does cruise travel insurance cover missed ports

Cruise travel insurance: What it covers and why you need it

What does cruise travel insurance cover? And does it pay to buy cruise travel insurance?

The answer is not always clear-cut, as we'll discuss in this guide. But consider this: It's not always smooth seas when it comes to cruising. Even the best-laid plans for a cruise vacation can sometimes be thrown off course by an unexpected event.

You might need to cancel a cruise in advance due to the sudden onset of an illness, such as COVID-19 or the flu. Or, maybe you fall ill during the cruise and need emergency medical attention. Maybe your flight to your ship gets canceled, and you miss the vessel's departure. Or your ship is late arriving in port at the end of a voyage, and you miss your flight home.

In all of these situations, you might benefit from having cruise travel insurance — keyword "might."

Cruise insurance policies vary widely, and not every policy covers every type of mishap. That's why it always pays to read the fine print in a travel insurance policy before you purchase it to know what you're getting in advance.

It's also why you should read this introduction to everything you need to know about cruise insurance. It has many details, but the next time something unexpected happens on your cruise vacation, you'll be glad to be educated and covered by a comprehensive travel insurance policy.

What does travel insurance cover when you cruise?

The typical cruise insurance policy covers a wide range of circumstances that can go wrong in conjunction with a vacation at sea — both before and during the sailing.

For starters, policies often will reimburse you for the cost of canceling a cruise due to a last-minute crisis. They will also often cover costs related to an interruption of a cruise (maybe your ship breaks down, requiring you to fly home mid-voyage ). These two elements are known as trip-cancellation and trip-interruption insurance, and they are bundled into a typical travel insurance policy.

Some policies will also cover out-of-pocket costs related to a flight delay or cancellation that results in you missing your cruise departure (for instance, the cost of catching up to the ship at its next port). Expenses related to baggage delays and loss are often covered as well.

But perhaps most importantly, many travel insurance policies will cover medical expenses you incur while on a cruise. Some will even cover the cost of evacuating from a foreign destination if you are in the midst of a medical crisis.

Travel insurance giant Allianz Global Assistance reports that 53% of all cruise-related "billing reasons" for claims are because of illness for the insured person, while 14% are for an injury. Another 8% are for the illness of a family member, 4% for the death of a family member and 4% for the illness of a traveling companion, among other reasons.

Those percentages include illness and accidents that happen to cruisers just before a trip, making travel impossible. But, in many cases, such claims result from illness and injuries that occur during voyages.

"People often take risks during vacation that they might not take back home, whether riding a jet ski, zipping around on a motorized scooter in a city they don't know well or hiking unfamiliar terrain," James Page, senior vice president and chief administration officer of AIG Travel, told TPG .

Some policies also cover the financial default of a travel provider. In such cases, if your cruise line goes out of business before you sail, you could get all — or at least some — of your money back.

Cruise travel insurance policies don't cover everything. For instance, standard travel insurers generally will not reimburse you for the cost of a cruise you cancel due to worries about an outbreak of an illness. That's true even if a U.S. government agency such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issues a recommendation that you don't cruise due to an illness outbreak, as it did during the COVID-19 pandemic .

If you want the ultimate flexibility to cancel for such a reason or any other, you'll want to look into a more expensive cancel for any reason travel insurance upgrade.

Related: Avoiding outbreaks isn't covered by most travel insurance policies

Where to find a cruise travel insurance policy

You can buy a travel insurance policy directly from your cruise line when booking your trip or through your travel agent (if you're using one, which often is a good idea when booking a cruise). You also can go directly to a third-party travel insurance provider or a travel-insurance aggregator site, such as InsureMyTrip or TravelInsurance . Your credit card might even give you some travel protections.

Here's what you need to know about each type of cruise travel insurance.

Third-party insurance companies

Third-party insurance companies that specialize in writing travel insurance include AIG Travel, Allianz Travel Insurance, Travelex Insurance and American Express Travel Insurance.

One reason to use a travel agent or a travel aggregator: They can help you find a policy that offers added coverage specific to cruising.

Related: The Points Guy's guide to the best travel insurance companies

"Many plans now offer benefits that will specifically appeal to cruise travelers, such as missed connection, missed port-of-call and cruise disablement coverage," Stan Sandberg, cofounder of TravelInsurance.com, said.

Missed connection coverage reimburses cruisers for a set dollar amount if they need to rebook travel to catch up with their cruise at the next port. Missed port-of-call coverage pays a benefit if the cruise ship misses a scheduled port of call due to weather, a natural disaster or a mechanical breakdown.

Cruise disablement coverage pays a benefit if the traveler is confined on a ship for more than five hours without power, food, water or restrooms.

As noted, policies vary widely. It's a good idea to compare plans and make sure the one you buy has the elements that are most important to you. One size doesn't fit all.

Credit cards with travel benefits

Some premium credit cards offer valuable travel protections comparable to what you might get from a standard travel insurance plan. For example, the travel insurance provided when you pay for travel with select cards can reimburse you for expenses if your baggage is damaged, you're stranded overnight due to a flight delay or cancellation, or you have to return home to handle a family medical emergency.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve card, for example, offers trip delay reimbursement, trip cancellation and interruption insurance, emergency medical coverage and even medical evacuation coverage , among other benefits. And yes, cruise lines are considered common carriers just like airlines.

If you're planning to rely on a card like the Chase Sapphire Reserve or The Platinum Card® from American Express * (among others) for travel insurance, just be sure to recheck your card's benefits and limits carefully against regular travel insurance. You must pay for at least part — and sometimes all — of the trip with that credit card to take advantage of its protections.

*Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for details. Policies are underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Related: The best credit cards for booking cruises

Find out if your credit card protection includes travel accident insurance or covers preexisting medical conditions, and figure out when it will pay you back. Other questions to ask: What are the coverage limits? Will you have to pay for a foreign hospital bill upfront and then seek reimbursement later?

Cruise lines

Cruise lines often ask consumers booking a cruise to buy the line's own protection at the time of purchase. If specifics about the coverage are lacking, always ask the line for details in advance, review coverage perks and limits; then, compare those to one or two independent travel insurance policies or your credit card's insurance benefits.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

Cruise line travel insurance policies sometimes have quirks. Many cruise companies will only offer a travel voucher or credit for future use in the event of a covered cancellation, not an outright refund.

Also, financial default may not be a covered event in a cruise line-sold policy, but it's typically covered with plans from third-party travel insurance companies.

Cruise line policies also can be more restrictive.

"Cruise line insurance seems to have become better and has more widespread coverage than in the past, but it typically won't cover air or pre- and post-travel [arrangements] unless those elements are purchased through [the line]," said Debra Kerper, a Cruise Planners travel adviser from Carrollton, Texas, who books travel and sells private insurance. "This is when private insurance coverage becomes so very important."

How much does cruise insurance cost?

Expect to pay anywhere from 4% to 8% of your total prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses for a travel insurance policy. That's a wide range, we know, but it reflects the wide range of products out there.

You'll also find some basic plans that cost even less than 4% of your trip expenses, while some super-premium plans that cover just about any conceivable issue can cost as much as 12% of your trip expenses.

Related: What's included in your cruise fare?

All reputable insurance companies will offer a "free-look period" during which you can receive a 100% refund on your premium. This allows you to review the policy you've selected and return it for any reason within the period allotted — usually for a small administration fee of less than $10.

Under normal circumstances, you don't need to purchase a so-called "cancel for any reason" add-on to your cruise travel insurance policy unless you really need the flexibility. The upgrades are significantly more expensive.

You can receive a quote and purchase a policy online in minutes with any credit card. Although you may think travel insurance should code as "travel" when paid on a credit card and thus be eligible for bonus points on certain cards, that isn't always the case. Your points earnings will depend on the individual underwriter's merchant code. When in doubt, expect the purchase to fall under the insurance category for earnings.

Should I buy travel insurance for a cruise?

Whether you buy travel insurance is a personal decision that will depend on many factors. Would you be willing to absorb the loss of canceling a cruise on short notice due to an illness or accident? Could you afford an evacuation flight from a far-off port if you suddenly became seriously ill? Only you can answer those sorts of questions.

Here are some things to consider as you make that decision.

You might not be covered by regular medical insurance while cruising

If you're a U.S. citizen traveling internationally (which will be the case for most cruises), you may find that most private medical insurance plans in the U.S. won't cover you.

Additionally, Original Medicare only covers people traveling outside U.S. borders in limited circumstances.

While certain Medicare Supplement Plans do have some foreign emergency medical benefits, not all do. Be sure to talk to your Medical Supplemental Plan provider to see if you're covered, what's covered, what the limits are and how the bill is paid.

Also note that, in some countries (particularly those in Central and South America), travelers may not be discharged from a hospital until their bill is paid in full.

Related: Trip wrecked: 7 ways to prepare for any kind of travel disaster

Plus, if you have a medical incident overseas, you could find yourself stuck in a shared hospital room without air conditioning or a private bathroom. The level of care may not be what you expect.

"For people traveling internationally, it's crucial to know beforehand where to go for any treatment … and how they're going to pay for that treatment," Page said.

Getting evacuated for a medical condition is expensive

Most airlines won't accept seriously ill passengers, those carrying bulky medical equipment or those requiring a full medical team.

Even a low-cost weekend getaway on a cruise to the Bahamas out of Miami can turn costly if you suffer a serious accident or illness requiring medical treatment or an emergency medical evacuation.

Related: Do cruise ships have doctors, nurses, medical centers or hospitals?

Being flown back to the U.S. from a far-flung overseas location in a private, medically equipped aircraft, with a professional medical team on board, can run between $70,000 and $180,000, according to Mike Hallman, president and CEO of Medjet, a medical transport membership company.

"Domestic transports, which we cover as well, can cost upwards of $30,000," Hallman said.

