Travel insurers that provide coverage for cruises

Travel Insurance for Cruises in Australia

Most travel insurers cover international cruises that start and end in Australia, usually as an optional extra (we haven’t looked at cover for cruises that start and/or end overseas).

Some providers also offer tailored cruise travel insurance, which can give you access to additional inclusions that are unique to cruising and that may not be covered in standard policies, such as cover for missed ports, missed departures, or cabin confinement due to illness.

Which Travel Insurers Cover Cruises?

When choosing a policy, it’s important to make sure the region you’re visiting is covered and that it suits your needs and itinerary.

What Cruise Travel Insurance Won’t Cover

Check the policy age limit, as some policies cover you up to the age of 100 but others only cover you up to 69.

It’s also worth noting that if you want cancellation coverage in case a relative in Australia becomes ill or dies, the relative will also need to meet the age limit on the policy and satisfy the existing medical condition requirements.

Cruises no longer require people to prove they’ve had a COVID-19 vaccination in order to board, but cruise ships are still a higher risk setting for diseases like gastroenteritis and respiratory infections, including influenza (flu) and COVID-19. So check if you have medical and cancellation cover for COVID-19 and other illnesses.

Existing Medical Conditions and Pregnancy

As with other types of travel insurance, some pre-existing medical conditions may not be covered, and others will need to be disclosed in order to be covered. If in doubt, contact the insurer to discuss your needs.

It’s also worth noting that pregnancy is considered an existing medical condition. Some insurance policies cover pregnancy up to 30 weeks, but most cruise lines won’t allow you on board if you’re more than 24 weeks pregnant.

Travel insurance for a pre-existing medical condition

Travel Insurance and Alcohol

Some people liken cruises to a floating RSL club, but the combination of alcohol and a seagoing vessel can cause accidents.

In an Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) case, Phil* fell down a flight of stairs on a cruise ship and suffered a moderate brain injury, skull fracture, and right lung contusion.

All travel insurers have a clause that excludes cover for claims resulting from a person being under the influence of alcohol

Phil said the area was not well lit and the steps would have been slippery, while his wife said he was walking steadily. He was taken to a hospital in Austria, and a test showed that he had a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.198%.

The insurer had an exclusion for “any conduct engaged in whilst under the influence or effect of alcohol or drugs,” and AFCA sided with the insurer, determining that Phil’s claim for expenses should be denied.

All travel insurers have a similar clause that excludes cover for claims resulting from a person being under the influence of alcohol.

_{* Not their real name. Policyholder names are not disclosed in AFCA case records.}

Does travel insurance still cover you if you’ve had a drink?

Do I Need Insurance for Local Cruises?

Even if you book a cruise that won’t be leaving Australian waters, you’ll probably still need travel insurance as shipboard medical expenses might not be covered by Medicare. Check that your travel insurance does cover medical costs – you may need international or cruise-specific insurance. Domestic travel or health insurance won’t cut it.

Doctors working on cruise ships don’t need Medicare provider numbers, so check with your cruise line if they have a Medicare doctor on board. If they don’t, and they treat you, you can’t claim on Medicare or your private health insurance, even though you never left Australia.

Domestic travel insurance doesn’t cover medical costs, so you’d need either international travel insurance (check that it covers domestic cruises) or special ‘domestic cruise’ insurance, which is available from a few select insurers.

When to Buy Travel Insurance for a Cruise

Cruises are often booked well ahead of time, so you could be forgiven for forgetting or delaying the purchase of your travel insurance. But if your cruise is cancelled ahead of time and you don’t yet have cover, you could lose your money. The earlier you buy the policy, the better.

On the flip side, there aren’t many insurers that cover you more than a year out from starting your trip. If you book your trip more than a year out, shop around for a policy that will cover you.

The most expensive mistake you’re making with your travel insurance

Stock images: Getty, unless otherwise stated.

About the Author

“Cruises are a fantastic way to explore the world and relax on the open seas. As a travel enthusiast and game theme lover, I understand the importance of having the right travel insurance coverage for your cruise. In this article, I’ve provided valuable information on which travel insurers cover cruises and what you need to know before setting sail. Don’t let unexpected events ruin your dream vacation – make sure you’re covered!” – Jodi Bird

Conclusion

Travel insurance is essential when going on a cruise to protect yourself from unexpected events and ensure peace of mind. Most travel insurers cover cruises, but it’s important to carefully review the policy and understand any exclusions or fine print. Declare any pre-existing medical conditions and consider additional coverage for unique cruise-related incidents. Remember that alcohol-related incidents may not be covered, and Medicare may not cover shipboard medical expenses. Purchase travel insurance early to avoid losing money in case of cancellation. Enjoy your cruise with the confidence of knowing you’re protected!” – Jodi Bird

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