Cruise Insurance FAQ’s.

Basic Coverage Questions

Do I need cruise insurance if I already have travel insurance?

Yes, standard travel insurance typically does not cover the unique risks associated with cruising. You need to either add a cruise extension to your existing travel insurance policy or purchase a dedicated cruise insurance policy.

Cruise insurance covers specific situations including:

• Onboard medical expenses and treatment
• Emergency medical evacuation from ship to shore
• Cabin confinement compensation
• Missed port departures
• Missed shore excursions
• Ship-to-shore medical expenses
• Emergency formal attire replacement

What exactly does cruise insurance cover?

Comprehensive cruise insurance typically includes:

Is cruise insurance different from regular travel insurance?

Yes, significantly. Cruise insurance is specifically designed for the unique risks of sea travel. The main differences include:

• Coverage for onboard medical expenses (regular travel insurance typically only covers land-based medical care)
• Emergency evacuation from a vessel at sea (extremely expensive and not covered by standard policies)
• Cabin confinement compensation (unique to cruise situations)
• Coverage for missed port departures and disrupted itineraries
• Protection for shore excursions and formal dining attire
• Coverage in international waters where no public healthcare applies

When & How to Purchase Cruise Insurance

When should I buy cruise insurance?

Purchase cruise insurance as soon as you book your cruise for maximum protection. Early purchase ensures:

• Full cancellation coverage from the moment of purchase
• Protection against pre-departure incidents (illness, injury, family emergencies)
• Coverage for early payment deposits and non-refundable bookings
• Time to review policy details and make adjustments if needed

Many policies also offer additional benefits when purchased within 14-21 days of your initial cruise deposit.

Can I buy cruise insurance once I’m already on my cruise?

No. Cruise insurance must be purchased before you leave home and before you commence any travel related to your cruise (including flights to the departure port).

Once your trip has begun, insurers will not sell you coverage as the risk assessment period has passed. This is why purchasing insurance immediately after booking is crucial.

How do I add cruise cover to my travel insurance policy?

The process is straightforward:

1. When obtaining a quote, answer “Yes” to the question about travelling on a sea or ocean cruise for two or more nights
2. An additional premium will be calculated and added to your policy
3. Select your destinations (including all ports the ship will visit)
4. Declare any pre-existing medical conditions
5. Complete purchase and receive your Certificate of Insurance

The cruise benefits become active once the premium is paid and the certificate is issued.

What if my cruise visits multiple countries?

When your cruise stops in multiple destinations, you must:

• List every country or region the ship will visit during the quote process
• Include both scheduled ports and potential emergency ports
• Select “multiple destinations” and add each country individually
• Ensure your policy covers the entire geographical range of your cruise

Failing to declare all countries may result in denied claims for incidents occurring in undeclared locations. If you’re unsure about any destinations, contact your insurer directly for guidance.

Medical Coverage Questions

Am I covered if I get sick or injured on the cruise ship?

Yes, cruise insurance covers onboard medical emergencies including:

• Doctor consultations and examinations
• Emergency medical treatment and procedures
• Prescribed medications and medical supplies
• Onboard hospitalisation and nursing care
• Emergency dental treatment for pain relief
• Diagnostic tests and medical imaging

Most policies offer unlimited medical coverage for onboard treatment. Contact your insurer’s 24-hour emergency assistance team immediately if you require hospitalization.

What happens if I need to be evacuated from the ship?

Emergency medical evacuation is one of the most critical benefits of cruise insurance. If you require urgent medical care that cannot be provided onboard, your policy covers:

Emergency evacuations can cost $50,000-$100,000 or more depending on your location. Without insurance, you would be responsible for these costs upfront.

Does cruise insurance cover COVID-19?

Most cruise insurance policies now include COVID-19 coverage for:

• Onboard medical treatment if you contract COVID-19 during your cruise
• Emergency evacuation if serious complications develop
• Ship-to-shore medical expenses related to COVID-19
• Emergency assistance support and medical coordination

Important exclusion: Cabin confinement compensation typically does NOT apply to COVID-19 related isolation, even with cruise cover. Check your specific policy wording for exact terms.

Trip cancellation due to COVID-19 before departure may be covered if you test positive and cannot travel, depending on your policy’s cancellation terms.

What about medical care when I’m in port?

Coverage depends on whether you’re on a domestic or international cruise:

• Domestic cruises: When in New Zealand ports, your public healthcare entitlements or private health insurance apply. Your cruise insurance doesn’t cover land-based medical care in NZ.
• International cruises: Your cruise insurance covers medical expenses in foreign countries at ports of call, just like standard international travel insurance.