Without proof of medical evacuation coverage, foreign providers will also want that money upfront. Hallman said that regular travel insurance will typically get you to an acceptable overseas hospital and even to a higher-level care facility if "medically necessary." Alternatively, medical evacuation coverage means you can fly home to your own hospital, doctors and family — without claim forms, cost caps on transports or surprise bills.

The tandem approach — buying both travel insurance and a separate medevac transport membership — is a good option, Hallman said.

"We always recommend travel insurance, as it covers trip interruption, which is important, as well as medical coverage for the hospital and treatment costs," he said. "We pick up where they leave off."

You can't predict the weather

Cruising is a great way to explore multiple destinations in one trip. But it's good to remember that unexpected delays, interruptions or cancellations due to weather can happen during cruises, particularly during hurricane seasons in places such as the Caribbean and Asia (where hurricanes are called typhoons).

During a typical hurricane season (June 1 to Nov. 30), Allianz pays about 6,000 claims from customers whose travel plans in the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico and southeastern U.S. are affected by the storms, according to a spokesperson for Allianz Global Assistance USA.

If you're hoping to insure against a storm-related disaster, it's good to buy travel insurance as early as possible. Once a storm or hurricane is named, it's too late to buy travel insurance to cover it.

Of course, cruise lines will move ships away from a weather threat. When the port lineup is adjusted or the cruise shortened, the company will offer the guest an onboard credit, onboard gift or future cruise credit rather than any refund. It depends on the circumstances of that specific voyage. You won't be able to make a claim on your cruise travel insurance policy just for a minor itinerary change .

Related: Everything you need to know about cruising during hurricane season

Costs can mount quickly when things go wrong

Even if the cruise line does provide a full or partial refund or cruise credit for an itinerary change or some other interruption, travelers could have to swallow the cost of other travel elements not purchased through the line. That could include nonrefundable flights , prepaid resort or hotel nights, nonrefundable tour fees and more.

Travel insurance can cover those, plus help with flight delays or cancellations, baggage loss or theft.

If a winter storm causes you to miss your flight to where the ship is boarding , "travel insurance could help you get to the next port to join the cruise, so you don't miss your entire trip," Page said.

In fact, 13% of "billing reasons" for claims to Allianz are for common carrier delays (such as a flight delay), while weather and natural disaster-related claims account for about 3%.

The government probably won't bail you out

While cruise ships have medical facilities, they're usually not equipped to treat serious illnesses. If you experience a serious medical problem on a vessel, you may have to get off the ship in a foreign port to seek treatment at a hospital. In such a case, if you don't have medical evacuation insurance, you may then find yourself stranded in that port awaiting a medical evacuation.

Don't expect Uncle Sam to step in and help foot the bill.

The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs clearly states the importance of buying travel insurance.

"The U.S. government does not provide medical insurance for U.S. citizens overseas," the bureau says on the website. "We do not pay medical bills. You should purchase insurance before you travel."

You may need more assistance than you think

If you're injured or become severely ill during a cruise, especially in a foreign country, it may be difficult to access help without the assistance of trained professionals that comes with many insurance plans.

Many travel insurance companies provide around-the-clock assistance with locating overseas clinics and pharmacies, getting to a doctor or hospital, refilling lost or depleted prescriptions, assisting with up-front payments to hospitals, and arranging flight changes so you can get home.

Travel insurance companies also can arrange for an air ambulance, a nurse escort, oxygen and a lie-flat seat on a flight home if your medical condition warrants it.

You want to be careful if you have preexisting conditions

When you cruise, it's important to be fully covered, which means having comprehensive medical coverage that includes any preexisting conditions. Otherwise, if you head into a doctor's office overseas, have any tests completed, or visit an urgent care center or emergency room, you might not be covered.

Here, timing is extremely important. Cruisers seeking coverage of preexisting conditions, as well as cancel for any reason insurance, generally must book within seven to 21 days of the first payment they make for a trip. The timing varies by insurer.

Bottom line

Cruise insurance isn't for every traveler — or even for every sailing. It's not inexpensive. However, it can bring a lot of peace of mind if you're about to head out to sea. Do your homework, compare plans and always assess the risks.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Do You Get Compensation For Missed Cruise Ports?

I have been on 50 cruises to date and would say that around 10 have had an itinerary change.

I’ve had itinerary changes both prior to the cruise and during the cruise itself, for a variety of reasons.

During this post, we will discuss why this happens, and how you may be able to get compensation.

No, as a general rule, you don’t get compensation from the cruise line if a port has to be missed.

Cruise lines have it written into their terms and conditions that they reserve the right to change the itinerary at any time.

There are some situations however, in which you may receive some compensation. Factors that are taken into consideration are:

• The reason for the cancellation
• How long before you sail it was cancelled
• How much of the cruise was cancelled
• How much the itinerary you booked has been changed.

Below is a section of Princess Cruises passenger contract:

After departure, Princess does not guarantee that the ship will call at every port on the itinerary or follow every part of the advertised route or schedule or that every part of the Package will be provided. Princess reserves the absolute right to decide whether or not to omit any such port(s) and/or to call at additional ports and/or to change the advertised route, schedule or Package. Princess Cruises Terms and Conditions

Does Your Travel Insurance Provide Compensation If Your Cruise Has Itinerary Changes?

In some cases, you are able to claim on your travel insurance if a port is missed.

If you have bought a cruise travel insurance policy which specifically includes “Missed Port Cover” then you are entitled to make a claim if ports are missed.

It is important to always make sure you buy travel insurance that specifically includes cruise cover.

If you have travel insurance coverage as a perk of your bank account, make sure it covers cruises! Most don’t, but you can add on extra cover by paying an additional fee.

I always take out cruise travel insurance to make sure that I am covered in the event of a medical emergency, cancellation or lost luggage – but the missed port cover is an added bonus too!

You don’t have to include missed port cover when purchasing cruise cover.

Claiming Compensation From Your Travel Insurance

In order to claim compensation from travel insurance, you will need to have something in writing from the cruise line explaining that the port was cancelled and the reasons why.

You can go to the ship’s Reception and ask for a letter to give to your insurance company.

Many other people on your cruise will be making the same request, and the cruise line will produce a standard letter on headed notepaper and deliver it to your cabin.

Some travel insurance policies will only pay out in certain circumstances, it is important to read the terms and conditions of your particular policy to find out exactly what is covered.

My family and I have claimed on our travel insurance a number of times for missing a port.

The last time I claimed was when a scheduled stop at Ajaccio, Corsica was cancelled on our Azamara cruise.

The Captain was predicting twelve-foot high seas on the journey back from Corsica. Avoiding that area altogether was something I was very happy to do – as I do suffer sometimes from seasickness.

We simply asked reception for a letter confirming that we had missed the port, and we were able to claim £100 (around $130) per person in compensation. This more than covered the cost of the annual insurance policy we had taken out!

The Captain of Azamara Onward arranged for us to dock in Genoa instead, where the weather was much better.

I didn’t feel my cruise had been spoilt in any way by the itinerary being changed, and it was a bonus getting some money back on the travel insurance!

Why would a cruise itinerary change?

There are a number of reasons why a cruise itinerary could change. These can either happen before a cruise or during the cruise itself.

Cruise itinerary changes could be made with just a few hour’s notice. When I took a Christmas cruise, our scheduled stop at Madeira was cancelled as the Captain tried to dock but found that the strong winds made it unsafe.

The first thing we knew about it was when he made an announcement into the cabins saying we wouldn’t be docking, and would have another “sea day” instead!

Why would a cruise itinerary change prior to a cruise?

Political unrest.

One reason why your cruise itinerary could change is because of political unrest.

I cruised with Cunard in 2016 and we were expecting several stops in Turkey including Istanbul.

These were all replaced with ports on various Greek islands. Cruise lines do have to put the safety of passengers first.

If a port is going to be cancelled/substituted due to political unrest you will usually be told months in advance, unless it is due to an unpredictable event – like a terror attack.

Why would a cruise itinerary change during a cruise?

Bad weather.

The main cause of last-minute itinerary changes is bad weather. This has happened to me on a number of occasions, and although it can be a little annoying, I do understand why it is necessary. Cruise lines may change the itinerary because:

• They need to avoid a storm
• They need to tender into port (smaller tender boats cannot operate in bad weather)
• The rough seas would make for a less-than-ideal onboard experience

Bad weather may mean that a ship has to change port (either for a substitute port or a sea day). It is also possible to have a cruise cut short due to bad weather.

When I sailed on Norwegian Spirit in 2019, the Captain chose to speed up and return to the port of Civitavecchia early to avoid bad weather brewing in the Mediterranean.

Another time, I took a Christmas Cruise from the Uk to the Canary Islands and came across some very bad weather. Instead of visiting Madeira, we had an extra sea day instead.

This was honestly the last thing I needed, as I was feeling very seasick, and was very keen to get my feet back on dry land!

I was able to claim the missed port of Madeira on my travel insurance policy.

Booking mistake

In exceptional circumstances, your itinerary can change completely . It happened to me!

Recently on board an NCL cruise, I booked my next cruise with a travel agent that they had onboard. Their representatives told me that the cruise would be going to the Bahamas and NCL ’s private island.

When I got home and looked on the NCL website I quickly realised that this itinerary didn’t exist for the date and ship that I had booked.

The Norwegian representative had booked me on a cruise visiting Mexico, Honduras and Belize – not The Bahamas – as promised!

This is a very rare occurrence and I would have been entitled to a refund if I wanted one (but I didn’t).

Are Cruise Lines Able to Change the Itinerary Without a Reason?

Yes ! Cruise lines can change the itinerary without a good reason. It is written into their terms and conditions that they are able to change the itinerary as they see fit.

I’ve heard rumours of cruise lines picking different ports which have cheaper taxes.

When cruising in Norway, I have had changes to ports because the cruise line has decided that there are too many cruise ships in the port on a given day.

