Pre-Existing Conditions

Pre-Existing Medical Cruise Insurance

Pre-existing medical insurance for your cruise. Let the cruise insurance experts arrange cover for your voyage. Up to 30% off โ€” get a quote.

Cover available for most pre-existing conditions
Heart disease, diabetes, respiratory conditions covered
Full disclosure assessment โ€” no surprises at claim time
Specialist underwriters for complex medical histories
Unlimited medical cover including condition-related claims
Repatriation to NZ for ongoing treatment
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Coverage Highlights

Cover available for most pre-existing conditions
Heart disease, diabetes, respiratory conditions covered
Full disclosure assessment โ€” no surprises at claim time
Specialist underwriters for complex medical histories
Unlimited medical cover including condition-related claims
Repatriation to NZ for ongoing treatment

What is a Pre-Existing Medical Condition?

A pre-existing medical condition is any illness, injury, disease, or medical condition for which you have received medical advice, consultation, or treatment; been prescribed medication or therapy; experienced symptoms (whether diagnosed or not); or undergone tests, investigations, or monitoring.

The critical timeframe varies by insurer but typically covers conditions you've had at any point in the past โ€” not just recent conditions.

Common Pre-Existing Conditions We Cover

  • Heart disease (previous heart attacks, stents, bypass surgery, atrial fibrillation)
  • Diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2)
  • Respiratory conditions (COPD, asthma, emphysema)
  • Cancer (past and present diagnoses)
  • Stroke or TIA
  • Kidney disease or renal failure
  • Arthritis and joint conditions
  • Mental health conditions
  • Neurological conditions

Why Full Disclosure Matters

Many travellers are tempted to not declare conditions to avoid higher premiums or exclusions. This is a critical mistake. If you have a condition-related medical emergency and it wasn't declared, your insurer may decline your claim โ€” leaving you with bills of $50,000โ€“$200,000 or more.

Our advisors help you declare correctly โ€” ensuring you're properly covered from the moment you board.

What Pre-Existing Medical Cruise Insurance Covers

Condition-Related Medical Expenses

Medical treatment related to your declared pre-existing conditions โ€” the most important cover.

Emergency Evacuation

Full evacuation costs โ€” critical as pre-existing condition holders are statistically more likely to require evacuation.

Repatriation to NZ

Transport home for ongoing management of your condition following an emergency.

All Standard Cruise Cover

Full cruise insurance protection in addition to pre-existing condition cover.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need cruise insurance if I already have travel insurance?
Yes โ€” standard travel insurance typically does not cover the unique risks associated with cruising. You need to either add a cruise extension to your existing policy or purchase dedicated cruise insurance. Standard policies often exclude cabin confinement, miss-port departure, and have inadequate limits for maritime medical evacuations.
Does my NZ health insurance cover me on a cruise?
No. Once your ship departs port โ€” even on domestic NZ cruises โ€” you are in a maritime environment where standard NZ health insurance does not apply. Ship's doctors charge private rates, and onboard medical costs are entirely your responsibility without cruise insurance.
What is cabin confinement cover?
Cabin confinement cover provides a daily cash benefit (typically $100โ€“$250/day) if illness or injury keeps you confined to your cabin. Since you've paid for excursions and activities you can't enjoy, this benefit helps compensate for the experience you're missing out on.
What is missed port departure cover?
If your connecting flight or transport to the cruise embarkation port is delayed or cancelled due to a covered reason, missed port departure cover pays for you to catch up with your ship at the next port โ€” including flights, accommodation, and meals while you wait.