First Time Cruiser Insurance

Welcome to Cruise Insurance — A Guide for First Timers

If this is your first cruise, you may be wondering: do I really need cruise insurance? The answer is unequivocally yes — and understanding why will help you choose the right cover.

What Makes Cruise Insurance Different from Regular Travel Insurance

Standard travel insurance policies are designed for land-based holidays. They typically:

• Exclude or limit onboard medical expenses
• Don't cover cabin confinement (being bedridden on the ship)
• Don't cover missed port departures
• May have inadequate medical evacuation limits for maritime emergencies

Cruise-specific insurance covers all of these scenarios with appropriate limits.

The Costs You Need to Protect Against

Onboard Medical Expenses

The ship's doctor is not free — consultations cost $200–$500, and hospitalisation on a ship can cost $1,500–$5,000/day.

Medical Evacuation

If you need to be airlifted off the ship, costs range from $15,000 (close to port) to $150,000 (international waters).

Trip Cancellation

Cruise bookings are often made months in advance. If you can't travel due to illness, your insurance reimburses non-refundable costs.

Cabin Confinement

If seasickness or illness keeps you in your cabin, you receive a daily benefit for the activities you're missing.

What First-Time Cruise Insurance Covers

Unlimited Medical Expenses

No dollar caps on medical treatment — crucial for maritime medical emergencies.

Emergency Evacuation

Full cost of evacuation from the ship to medical facilities.

Cabin Confinement

Daily benefit (typically $100–$250/day) for time confined to your cabin.

Cancellation & Interruption

Full reimbursement of non-refundable cruise costs.

24/7 Emergency Assistance

Round-the-clock support in any situation — especially valuable for first-time cruisers unfamiliar with onboard procedures.