What you see is not always what you get with cruise itineraries. Please don’t let this put you off cruising. Think of it as a magical mystery tour!

What happens if my cruise is cancelled completely?

If your cruise is cancelled completely you will be issued with a full refund.

You may also be given ‘credit’ to spend on your next cruise with the cruise line.

This really is a last resort and happens very rarely. It is far more likely that the ports of call will be altered.

Very occasionally there may be a problem with the ship, and the ship might have to go into dry dock or need other repairs. This is very disappointing for the passengers but is beyond the cruise line’s control.

In April 2023, passengers expecting to make a transatlantic crossing on Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 were informed on the day of the cruise that it had been cancelled due to “Technical Issues.”

This caused travel chaos for passengers, many of whom were American and expecting to return home to the USA on this iconic ocean liner.

Cunard offered the passengers a full refund and a 20% credit towards another cruise with Cunard. It must have been SO disappointing though!

Can I Get Compensation For Missed Excursions?

If you’ve booked your excursion with the cruise line this will be automatically refunded to you.

Cruise lines do not have to refund you anything for missed excursions booked independently.

If you’ve booked a tour in advance through an independent agent you may lose all your money.

Some “Hop on Hop off” buses offer a full refund guarantee if you cannot use the ticket you booked in advance.

I booked Hop on Hop off tickets for the whole family when we recently visited Lisbon in Portugal. We waited and waited by the bus stop, but no “Hop on Hop off” bus ever arrived!

I was easily able to get a full refund directly from the bus company.

I wouldn’t usually book tours like this in advance, I usually book tours when I get to land. (Unless of course, they have a refund policy that allows you to get a full refund if you don’t make it to that port.)

Before You Go!

It is unusual for cruise itineraries to be changed due to bad weather, and having read this article you may be worrying that you will feel seasick when cruising. I do get motion sick and seasick, but I am rarely ill on a cruise ship.

Find out practical ways of avoiding seasickness, and what you can do to feel better in the article below:

13 Actionable Tips to Prevent and Treat Seasickness on a Cruise

If you do get seasick or have a medical emergency whilst onboard, cruise ships have medical centres, staffed by doctors and nurses. Being treated in the medical centre can be expensive though. Find out all about the medical centres and their charges here:

How Much Does Medical Care Cost on a Cruise? Real Examples (X-Rays, Consultations & More)

It is essential to take out good, cruise-specific travel insurance when booking your cruise! This will cover you for medical cover, lost luggage, cancellations – and some have additional “missed port” cover. Find out why you need insurance and how to get it here:

Cruise Travel Insurance – Why You Need it and How to Get It: (Step by Step Illustrated Guide)

Let Us Help You Book Your Next Cruise

If you are looking at booking your next cruise adventure, my friendly, knowledgeable partner travel agents can help!

If you are not sure which cruise would suit you, they can help you find something that best suits you and your family.

It never costs more than booking directly with the cruise line, you get free, impartial advice, and often a better price or added extras – like onboard credit that you wouldn’t get booking direct.

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Do You Need A Passport To Cruise? (Everything You Need To Know) – Emma Cruises

Thursday 19th of November 2020

[…] Bear in mind that cruise itineraries can and do change frequently. I have another post about why this happens here, including how many times it’s happened to me (lots): Do You Get Compensation For Missed Cruise Ports? Do You Get Compensation For Missed Cruise Ports? […]

HappyTraveller65_12

Tuesday 20th of September 2016

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All Your Questions About Cruise Travel Insurance, Answered

By Elissa Garay

Rarely does real life make its way into our fantasies of a dream vacation : palm trees swaying in the breeze, expertly plated meals served at whim, toes pointed toward the horizon on a sun-soaked day at sea. That vision doesn't factor in missed flights, lost bags, or medical mishaps. But life has a way of getting in the way, even when you’re trying to get away from it all. Add in an unexpected curveball like the coronavirus pandemic (and the disease it causes: COVID-19)—which has effectively wiped out cruising, for the near future, at least—and things get even more complicated.

In most instances, you can buy peace of mind in the form of a well-tailored cruise travel insurance policy, which industry experts say is nearly always a smart bet. Not only does coverage insure your financial investment in the case of a hiccup, but it can also help with access to quality medical care on the road, as well as reimbursement for any unforeseen expenses that may pop up in the face of such scenarios. In this primer on travel insurance for cruises, we break down everything you need to know so you can pick up a policy with ease—and then get back to planning your eventual lounge on the lido deck.

What does cruise travel insurance cover?

“A cruise vacation has so many moving parts, including the sheer number of destinations you visit, flights, and hotels bookings. Things can go wrong after you’ve made that final deposit, and without travel insurance, you’d likely lose that payment,” says Colleen McDaniel, editor-in-chief of cruise review and community site Cruise Critic .

While specific policies vary in their coverage—you’ll need to review the fine print carefully before you buy—most offer recourse for commonly encountered issues like the need to cancel a trip (for approved reasons like your traveling companion falling ill, or the involuntary loss of your job) or trip delays and interruptions. “If you miss your initial embarkation of a cruise due to a flight delay or a weather event, such as a hurricane or winter storm , travel insurance could help cover the costs of you getting to the next port of call, so you can join your cruise,” says James Page, senior vice president and chief administrative officer of AIG Travel, whose subsidiaries sell policies designed to cover cruisers.

Other potential problems might include the airline losing your checked bags , getting pickpocketed in port, the cruise line canceling your sailing due to weather or mechanical issues—or, as we’ve seen of late, due to not being able to run itineraries in areas affected by the coronavirus. While the cruise line would almost certainly pay out a refund in cases of cancellation or major itinerary changes, other prepaid expenses not purchased through the line directly, such as flights or hotel nights, would be on your dime without a qualifying policy in place. “The biggest tip is to make yourself aware of exactly what your plan will cover prior to purchasing,” McDaniel says.

Weather is not covered unless it results in the cancellation of or significant interruption to the cruise. McDaniel says that you won’t get a refund if the scheduled ports visited on a cruise itinerary are changed due to bad weather. “Skipped ports would not be covered by travel insurance,” she says, in cases of inclement weather.

How is the coronavirus affecting travel insurance?

When it comes to coronavirus , it’s important to know that circumstances like epidemics and pandemics are not typically listed as covered events under most standard cancellation policies. Also worth noting: Preemptively canceling a trip out of fear for your health and safety is never part of a standard policy. Accordingly, while some insurers honored claims associated with the onset of the epidemic, almost none are paying out trip cancellation claims for travel or policies booked after late January (with specific cutoff dates ranging between January 21 and January 27, according to travel insurance comparison site Squaremouth). This is owed to the rationale that once the outbreak became a known event, risk is assumed by the would-be travelers who book.

“However, there are now some providers who do not consider contracting the virus as foreseen, even during a global pandemic like the coronavirus outbreak,” says Kasara Barto, public relations manager for Squaremouth. “In this case, trip cancellation benefits can still apply if a traveler contracts the virus or is physically quarantined and unable to travel as planned."

Economic-woe scenarios, like having to cancel if you are laid off from your job, or if a travel supplier should declare bankruptcy, are typically covered under standard plans. Squaremouth notes, however, that coronavirus-prompted impacts like travel bans and border closures are not usually covered by standard policies, nor are cases of cruise lines canceling a scheduled sailing (in which case, the cruise companies themselves would be expected to pick up the tab for reimbursement, or to offer a voucher for future travel).

Because of these exclusions, industry experts advise that a “cancel for any reason” policy upgrade will offer some level of protection even if your reason for canceling is based on fear of travel alone. With this more expensive insurance, you must meet criteria like purchasing your policy within a set time frame (typically within 14 to 21 days of your initial trip deposit) and you must also cancel your trip at least two days in advance of departure.

Keep in mind, too, that down the road, in the post-coronavirus world, industry insiders forecast that new virus-related policy inclusions will become part of standard policies. “Similar to how the September 11 attacks led to terrorism coverage to be offered standard on most travel insurance policies, we anticipate that the COVID-19 pandemic will lead the travel insurance industry to offer more policies that include coverage for pandemics, which may cover things like CDC alerts, travel advisories, and stay-at-home orders,” Barto says.

Insurance and medical incidents

Beyond trip cancellation, medical incidents while traveling present another major need for coverage, since it’s unlikely that your regular health insurance covers such expenses abroad. Most ships have onboard doctors, but visiting them isn’t cheap nor is emergency medical evacuation in the case of more serious illnesses or injuries. “Without [insurance], your out-of-pocket costs could be astronomical,” McDaniel says.

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Page of AIG Travel agrees. “Even a short weekend cruise could turn costly if a traveler has an accident or becomes ill, and requires emergency medical treatment or a medical evacuation from sea,” he says, pointing out that travelers are more prone to injury since they often take risks on vacations—like jet-skiing or hiking on unfamiliar terrain —that they might not take back home. “It’s important to ensure the policy you purchase covers the things you may need, such as pre-existing medical conditions or adventure activities,” Page says.

Specific to the coronavirus, should you contract the virus while cruising, “medical coverage availability will vary per travel insurance provider,” Barto says, noting that a half-dozen insurers were offering such medical coverage as of press time. “While some providers are still providing medical benefits for newly purchased policies, others are only covering medical expenses related to the coronavirus to insureds who bought a policy prior to the outbreak.” Coverage in regards to scenarios like being denied boarding (for registering a fever at port or having recently traveled to a high-risk destination for COVID-19, for instance) or being placed in mandatory quarantines likewise can vary by insurer.

Orlando —based travel agent Kelley Lord is an avid cruiser, with nearly 40 cruises under her belt, and she has taken out a policy for every one of them. It’s proven to be a smart strategy: In 2017 alone, her family had to cancel three separate cruises at the last minute, due to medical issues. “We had a 17-night, port-intensive cruise and Europe trip planned for early June that included expensive flights, prepaid excursions, hotels, and the cruise fare,” she says of one incident. “My husband tore up both of his knees in late May playing kickball at the company picnic and had to have double knee surgery. There was no way we could make the trip.” Thankfully, in that and the other two instances that followed that year, “we filed with our travel insurance and were able to recoup most of the cost of the trip,” she says.

