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Cruise Insurance: Why You Need It + 4 Best Options for 2024

Seven Corners »

Travelex Insurance Services »

AXA Assistance USA »

Berkshire hathaway travel protection ».

Why Trust Us

U.S. News evaluates ratings, data and scores of more than 50 travel insurance companies from comparison websites like TravelInsurance.com, Squaremouth and InsureMyTrip, plus renowned credit rating agency AM Best, in addition to reviews and recommendations from top travel industry sources and consumers to determine the Best Cruise Insurance Plans.

Table of Contents

• Seven Corners
• Travelex Insurance Services

Cruise vacations come with the same considerations as any other trip, including the potential for trip cancellations, trip interruptions, unforeseen medical expenses and even a need for emergency medical evacuation. Add in the potential for unruly weather during hurricane season , and it's easy to see why cruise insurance plans are so popular and recommended.

Read on to find out which cruise travel insurance plans U.S. News recommends and how they can protect the investment you made in a cruise when something goes wrong.

Frequently Asked Questions:

All cruise insurance plans are unique, and some have different coverages than others. However, most travel insurance plans for cruises cover the following:

• Trip delays, interruptions and cancellations: This kind of coverage is essential any time of the year, but especially during hurricane season when storms can impact your travel plans. 
• Protection for medical emergencies: This type of coverage can help pay for unexpected medical bills if you're injured on board the ship or hurt during a shore excursion. You can also choose a cruise insurance plan that covers emergency medical evacuation from the ship or to the nearest hospital.
• Coverage for lost or delayed baggage: Coverage for baggage is important for cruises just like any other trip. This type of insurance can pay for essential items you need to buy if your bags are lost or stolen and don't make it on the ship. 

With each of these protections, a coverage limit is listed with your plan. This means you may get reimbursed for your losses or prepaid travel expenses up to this limit, but only when a covered reason applies to your claim.

One of the main reasons to buy cruise insurance is for medical emergencies. Note that, once you're on a cruise ship or visiting a destination outside the United States, your own U.S. health insurance plan will not apply. The same truth applies if you have government health coverage like Medicare.

You can purchase cruise insurance through your cruise line, but these plans are often very basic with low limits for medical expenses and other coverages. For example, cruise line travel insurance policies often come with just $25,000 in coverage for emergency medical expenses and up to $50,000 in coverage for emergency medical evacuation, which may not be enough.

Fortunately, you can buy cruise insurance from any travel insurance provider when planning this type of trip. By buying coverage from an independent travel insurance provider instead of your cruise line, you get to select the exact coverages and limits you need for the best protection possible.

• Seven Corners: Best Overall
• Travelex Insurance Services: Best for Families
• AXA Assistance USA: Best for Medical Emergencies
• Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection: Best Cost

Plan is cruise-specific

Get coverage for missed cruise connections and tours

Medical expense coverage is secondary if you opt for lower-tier Basic plan

• Up to 150% in reimbursement for trip interruption
• Up to $250 per person, per day in trip delay coverage ($2,000 maximum)
• Up to $250 per day in missed tour or cruise connection coverage ($1,500 maximum)
• Primary emergency medical expense coverage worth up to $500,000
• Medical evacuation and repatriation of remains coverage worth up to $1 million
• Political and security evacuation coverage worth up to $20,000
• Up to $2,500 in protection for baggage and personal effects (limit per item of $250)
• Up to $100 per day ($500 maximum) in coverage for baggage delays of six hours or more

Travel Select plan offers coverage with pricing for kids included

Customize your plan with additional medical coverage, adventure sports coverage and more

Only $1,000 in coverage for baggage and personal effects

$200 maximum coverage for baggage delays

• Trip cancellation coverage worth up to 100% of total trip cost (maximum $50,000)
• Trip interruption coverage worth up to 150% of trip cost (maximum $75,000)
• $2,000 in trip delay coverage for a delay of at least five hours ($250 per day)
• $750 in coverage for missed connections (delay of at least three hours required)
• Emergency medical expense coverage worth up to $50,000 (dental emergency sublimit of $500 included)
• Emergency medical evacuation coverage worth up to $500,000
• $1,000 in protection for baggage and personal effects
• Up to $200 in coverage for baggage delays (at least 12-hour delay required)
• Travel assistance services

Provides comprehensive coverage for all aspects of cruising

High policy limits for medical expenses and emergency evacuation

Does not offer cruise-specific travel insurance

• Trip cancellation coverage up to 100%
• Trip interruption protection up to 150%
• $1,250 in travel delay coverage ($300 per day)
• $1,500 in protection for missed connections
• Emergency accident and sickness coverage up to $250,000
• Emergency medical evacuation coverage up to $1 million
• Nonmedical emergency evacuation coverage up to $100,000
• $50,000 in accidental death and dismemberment coverage
• Baggage and personal item coverage up to $3,000
• Baggage delay coverage worth up to $600

Comes with enhanced medical and luggage benefits, protections for cruise ship disablement, and more

