BEST TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR CRUISES: Top Picks In 2023

Cruises are a great way to see the world and have a relaxing vacation. But when you’re planning a cruise, it’s important to consider travel insurance. Travel insurance can protect you from a variety of unforeseen events, such as medical emergencies, lost luggage, and cruise cancellations.

There are a number of different travel insurance companies that offer coverage for cruises. But how do you choose the best travel insurance for your cruise? And how much does it cost?

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the best travel insurance for cruises and discuss the factors you should consider when choosing a travel insurance policy. We’ll also provide some tips on how to find the best deal on travel insurance for your cruise.

Best Travel Insurance For Cruises

The best travel insurance for cruises is the most suitable travel insurance coverage for individuals planning a cruise vacation. These policies are tailored to address unique challenges during a cruise, such as trip cancellations, missed ports of call, and medical emergencies. However, these travel insurance plans can vary depending on individual preferences and coverage requirements, making it essential to choose the right insurance plan for your cruise vacation.

These are the best travel insurance options for cruises:

#1. Nationwide Travel Insurance

This provider offers comprehensive coverage for cruises, including trip delay and cancellation, medical expenses, and coverage for COVID-19. They also offer annual insurance plans for frequent cruise-goers.

#2. AXA Assistance USA

Known for its affordable premiums, AXA Assistance USA provides coverage for medical expenses, including leisure activity reimbursements. They also offer coverage for trip cancellation and interruption.

#3. Allianz Global Assistance

Allianz offers a range of comprehensive travel insurance plans for cruises. They provide coverage for trip cancellation, interruption, emergency medical expenses, and baggage loss. They also offer 24/7 travel assistance services.

#4. Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

Berkshire Hathaway offers cruise-specific travel insurance plans that include coverage for trip cancellation, medical expenses, and emergency medical transportation. They also provide coverage for missed connections and baggage loss.

#5. Travelex Insurance Services

Travelex offers various travel insurance plans suitable for cruises. They provide coverage for trip cancellation, medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and baggage loss. They also offer optional coverage for pre-existing medical conditions and adventure sports.

#6. CSA Travel Protection

CSA Travel Protection offers cruise-specific plans that cover trip cancellation, interruption, and delays. They also provide coverage for emergency medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and baggage loss. Their plans include a 24/7 emergency assistance hotline.

#7.IMG Global

IMG Global offers comprehensive travel insurance plans for cruises. They provide coverage for trip cancellation, medical expenses, emergency medical transportation, and baggage loss. They also offer coverage for adventure sports and optional add-ons for rental car coverage.

#8. Generali Global Assistance

Generali offers cruise-specific plans that cover trip cancellation, interruption, and delays. They also provide coverage for emergency medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and baggage loss. Their plans include access to a 24/7 travel assistance hotline.

#9. Seven Corners Travel Insurance

This provider is recommended for seniors and offers coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellation, and interruption. They have options for pre-existing medical conditions and a 24/7 assistance hotline.

#10. Travel Guard

Specializing in cruise-only coverage, Travel Guard offers comprehensive insurance options for cruises. They provide coverage for trip cancellation, medical expenses, and emergency evacuation.

Characteristics Of The Best Travel Insurance For Cruises

#1. Comprehensive Coverage

The best cruise insurance plans offer comprehensive coverage that includes trip cancellation and interruption, emergency medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, and baggage loss. This ensures that you are protected in case of unexpected events or emergencies during your cruise.

#2. Cruise-Specific Coverage

Some insurance providers offer cruise-specific coverage, tailored to the unique needs and risks associated with cruise travel. This may include coverage for missed port departures, itinerary changes, and onboard medical expenses.

#3. Pre-Existing Medical Condition Coverage

Look for insurance plans that provide coverage for pre-existing medical conditions. This ensures that any medical conditions you may have are covered, giving you peace of mind while traveling.

#4. Cancel-for-Any-Reason Option

The best cruise insurance plans may offer a cancel-for-any-reason option. This allows you to cancel your trip for any reason and receive a partial reimbursement of your non-refundable trip costs.

#5. Clear Policy Terms and Conditions

Read the policy terms and conditions thoroughly to understand what is covered and any limitations or exclusions. The best cruise insurance plans have clear and transparent policy terms, ensuring that you know exactly what you are covered for.

#6. Financial Default Coverage

Some insurance plans offer coverage if your cruise line or travel provider goes into financial default. This can protect you financially if your trip is canceled or interrupted due to the financial failure of the cruise line or travel company.

#7. Worldwide Coverage

The best cruise insurance plans should provide coverage worldwide, as cruises can take you to various destinations. Ensure that the insurance plan covers all the countries or regions you plan to visit during your cruise.