Where to buy cruise travel insurance

While cruise lines usually offer their own insurance policies, experts advise looking instead to an independent, third-party insurer. “Travel insurance policies from independent insurers tend to be more comprehensive than those you might purchase through a cruise line,” McDaniel says. “Cruise line insurance is usually secondary coverage, meaning you’ll first need to file through any private insurance policies [like homeowner’s or renter's] that you have before your travel insurance will kick in. This could mean needing to pay out-of-pocket to start.”

Adds Page: “The advantage of purchasing a comprehensive travel insurance policy through an insurance provider like Travel Guard is that the comprehensive plans may offer additional benefits, such as emergency medical evacuation, which may not be available under protection plans offered through cruise lines.”

In addition, cruise line insurance can be more limited than you might expect. “Travelers who purchase the cruise line’s policy can only insure expenses purchased directly through that cruise line," says Jenna Hummer, former director of public relations for Squaremouth. "Any outside airfare or expenses would be forfeited in the event of a cancellation.”

You can pick up a policy from your travel agent directly through a reputed individual insurance provider (like AIG Travel Guard or Allianz), or via an insurance comparison site that lets you compare plans from various insurers (like Squaremouth or InsureMyTrip).

How much does cruise travel insurance cost?

The cost of a standard policy is calculated as a percentage of your overall vacation expenses—generally anywhere from 5 to 10 percent of your total prepaid, nonrefundable trip cost, according to data provided by Squaremouth. “The premium varies by policy and provider, depending on three primary factors: total trip cost, age of travelers, and length of travel,” Hummer says. “Older travelers taking long, expensive cruises will most likely be paying more for the same policy as a younger traveler taking a cheaper trip.”

According to Squaremouth, “cancel for any reason” benefits will typically increase a policy’s premium by roughly 40 percent over the cost of a standard policy, and will only cover a portion (up to 75 percent) of the total trip cost’s reimbursement.

When to buy cruise travel insurance

Experts say to buy your travel insurance as soon as you’ve booked your cruise —that will give you the biggest window of protection should anything arise before you set sail. Hummer says that coverage for preexisting medical conditions is sometimes available at no additional cost from independent insurers—but only if you purchase that policy within 14 to 30 days of your first trip payment.

Remember that you can’t purchase a policy after an event transpires that leads to a claim (say, after you get into an accident and break your leg), but you can purchase standard insurance plans as late as 24 hours in advance of your scheduled departure. As noted before, "cancel for any reason" policies typically must be purchased within 14 to 21 days of your initial trip deposit.

Though you may never use the insurance you purchase, should an issue pop up, the investment can prove to be of great benefit, both economically and psychologically. Lord says, from experience, “You never know when you will need it, but if you do, you will be so grateful that you have it.”

This story was last published in March 2020. It has been updated with new information.

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• Cruise/Travel Insurance

Insurance for missed ports

By sofietucker , January 13, 2022 in Cruise/Travel Insurance

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sofietucker

This is little known, but check to see if your insurance covers missed ports! Allianz does--which we didn't know for years because our old TA never told us/we never reported it to them. But now our TA asks us, or we remember to report it. We have gotten $100pp back several times when ships had rough seas, etc. and couldn't dock or had to divert. Seems to be every time in December in the Caribbean, lol. Keep this info in your back pocket in case you ever need to file.

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• 2 weeks later...

Some Nationwide policies cover this also, but this coverage is not available for every state.

• 4 months later...

What did you submit for proof of missed port?  We just missed  port due to a landslide hitting the cruise dock the morning we were arriving and I would like to try to file.  

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What does cruise travel insurance cover?

Cruise insurance coverage can be customized, but some add-ons can dramatically increase the cost..

Going on a cruise can cost you a pretty penny, so it makes sense to consider cruise insurance to protect your finances if something goes wrong. When you're shopping for a cruise or travel insurance plan , it's important to understand what types of coverage are available and what is covered by different plans. This can help you find the perfect balance between getting the coverage you need and keeping the price of cruise insurance as low as possible.

Here's what you need to know about what cruise insurance covers, how it works and when your travel credit card insurance applies to going on a cruise.

Cruise insurance guide

What is cruise insurance, what does cruise insurance cover, should you buy insurance for a cruise, does credit card travel insurance cover cruising, bottom line.

Cruise insurance is a specific type of travel insurance you can buy to help cover the costs of expenses caused by covered events, such as trip cancellations, delays or medical emergencies. Many general travel insurance policies also cover cruises.

The cost of a cruise insurance plan depends on the types of coverage and coverage limits that are included. For example, some plans offer cancel-for-any-reason coverage (CFAR) , which is an additional cost but allows you to cancel your trip for any reason and be reimbursed a percentage of the cost. If you prefer to have the flexibility of CFAR coverage, AIG's  Travel Guard Preferred plan is CNBC Select's best cruise insurance plan for CFAR coverage. This option provides coverage up to 48 hours before your originally scheduled departure.

Travel Guard® Travel Insurance

The best way to estimate your costs is to request a quote

Policy highlights

Travel Guard offers a variety of plans to suit travel ranging from road trips to long cruises. For air travelers, Travel Guard can help assist with tracking baggage or covering lost or delayed baggage.

24/7 assistance available

You can usually purchase cruise insurance directly from the cruise line when you book your trip. Alternatively, you can purchase it separately from a third party. In any case, it's always important to shop around to compare not only prices but also what's covered.

Cruise insurance plans offer a range of coverage options, including:

• Trip interruptions or cancellations
• Trip delays
• Delayed or lost baggage
• Travel to and from the cruise
• Pre-existing conditions
• Medical evacuation
• Emergency medical care
• Missed connections
• Job loss cancellation

There are stipulations, coverage limits and deductibles that can apply. For example, if a pre-existing conditions waiver is offered, you'll typically need to purchase it shortly after booking your cruise and paying for the initial deposit(usually within 2-3 weeks).

Insurance plans have exceptions where the coverage won't apply. If you're injured while intoxicated, don't expect your travel insurance to cover your medical expenses or missed travel. Certain high-risk activities may also be specifically excluded from a cruise insurance plan, such as scuba diving or jet skiing. If you plan on participating in an excursion that isn't normally covered, you'll want to take a look at the World Nomads Explorer Plan , which has a list of hundreds of sports and adventure activities that are covered by the plan.

World Nomads Travel Insurance

World Nomads offers travel insurance for all sorts of travelers, from families to solo adventure travelers. Policies are underwritten by Nationwide and offer strong coverage of emergency accident and illness situations, as well as emergency evacuation scenarios.

Cruise insurance normally costs 3% to 8% of the cost of the cruise, but can be higher if you opt for expensive add-ons, such as CFAR coverage. It's important to shop around to ensure you're getting the coverage you need, the right coverage limits for your trip and the best price. Before you purchase a separate cruise insurance plan, make sure your trip isn't already covered by your credit card or any other travel insurance you may have.

Credit card travel insurance usually covers cruise trips and the travel you book to and from your port of call. For your credit card coverage to apply, you'll need to pay for the trip with an eligible card.

Before you whip out your card and use it to book your trip, double-check that it includes travel insurance and be aware that the level of coverage you get with a credit card won't be as robust as what you can get with a dedicated travel or cruise insurance plan.

That said, one of the best cards for cruise bookings is the Chase Sapphire Reserve® . It offers insurance for trip delays, trip cancellation/interruptions, baggage delays, lost baggage, rental cars, emergency medical and dental, emergency evacuation and travel accidents. It also earns Chase Ultimate Rewards points, which are a valuable type of travel reward you can use to book cruises, flights and rental cars.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Earn 5X total points on flights and 10X total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3X points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases plus, 10X points on Lyft rides through March 2025

Welcome bonus

Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

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22.49% - 29.49% variable

Balance transfer fee

5%, minimum $5

Foreign transaction fee

Credit needed.

Terms apply.

Read our Chase Sapphire Reserve® review.

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Cruise insurance can be a relatively inexpensive investment to protect a costly vacation. Depending on the plan, it covers delays, cancellations, emergency medical and more while you're on a cruise or traveling to and from your cruise. Some cruise insurance plans even offer cancel-for-any-reason coverage, which provides the ultimate flexibility when your plans change. With so many options available, it's important to understand what is and isn't covered by each specific cruise insurance policy.

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Does Travel Insurance Cover Cruise Excursions? [Comparisons and Exclusions]

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Table of Contents

The 5 best cruise excursion travel insurance plans, what is cruise excursion travel insurance, is cruise excursion travel insurance worth it, what cruise excursion travel insurance costs, what cruise excursion travel insurance covers, how to get travel insurance for cruise excursions, final thoughts.

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A cruise can take you to exciting destinations with adventurous shore excursions, but no trip is immune to unexpected interruptions. Cancellations, delays, missed port calls, or illness can all interfere with your plans. But cruise excursion travel insurance can help if you experience any of these unfortunate setbacks.

Cruise excursion travel insurance covers nonrefundable excursion costs and more , offering financial protection if you’re unexpectedly unable to complete your planned activities.

This guide highlights some of your cruise excursion travel insurance options, what you should expect to pay for it, common coverages, and how to choose the best policy.

You have many options for cruise travel insurance that covers excursions, but you should customize your coverage based on your needs and planned activities .

Consider these cruise excursion travel insurance plans that offer good value for the coverage provided:

Best Cruise Excursion Travel Insurance for Scuba Excursions: battleface

The battleface Discovery Plan covers trip cancellation, though you can add trip interruption coverage. There’s also hurricane and weather coverage, including common carrier delays, mandatory evacuations, and uninhabitable accommodations.

