Plus Coverage for Events That Increase Diversity in Paddlesports

When we set out to build RallyCrew, we knew we needed to hear directly from boaters and instructors about the biggest challenges in the whitewater community. Through surveys, sneak peeks, and countless conversations, one need rose to the surface: access to high-quality instruction. Whether it’s rolling clinics, swiftwater rescue training, or beginner-friendly courses, finding the right instructor or school can be difficult.

We also heard from coaches and paddling schools that offering courses isn’t always easy—especially when it comes to securing insurance.

That’s why we’re excited to announce that qualified instructors and event organizers listing courses and events on RallyCrew may be eligible for coverage under a group insurance policy that RallyCrew participates in, offering an added layer of protection for their programming.

For complete information see the insurance tab on the RallyCrew website.

What This Means for Boaters

RallyCrew will provide boaters with an all-in-one platform to:

Discover instructors and schools offering courses near you.
Feel confident signing up for insured courses that prioritize safety and best practices.
Easily browse and filter courses, from beginner classes to advanced clinics.

Whether you’re a first-time boater or looking to master your creeking lines, RallyCrew will make finding instruction simpler than ever.

What This Means for Instructors

For instructors, access to this group coverage means:

Eligibility for insurance under an existing paddlesport policy at no direct cost to you.*
Increased visibility with paddlers actively searching for instruction.
Support for more courses, workshops, and clinics in your community.
Simplified student registration, waivers, and risk management.

You’ll get to teach more, stress less, and focus on what you do best.

* Coverage eligibility is subject to approval by the insurance provider. RallyCrew is not an insurance broker or underwriter and does not sell insurance.

Students at a Diversify Whitewater event on the White Salmon in Washington. *Photo Credit: Seth West for RallyCrew*

Preliminary Requirements for Eligibility

Complete eligibility requirements can be found via the insurance tab on the RallyCrew website. In brief, to be considered for inclusion under the group insurance policy, instructors must:

Demonstrate competency in teaching—either through a teaching certification, references, or documented teaching experience.
Demonstrate competency in swiftwater rescue—either through a swiftwater rescue skills or assessment course or proven real-world rescue experience.
Hold a current First Aid and CPR certification.
Follow local regulations, including securing any required permits.
List and manage courses through RallyCrew, including student registration and waivers.

💡 Important: Instructors do not need to participate in this insurance program to list courses on RallyCrew. The platform is open to all instructors and schools, regardless of insurance status. This option is simply an added resource for those looking to enhance the courses they offer.

What Boaters Are Saying

During our sneak peeks in November 2024, we shared the RallyCrew vision with about 100 boaters—a mix of instructors, athletes, and everyday paddlers—in Portland and Hood River, Ore., U.S. Here’s what they told us:

“Finding good instruction is one of the hardest parts of learning to paddle.”
“This is going to make it so much easier to book classes and get the training I need.”
“The ability for instructors to access insurance through RallyCrew’s platform is a game-changer.”

Free Event Coverage: Our Commitment to Diversity

As part of our mission to increase diversity in paddlesports, eligible U.S.-based events that serve underrepresented groups may be eligible for coverage under an existing insurance policy at no direct cost to the event organizer. Coverage is subject to provider approval and availability.

If you’re organizing a Pride Paddle, a Diversify Whitewater event, a veterans-focused gathering, or an event supporting BIPOC or LGBTQIA+ paddlers in the United States, let us know how we can support you. Similarly, we love a good ladies paddle.

To explore eligibility for event coverage, contact RallyCrew via insurance@rallycrew.com with details about your event.

What’s Next?

This insurance access program is just the start. If successful in the U.S., we plan to expand this offering internationally, providing global support for paddling education.

Disclaimer

RallyCrew is not an insurance provider, broker, or underwriter. Coverage is subject to approval by the insurance provider. This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer of insurance.

What’s RallyCrew?

RallyCrew is the online eddy where whitewater paddlers connect, plan trips, build skills, and find events. This all-in-one app is free.

Comprehensive Paddlesport Insurance Now Available for U.S.-Based Courses