TRAVEL INSURANCE

A cruise holiday is a voyage into the unknown, filled with breathtaking destinations and unforgettable experiences. But, even the most meticulously planned journeys can encounter unforeseen curveballs, and that’s why you should consider purchasing travel insurance. Yes, it may be an extra expense, but if things go awry, travel insurance is an affordable cost that can potentially protect you from huge costs in the future. This includes the cost of cancelling your cruise for reasons yet unknown; the cost of emergency medical care when you’re overseas or even a medical evacuation from the ship to a hospital; or the cost of replacing your possessions if your baggage is delayed. We don’t like to think about what could go wrong, but unfortunately, they can – and do.

Here are a few instances where cruise travel insurance can be a holiday-saver:

⚓Last-Minute Cancellations

“Hello cruise line, yes I need to cancel my holiday please, I’ve had a family emergency and can no longer go. And yes, a full refund would be good, thank you!”

Unfortunately, that conversation is unlikely to go like that. You may be lucky to get a partial refund but even that may depend on how far out you cancel your trip. But, with a comprehensive travel insurance policy, you can choose a cancellation cover amount that suits your needs to help  protect your investment should you need to cancel before you set sail.

⚓ Medical Emergencies

When you’re enjoying that cocktail on the sun deck, a medical crisis is the last thing on your mind. However, unforeseen medical issues during your cruise can quickly become very costly. Hospitalisation and medical evacuation costs outside of Australian coastal waters are very expensive and are not covered by Medicare or private health insurance. It’s crucial to ensure you have coverage for the destinations you visit, as well as any onshore activities and excursions. Medical attention in a foreign country can come with exorbitant costs, with daily hospital bills costing as much as AUD5,000 per dayAnd in the event of a serious emergency requiring a medical evacuation, such as being airlifted to the nearest hospital, expenses can soar up to $100,000 or even more (and that’s just for the helicopter ride).

Fortunately, you can easily alleviate the stress of something like this happening with a comprehensive plan that offers unlimited cover on coverable medical expenses and additional expenses if an emergency were to occur.

⚓ When You Literally Miss the Boat

Cruise ships won’t typically wait for all guests to be onboard before setting sail. They have a window of time to depart, and if you’re not on the ship before then, they’ll likely leave without you. And if you don’t have travel insurance, then you may find yourself up a creek without a paddle. From overnight hotel stays to transportation to meet your cruise ship at their next port of call, travel insurance can help save you from having to foot the bill for this yourself. Plus, the added benefit of 24-hour emergency assistance means that you’ll also receive help trying to figure out your next steps so that you can still enjoy the rest of your holiday.

⚓ Consider Travel Insurance for the Unexpected

You’re likely considering a cruise holiday because you need a true time-out. No cooking, cleaning, or driving – just unpacking once and letting your floating hotel transport you from A to B to Z. But it’s tough to enjoy that if you’re worried about bad weather, illness or international emergencies. That’s why smooth sailing starts with smart planning, and by having a travel insurance policy up your sleeve for when the unexpected happens, you can truly put your mind at ease knowing you have added protection if anything  comes your way. With a support crew back home to help you too.

Contact your Cruiseabout Consultant today for a free, no-obligation quote for your travel insurance, or browse our policies on offer below.