The key distinction: Once your ship leaves any port, even in New Zealand waters, only your cruise insurance provides medical coverage.

Costs & Pricing

How much does cruise insurance cost?

Cruise insurance premiums vary based on multiple factors:

These are indicative ranges only. Your actual premium will be calculated based on your specific circumstances.

Is cruise insurance more expensive than regular travel insurance?

Yes, cruise insurance premiums are typically 30-50% higher than standard travel insurance due to:

• Higher medical evacuation costs from vessels at sea
• Specialized coverage for unique cruise risks
• Unlimited medical coverage requirements
• Remote locations far from immediate medical care
• Additional benefits like cabin confinement and missed port compensation

However, the extra cost is minimal compared to potential out-of-pocket expenses for medical emergencies at sea.

Do insurers charge extra for cruise cover?

Yes, cruise cover requires an additional premium on top of your base travel insurance policy. This is added when you indicate you’ll be travelling on a cruise for two or more nights.

The additional premium reflects the increased risks and specialized coverage needs of cruise travel. Some insurers include basic cruise benefits in comprehensive policies, but enhanced cruise coverage always requires extra payment.

Domestic vs International Cruises

Do I need cruise insurance for a domestic New Zealand cruise?

Yes, absolutely. This is one of the most misunderstood aspects of cruise insurance. Many New Zealanders assume public healthcare covers them on domestic cruises, but this is incorrect.

Once your cruise ship leaves port – even if remaining in New Zealand waters – you enter a zone where:

• Public healthcare does not apply to onboard medical treatment
• Private health insurance does not cover ship-based medical expenses
• You’re responsible for all medical costs at private rates
• Emergency evacuations can cost tens of thousands of dollars

Domestic cruise insurance covers you from the moment your ship departs until it returns to port.

What’s the difference between domestic and international cruise insurance?

Do I need cruise cover for river cruises?

No, cruise insurance is not required for river cruises (Rhine, Danube, Murray River, etc.). River cruises are:

• Always in close proximity to shore and medical facilities
• Covered under standard comprehensive travel insurance
• Lower risk due to immediate access to land-based healthcare
• Not subject to the same evacuation challenges as ocean cruises

Standard international travel insurance is sufficient for river cruise holidays.

What about short ferry trips or one-night cruises?

Cruise insurance is not required if you are:

• Taking a ferry journey (inter-island ferries, etc.)
• On a cruise for only one night
• On a vessel that doesn’t travel in ocean or sea waters
• Sailing in coastal areas (note: sailing is not covered in international waters without specific marine insurance)

The two-night threshold is industry standard, as risks are substantially lower for shorter voyages.

Cancellations & Disruptions

Does cruise insurance cover cancellations?

Yes, if you purchase a policy with cancellation coverage. Cruise insurance typically covers trip cancellation for:

• Serious illness or injury preventing travel
• Death of immediate family member
• Unexpected redundancy or job loss
• Serious damage to your home requiring your presence
• Jury service or court witness summons
• Military or emergency services deployment
• Pregnancy complications (if pregnancy occurred after policy purchase)

You must purchase cancellation cover when buying your policy – it cannot be added later. The benefit limit depends on the level of cover you select.

What if I miss my cruise departure?

If you miss your cruise ship due to circumstances beyond your control, cruise insurance can help. Covered reasons include:

• Flight delays or cancellations
• Vehicle breakdown en route to port
• Traffic accidents or road closures
• Public transport strikes or disruptions
• Natural disasters affecting travel routes

Your policy will cover:

• Reasonable costs to reach the ship at its next port of call
• Additional accommodation if required
• Transportation expenses (flights, taxis, etc.)

What if my luggage misses the boat?

Delayed luggage is a common cruise issue. Your cruise insurance provides:

• Reimbursement for essential items (toiletries, clothing, medications)
• Emergency formal attire purchase for dining requirements
• Daily allowance until luggage is returned
• Coverage for permanently lost items up to policy limits

Keep all receipts for emergency purchases and report delayed luggage to your cruise line and airline immediately.

Am I covered if the ship misses a scheduled port?

This depends on the reason:

• Weather-related changes: Not covered – this falls under “lack of enjoyment” which insurance doesn’t cover
• Prepaid shore excursions: May be covered if cancelled due to ship delays beyond your control
• Port changes before departure: May qualify for cancellation claims if substantial itinerary changes occur

Insurance cannot compensate for disappointment or loss of enjoyment from itinerary changes during your cruise.