Cruise delay coverage kicks in after five hours

Baggage delay coverage is only for $200 and doesn't kick in for 24 hours

No option to purchase CFAR coverage

• Up to $75,000 in protection for emergency medical care
• Emergency evacuation and repatriation of remains coverage worth up to $750,000
• Cruise cancellation coverage for 100% of trip cost up to $25,000 per person
• Cruise interruption coverage for 150% of trip cost up to $37,500 per person
• Cruise delay coverage worth up to $1,000 ($200 per day for delays of five hours or more)
• Missed connection coverage worth up to $500 (for delay of three hours or more)
• Cruise ship disablement coverage worth up to $500
• Up to $1,500 in coverage for baggage and personal effects

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer who has covered international travel, travel insurance and cruises for more than a decade. Johnson has researched and compared all the top travel insurance options for her own family for trips to more than 50 countries, some of which have included cruises all over the world. Johnson lives in Indiana with her two children and her husband, Greg – a travel agent who has been licensed to sell travel insurance in 50 states.

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Here are the 5 best cruise insurance plans

Cruise insurance can cover many situations, but you need to shop around to find the best coverage..

A cruise is an ideal vacation for anyone who likes the all-inclusive concept , where you pay one price and have just about everything taken care of, from accommodations to meals and activities. But they also aren't always cheap and a lot of things can go wrong. You could have a flight delay that causes you to miss your departure or be unable to sail because of a sickness. In these situations, cruise insurance can reimburse you for prepaid and non-refundable expenses.

CNBC Select analyzed 19 cruise insurance companies and selected the best plans for various situations. (See  our methodology  for more information on how we chose the best cruise insurance plans.)

Best cruise insurance

• Best overall: Nationwide Travel Insurance
• Best for affordable coverage : AXA Travel Insurance
• Best for adventure excursions: World Nomads
• Best for pre-existing conditions: Seven Corners Travel Insurance
• Best for cancel-for-any-reason coverage: Travel Guard Travel Insurance

Best overall

Nationwide travel insurance.

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

Policy highlights

Nationwide's wide coverage for travel insurance allows many different types of travelers to find coverage that fits their needs. Three levels of cruise insurance coverage gives extra options to cruise passengers.

24/7 assistance available

• 10-day review period on cruise insurance policies to make sure the plan meets your needs (not available in NY or WA)
• Most basic cruise plan doesn't offer CFAR coverage

Who’s this for? Nationwide is a top choice for many travelers due to its variety of cruise-specific coverage. The insurer offers three three tiers of cruise insurance, but its standard Universal Cruise Plan should meet many needs.

Standout benefit: Nationwide's cruise-specific plans can cover things like emergency accidents, sicknesses, itinerary changes, mechanical breakdowns and other trip interruptions or on-ship disruptions. The company also offers a 10-day review period on its cruise policies (not available in NY or WA), giving you extra time to look over the policy and ensure it’s a good fit. 

[ Jump to more details ]

Best for affordable coverage

Axa assistance usa travel insurance.

AXA Assistance USA offers several travel insurance policies that include travel interruption, trip cancellation, and the option of cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage.

• Three tiers of plans available
• Highly rated for financial strength
• Cancel for any reason only available on highest-tier coverage

Who’s this for? Budget-conscious cruisers should consider AXA . In our research, AXA's Silver Plan stood out as the top budget plan for its mix of affordable premiums and essential coverage. CNBC Select also named AXA one of the best overall travel insurance providers .

Standout benefit: AXA's Silver Plan includes the standard coverage you need to protect yourself from delays and cancellations, as well as employment layoff coverage. This benefit reimburses you for prepaid and nonrefundable travel costs if you cancel because of involuntary layoff or you are terminated from your job. You only need to have been at your current employer for one continuous year to qualify, which is generous compared to other plans that require at least three continuous years of employment for this coverage — if it's even included at all.

Best for adventure excursions

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.

• Affordable coverage for many travelers
• Coverage for adventure activities like scuba diving, bungee jumping and more
• Lower trip cancellation limits than other travel insurance we reviewed

Who’s this for? World Nomads offers insurance underwritten by Nationwide , geared specifically toward thrill-seekers. The World Nomads Explorer Plan covers over 200 adventure activities and sports. With this plan, you can take part in just about any excursion without fear of negating your coverage .

Standout benefit: The World Nomads Explorer Plan covers baggage and personal items for loss, theft or damage for up to $3,000 and $1,500 per item. Sporting equipment is included in this coverage, so you can bring your golf clubs along on your cruise without worry.

Best for pre-existing conditions

Seven corners travel insurance.

Policies provide missed and delayed tour/cruise connection coverage. Cancel for any reason coverage and pre-existing conditions waiver are also available if you buy your plan within the specified time. ***CFAR and IFAR are subject to certain eligibility criteria and are not available in all states

• High coverage limits available
• Offers group insurance (10+ people)
• Covers Covid-19 illness
• Pre-existing conditions waiver not available for the Economy plan
• Cancel for any reason not available for the Economy plan

Who’s this for? Seven Corners offers a standard Trip Protection Economy plan and a more premium Trip Protection Elite plan. The Seven Corners Trip Protection Elite plan stands out for offering generous coverage limits and an add-on option for cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage, which both pair well with its pre-existing conditions waiver.