It offers up to $100,000 in emergency medical as primary coverage with a $0 deductible and up to $500,000 in medical evacuation and repatriation benefits . These benefits extend to excursions, including snorkeling and diving up to 40 meters deep, but deep-sea diving, skydiving, bungee jumping, and other extreme activities are excluded. For a 35-year-old cruising the Bahamas with plans to snorkel and scuba dive, our quote was $36.54 .

Best Cruise Excursion Travel Insurance for Paragliding Excursions: WorldTrips

With the WorldTrips Atlas Journey Preferred plan , you can get covered for trip cancellation and interruption, emergency medical treatment, medical evacuation and repatriation, and more.

With an adventure sports upgrade, some covered activities include bungee jumping, cave diving, kitesurfing, paragliding, surfing, and diving up to 10 meters deep . There’s secondary emergency medical coverage of up to $100,000 with preexisting conditions covered if you purchase your policy shortly after booking.

Medical evacuation and repatriation benefits are $1 million , along with coverage for travel and baggage delays and loss of baggage or personal items. There’s also a missed connection benefit. Our quote for a 25-year-old cruising Cozumel with plans to paraglide came to $67 for full coverage .

Best Cruise Excursion Travel Insurance for Bungee Excursions: Tin Leg

Your cruise and adventurous excursions are covered by the Tin Leg Adventure travel insurance policy. This policy offers trip cancellation and interruption coverage, up to $100,000 in primary medical coverage, and $1 million in medical evacuation coverage.

Although this isn’t a Cancel for Any Reason policy , you can cancel for medical or work reasons to receive full reimbursement. You’re also covered for travel or baggage delays, missed connections, and loss of baggage or personal items. Limited sports and adventure activities are covered, and we confirmed bungee excursions are included in coverage with this policy. We got a quote for a 40-year-old cruising New Zealand with plans to bungee jump that cost $72 .

Best Cruise Excursion Travel Insurance for COVID-19 Coverage: Aegis

If you’re concerned COVID-19 could derail your cruise and excursion plans, it’s a good idea to select a policy with COVID-19 coverage, such as the Aegis Go Ready Choice plan . This travel insurance policy covers trip cancellation and has secondary medical coverage of up to $500,000 with COVID-19 coverage , whether you need to cancel or get medical treatment.

There’s also trip interruption coverage and up to $500,000 in medical evacuation benefits, along with benefits for travel or baggage delay, missed connections, and loss of baggage or personal items. There’s limited coverage for excursions and activities, with extreme sports such as bungee jumping, skydiving, cliff diving, and parasailing excluded from coverage. For a 45-year-old cruising Hawaii, our quote came to $54.22 .

Best Cruise Excursion Travel Insurance for Seniors: Seven Corners

Seniors purchasing cruise excursion travel insurance should expect to pay more than younger cruisers, but quotes and coverage are still reasonable.

The Seven Corners Trip Protection Basic plan offers trip cancellation and interruption coverage with up to $100,000 in secondary medical coverage and $250,000 in medical evacuation benefits.

The policy also covers missed connections, baggage and travel delays, and loss of baggage and personal items. Our quote for a 65-year-old cruising Norway came to $89 .

Cruise excursion travel insurance is travel insurance coverage that includes coverage for activities and tours you’re taking on your cruise . Generally, cruise travel insurance covers trip cancellation and interruption, medical emergencies, and travel support 24/7 , but some activities, such as adventure sports, may not be included. That’s where cruise excursion travel insurance comes in, extending cancellation, interruption, and medical benefits to cover your cruise excursions, too.

If you’re planning pricey, nonrefundable cruise excursions, it’s generally worth insuring them. You could lose your excursion costs if you cannot get a refund for a canceled, delayed, or missed excursion. 

Cruise excursion travel insurance is often worth it for the medical coverage , too. Your regular health insurance may not extend to the location or activities. That means if you’re injured on a cruise excursion, you might not get any help with medical bills — unless you have cruise excursion travel insurance to cover your activities.

Travel Insurance Often Excludes High-Risk Activities

It’s a good idea to get travel insurance. Still, remember that some travel insurance policies cover low-risk activities such as hiking or snorkeling but exclude adventure sports such as diving or ziplining. 

Specific exclusions depend on the insurance policy, but these are some activities that may be excluded from standard travel insurance policies:

• Base jumping
• Bungee jumping
• Martial arts and combat sports
• Motor racing and motorsports
• Mountaineering and rock climbing
• Off-piste skiing and snowboarding
• Paragliding and hang gliding
• Scuba diving and deep-sea diving

You may need to upgrade your plan or add on activities coverage if the excursions you’ve planned aren’t covered by your travel insurance policy.

Credit Card Travel Insurance May Exclude High-Risk Excursions

As with basic travel insurance, you may find your credit card travel insurance lacking coverage for adventurous cruise excursions. Generally, credit card travel protections are limited to basic medical expenses, trip cancellation or interruption, lost baggage, and travel accidents . 

Credit card travel protections often exclude extreme or adventure sports such as diving or ziplining, though you should read the terms and conditions of the benefit to be clear about what is and isn’t covered.

Consider upgrading your travel insurance to include your cruise excursions if you plan to do risky excursions not covered by your credit card travel protection.

Credit card travel insurance may not cover your cruise excursions, so find out the details of coverage and consider paying for travel insurance if your activities aren’t covered.

Cruise excursion travel insurance costs depend on your coverage, activities, and other factors, but you should generally expect to pay about 5% to 10% of your total trip cost for comprehensive travel insurance that covers cruise excursions.

Factors that influence the cost of your cruise excursion travel insurance policy include:

• Destination
• Trip duration
• Traveler age

Cruise excursion travel insurance is generally part of a comprehensive travel insurance policy that includes trip cancellation and interruption, medical emergency, baggage protection, evacuation and repatriation coverage, and more . 

Coverage specific to cruise excursions includes:

• Excursion Cancellations: You may be reimbursed if your scheduled excursion is canceled by the cruise line or tour operator.
• Excursion Delays: You could get compensation for missed time or an alternative activity if your excursion is delayed.
• Medical Emergencies: Your policy may cover medical emergencies that arise during the excursion.
• Missed Port Calls: If you can’t participate in an excursion because your cruise ship didn’t make the port call, you may be reimbursed.

Types of Cruise Excursion Travel Insurance

Getting cruise excursion travel insurance that exclusively covers shore excursions is possible. However, this type of policy isn’t common. Most travelers find it more cost-effective and helpful to choose a comprehensive travel insurance policy that covers general cruise travel and cruise excursions.

What To Look For in a Cruise Excursion Travel Insurance Policy

As you consider cruise excursion travel insurance policies, you should shop around and get quotes from multiple companies. Consider these factors as you compare your options for cruise excursion travel insurance:

• Add-Ons: Optional coverage, such as Cancel for Any Reason coverage, can expand your protection.
• Cost: Consider each policy’s overall cost compared to its coverage value.
• Coverage for Your Excursions: Read the policy’s terms and exclusions to ensure your specific excursions or activities are included in the coverage. For example, exclusions may include adventure sports, diving, parasailing, and ziplining, though you may have the option to select coverage for these activities.
• Coverage Limits and Deductibles: Compare each policy’s coverage limits and deductibles to ensure they align with the cost of your excursions and planned travel.
• Exclusions: Understand what’s specifically excluded in the policy by reading the terms and conditions that stipulate situations and circumstances that aren’t covered.
• Extensive Coverage: Look for a policy that offers coverage for excursion cancellations, interruptions, delays, missed port calls, medical care, and 24/7 assistance services.
• Provider Reputation: Read reviews to learn about the provider’s customer service, claims process, and other insights into what working with the insurance company is like.

To get cruise excursion coverage, you’ll need to do 2 things:

• Include the cost of your cruise excursions in your total trip cost when you get travel insurance quotes.
• Ensure you select a travel insurance policy that covers cruises and the activities you plan to do , such as adventure sports.

Start by researching and choosing a comprehensive travel insurance policy covering cruises and the specific excursions you’ve planned. Calculate your total trip cost, including all nonrefundable prepaid expenses, such as your cruise fare and excursions. Then, review the policy details, including the terms and conditions, to confirm whether your cruise excursions are covered, specifically looking at exclusions and limitations of the policy.

Once you’ve found a policy that meets your needs, purchase it and retain your documentation, including policy details, coverage, and contact information to get help on your trip if needed.

Cruise excursion travel insurance can be a valuable addition to your cruise plans, protecting you from nonrefundable excursion costs and offering medical coverage for activities. As you shop for travel insurance for cruise excursions, ensure you include the cost of your excursions in quotes and confirm that the policy covers all of your planned activities so your entire cruise is covered onshore and off.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my health insurance cover me on a cruise.

Cruise health insurance coverage depends on your health insurance provider and where you’re cruising. Before you set sail, check with your health insurance company to confirm your coverage and any limitations. You may be able to add a cruise supplement if your health insurance doesn’t cover cruises.

Are cruises covered under travel insurance?

Yes, cruises are generally covered by comprehensive travel insurance plans. These plans cover your travel to and from the port, the cruise, and beyond, with trip cancellation and interruption coverage, medical emergency coverage, and coverage for lost luggage, evacuations, and more. You should confirm with the insurer that your policy covers missed port calls and other cruise-related incidents. If you want to cover cruise excursions, be sure to include the cost of excursions in your total trip cost and confirm that your planned activities aren’t excluded from coverage.

What is cruise coverage on travel insurance?

Cruise coverage on travel insurance is specific to cruises, such as missed port calls or onboard medical emergencies.

Is travel insurance worth it for a cruise?

Cruise travel insurance is generally worth the cost. Cruise lines tend to be unforgiving with cancellation policies, so trip cancellation coverage can come in handy. And if you experience an illness or accident on your cruise, travel insurance can help you get and pay for the medical care you need. Covering your excursions makes sense, too, if your excursion costs are nonrefundable.