Does cruise insurance cover non-refundable deposits?

Yes, if you have cancellation coverage and cancel for a covered reason. This includes:

• Initial cruise deposits paid to the cruise line
• Prepaid shore excursions booked in advance
• Prepaid specialty dining or spa reservations
• Flights and accommodation related to your cruise
• Pre or post-cruise hotel bookings

Coverage amount depends on your selected cancellation limit. Ensure your coverage level matches your total prepaid expenses.

Pre-existing Medical Conditions

Will cruise insurance cover my pre-existing medical conditions?

Maybe. Coverage for pre-existing conditions varies by insurer and condition severity. The process typically involves:

1. Automatic coverage: Many insurers automatically cover 30-35 stable conditions without extra premium
2. Medical assessment: Other conditions require online assessment and may incur additional premium
3. Approval process: Some serious conditions may not be coverable, or coverage may be declined

You must declare ALL pre-existing conditions. Non-disclosure voids your entire policy, not just claims related to undeclared conditions.

What conditions are commonly automatically covered?

Many insurers automatically cover stable, well-controlled conditions such as:

• Controlled high blood pressure (no recent changes)
• Stable asthma (no recent attacks or hospitalizations)
• Controlled diabetes (Type 1 or 2, stable management)
• Cholesterol managed with medication
• Stable hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism
• Anxiety or depression (stable on medication)
• Previous surgery with full recovery (depending on timeframe)

Conditions must be stable (no recent changes in medication or treatment) and well-controlled to qualify for automatic coverage.

What if I develop a condition after purchasing insurance but before my cruise?

Contact your insurer immediately if:

• You’re diagnosed with a new medical condition
• Existing conditions change or worsen
• Your doctor advises against travel
• New medications are prescribed

Your insurer will reassess your coverage. Options may include:

• Additional premium to maintain full coverage
• Exclusion of the new/changed condition only
• Policy cancellation with refund (if medically unable to travel)

Can I cruise if I have cancer or heart disease?

Possibly, but it requires careful consideration and medical clearance:

• Obtain written clearance from your specialist
• Complete comprehensive medical assessment with insurer
• Expect higher premiums or specific exclusions
• Consider proximity of cruise to advanced medical facilities
• Discuss with your doctor whether cruising is advisable

Some insurers specialize in covering travellers with serious medical conditions. Shop around and be completely honest in medical assessments.

Making Claims

How do I make a cruise insurance claim?

Follow these steps for successful claims:

1. Contact emergency assistance immediately for medical emergencies (24/7 phone line)
2. Report incidents promptly to your insurer, ideally within 30 days
3. Gather documentation: medical reports, receipts, police reports (for theft), cruise line statements
4. Complete claim forms accurately and thoroughly
5. Submit supporting evidence: invoices, booking confirmations, medical certificates
6. Follow up if you don’t receive acknowledgment within 10 business days

What documentation do I need for a medical claim?

Essential documents include:

• Detailed medical reports from ship’s doctor or hospital
• Original itemized receipts for all medical expenses
• Prescription receipts and medication details
• Evacuation reports and invoices (if applicable)
• Your cruise ship’s medical log entries
• Evidence of payment made onboard or at facilities
• Any correspondence with cruise line medical staff

How long do cruise insurance claims take?

Processing times vary by claim complexity:

• Simple claims: 10-20 business days (delayed luggage, minor medical)
• Standard claims: 20-40 business days (cancellations, moderate medical)
• Complex claims: 40-90 days (major medical, evacuations, disputes)
• Very complex: 90+ days (multiple incidents, legal complications, large sums)

Providing complete documentation upfront significantly speeds up processing.

What are common reasons for claim denials?

Avoid these common pitfalls:

What if my claim is denied?

You have options if your claim is declined:

1. Request detailed explanation of the denial reason in writing
2. Review policy wording carefully to understand if denial is valid
3. Provide additional evidence if the insurer’s information is incorrect
4. Request internal review by a senior claims assessor
5. Lodge complaint with Insurance & Financial Services Ombudsman (if unresolved)
6. Seek legal advice for substantial claims with questionable denials

Specific Scenarios

What happens if I’m required to stay in my cabin (cabin confinement)?