Standout benefit: This plan's pre-existing conditions waiver for medical coverage applies to plans purchased within 20 days of booking and paying your initial trip deposit. That's a generous window compared to some plans which can require you to purchase insurance within seven to 14 days. If you don't purchase your coverage within the waiver window, this plan only considers conditions existing within the previous 60 days, whereas other plans may look back up to 120 days.

Best for cancel for any reason coverage 

Travel guard® travel insurance.

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.

• A variety of plans are available to help cover different types of trips
• Not all products are available for purchase online

Who’s this for? AIG's Travel Guard Preferred plan comes with a wide range of coverages and a variety of useful add-ons for an extra fee such as pet coverage , wedding coverage and cancel for any reason coverage (CFAR).

Standout benefit: The optional CFAR insurance for this plan begins at 12:01 a.m. on the day after you pay for coverage and ends two days before departure (or when the travel is canceled). This benefit reimburses up to 50% of the trip cost (up to $25,000 maximum), which includes reimbursement for:

• 50% of change fees
• 50% of cancellation penalties for unused travel
• 50% of award travel redeposit fees

More on our top cruise insurance plans 

Nationwide universal cruise plan.

Nationwide's standard Universal Cruise Plan will be more than sufficient for many cruisers. It offers strong coverage for many different scenarios, but if you're seeking higher levels of coverage or are taking a long cruise, you can opt for the Choice Cruise Plan, or the Luxury Cruise Plan, which offers the highest level of benefits.

Trip cancellation and interruption

The full trip cost (100%) is covered for both cancellations and interruptions. This includes canceling because of a Covid-19 illness .

Covered delays of six hours or more (or at least three hours for missed connections) are eligible for reimbursement of:

• Up to $500 per day
• $500 maximum

Medical coverage and evacuation and repatriation

• $75,000 in emergency accident and sickness coverage
• $250,000 in evacuation and repatriation coverage
• $750 in emergency dental treatment coverage

Pre-existing conditions

No coverage for pre-existing conditions that fall within 60 days of your policy's start date.

Notable perks

All of Nationwide's cruise plans, including the Universal Cruise Plan, include cancel for work reason coverage, meaning you may be covered if you need to cancel because of work-related issues, as well as coverage for extension of the school operating session. The Universal Cruise Plan also provides coverage for delayed and lost baggage, which begins to kick in after delays of eight hours or more, as well as coverage for trip delays of three hours or more for missed connections or other trip delays of six hours or more. You can also get reimbursed if your trip is canceled or interrupted because of terrorism (foreign or domestic) or financial default of the travel provider (14-day waiting period applies). Itinerary changes that cause you to miss a pre-paid excursion are covered by up to $250.

[ Return to summary ]

AXA Silver Plan

AXA offers three insurance plans, with the Silver Plan being the most affordable. The Gold Plan has most of the same types of coverage with higher reimbursement limits. Meanwhile, the Platinum Plan is for anyone who prefers premium benefits, such as cancel-for-any-reason coverage.

The full trip cost (100%) is covered for both cancellations and interruptions. This includes canceling because of a Covid-19 illness.

After a 12-hour delay or more, you're eligible for:

• Up to $100 per day
• Primary medical coverage of $25,000 per (covers Covid-19)
• Evacuation and repatriation coverage of $100,000 per person

No coverage for pre-existing conditions that fall within this policy's 60-day look-back period.

AXA's Silver Plan comes with coverage for delayed and lost baggage, including $200 per person for covered delays of 24 hours or more and $750 per person ($150 per item) for lost baggage and items. You can also get reimbursed if your trip is canceled or interrupted because of terrorism (foreign only) or financial default of the travel provider (10-day waiting period applies). If a hurricane or bad weather causes your travel provider to cease services for at least 48 hours, you can be reimbursed for up to the full trip cancellation/interruption coverage. Notably, you must purchase the coverage before a storm is named.

World Nomads Explorer Plan

The Explorer Plan is World Nomads' premium travel insurance plan and covers a longer list of activities than the Standard Plan. You can review the list of covered activities here and decide if the more affordable Standard Plan works for you.

Covered up to the trip cost with a $10,000 maximum.

Covered delays of six hours or more are eligible for reimbursement of:

• Up to $250 per day
• $3,000 maximum
• $100,000 in emergency accident and sickness coverage
• $500,000 in evacuation and repatriation coverage

No coverage for pre-existing conditions that fall within 90 days of your policy's start date.

This plan includes $35,000 in rental car damage coverage (where it's valid) due to collision, theft or a natural disaster. And an accidental death and dismemberment benefit of $10,000. When your baggage is delayed for more than 12 hours, you can be reimbursed up to $150 a day ($750 maximum) for any necessary personal items you purchase.

