Rally up for the trip of a lifetime!

With summer on the horizon, holidays spent lounging on the beach become a tantalising possibility. Some car lovers, though, might be dreaming of a more adrenaline-packed experience.

Luxury driving holidays are five-star escapes with a motoring twist. Offering powerful cars, spectacular scenery, and lavish hospitality, they’re engineered to provide unforgettable moments for car enthusiasts. But a roll call of glamorous European destinations and a packed itinerary means that there’s something for everyone.

Whether you want to hit the road yourself or help a client, here’s how you can prepare.

Choose your wheels

Some tours let you drive your own car, while others provide an array of vehicles. Think carefully about what’s best for you.

Driving the organiser’s cars takes away the risk of suffering harm to your own (as well as giving you the opportunity to sample some fine motors). But bear in mind that you’ll likely have to pay an excess if you damage it – which, for high-value performance cars, could be substantial.

When using your own car, you’ll need to make sure it’s up to the task. Book in a thorough health check well in advance, replacing and upgrading components where necessary. To provide extra peace of mind, DUAL insures cars at an agreed value – helping to ensure you get the settlement you expect in a total loss.

How will you navigate?

Many organisers keep the route secret until the day of the tour, so following the predetermined route is essential. For rally purists, there’s only one way to go.

Roadbooks use a variety of symbols for everything you need to know, including directions, reference points, and danger levels. With over 100 unique symbols, there’s a learning curve – but it’s worth it if you want an authentic rally experience[1]. Other tours use bespoke satnavs to guide you. Pointing out landmarks along the way, the devices provide a relaxing journey to the hotel.

Check the rules of the road

There are some common misconceptions about European driving. To prevent misunderstandings turning into traffic offences, you must be on your guard.

For example, Germany’s autobahns are famous for having ‘no speed limits’. But while some stretches are unrestricted (with an advisory 80mph limit), around 40% come with a permanent or variable speed limit. Look for the circular white autobahn sign before putting your foot down[2].

Another common misconception is that all continental European countries drive on the right-hand side. In fact, both Malta and Cyprus drive on the left[3].

Make sure that you’re covered for driving in Europe. Our Private Motor policy offers comprehensive coverage for European trips, for up to 90 days per journey.

Know your signs

Each country has unique signs that you should try to be familiar with.

In Spain, a trumpet in a triangle prohibits you from using your car’s horn. Sounding it without good reason could land you with a €200 fine[4]. Meanwhile in Germany, you may spot signs warning of frogs. Slow down to avoid unfortunate run-ins between your car and migrating amphibians[5].

Overall, though, signs are consistent throughout the continent. Most European countries have standardised their road signs under the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals[6]. Some may look unfamiliar to Irish drivers, though, as Ireland hasn’t signed up. Expect to see red triangle warning signs instead of yellow diamonds.

You are your own pit crew

Driving at high speeds for hours each day puts cars under strain. Like with any motoring event, you should prepare for pit stops.

Bring any items you might need along the way, including a spare tyre, tools, and fluids. Nevertheless, you can’t prepare for everything, so make sure you have breakdown assistance.

At DUAL, we offer full breakdown cover throughout Ireland and Europe – helping you to get the assistance you need, wherever your journey takes you. If required, we’ll also cover emergency transportation and accommodation costs up to €1500 when you’re more than 50 miles from your home.

Appreciate the risks

You may be asked to sign a waiver excluding the organisers from legal liability. If an accident happens on the road, it’s up to you to protect yourself.

DUAL motor policies include motor legal expenses cover of up to €150,000, helping you to defend yourself against third-party liability claims.

Talk to a specialist

A luxury driving holiday is a unique opportunity for car enthusiasts to explore the world on the open road. With generous limits for a wide range of scenarios, DUAL’s Private Motor policy is well-placed to help make this dream a reality for your clients.

For quality Private Motor insurance, speak to DUAL.

Stephen Corcoran is an Underwriter for DUAL Underwriting Ireland DAC. DUAL specialise, amongst other areas, in high net worth personal insurance in Ireland and are backed by Aviva. DUAL Underwriting Ireland DAC (trading as DUAL Private Client) is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Registered No. 633531. Registered office: 98 St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2 D02 V324.

Underwriting Ireland DAC (trading as DUAL Private Client) is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Registered No. 633531. Registered office: 98 St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2 D02 V324.

[1]https://www.advrider.com/understanding-roadbook-navigation/