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About Jessica Merritt

A long-time points and miles student, Jessica is the former Personal Finance Managing Editor at U.S. News and World Report and is passionate about helping consumers fund their travels for as little cash as possible.

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Book One of These Types of Cruises That Aren't Ocean Liners

Becky Hart | Jun 4, 2024

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Regular cruisers know how it works. You make your way to Miami or Barcelona and join the throngs of other travelers aboard a massive ocean liner. Over the course of the next few days or weeks, you move from one port to the next, see the tourist hotspots, indulge in decadent meals, maybe play a game of pickleball on deck.

But what if you want more than the average cruise ? If you’re looking for something different, these lesser-known types of cruises will give you a fresh outlook on sailing.

Repositioning Cruises

Perhaps the closest on our list to a typical ocean cruise is the repositioning cruise. If you have the extra time and think the best thing about sailing is the days at sea, this could be for you.

What is a repositioning cruise?

This usually happens at the end or beginning of the season as the cruise line moves the ship toward warmer weather. The sailings are longer — usually two weeks or more — and they’re one-way journeys.

A repositioning cruise usually follows a transatlantic route. Don’t expect a typical itinerary, though. Most of your days will be filled with on-ship activities rather than exploring at ports. This is a big positive for some cruisers; it gives you more time to relax, unwind, and spend quality time with family.

While the cruise line will do everything it can to make your trip incredible, the company's ultimate goal really is to get the ship from Point A to Point B.

Transatlantic repositioning cruise

These routes are typically between Europe and the U.S., following either a northern route or southern route. They vary by cruise line and where that company’s ports of embarkation are.

Common transatlantic repositioning cruises go from Florida to Europe (Portugal, Spain, or France, for example) and vice versa. The usual ports of call on these routes include Bermuda and other points in the Caribbean.

Alternatively, you could find a repositioning cruise between Europe and New York. These sometimes make stops at less common ports farther north like Greenland.

Transpacific repositioning cruise

You might need to block off a month on your calendar for a transpacific repositioning cruise, but you won’t regret the time spent on board. One common route takes you between Australia and Hawaii, visiting ports in New Zealand or Polynesian islands like Tahiti along the way.

You’ll often find transpacific repositioning cruises between Japan and the U.S. West Coast as well.

U.S. West Coast repositioning cruise

Less common although possibly more accessible to travelers who don’t have several weeks to dedicate to a single vacation is an Alaskan repositioning cruise.

These tend to be just a few days with an itinerary that takes you between Southern California and Vancouver (heading north toward Alaska in the spring and south toward warmer weather in the fall).

Expedition Cruises

An expedition cruise is more about the destination and less about just cruising. If you’re someone who thinks lounging on the deck and stuffing yourself at the buffet is a boring way to spend a vacation, you might consider an expedition cruise.

Ships are smaller and outfitted to take passengers to more remote places. You’ll have highly trained guides at your disposal, helping you on kayaking excursions or hiking through mountains at a port of call.

Some consider this type of cruise the answer for those who want to sail in luxury but with more adventure.

Alaska expedition cruises

Itineraries for the Inside Passage might take you to see glaciers and whales, through hidden coves, and deep into national park land.

Other routes might keep you more along the coast where you have more towns to explore. These often focus on Native Alaskan culture and heritage, while also giving you a chance to meander through fjords full of wildlife.

Yet another option is a one-way cruise starting in Alaska and ending in Japan. Your itinerary is filled with natural wonders and national parks on either end, and in between are several days at sea where you can take advantage of activities like naturalist talks and photography workshops, or relax on your own.

Because you’re so far north for these trips, the season for an expedition cruise in Alaska is somewhat short. Aim to go in the spring or early summer. The weather is warmest — and sunniest — in July and August. This is peak travel season for Alaska, but your smaller expedition ship might be able to get you away from the worst of the crowds.

The biggest player in expedition cruises, especially in this region, is Linblad Expeditions . The cruise line has combined with National Geographic to offer memorable adventures off the main tourist path.

Antarctica expedition cruises

Antarctica is another popular expedition cruise destination for many of the same reasons they’re popular in Alaska. You can get in amongst glaciers and over terrain that’s not easily accessible over land.

Antarctic expedition cruises might be combined with other locales like Patagonia or the Falkland Islands. Not surprisingly, these routes are all about frozen landscapes and wildlife you’re unlikely to find anywhere else. Think penguins, whales, and seals in their natural habitat.

It’s important (at least for us) to note that many travel insurance plans do not cover you in Antarctica. So while this is an exceptional destination, it does come with higher risk than many other locations. Consider that in your plans.

Pacific islands expedition cruises

Not all expedition cruises are cold. One on our bucket list takes you to the Pacific islands like French Polynesia, Samoa, and Fiji.

These routes typically include multiple island groups. You’ll snorkel, visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites that protect the cultural heritage of the islands, and enjoy all things marine.

European River Cruises

Many companies have updated their offerings, adding themed cruises and land excursions to appeal to younger passengers as well as combining itineraries to create longer journeys that allow travelers to see more on a single sailing.

With these updated offerings, you have more opportunity to experience Europe on a low-key cruise, letting others handle the travel logistics while you enjoy a home away from home aboard a ship.

River cruise ships are smaller than ocean liners, often accommodating 100 to 300 passengers. They tend to be about 400 feet long, give or take a few depending on the cruise line, which is about the length of an American football field. They’re also much narrower.

The compactness of a river cruise ship allows it to navigate smaller waterways and make its way through locks that ocean liners can’t even begin to attempt.

Whereas amenities such as a spa or fitness facility are a given on ocean liners, you can’t make the same assumption on a river cruise ship. Your river cruise ship will have restaurants, but perhaps only one or two compared to multiple on large ships.

While there are slightly fewer options, the tradeoff is that you can visit different locales and do it amongst fewer crowds.

Viking River Cruises

One of pros of taking a river cruise with Viking is its many itineraries throughout Europe. In addition to popular French routes on the Seine or Central European sailings on the Danube, you’ll also find itineraries that include Switzerland, Portugal, and more.

If you want to combine your river cruise with an ocean cruise , you can do that, too. This incredible two-week trip takes you from Switzerland and north through Germany and the Netherlands until you reach the North Sea. From there, you continue on your northward route toward Scandinavia.

Viking is hardly the only river cruise line out there. It does set a high standard for other companies, but you’ll also pay for that high standard. If you’re traveling on a budget, keep an eye out for special deals, as that’s probably your best bet for saving money on a Viking River Cruise.

Seine River cruises

If you’re less particular about the cruise line and want a classic river cruise destination, look no farther than the Seine. Running through Paris , a cruise on the Seine River shows off some of the highlights of the City of Light.

This is one of the more crowded itineraries for a river cruise, but only because it’s popular. And for good reason. You get all the benefits of a river cruise with excursions to the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Champs-Élysées, and more iconic sites.

If you’re looking for a river cruise in France but want to get away from the busy capital, try Burgundy and Provence (especially if you love wine) or one of many Rhine river cruises.

Danube River cruises

At 2,000 miles, the Danube is one of the longest rivers in Europe, so cruises along this waterway take many forms. Some of the best Danube river cruises include Budapest. The Hungarian city is steeped in history that’s on display through its architecture, food, and museums.

Also on many Danube itineraries are the Black Forest in Germany, where the river begins, Vienna, and Prague. In between visiting these metropolitan gems, you can take in plenty of natural scenic beauty along the riverbanks.

U.S. River Cruises

With our love of driving and the ease of flying, Americans often forget that rivers used to be a main mode of transportation. Our massive network of rivers gives us a wide range of cruising options and a different perspective from which to see the U.S.

What is the best river cruise in the USA?

U.S. cruise lines know how to do a themed trip, and some of the best river cruises in the USA cater to specific interests. You’ll find bourbon cruises on the Mississippi River, music cruises to Nashville , culinary cruises around New Orleans, and wine cruises in Napa Valley.

Other lines focus on the character of the location. Cruises in Martha’s Vineyard and the Northeast showcase postcard-worthy scenes of lighthouses and plates full of lobster. Itineraries throughout the Midwest highlight the region’s history where early settlers explored.

The best cruise is one that piques your own interests.

Mississippi River cruises

The Mississippi River is the second-longest in the U.S. (it’s true; the Missouri River is a teensy bit longer), but it’s also the most famous.

Most Mississippi River cruises explore only a portion of the river, either the upper or the lower. Upper Mississippi itineraries typically run between Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Memphis, Tennessee. You’ll find several departures in St. Louis, too.

Stops on these routes include historic towns filled with legends of pioneer days. Don’t be surprised if there’s a port of call at Hannibal, Missouri, too. It’s the hometown of Mark Twain after all.

Lower Mississippi river cruise routes typically run between Memphis and New Orleans. These really double down on Southern culture. Itineraries tend to focus on food — po'boys, soul food, beignets — Black history, Civil War battlefields, and music.

Hudson River cruises

Combine your dreams of cruising with leaf peeping by taking a cruise on the Hudson River in the fall. It’s typically an out-and-back route, sailing between New York City or New Jersey and upstate New York.

You’ll travel through the Hudson River Valley by West Point, home of the U.S. Military Academy; Hyde Park, once the residence of Franklin D. Roosevelt; and further north toward Albany. It’s an area not only renowned for its natural beauty, but also as the seat of countless industrialists, politicians, and others on the list of who’s who for shaping our nation.

For a fall foliage cruise, book your trip for September or October (although some cruise lines run as late as November). Just remember that it’s hard to predict exactly when the leaves will be at their brightest. Even if you miss peak season, you’re sure to enjoy a beautiful journey.

Barge Cruises

Don’t let this fool you into thinking they’re dull, though. Because of the barge’s slower speeds, you have more opportunity to hop on and hop off. While your barge is going through one lock — and depending on where you’re cruising, there could be a lot of them — you can go on shore, walk around, and even ride a bike to the next lock where you’ll meet up with your vessel again.