Seven Corners Trip Protection Elite

The Seven Corners Trip Protection Elite plan has generous coverage limits for evacuation and repatriation and accident and sickness. Seven Corners Travel Insurance plans also cover Covid-related illnesses.

Trip cancellations are covered for 100% of the trip cost and interruptions are covered for 150% of the trip cost.

Trip delays of six hours or more can qualify for reimbursement of:

• Up to $300 per day
• $1,500 maximum
• $250,000 in emergency accident and sickness coverage
• $1,000,000 in evacuation and repatriation coverage
• $750 in emergency dental coverage

Pre-existing conditions are covered if you purchase coverage within 20 days of making your initial trip deposit. If you don't qualify for the pre-existing conditions waiver, there is no emergency medical coverage for conditions existing within 60 days of your policy's start date.

This plan covers baggage delays of more than 12 hours for up to $600 and covers lost, damaged or stolen bags or personal items for up to $300 per item ($2,500 maximum). It also has missed cruise connection coverage of $150 per day for accommodations and meals ($1,500 maximum).

AIG Travel Guard Preferred

The CFAR coverage is available as an upgrade on Travel Guard's Preferred and Deluxe plans. If you don't need this optional upgrade, you could save money on your premium with Travel Guard's Essential plan.

Trip cancellations are covered for 100% of the trip cost (up to a max of $150,000) and trip interruptions are covered for 150% of the trip cost (up to a max of $225,000).

Trip delays of five hours or more can qualify for reimbursement of:

• Up to $200 per day
• $800 maximum
• $50,000 in emergency medical coverage
• $500 in emergency dental coverage

A pre-existing conditions waiver applies when you purchase coverage within 15 days of the initial trip deposit.

With this plan, you'll have coverage for lost, stolen or damaged baggage or travel documents for up to $1,000. You also receive baggage delay reimbursement for delays of more than 12 hours with a coverage limit of up to $250 per day ($300 maximum). If you miss a connection, you can be reimbursed up to $1,000 for unused prepaid or nonrefundable travel you missed and transportation expenses to rejoin your trip.

When should I buy insurance for a cruise?

It's usually best to purchase cruise insurance shortly after booking. This lets you take advantage of the protections sooner and qualify for certain benefits such as pre-existing condition waivers.

Is there a difference between travel insurance and cruise insurance?

Travel insurance typically covers cruises and other types of travel, whereas cruise insurance is designed to specifically protect you while cruising or getting to your cruise.

Does cruise insurance cover missed ports?

Cruise insurance may cover missed connections, but it's important to read your policy before you purchase it. Each policy has different limits on how much you'll be reimbursed and what exactly you'll be reimbursed for.

Bottom line

Cruise insurance plans protect you in all sorts of situations when something goes wrong while you're cruising. You can be covered for emergency medical expenses, trip delays, trip cancellations or interruptions and more. Shop around and compare providers to find the best cruise insurance policy for you.

Money matters — so make the most of it. Get expert tips, strategies, news and everything else you need to maximize your money, right to your inbox.  Sign up here .

Why trust CNBC Select?

At CNBC Select, our mission is to provide our readers with high-quality service journalism and comprehensive consumer advice so they can make informed decisions with their money. Every cruise insurance   review is based on rigorous reporting by our team of expert writers and editors with extensive knowledge of travel insurance   products .  While CNBC Select earns a commission from affiliate partners on many offers and links, we create all our content without input from our commercial team or any outside third parties, and we pride ourselves on our journalistic standards and ethics. See  our methodology  for more information on how we choose the best cruise insurance plans.

Our methodology 

To determine the best cruise insurance plans,  CNBC Select  analyzed the offerings of 19 insurance companies and compared them based on various factors. These included the maximum coverage limits, optional coverages, types of coverage, premiums and what the policies cover. We also considered financial strength ratings from AM Best and Better Business Bureau ratings for customer satisfaction.

We based premium costs on a sample cruise with the following details (when applicable):

• 40-year-old male
• Living in New York, New York
• Sailing for seven days in April
• Total trip cost: $2,800
• Destination: Mexico
• Flying to the port of departure

Sample quotes assumed that payments were made on the date of quoting.

Note that the premiums and policy structures advertised for cruise insurance companies are subject to fluctuate in accordance with the company's policies.

Catch up on CNBC Select’s in-depth coverage of credit cards , banking and money , and follow us on TikTok , Facebook , Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date.

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The 5 best cruise travel insurance plans

While smooth sailing will always be the aim, cruising today is often about expecting the unexpected. You can prepare yourself by taking out an insurance policy that can compensate you when your vacation at sea does not go as planned.

Need to cancel your trip last minute due to an accident or illness? Did your bags get delayed or lost? Do you need to exit the sailing early to take care of an emergency back home? Was there a mechanical issue with the ship that required a change of itinerary, causing you to miss your flight home?

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

All of these contingencies and more can be covered; it's just a matter of finding the best insurance policy for you. Here's how to evaluate which plan is the right choice for you, as well as five of the best cruise travel insurance plans available.

