If you’re getting ready to set sail for a destination cruise vacation, check out details of your cruise line carrier and destination to find out if you may benefit from optional travel insurance policies.
The Concerns of Cruise Insurance
While traveler’s insurance can be an effective protection against “just in case” situations, traveler’s should be aware that insurance for most vacations (including cruises) do not cover all unfortunate circumstances. Specifically, travel insurance for cruise vacations will not cover the following incidences / events:
- Bad weather that does not cause you to miss / delay your trip. There are no refunds for unfavorable weather conditions (ie: rain) for a cruise
- An unessential change in itinerary
- Pregnancy or childbirth that is not considered to be a “medical emergency”
- An unfortunate change in one’s financial circumstances
- Psychological disorders / symptoms
While many travelers are turned away from traveler’s insurance due to the many non-coverage clauses, there are in fact new types of plans that are designed specifically for cruise vacations. To avoid worries and potential risks, most travel experts recommend the purchase of travel insurance prior to cruise departure. As the cost of most basic travel insurance plans are often reasonable, many travelers can obtain insurance coverage for around 5 percent of the total cruise vacation cost-the same price for a basic meal or two while dining out.
The Perks of Planning for a Cruise with Coverage
Because there are so many planned arrangements with a cruise, including flight to the departure destination and boarding of the cruise ship, a number of providers are boosting each traveler’s coverage possibilities. Specifically, new policies now allow some travelers to “Cancel for Any Reason.” This option will incur various financial penalties, and will not allow travelers to receive a full refund; however, this form of insurance does in fact qualify eligible travelers for a nearly full refund in the case of a necessary cancellation. Adding to this, amidst a tough economy, some providers even offer insurance against unanticipated financial setbacks, such as a job loss or financial emergency. As some providers have included job loss protection into their coverage features, traveler’s can gain additional assurance by seeking out these new, innovative coverage options!
