Due to the unique multi-leg nature of travelling by cruise ship, combined with potential medical issues abroad, the importance of cruise travel insurance cannot be overstated, says travel insurance comparison site InsureMyTrip.ca.

What does cruise insurance cover?

Coverage varies widely between plans and providers, but there are specific options available that cruisers may find particularly useful. Often included as part of an all-inclusive plan, cruise insurance can provide a range of protections:

1. Cancellation coverage: This can assist travellers whose plans are impacted by unforeseen weather events or unexpected ship repairs, reimbursing them for the cancellation of the cruise, tour, or travel package.
2. Medical emergencies: While most cruise ships have medical facilities onboard, they may not be equipped for serious health crises. Travel medical insurance is important, offering transportation to the nearest appropriate medical facility (once the ship gets the traveller to the nearest port) in an emergency.
3. Missed Departure: Harsh Canadian winters can cause flight delays, impacting a traveller’s ability to meet the cruise departure. Assistance services included with the travel insurance plan can help arrange joining the ship at its next port of call if an unforeseen storm or delay occurs.

Cost

Travel insurance is tailored to each individual’s travel plan and varies based on key factors, including trip details, traveller information, and the timing of policy purchase. For the best options, purchase insurance as close to the trip payment as possible.

Additional Considerations

• Post-Booking Insurance – Travel insurance can be added after booking, but some benefits are time sensitive.
• Missed Departures – If a port is inaccessible or flight delayed, assistance services included with the travel insurance purchase may help cruisers catch up to the ship.
• Emergency Medical Transportation – Most cruise medical insurance plans cover emergency medical transportation or repatriation once at port if a hospital’s facilities are inadequate.
• River Cruises – Travel insurance covers all types of cruises, but always review the policy for specific coverages and exclusions.
• Credit Card Insurance – Some credit cards offer travel insurance benefits. However, even if a credit card offers trip protection, it may not be the level of protection one might expect. It’s important to carefully read the credit card travel insurance documents to understand limits, special conditions, and restrictions. Also, credit cards often have lower limits than a robust third-party travel insurance plan.