The best cruise travel insurance plan will always be a 3rd-party option

No plan will meet the needs of all cruise travelers, so there is little benefit to booking the one insurance option recommended by your cruise line during the booking process other than convenience.

You'll often find more affordable rates, comprehensive coverage and favorable terms utilizing third-party insurance companies. You'll have a wide choice of plans, so you can pick the one that works the best for your situation.

If you're wondering where the best place is to purchase third-party insurance, "No one comparison site is getting preferential deals," says Stan Sandberg, co-founder of TravelInsurance.com . "Insurance carriers' rates are the same anywhere." However, these insurance comparison sites can help you directly compare the pricing and coverage of multiple policies by a range of preferred providers.

Look for the following coverage options and compare coverage amounts to determine which third-party plan is the best cruise insurance option for your upcoming trip.

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

Trip cancellation

You'll want to be reimbursed if an unexpected event forces you to cancel your cruise. Be sure to read the fine print of your policy, detailing which specific reasons for canceling your trip are covered and not covered.

Trip interruption and travel delays

You'll also want to be covered if issues occur after travel begins. It's important to find "a plan that offers trip interruption if something does happen during your trip, along with a plan that offers emergency medical evacuation, coverage for travel delays and missed connection benefits," adds insurance expert Meghan Walch from InsureMyTrip .

Related: What happens if you miss your cruise

COVID-19 contingencies

Walch advises all travelers booking a cruise to consider a plan that includes cancellation coverage for COVID-19. Note that you'll need more than a home test to file a claim. According to Walch, "You'll need a doctor saying that you have been diagnosed with COVID and specify that you are unable to travel."

In addition, look for coverage if you get sick and need to isolate away from home. "Some plans offer additional trip delay coverage, put in place as a result of needing additional or higher limits for instances that might include if the policyholder gets quarantined in a location," Sandberg adds.

Cancel for any reason

A cancel-for-any-reason optional upgrade offers the most flexibility. You can get a refund of up to 75% if you cancel your voyage for reasons not usually covered by travel insurance. However, it adds about 40% to your premium and can only be purchased within a limited window of time after your cruise purchase.

Related: What happens if my cruise line changes my itinerary or ship?

Lost or delayed baggage

Baggage loss insurance covers your luggage if it is lost, damaged or stolen during your trip. In the case that you make it on the cruise and your bags do not, the insurance agency can assist with locating and redirecting the bags to your next port, reimbursing you for items you may need to purchase to get you through your travels while you are without your belongings and covering your losses in the case that the bag is actually gone for good.

Note that certain high-cost items such as electronics, luxury watches and fine jewelry are not always covered by baggage loss insurance. Consider purchasing additional coverage for such items or — better yet — keep those items with you at all times.

Health coverage

Medical coverage is another consideration. "Most domestic health coverage [including Medicare] does not cover travel abroad, so it is important to look at a travel insurance policy that offers medical coverage during your trip, just in case anything happens," says Walch. "If you fall ill or are injured during the trip, it can be pretty expensive – even when going to the ship's onboard medical facility."

Related: How to avoid getting sick on a cruise

Hurricane coverage

Extreme weather and hurricanes are typically not covered if the cruise commences as scheduled, though you might be eligible for trip interruption coverage if weather cancels the cruise or cuts the itinerary short. There are also insurance plans that offer trip reimbursement if a destination on your itinerary is under a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration-issued hurricane alert or warning.

How much will cruise travel insurance cost?

Insurance pricing is dependent on the trip cost and the age of the insured travelers. Sandberg estimates that "travelers in their 30s or 40s can ballpark insurance coverage somewhere around 5% to 7% of the trip costs, with rates that can get lower depending on the extent of coverage."

Insurance is a tiered product that gets more expensive as you age. "As you get older, that range can expand to 10% of trip costs," notes Sandberg. "Adding bells and whistles, like 'cancel for any reason' [coverage], rates can rise to 11% to 12% of the cost of your trip."

Related: How cruising newbies waste money on their 1st cruise

5 best cruise travel insurance plans

Following extensive research scouring the fine print, we've selected five of the best cruise insurance plans that will appeal to a variety of seagoing travelers.

All five plans provide coverage for COVID-19-related trip cancellation and interruption.

For the leisure cruiser: TravelSafe Classic Plan

TravelSafe's Classic Plan is the best value all-around for the average cruiser, with superior coverage limits at a fair rate.

This plan's coverage includes an impressive $1 million per person for medical evacuation and a high $2,500 coverage limit for bag loss. You have extra time – 21 days – from your initial deposit to add a cancel-for-any-reason upgrade to your plan. The accident and sickness medical coverage is primary, with coverage up to $100,000.

The policy's $750-maximum trip delay coverage begins after a six-hour delay and includes kennel fees for up to $100 per day, along with coverage for additional meal and accommodation expenses.

