Cruise travel insurance

What does cruise travel insurance cover?

By getting a specific cruise insurance policy, you’ll cover yourself against any unexpected costs and emergencies that can happen while at sea. This could include:

• Cabin confinement cover if you’re instructed by the medical officer on board to stay in your room if you fall ill. You’ll get the cover amount set out in your policy per day you’re confined.
  
  
• Personal belongings, money and baggage cover could come in handy if your items are stolen, accidentally lost or damaged.
  
  
• Cancellations for pre-paid travel, accommodation, and unused excursions if you have to cancel your trip in an emergency.
  
  
• Delayed departure or abandoning your trip due to missed port, poor weather conditions, strike, industrial action or mechanical problems could also be covered.
  
  
• Medical cover is extremely important, especially if you’re hundreds of miles away from mainland and need medical assistance. This may cover emergency airlift to hospital if required.

When you select cruise cover, we’ll only show you policies that have the protection you’ll need for your cruise based on the details you’ve entered. One thing to note is that policies can vary between insurers, so it’s important to check the policy details and features before you buy.

Why is cruise insurance more expensive?

Cruise cover is usually more expensive because the extras you need are less readily available while you’re at sea, as you’re further away from amenities. When comparing quotes, you’ll see polices with airlift options, in case you need to go to hospital but are far from the mainland. You’ll also see cover for things like abandoning your trip due to extreme weather. These extras all help determine your policy cost.

Depending on the countries you’re visiting, the cost of medical treatment may be higher due to private healthcare systems they have in place, so your policy will factor that in too. If you’ve got a pre-existing condition, make sure you get a medical travel insurance policy before you travel.

Can I get a cruise insurance quote with a pre-existing medical condition?

If you have a pre-existing medical condition, you can still use our site to get a quote. These conditions could include cancer, stroke, serious heart, respiratory and terminal conditions.

Some insurers may not cover you if you already have a serious medical condition, or if you have a number of conditions. Others might only offer insurance at a much higher price. If you’re unable to find suitable cover, the Money and Pension Service (MaPS) has also set up a directory of insurers willing to cover customers with pre-existing medical conditions.

You can find their directory of insurers on the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS) website or you can phone them on 0800 138 7777 for free impartial advice.