Whereas a typical ocean liner is usually described as a “floating city,” barge cruises are more of a “floating hotel.” They’re smaller, allowing them to fit through narrow waterways. That means there are also fewer people aboard, sometimes as few as four passengers and rarely more than 30. All of this might appeal to you if you aren’t a fan of crowds, either on the ship or on shore.

Luxury barging

You’ll still get fine dining, including buffets, which is always a perk of taking a cruise. One of the upsides of a luxury barge compared to a more traditional river cruise, however, is that more meals are taken on shore. This gives you the opportunity to sample local cuisine at the source.

What you won’t find are some of the entertainment and amenities common on large ships. Some barges might have laundry service, but that tends to be the exception rather than the rule. You also won’t find water parks, bowling alleys, and large theaters.

Rather than extravagant floor shows, you’re more likely to be entertained by intimate gatherings about the local culture, wine and cheese tastings from local businesses, and daytime excursions to remote villages.

You’ll have a dedicated crew on board with cruise directors and cabin stewards. You might even find that there are as many crew members as there are passengers, giving you personalized service.

Who should take a barge cruise?

Because of their small size, barge cruises are a unique way to travel with a family or small group and make it feel like a private or charter cruise. Imagine booking a six-passenger luxury barge cruise with a few friends for the week. Or maybe you’re part of a couples group looking for an easy, relaxing getaway together.

Barge cruises may also be ideal for someone who doesn’t want to feel trapped by crowds and the overrun ports visited by typical cruises.

Barge cruises in France

Yes, you can take a river cruise on the Seine. Or you can get away from Paris and explore France’s other rivers and canals. Passengers often say a French barge cruise is the perfect way to see the countryside at a leisurely pace.

Barge cruises in France can take you to regions most famous for their scenic countryside. This includes places like Burgundy, the Loire Valley, and Canal du Midi. Or head to the Champagne region or Alsace and Lorraine instead.

Being in the French countryside puts you in a prime location for exploring chateaux, visiting vineyards and sampling local wines, discovering cheeses you’ve never heard of, and cycling along canals where the towpath was carved by livestock during an earlier era.

Barge cruises in Europe

France doesn’t have a monopoly on luxury barging. Scotland has some stunning routes through lochs and mountains. The Netherlands , known for its canals, is another great option.

Although less common, you’ll find some barge cruise itineraries in Italy and Germany as well.

Travel Insurance for Cruises

These types of cruises might be unique, but you still need to protect your trip just like any other vacation. Seven Corners Cruise Insurance covers medical and trip expenses, whether you’re on a repositioning cruise on the Pacific Ocean or drifting along a Dutch canal on a luxury barge.

Our cruise insurance includes protection for trip cancellation, interruption, and delay as well as missed tour or cruise connection benefits. It can also pay your medical expenses if you get sick or hurt during your trip, something your domestic health insurance typically won’t do when you’re abroad.

Get a quick quote for Seven Corners Cruise Insurance or talk to one of our licensed agents about protecting your unique getaway.

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• Cruise/Travel Insurance

Insurance for missed ports

By sofietucker , January 13, 2022 in Cruise/Travel Insurance

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sofietucker

This is little known, but check to see if your insurance covers missed ports! Allianz does--which we didn't know for years because our old TA never told us/we never reported it to them. But now our TA asks us, or we remember to report it. We have gotten $100pp back several times when ships had rough seas, etc. and couldn't dock or had to divert. Seems to be every time in December in the Caribbean, lol. Keep this info in your back pocket in case you ever need to file.

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• 2 weeks later...

Some Nationwide policies cover this also, but this coverage is not available for every state.

• 4 months later...

What did you submit for proof of missed port?  We just missed  port due to a landslide hitting the cruise dock the morning we were arriving and I would like to try to file.  

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Do You Need A Passport For A Cruise - A Detailed Guide

• For cruises that stay in U.S. waters (closed-loop) and for U.S. citizens, you might not need a passport. But there are exceptions.
• Open loop cruises that start in one place and end in another (different ports) or visit any foreign countries legally require you to carry a passport.
• It's advisable to bring your passport anyway. It's the safest option and prevents any last-minute surprises.
• Protect your self with cruise travel insurance from unexpected events (like lost passports) that may disrupt your cruise.

Ever wondered if you need a passport for a cruise? It's a common question, and the answer can be confusing. Some people say you never need one, while others tell stories about trouble they had without a passport. So, what's the real deal?

The truth is, it depends on the kind of cruise you're taking and where it goes. U.S. citizens might not need a passport for certain cruises, but it's always best to bring it anyway. Any time you're leaving the country, a passport is a good idea.

Maybe you forgot to renew your passport, or maybe you don't have one at all. Or maybe you're already on your way to the cruise and just realized your passport is at home. If you're wondering if you can just wing it without a passport and how, keep reading.

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When a Passport Is Required

Open-loop cruises are the ones that start at one U.S. port but end at a different one, or they may depart from a foreign port itself. So, if your cruise itinerary takes you beyond the familiar shores of the U.S., a valid passport becomes your essential travel companion.

Immigration officials often come onboard cruise ships to stamp your passport upon embarkation (departure) and disembarkation (arrival) to verify your identity and ensure you have permission to be in the country.

In fact, some cruise lines might hold your passport for safekeeping during the voyage, or specific segments, to streamline the immigration process when visiting multiple countries. While not the standard procedure, it's a common practice to be aware of.

Shore Excursions & Connecting Flights: Beyond the ship, many ports of call on open-loop cruises might require passport checks for shore excursions. Additionally, when departing from outside the U.S., you might need to take a connecting flight to reach your embarkation port. Air travel itself necessitates a passport for international travelers, making it a crucial document for such cruises.

When a Passport Might Not Be Required (U.S. Citizens Only)

A closed-loop cruise is one that departs from and returns to the same U.S. port, even if it makes stops at foreign ports along the way. This is possible because of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) , which allows U.S. citizens to travel between the United States and some select countries by sea with alternative identification.

Here are some popular closed-loop cruise destinations for U.S. citizens where you might be allowed to travel without a passport:

• Canada & New England (some ports)
• Caribbean (except a few islands)
• Mexican Riviera
• Hawaii (Closed loop from Honolulu)

Alternatives to a Passport

Here are some WHTI-approved alternatives you can use for identification in place of a passport.

Passport Card : This credit card-sized document serves as a more cost-effective alternative to a traditional passport. It is specifically designed for land and sea travel and is perfect for those who don't frequently travel internationally by air.

Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) : Many states have rolled out EDLs; these are like upgraded driver's licenses with enhanced security features. If your state issues EDLs and your cruise line accepts them, they can be a convenient option for your domestic cruise journey.

Native American Indian Card : Alternatively, Native American Tribes can use the Form I-872 American Indian Card or Enhanced Tribal Card. These cards are similar in form to a U.S. passport card to verify the enrollment and U.S. citizenship status of the card holder.

Birth certificate or naturalization certificate : Some cruise lines may accept these documents along with a government-issued photo ID (such as a driver's license), especially for closed-loop cruises. It is important to note here that the birth certificate must be issued by a government authority and include the full name, date of birth, and place of birth of the traveler.

However, packing your passport is still the safest option. It's the most secure form of identification and simplifies re-entry into the U.S. in case of unexpected situations.  

Why a Passport is Still Recommended (Even for Closed-Loop Cruises)

While WHTI alternatives offer convenience for closed-loop cruises, there are compelling reasons why having a valid passport remains the most intelligent choice:

Cruise Line Policy Variations

Some closed-loop cruises may allow alternatives to a passport for U.S. citizens, while others may have stricter policies. Many closed-loop cruises require their passengers to present a passport for embarkation regardless of the itinerary. It is advised to check directly with your cruise line for any such specific policies.

Port of Call Requirements

Even if technically a closed-loop cruise, the itinerary that stops at some Caribbean islands like Barbados, Guadeloupe, Haiti, Martinique, St. Barts, and Trinidad & Tobago might require a passport for disembarkation at these destinations. These islands have their own immigration policies and consider themselves an independent destination. Ensure you have the necessary documentation for each port of call.

Unexpected Situations Where a Passport Could Be Crucial

Here are some unforeseen circumstances where having a passport proves invaluable:

It could happen that while you are walking on a beautiful beach on a port of call, you lose track of time and miss your ship. You may need to fly to the next port of call. A passport is a universally accepted form of travel document. It’s your safety net for smoother re-entry into the U.S. or obtaining necessary travel documents if needed.

If you are a spontaneous type and want to ditch your current closed-loop cruise for a last-minute incredible international cruise opportunity along the way, having a valid passport may come in handy.

While hopefully unlikely, a medical situation arises that requires you to be rushed to a hospital in a foreign port, like Grenada. The attending physician advises returning to the U.S. for further treatment, but... you left your passport behind. Without your passport, you might face delays or complications in arranging your flight back home.

For the most up-to-date answer to “do you need a passport for a cruise?”, please visit the U.S. Department of State website or check with your cruise line.

Lost Your Passport on a Cruise? Here's What to Do

Losing your passport on a cruise can be stressful, but there are steps you can take to reduce the disruption. Here's what to do if your passport goes missing:

1. Report to Ship Security : The first step must be to immediately contact the security or guest services desk on the cruise ship to report the loss. The cruise line can help you contact the local authorities and attempt to locate your passport.

2. Contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate : Since you're likely outside the United States, locate the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in the port your ship is scheduled to dock next. Carry relevant documents like a copy of your passport, a state-issued ID, or your birth certificate, along with a couple of passport-size photos to facilitate the processing.

3. Apply for a Replacement Passport : Explain your situation to the U.S. embassy or consulate. They can usually issue you a replacement passport or an Emergency Travel Document (ETD).