For the budget conscious: AXA's Silver Plan

AXA's Silver Plan is the company's entry-level offering, with more value added than most budget insurance options — most notably the company's concierge service. Coverage under this plan includes robust trip cancellation and interruption coverage, both at 100% of the costs, along with $100,000 for emergency medical evacuation.

The plan also offers identity theft assistance in case your wallet or passport gets stolen while traveling, assisting with filing and obtaining police and credit reports, taking inventory of lost or stolen items, and even wiring emergency funds to you when you're really in a bind.

You won't have the option to purchase a cancel-for-any-reason add-on or opt in for a collision damage waiver on this lowest-tier plan.

For the luxury cruise traveler: John Hancock's Gold Plan

John Hancock's Gold Plan offers robust medical evacuation and repatriation coverage up to $1 million per person, ideal for those luxury cruises that rove to the farthest reaches of the globe. The plan has excellent baggage loss coverage at up to $2,500 per person, along with a low three-hour minimum travel delay ($1,000 per person, $200 daily limit) benefit.

Preexisting medical conditions are covered by this policy, though you must purchase your policy within 14 days of your trip deposit.

For increased medical coverage: Seven Corners' RoundTrip Choice Plan

Seven Corners' RoundTrip Choice Plan offers primary medical coverage for emergency accident and sickness medical expenses up to $500,000, while many other plans only offer secondary coverage. The plan's medical evacuation coverage is high at $1 million, and preexisting conditions are covered with a few conditions that apply, namely that you purchase the policy within 20 days of your initial trip payment.

The policy also offers detailed, robust COVID-19 coverage, including reimbursement for medical care if you contract COVID-19 while traveling. Its coverage also includes meals, local transportation and lodging if you're delayed six or more consecutive hours due to quarantining with COVID-19.

Coverage options on the plan may vary slightly depending on which U.S. state you claim as your residence.

For the adventurous cruiser: World Nomads' Explorer Plan

World Nomads is one of the few insurance companies that will cover more than 200 adventure activities on your travels, including scuba diving, skydiving and bungee jumping. The coverage for the long list of activities includes emergency medical expenses while outside the U.S., medical evacuation and repatriation, along with trip interruption.

World Nomads' Explorer Plan also offers $25,000 in coverage for nonmedical emergency evacuation for covered events, such as a natural disaster or political or security situations.

Travelers 70 and older are required to add a "Silver Nomads" policy, offered through TripAssure.

Bottom line

Cruising isn't always a blissful week spent relaxing on the pool deck or snorkeling among multicolored reefs. Mishaps occur, whether it's losing luggage, missing a flight or falling ill.

The best cruise insurance policies are the ones that won't let you sail without a safety net, charging a fraction of your trip expenses in exchange for the peace of mind that there's a plan in place should something go wrong. With a range of pricing and coverage options available, you can feel confident that you can find a policy to suit your travel needs.

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We want this to be the best vacation of your life. And, to make sure you have the most carefree vacation possible, we offer CruiseCare®. CruiseCare® is an optional travel protection add-on to your cruise booking that’s available through Celebrity for US residents in all states except New York 1 . For New York residents who wish to purchase the product, please visit  https://travelcruisecare.com.

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Why Travel Protection?

Cancellation penalty waiver program   – non-insurance features provided by celebrity cruises.

Allows you to cancel and waives the normally non-refundable cancellation charges if you need to cancel for specified reasons. In addition, CruiseCare® Cancel For Any Reason Cruise Vacation Enhancement makes sure that in the event you choose to cancel for a reason not eligible under the plan, at any time up until departure, Celebrity will provide you with a cruise credit equal to 90% of the non-refundable value of your cruise vacation prepaid to Celebrity, for your use towards a future cruise (excluding Flights by Celebrity).

Trip Interruption & Trip Delay 2

Provides coverage if you can’t start or finish your cruise vacation because you’re sick or hurt, there’s a death in the family, or for another covered reason. For Trip Delays, the plan reimburses up to $2,000 for covered out-of-pocket expenses to catch up to your cruise. For trip interruption the plan covers up to 150% of your total trip cost.

Baggage and Bag Delay Protection 2

If your baggage or personal property is lost, stolen, or damaged, the plan covers up to $1,500. If your bags are delayed or misdirected for more than 24 hours, the plan reimburses up to $2,000 for the purchase of necessary personal items due to a covered delay. 

Medical Expense, Evacuation & Repatriation Benefits 2

Should you become injured or sick during your vacation, the plan reimburses for covered medical expenses for up to one year from the date of your accident or illness. It is important to evaluate your current insurance to ensure that you have adequate medical coverage while you are traveling. Depending on your plan, Medicare and other health insurance providers may not cover expenses incurred outside of the US. Coverage is up to $25,000 for Accident or Sickness Medical Expenses, up to $50,000 for Emergency Evacuation and up to $25,000 for Repatriation.

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Provides 24-hour travel assistance, medical assistance and emergency services, such as: pre-trip health, safety, and weather information, assistance with travel changes, lost luggage assistance, emergency cash transfer assistance, medical consultation, emergency legal, medical and dental assistance and more.

