Aussies run into trouble on Japanese slopes

Aussies run into trouble on Japanese slopes

Australians are the most prolific rule breakers on the ski slopes of Japan, and the most likely to need accident assistance as a result, with 89% of search and rescue efforts spent on Aussies according to a new report.

Developed by medical assistance service INTAC in partnership with new travel insurance brand World2Cover, the research shows an increasing number of accidents occurring in prohibited areas.

According to the report, of those requiring assistance between December 2014 and April 2015, 69 cases were Australian. United Kingdom-locals were next in line with only four cases in this period.

Data from the popular Ikenodaira Onsen Ski Resort also reveals that between 1-3 January 2015 alone, the cost to customers requiring rescue assistance from prohibited areas was 3,245,000 JPY ($38,710 AUD). Indeed, while costs vary, recovery efforts can be billed at more than $1,100 AUD per hour:

 

Sample Cost Breakdown:
RequirementsJPY AUD
One Ski Patrol20,000239
One Base Staff5,00060
One Snowmobile10,000119
One Back-Up Staff10,000119
One Snow Caterpillar50,000596
TOTAL:95,0001133

 

Claudio Saita, chief operating officer and executive director at Tokio Marine, the leading international provider behind World2Cover, which includes a ski option in its newly launched Top Cover policy, said it is vital to check your insurer’s fine print before engaging in adventure activities overseas.

“Japan’s ski season is drawing nearer and we know it’s on the radar for many Aussie thrill-seekers,” he said.

“Obeying the slope rules and etiquette is really important for the safety of yourself and others, and equally you need to ensure that no matter what level of experience you have, you are adequately covered should anything go wrong.”

 

Latest News

  • Destinations

APT offers destination incentives to enjoy the Best of Asia

APT Luxury Travel launches has launched its Asia Sale featuring 20 trips, with journeys through Vietnam and Cambodia as highlights, as well as opportunities to explore Japan, South Korea, India and Sri Lanka. It’s ‘Spiritual Cambodia and the Mekong’ land and river cruise tour for example takes guests on an all-inclusive 11-day journey through Vietnam […]

  • Travel Agents

Disney Days returns with Inside Out 2 showing in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Auckland

Time is running out for agents to register their Expression of Interest to an exclusive screening of the much-anticipated Disney and Pixar film, Inside Out 2, hosted by Disney Destinations Australia/New Zealand team and partner United Airlines. Places are limited and applications must be in by 17 May. In addition to the screening of the […]

  • Cruise

Aranui Cruises slashes prices with No Single Supplement and Half Price offers

French Polynesian cargo cruise line Aranui Cruises is slashing thousands off its 2025 Austral and Marquesas Islands cruises with an autumn sale offering 50 per cent off the second guest in a twin share room and no single supplement for solo travellers. On sale until June 21, 2024, Aranui’s 12-day roundtrip voyage from Papeete to […]

  • Destinations

Raes on Wategos celebrates 30th birthday and guests get the presents

World famous luxury boutique hotel Raes on Wategos, in Byron Bay, has launched its 30th birthday celebrations with a Raes Indulgent Escape package. Available for all stays of two nights or more, from June to August, the curated package offers an invitation to indulge in a shared celebration of Raes 30th birthday, whilst revelling in […]