Can I cruise without travel insurance?

Some destinations now require travel insurance with COVID coverage. Even if travel insurance is not required for entry, you may find that having it in case of emergencies gives you the confidence to enjoy your trip more fully.



While you technically can find cruise lines that do not strictly mandate travel insurance, in 2026, many major operators—such as P&O Cruises and several European-based lines—have made "suitable cruise cover" a mandatory requirement for boarding. Even when not required, cruising without insurance is an immense financial risk. Medical evacuations at sea via helicopter can easily exceed $50,000, and onboard medical centers do not typically accept land-based health insurance or Medicare. Standard travel insurance may not suffice; you specifically need "Cruise Cover" to handle unique risks like missed ports of call, cabin confinement due to illness (like Norovirus), and itinerary changes. If you are denied boarding for failing to show proof of insurance where it is mandatory, you will likely forfeit your entire cruise fare. Therefore, while it may not always be a legal barrier to entry, it is functionally essential for any responsible traveler.

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With those factors in mind, it's very often now that the answer is: Yes, you should insure your cruise. The purpose of travel insurance is to cover the nonrefundable costs associated with your trip in case of an unforeseen event.

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Cruise ships can treat a wide range of illnesses and injuries on board. Some onboard medical facilities look like urgent care centers, while others are more like doctor's offices. Health insurance often does not cover medical care on cruises, but travel insurance might.

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Not only can travel insurance for cruises help protect the money you spend on your trip if you have to cancel or come home early for a covered reason, but it can also help with medical expenses if you get sick or hurt while away from home on a cruise.

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Buying 50 Days Before Departure Buying cruise insurance at this time also takes the “panic” factor out of your purchase. There'll be lots to think about right before you leave. Buying 50 days out means you won't be worrying about “what-if” scenarios right up to departure date.

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The short answer is: It's not too late! You absolutely can buy travel insurance after booking your trip. However, it's always best to purchase insurance as early in the process as possible. If you procrastinate, you may miss out on certain benefits.

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Depending on which cruise line you're traveling with, you might be able to buy a travel insurance policy when booking your trip (through the cruise line directly) or at a later date (either through the cruise line or separately from a third party). Protecting travel costs can be a smart money move.

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Where to find a cruise travel insurance policy. You can buy a travel insurance policy directly from your cruise line when booking your trip, or through your travel agent (if you're using one, which often is a good idea when booking a cruise).

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If you would lose the money you paid for your flights, accommodations, rental car, or activities if you had to cancel or go home early, travel insurance that specifically includes trip cancellation and trip interruption is probably a good idea.

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