Need to file a claim?

Claims may be filed through Aon Affinity for guests who purchased Celebrity’s CruiseCare® plan. 1  A claim may be filed online at  www.aontravelclaim.com . To view terms, conditions and exclusions, visit:  https://www.archinsurancesolutions.com/coverage/Celebrity .

1 This Celebrity CruiseCare® plan is an optional travel protection add-on to your cruise booking and is available through Celebrity for residents in all states except New York. New York state residents who are interested in travel protection may contact Aon Affinity by visiting https://travelcruisecare.com or calling Aon Affinity at 1-800 797-4516. If added, CruiseCare® is not effective until the plan cost has been paid. Plan cost is not automatically included as part of your initial cruise deposit.

2  Travel Insurance benefits are administered by Aon Affinity and underwritten by Arch Insurance Company, with administrative offices in Jersey City, NJ (NAIC #11150) under Policy Form series LPT 2013 and applicable amendatory endorsements. This is a brief overview of the coverages. Subject to terms, conditions, and exclusions. This is a general overview of travel insurance benefits available. Coverages may vary in certain states and not all benefits are available in all jurisdictions. Please refer to your certificate of benefits or policy of insurance for detailed terms, conditions and exclusions that apply.

This program was designed and is administered by Aon Affinity. Aon Affinity is the brand name for the brokerage and program administration operations of Affinity Insurance Services, Inc. (TX 13695); (AR 100106022); In CA & MN, AIS Affinity Insurance Agency Inc. (CA 0795465); in OK, AIS Affinity Insurance Services Inc.; in CA, Aon Affinity Insurance Services Inc. (CA 0G94493), Aon Direct Insurance Administrations and Berkely Insurance Agency and in NY, AIS Affinity Insurance Agency.

3  Worldwide Emergency Assistance are emergency travel assistance provided by CareFree Travel Assistance TM . CEL_12162022

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Should I Buy Cruise Insurance? Complete Guide to Coverage

A step-by-step guide to cruise insurance, what it covers, and if you need it..

Note:   Cruzely.com nor the author is an insurance professional. Be sure to review any policy and ask your insurance company any questions you might have.

We are an affiliate of InsureMyTrip, linked below. We receive a small commission if you buy travel insurance through the links included in this article, at no cost to you.

Most people don’t like to think about the bad things that can happen when you are on vacation. But the truth is that accidents, cancellations, theft and other mishaps can occur, even while you’re on your dream trip. For example:

• You get sick after eating the local food, leading to two days in the hospital.
• You get pickpocketed in a crowded market, and the thief takes your passport.
• You miss a connecting flight, meaning you have to unexpectedly pay full price for a hotel room until you can reach your destination.

The list is endless of what could happen. But they all share one major theme. They can ruin your vacation and potentially cost you hundreds — if not thousands — of dollars. These mishaps can be compounded when you are on a cruise. With a cruise ship’s tight schedule, any delays could cause you to miss the boat. Of course, that means having to purchase lodging, transportation, meals, and more while you try to make arrangements to get back home.

Worst yet, medical emergencies aboard a cruise can rack up serious bills. What happens if a major illness hits while the ship is in the middle of the ocean? While cruise ships do have doctors to administer first aid, the expenses of emergency transport for serious emergencies can be astronomical.

It’s for these reasons that cruise insurance has become a major interest among passengers. To be absolutely clear, the vast majority of cruises go off without a hitch. Still, there is something to be said for having a little peace of mind and not having to worry just in case something does go wrong.

Travel & cruise insurance is made exactly for that purpose. By purchasing this coverage you are covered for a wide range of events (many detailed below) that could otherwise cost you significant money without insurance.

Of course, in exchange for that coverage you have to pay a premium — money out of your pocket for a service that you might not ever use. That leads to a big question: Should you buy cruise insurance? Is it worth it?

To decide if it’s the right choice for you, we’ve researched all the ins and outs of cruise insurance to help you out…

( See how affordable travel insurance can be. Get a free quote from InsureMyTrip. )

What does cruise insurance cover?

Every policy is slightly different; there is no set requirement of what is covered. That’s why its important to review the terms of any plan you purchase. That said, you’ll find most cruise insurance covers the same basic things. Here are the major items that you’ll want to make sure your policy covers.

Trip Cancellation – The most basic coverage with cruise insurance, trip cancellation protection allows you to get your money back that you’ve paid for your trip if you cancel for specific, predetermined reasons . This coverage doesn’t allow you to get repaid if you just decide to cancel because you don’t want to go (though there are policies that can do that).

The specific reasons will be laid out in your policy. In general, they fall into several major groups:

• Major illness or injury to you, traveling companion, or family member
• Death of you, traveling companion, or family member
• Birth of child
• Traffic accident
• Divorce (from traveling companion)
• Being fired/laid off
• Travel delays

Trip Interruption – Similar to trip cancellation, this coverage pays you for an interruption for specific reasons like the ones mentioned above after your trip has already started or when travel is delayed. In addition to being reimbursed for the remainder of what you’ve paid for your cruise, you’ll often also be reimbursed for expenses like flight and hotel to get back home.