Pro Tip: Consider cruise travel insurance with baggage loss and delay coverage . This can be helpful if your passport is inside a lost carry-on. Travel interruption or missed connection coverage can also be valuable if a lost passport keeps you stuck at the airport. Specific coverage, like CFAR (cancel for any reason), can be even more helpful.

Disclosure: Always read the terms and conditions to understand what is covered and what is not covered by your travel insurance policy. This will help you make an informed decision that best suits your travel needs.

Important Reminders

Your passport is your ticket to adventure. Here are some key tips to make sure your trip goes smoothly:

• Validity: Your passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months after your cruise ends. Make sure you have enough blank pages left for entry stamps at each port.
• Renewal : Check how long it takes to renew your passport well in advance to avoid any last-minute surprises. Don't forget to factor in processing time.
• Non-U.S. Citizens & Minors : If you're not a U.S. citizen or traveling with a minor, there might be different passport requirements. Be sure to check with your cruise line or the embassy/consulate of the places you're visiting to find out what documents you'll need.

Now, pack your bags, grab your passport (and maybe a photocopy for safekeeping), and get ready to set sail for an unforgettable adventure.

1. Do I need a passport for a cruise if I am a permanent resident of the United States but not a citizen?

U.S. citizens might be able to use a passport card or even an enhanced driver's license for some cruises. However, green card holders usually need a regular passport for any international travel, including cruises.

2. Do you need a passport for a cruise to the Bahamas?

Not necessarily for a closed-loop cruise (one that starts and ends at the same U.S. port) if you're a U.S. citizen. You might be able to use other documents like a passport card, but check with your cruise line first. But here’s a thing: it's highly advised to have a passport anyway. If an unexpected situation arises and you need to fly back from the Bahamas, a passport would be essential.

3. Can I use a passport from a different country for a cruise departing from the United States?

You can definitely use your passport from another country for a cruise leaving from the U.S.. As long as the passport itself is valid, that part's good to go. The bigger thing is whether you have visas for any countries your cruise visits. Also, it's always a good idea to double-check with the cruise line itself to see if they have any special requirements for travel documents.

4. At what age do you need a passport for a cruise?

For cruises that start and end at the same U.S. port (closed-loop cruises), kids under 16 usually don't need a passport. They can just bring their birth certificate (original or copy). But for anyone 16 or older, including adults, a birth certificate and a government photo ID are both required.

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He fell ill on a cruise. Before he boarded the rescue boat, they handed him the bill.

By Bram Sable-Smith

Updated on: May 27, 2024 / 9:41 AM EDT / KFF Health News

Vincent Wasney and his fiancée, Sarah Eberlein, had never visited the ocean. They'd never even been on a plane. But when they bought their first home in Saginaw, Michigan, in 2018, their real estate agent gifted them tickets for a Royal Caribbean cruise.

After two years of delays due to the coronavirus pandemic, they set sail in December 2022.

The couple chose a cruise destined for the Bahamas in part because it included a trip to CocoCay, a private island accessible to Royal Caribbean passengers that featured a water park, balloon rides and an excursion swimming with pigs.

It was on that day on CocoCay when Wasney, 31, started feeling off, he said.

The next morning, as the couple made plans in their cabin for the last full day of the trip, Wasney made a pained noise. Eberlein saw him having a seizure in bed, with blood coming out of his mouth from biting his tongue. She opened their door to find help and happened upon another guest, who roused his wife, an emergency room physician.

Wasney was able to climb into a wheelchair brought by the ship's medical crew to take him down to the medical facility, where he was given anticonvulsants and fluids and monitored before being released.

Wasney had had seizures in the past, starting about 10 years ago, but it had been a while since his last one. Imaging back then showed no tumors, and doctors concluded he was likely epileptic, he said. He took medicine initially, but after two years without another seizure, he said, his doctors took him off the medicine to avoid liver damage.

Wasney had a second seizure on the ship a few hours later, back in his cabin. This time he stopped breathing, and Eberlein remembered his lips being so purple, they almost looked black. Again, she ran to find help but, in her haste, locked herself out. By the time the ship's medical team got into the cabin, Wasney was breathing again but had broken blood vessels along his chest and neck that he later said resembled tiger stripes.

Wasney was in the ship's medical center when he had a third seizure — a grand mal, which typically causes a loss of consciousness and violent muscle contractions. By then, the ship was close enough to port that Wasney could be evacuated by rescue boat. He was put on a stretcher to be lowered by ropes off the side of the ship, with Eberlein climbing down a rope ladder to join him.

But before they disembarked, the bill came.

The Patient: Vincent Wasney, 31, who was uninsured at the time.

Medical Services: General and enhanced observation, a blood test, anticonvulsant medicine, and a fee for services performed outside the medical facility.

Service Provider: Independence of the Seas Medical Center, the on-ship medical facility on the cruise ship operated by Royal Caribbean International .

Total Bill: $2,500.22.

What Gives: As part of Royal Caribbean's guest terms , cruise passengers "agree to pay in full" all expenses incurred on board by the end of the cruise, including those related to medical care. In addition, Royal Caribbean does not accept "land-based" health insurance plans.

Wasney said he was surprised to learn that, along with other charges like wireless internet, Royal Caribbean required he pay his medical bills before exiting the ship — even though he was being evacuated urgently.

"Are we being held hostage at this point?" Eberlein remembered asking. "Because, obviously, if he's had three seizures in 10 hours, it's an issue."

Wasney said he has little memory of being on the ship after his first seizure — seizures often leave victims groggy and disoriented for a few hours afterward.

But he certainly remembers being shown a bill, the bulk of which was the $2,500.22 in medical charges, while waiting for the rescue boat.

Still groggy, Wasney recalled saying he couldn't afford that and a cruise employee responding: "How much can you pay?"

They drained their bank accounts, including money saved for their next house payment, and maxed out Wasney's credit card but were still about $1,000 short, he said.

Ultimately, they were allowed to leave the ship. He later learned his card was overdrafted to cover the shortfall, he said. Once on land, in Florida, Wasney was taken by ambulance to the emergency room at Broward Health Medical Center in Fort Lauderdale, where he incurred thousands of dollars more in medical expenses.

He still isn't entirely sure what caused the seizures.

On the ship he was told it could have been extreme dehydration — and he said he does remember being extra thirsty on CocoCay. He also has mused whether trying escargot for the first time the night before could have played a role. Eberlein's mother is convinced the episode was connected to swimming with pigs, he said. And not to be discounted, Eberlein accidentally broke a pocket mirror three days before their trip.

Wasney, who works in a stone shop, was uninsured when they set sail. He said that one month before they embarked on their voyage, he finally felt he could afford the health plan offered through his employer and signed up, but the plan didn't start until January 2023, after their return.

They also lacked travel insurance. As inexperienced travelers, Wasney said, they thought it was for lost luggage and canceled trips, not unexpected medical expenses. And because the cruise was a gift, they were never prompted to buy coverage, which often happens when tickets are purchased.

The Resolution: Wasney said the couple returned to Saginaw with essentially no money in their bank account, several thousand dollars of medical debt, and no idea how they would cover their mortgage payment. Because he was uninsured at the time of the cruise, Wasney did not try to collect reimbursement for the cruise bill from his new health plan when his coverage began weeks later.

The couple set up payment plans to cover the medical bills for Wasney's care after leaving the ship: one each with two doctors he saw at Broward Health, who billed separately from the hospital, and one with the ambulance company. He also made payments on a bill with Broward Health itself. Those plans do not charge interest.

But Broward Health said Wasney missed two payments to the hospital, and that bill was ultimately sent to collections.

In a statement, Broward Health spokesperson Nina Levine said Wasney's bill was reduced by 73% because he was uninsured.

"We do everything in our power to provide the best care with the least financial impact, but also cannot stress enough the importance of taking advantage of private and Affordable Care Act health insurance plans, as well as travel insurance, to lower risks associated with unplanned medical issues," she said.

The couple was able to make their house payment with $2,690 they raised through a GoFundMe campaign that Wasney set up. Wasney said a lot of that help came from family as well as friends he met playing disc golf, a sport he picked up during the pandemic.

"A bunch of people came through for us," Wasney said, still moved to tears by the generosity. "But there's still the hospital bill."

The Takeaway: Billing practices differ by cruise line, but Joe Scott , chair of the cruise ship medicine section of the American College of Emergency Physicians, said medical charges are typically added to a cruise passenger's onboard account, which must be paid before leaving the ship. Individuals can then submit receipts to their insurers for possible reimbursement.

He recommended that those planning to take a cruise purchase travel insurance that specifically covers their trips. "This will facilitate reimbursement if they do incur charges and potentially cover a costly medical evacuation if needed," Scott said.

Royal Caribbean suggests that passengers who receive onboard care submit their paid bills to their health insurer for possible reimbursement. Many health plans do not cover medical services received on cruise ships, however. Medicare will sometimes cover medically necessary health care services on cruise ships, but not if the ship is more than six hours away from a U.S. port.

Travel insurance can be designed to address lots of out-of-town mishaps , like lost baggage or even transportation and lodging for a loved one to visit if a traveler is hospitalized.

Travel medical insurance, as well as plans that offer "emergency evacuation and repatriation," are two types that can specifically assist with medical emergencies. Such plans can be purchased individually. Credit cards may offer travel medical insurance among their benefits, as well.

But travel insurance plans come with limitations. For instance, they may not cover care associated with preexisting conditions or what the plans consider "risky" activities, such as rock climbing. Some plans also require that travelers file first with their primary health insurance before seeking reimbursement from travel insurance.

As with other insurance, be sure to read the fine print and understand how reimbursement works.

Wasney said that's what they plan to do before their next Royal Caribbean cruise. They'd like to go back to the Bahamas on basically the same trip, he said — there's a lot about CocoCay they didn't get to explore.

Bill of the Month is a crowdsourced investigation by KFF Health News and NPR that dissects and explains medical bills. 

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