Cabin confinement coverage provides compensation if you’re ordered to remain in your cabin due to:

• Contagious illness that poses risk to other passengers
• Quarantine requirements (excluding COVID-19 in most policies)
• Medical orders pending evacuation

Typical compensation: $50-$150 per day for each day confined. Note that COVID-19 isolation is typically excluded from cabin confinement benefits.

Am I covered for adventure activities during port visits?

Standard cruise insurance typically covers common activities, but high-risk adventures may require additional coverage:

• Usually covered: Snorkeling, kayaking, zip-lining, hiking, cycling
• May require add-on: Scuba diving, jet skiing, parasailing, bungee jumping
• Often excluded: Skydiving, base jumping, motorized water sports racing

Check your policy’s activity list or purchase an adventure sports extension if planning high-risk activities.

What if I need to extend my cruise insurance while travelling?

Most policies allow extensions if:

• You request before current policy expires
• You haven’t made any claims
• Extension is due to circumstances beyond your control (medical, travel delays)
• You’re not extending to obtain coverage for a known issue

Contact your insurer’s emergency line if you need to extend coverage while travelling. Additional premium will apply.

Does cruise insurance cover if I get pregnant during my cruise?

Coverage depends on timing and circumstances:

• If pregnancy occurs after policy purchase: Complications may be covered
• If pregnant before policy purchase: Pregnancy-related claims typically excluded
• Most policies won’t cover after 26-28 weeks gestation
• Routine pregnancy care is not covered
• Emergency pregnancy complications may be covered if pregnancy was unknown at purchase

Many cruise lines refuse boarding after 24 weeks of pregnancy regardless of insurance.

What happens if there’s a death at sea?

In the tragic event of death during a cruise, comprehensive cruise insurance covers:

• Repatriation of remains to New Zealand
• Funeral expenses (up to policy limit)
• Return travel for accompanying family members
• Additional accommodation costs for family
• Legal documentation and administrative costs

Contact your insurer’s 24-hour emergency line immediately for assistance with arrangements.

Am I covered if the cruise line goes bankrupt?

Some policies include “supplier default” or “travel provider insolvency” coverage that protects you if:

• Your cruise line ceases operations
• You’ve paid for but not received services
• You’re stranded during your cruise

This is often an optional add-on. Check if your policy includes this protection, especially when booking with smaller or budget cruise lines.

Coverage Limits & Exclusions

What are the typical coverage limits for cruise insurance?

Limits vary significantly between insurers and policy tiers. Review your Certificate of Insurance for exact limits.

What are common exclusions in cruise insurance?

Standard exclusions that apply to most cruise insurance policies:

• Pre-existing conditions not declared or assessed
• Injuries while intoxicated or under influence of drugs
• Participation in professional sports or competitions
• Intentional self-injury or suicide attempts
• War, terrorism, or civil unrest (some policies cover, others exclude)
• Travelling against medical advice
• Pregnancy complications if pregnant before purchase (usually)
• Routine medical check-ups or elective procedures
• Loss of enjoyment or change of mind
• Claims arising from illegal activities
• Cyber events or pandemics (varies by policy)

Are there age limits for cruise insurance?

Age affects cruise insurance in several ways:

• Under 70: Standard coverage available, premiums increase gradually with age
• 70-79: Higher premiums, may require additional medical screening
• 80+: Significantly higher premiums, limited policy options, comprehensive medical assessment required
• Trip duration limits: Travellers over 70 may be limited to shorter cruise durations (6 months maximum)

Some insurers specialize in coverage for seniors. Compare multiple providers to find suitable coverage.

Do I need to insure high-value items separately?

Yes, most policies have sub-limits for individual items ($500-$2,000). For high-value items, you should:

• Declare items at time of purchase
• Pay additional premium for increased coverage
• Obtain valuations for jewelry, cameras, electronics
• Take photos and keep receipts
• Consider leaving very valuable items at home

Common high-value items requiring additional coverage: engagement rings, professional cameras, laptops, designer watches, expensive jewelry.

Still Have Questions?

If you haven’t found the answer you’re looking for, our insurance specialists are here to help. Contact us for personalised advice on:

• Complex medical conditions and coverage options
• Multi-generational family cruise insurance
• Long-term or world cruise coverage
• Group bookings and corporate cruise travel
• Luxury or expedition cruise insurance needs

Email: info@cruiseinsurance.co.nz
Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30am-5:30pm, Saturday 9am-1pm

Important: This FAQ guide provides general information only. All cruise insurance policies have specific terms, conditions, limits, sub-limits, and exclusions. Always read the Policy Wording Document before purchasing to ensure the product meets your needs.