#8. Easy Claims Process

Check the claims process of the insurance provider. The best cruise insurance plans have a streamlined and straightforward claims process, making it easier for you to submit and receive reimbursement for covered expenses.

#9. Competitive Premiums

Compare the premiums of different insurance plans to ensure you are getting the best value for your coverage. Keep in mind that the cheapest option may not always provide the most comprehensive coverage, so consider the overall value and coverage provided.

#10. Emergency Medical Evacuation Coverage

The best cruise insurance plans include coverage for emergency medical evacuation. This ensures that you can be transported to the nearest adequate medical facility in case of a medical emergency that cannot be treated onboard or at the next port of call.

Limitations Of The Best Travel Insurance For Cruise

The best travel insurance for cruises has its terms and conditions, which can vary depending on the provider and plan. Some common limitations to be aware of include:

#1. Limited Coverage for Valuables

Travel insurance policies often have limits on coverage for high-value items such as jewelry, electronics, or expensive photography equipment. If you plan to bring valuable items on your cruise, it’s best to check the policy’s coverage limits and consider additional coverage if necessary.

#2. Coverage Limits

Travel insurance policies have coverage limits for various expenses like medical bills, trip cancellations, and baggage loss. These limits vary based on the plan, so it’s crucial to review the policy to ensure they align with your needs and potential cruise costs.

#3. Exclusions for High-Risk Activities

If you plan to participate in high-risk activities during your cruise, such as extreme sports or certain adventure activities, the insurance policy may have exclusions for injuries or incidents related to these activities. Some insurance providers offer optional coverage add-ons for adventure sports, so it’s important to check if the activities you plan to engage in are covered.

#4. Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) Coverage Limitations

Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) coverage offers valuable benefits but may only reimburse a portion of non-refundable expenses and may require cancellation days before departure. It is essential to carefully review the policy’s terms and conditions for reimbursement eligibility.

#5. Specific Exclusions

The best travel insurance policies have specific exclusions that are not covered, such as losses due to pre-existing mental health conditions, self-inflicted injuries, war or acts of terrorism, or intentional acts. It’s important to understand these exclusions to avoid any surprises when filing a claim.

#6. Time Limits for Filing Claims

Travel insurance policies often have time limits for filing claims. The time frame can range from as little as 20 days to a year, depending on the policy. It’s crucial to act promptly and file your claim within the specified time limit to ensure reimbursement.

#7. Cruise-Specific Coverage

Travel insurance policies typically cover common risks like medical expenses, trip cancellations, and baggage loss. However, not all policies offer specific coverage for cruise-related incidents, such as missed port departures, itinerary changes, or onboard medical services. It’s crucial to review policy details for comprehensive coverage.

#8. Age Restrictions

Some travel insurance policies may have age restrictions, limiting coverage for older travelers. These restrictions can vary between insurance providers and policies. It’s important to check the age limits to ensure that you are eligible for coverage and to consider policies specifically tailored to older travelers if needed.

#9. Exclusions for Epidemics or Pandemics

The best travel insurance policies often exclude coverage for losses or cancellations due to epidemics or pandemics. This means that coverage may not apply if a widespread illness outbreak affects your cruise. Given recent events like COVID-19, it’s crucial to review your policy’s coverage for such events.

#10. Coverage for Acts of Nature

Some travel insurance policies may have limitations or exclusions for losses caused by acts of nature, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, or other natural disasters. Review the policy’s terms regarding coverage for natural disasters to understand the limitations and exclusions.

Types Of Cruises That Travel Insurance For Cruises Covers

Insurance coverage for cruises varies based on the provider and policy, so it’s crucial to thoroughly review the policy’s terms and conditions to determine the extent of coverage for your specific cruise vacation.

#1. Ocean Cruises

Travel insurance for cruises often covers traditional ocean cruises, which are the most common type of cruise vacation. These cruises take place on large ships that travel across oceans, visiting multiple ports of call.

#2. River Cruises

River cruises are another type of cruise vacation that travel insurance may cover. This takes place on smaller vessels that navigate rivers and inland waterways, allowing passengers to explore various destinations along the river.

#3. Expedition Cruises

Expedition cruises are adventurous journeys that take passengers to remote and less accessible destinations, such as the polar regions or remote islands. Travel insurance for cruises may provide coverage for expedition cruises, which often involve unique risks and challenges.

#4. Luxury Cruises

Luxury cruises offer a high-end travel experience with luxurious accommodations, personalized service, gourmet dining, and upscale amenities. Travel insurance for cruises may cover luxury cruises, providing coverage for the higher costs associated with these types of cruises.

