Do you need cruise insurance for a cruise?

Cruise insurance can pay much of the cost of an emergency medical evacuation. In addition, it can also help arrange transport – not just for the patient, but for a cruising companion. That's why the U.S. State Department explicitly states, “You should strongly consider purchasing evacuation insurance.”



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It's the best time to buy cruise insurance – as soon as you make your initial trip deposit, while it's still fresh in your mind.

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Cruise insurance can cost from 5% to 10% of your total trip cost, though that amount can be influenced by: Your age. How much you're spending on your trip. The length of your cruise.

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Another one of the most important differences to recognize between travel insurance and the protection you might buy directly from the cruise line is that the cruise line typically only covers the cruise itself. In other words, the cruise line might reimburse you if you have to cancel but only for your fare.

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If you'd rather have the money back, travel insurance is the better option. Another one of the most important differences to recognize between travel insurance and the protection you might buy directly from the cruise line is that the cruise line typically only covers the cruise itself.

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Travel Insurance offers reimbursement for cancellation due specifically to covered reasons. A waiver usually means that you can cancel for any reason, but that a large portion of your payment will be held as a credit toward future cruise travel.

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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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If your trip doesn't involve any nonrefundable reservations, you may not need travel insurance. For instance, if you've booked only airplane tickets and a hotel stay for your vacation, and they're both governed by flexible cancellation policies, the trip cancellation benefit may not be necessary.

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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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Important: While travel insurance policies may be more comprehensive than credit card protections, there are limitations. They typically won't cover non-essential medical expenses, high-risk sports or activities, or pre-existing conditions — at least without paying for add-on coverage.

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