurance offering.
From humble beginnings to a specialist provider – Ian reminisced about Cross Country’s inception 27 years ago as a UMA (Underwriting Management Agency), catering primarily to the leisure lifestyle market. “When we started, repatriation services for cross-border travelers weren’t even available,” he recalled. What began as an endeavor to fill a niche quickly expanded to cover 4×4 vehicles, marine insurance, and other related areas.
“The industry is incredibly competitive,” Ian noted. Yet, over time, Cross Country Insurance has evolved to offer comprehensive products that not only safeguard clients’ property but also ensure peace of mind. This is particularly relevant during peak times when South Africans pack up their caravans, trailers, and boats to embrace the outdoors.
Addressing common risks in the great outdoors – A recurring challenge, as Ian explained, lies in the maintenance—or lack thereof—of equipment. “Many claims stem from negligence,” he remarked, highlighting trailers as a frequent point of failure. Whether it’s overloading boats without checking the trailers or facing breakdowns en route, Cross Country steps in to provide essential breakdown and repatriation coverage.
One particularly vivid anecdote involved a vessel destroyed under mysterious circumstances in Mozambique, costing half a million rand. While such incidents are rare, Ian stressed the importance of adequate coverage, especially for high-value assets like boats and marine equipment.
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Navigating marine insurance complexities – Specialised insurance like Cross Country’s demands a tailored approach. For boat owners, this means understanding that the value of extras—navigation systems, canopies, rod holders—can often exceed the base cost of the boat itself.
Ian explained how Cross Country simplifies this with a blanket cover of up to R75,000 for accessories. “This ensures that even if clients forget to insure certain items, they still have a safety net,” he shared.
Moreover, Ian underscored the significance of updating valuations annually. Rising costs of motors and equipment often result in underinsurance, leading to frustration during claims.
Partnerships with brokers and communities – Cross Country’s broker relationships are another cornerstone of its success. While many brokers handle boat insurance as part of their broader portfolios, others specialise through affiliations with fishing or boating associations.
Such partnerships allow Cross Country to offer tailored products and preferential rates, creating a win-win for both brokers and clients. Ian also highlighted their active involvement in events like the Sodwana fishing competition and other community initiatives.
“For us, it’s about more than business—it’s about being visible, building relationships, and supporting the communities we serve,” he said.
Anticipating and managing risks – Preventative measures and education are integral to Cross Country’s approach. From encouraging clients to ensure their trailers are roadworthy to advising on safe boating practices, the company aims to minimise risks before they turn into claims.
“When incidents do occur, acting quickly is critical,” Ian explained. Whether it’s flushing an engine after a boat takes on water or coordinating recovery efforts, Cross Country’s responsiveness can often mitigate further damage.
A Passion for adventure and insurance – Ian’s love for the industry shone through in our conversation. “I enjoy what I do—it’s something I love,” he said with evident passion. Despite the challenges, the satisfaction of helping clients and fostering relationships within the leisure community keeps him motivated.
As the holiday season approaches, Cross Country Insurance will undoubtedly play a major role in ensuring South Africans enjoy their adventures without worry. With a legacy built on specialisation, trust, and innovation, Ian Georgeson and his team continue to navigate the complexities of leisure insurance with expertise and dedication.
Here’s wishing all adventurers safe travels and smooth waters this December!