#5. Theme Cruises

Theme cruises are cruises that cater to specific interests or hobbies, such as music, food and wine, wellness, or sports. Travel insurance for cruises may cover theme cruises, allowing passengers to enjoy their chosen theme while having insurance protection.

#6. Family Cruises

Family cruises are designed for passengers of all ages and often offer family-friendly activities and amenities. Travel insurance for cruises may cover family cruises, providing coverage for the entire family, including children.

#7. World Cruises

World cruises are long-duration cruises that circumnavigate the globe, typically lasting several months. They visit multiple continents, countries, and ports of call. Travel insurance for cruises may provide coverage for world cruises, including medical expenses, trip cancellation or interruption, and emergency medical evacuation.

#8. Repositioning Cruises

Repositioning cruises occur when cruise ships need to relocate to a different region for a new season. These cruises often involve longer voyages with fewer port stops. Travel insurance for cruises may provide coverage for repositioning cruises, including trip cancellations, trip interruptions, and medical emergencies.

#9. Small Ship and Yacht Cruises

Small ship and yacht cruises provide an intimate, immersive experience with fewer passengers and access to smaller ports. Travel insurance may cover trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and other travel-related risks for these cruises.

#10. Cruise Tours

Cruise tours combine a cruise with a land-based tour, allowing passengers to experience both sea and land destinations. These tours often include pre- or post-cruise land excursions to explore inland destinations. Travel insurance for cruises may cover cruise tours, providing coverage for both the cruise and the land-based portions of the trip.

What Is the Best Company for Cruise Insurance?

The best companies for cruise insurance include Nationwide Travel Insurance, AXA Assistance USA, Seven Corners Travel Insurance, Travel Guard, HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance, World Nomads Travel Insurance, and Travelex Travel Insurance. These companies offer comprehensive coverage for various aspects of a cruise, such as trip cancellation and interruption, medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and coverage for changes in port-of-call schedules or ship-based mechanical breakdowns.

What Insurance Do I Need To Go On A Cruise?

When planning a cruise, it’s essential to have the right insurance coverage to protect yourself and your investment. They include Cruise travel insurance, which covers cancellations, interruptions, lost baggage, medical emergencies, travel inconvenience benefits, trip length coverage, adventure activities, protection against unforeseen events, and travel investment protection. It’s essential to review your existing coverage and consider additional coverage if necessary.

Does Travel Insurance Cover A Cruise?

Travel insurance covers cruises and provides various types of coverage such as trip cancellation and interruption, medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, trip delay, and lost or damaged luggage. It’s important to review the specific terms and conditions of your policy to understand the coverage limits and exclusions. Purchasing travel insurance early after booking your cruise is recommended to ensure coverage for any unforeseen events.

Can You Buy Cruise Insurance After Booking?

Yes, you can buy cruise insurance after booking your trip. The specific time frame in which you can purchase cruise insurance may vary depending on the insurance provider. Some providers allow you to buy insurance up until the day before you begin traveling, while others may have specific time-sensitive policies that must be purchased soon after making your reservations.

How Much Is Travel Insurance?

The cost of travel insurance can vary based on several factors, including the provider, the coverage options selected, the duration of the trip, and the total trip cost. On average, travel insurance typically ranges from 4% to 10% of the total trip cost. However, the actual cost can be as low as $35 or as high as 16% of the trip cost. It’s important to note that these figures are general estimates, and the specific cost will depend on the individual circumstances and the insurance provider.

How Much Is Cruise Protection?

The cost of cruise protection can range from 5% to 10% of the total trip cost. Factors that influence the cost include the trip duration, your age, and the level of coverage chosen. Some cruise lines also offer their protection plans at varying costs.

What Does Travel Insurance Cover?

Travel insurance covers risks and financial losses during travel, offering coverage for cancellations, baggage, rental property, medical expenses, accident coverage, trip delays, travel assistance, and optional extras. It covers unused costs, lost or damaged luggage, rental property, medical expenses, accident coverage, and additional expenses. Exclusions may apply for extreme sports.

Conclusion

It’s crucial to review policies to ensure coverage aligns with your needs and potential cruise costs. The best cruise insurance plans offer comprehensive coverage, cruise-specific coverage, pre-existing medical condition coverage, a cancel-for-any-reason option, clear policy terms and conditions, financial default coverage, worldwide coverage, and an easy claims process. Each plan offers coverage for various risks and emergencies. These features ensure protection against unexpected events, medical expenses, and baggage loss. Ocean cruises, river cruises, expedition cruises, and luxury cruises may be covered, depending on the specific cruise vacation.