Emergency Medical – If you’re worried about getting sick or injured while on your cruise, then know that most plans offer emergency medical coverage. This is exactly as it sounds. It provides medical insurance for serious illness or injury. Many plans also offer some dental coverage.

Emergency Evacuation – Nearly every plan will have some sort of emergency evacuation coverage. This is coverage to get the person to the most appropriate medical treatment (often as defined by the insurance company). So if you break your leg while on an excursion in Mexico and have to be transported to a larger city for the correct care, then your expenses are covered. Emergency evacuation coverage also can pay for you to get you home if you are in a medical facility away from home.

Lost/Stolen Luggage – Most of the time lost or stolen luggage isn’t so much about the money as the pain of having to replace everything. Even so, cruise insurance should provide some reimbursement expense for your loss, taking some of the sting out of losing your bags. Understand that most times this coverage has special limits for things like laptops or electronics that may not fully replace the lost item.

Pre-Existing Condition Coverage – Most of us know that insurance is hesitant to cover pre-existing conditions. Travel insurance can offer pre-existing condition coverage in certain circumstances (but not always!), which is especially helpful if believe you’ll need some sort of coverage while in a foreign country for an on-going illness. If this is important to you, make sure you double check the specific policy, which will make it very clear if pre-existing conditions are covered or not.

What doesn’t cruise insurance cover?

Cruise insurance actually covers more things and offers more benefits than just what is listed above. But it doesn’t cover everything and policies are pretty specific about what they will and won’t pay.

The most notable exception is that you can’t just cancel your cruise for any reason and get reimbursed for any money you lose . Instead, the only way the policy will pay is if you cancel for one of the specific reasons cited in your policy for cancelling your cruise. Keep in mind these reasons you are allowed to cancel may be more than what’s listed above.

You also won’t be compensated for inconveniences on your trip. For instance, if your trip doesn’t go as planned, but you don’t suffer an actual loss, then you won’t be able to make a claim. If it pours rain an entire day that you are in port and you can’t even get off the ship, your travel insurance won’t cover the loss of a day of vacation. Weather is not covered unless it causes an actual interruption to the cruise.

Also, it’s important to understand that your benefits are less any refunds you might receive otherwise. So if your cruise is cancelled and the cruise line refunds your fare, you won’t be able to claim the cruise fare as a loss.

Addendums to coverage

Some policies allow you to add coverage to your insurance that allow more flexibility and benefits.

The most popular addendum is known as “Cancel for Any Reason” coverage . This addendum allows you to cancel your trip and receive reimbursement, no matter why.

So if you simply decide that you don’t want to get out of bed the morning of your cruise and call the whole trip off (not sure why you would do such a thing!), then you can cancel and get your money back.

One important thing to note is that these policies rarely give 100% of your entire trip fare back. It usually ranges from 50-75%. Still, considering that you get nothing back if you cancel for a non-covered reason, this additional coverage is often worth the cost.

Many cruise travel insurance policies will also offer an addendum for rental car coverage. Obviously most cruise passengers won’t opt for this coverage since it’s rare to rent a car given that you are in port only for a day at a time.

What about insurance sold by cruise lines?

When buying a cruise, you’ll be offered an option to purchase insurance from the cruise line. This coverage takes on many different names. You might have seen one of the following if you’ve already bought your cruise:

• Carnival Vacation Protection
• Royal Caribbean Travel Protection
• Princess Vacation Protection
• Norwegian Cruise Line Booksafe Travel Protection Plan
• Celebrity CruiseCare Travel Insurance Program

These plans are quite popular because of their ability to be sold right alongside the cruise, which means they are convenient to buy. However, that doesn’t automatically make them a good purchase.

While convenient, these plans can often offer much lower coverage rates than traditional travel insurance, for a similar price. So while traditional travel insurance might offer $50,000 in medical coverage, a cruise line might only offer $25,000.

The one advantage that cruise line plans have is that they typically offer cancel for any reason coverage included. Royal Caribbean’s plan, for example, will reimburse you 90% of what you’ve paid for your cruise if you cancel for any reason. Just know that the refund is applied as a future cruise credit — not a cash payment as you’d get with the coverage from a traditional travel insurer.

For these reasons, we suggest sticking with traditional travel insurance from a third-party instead of the policies offered by cruise lines. But any coverage is better than no coverage.

What time period does the insurance cover?

While you should check with your specific insurance policy, they usually go into effect at midnight of the day after you purchase them. They then stay in effect until you return home from your trip.

Example: You buy cruise insurance at 6 p.m. on December 1 for a cruise that departs December 20 and returns December 27. Your coverage would be from in effect from midnight on December 2 until you return home from your cruise.

How do I Buy Cruise Insurance?

As mentioned earlier, if you are buying through the cruise line, you can purchase coverage at the same time that purchase your trip. You can also purchase at a later date by visiting the links below.

For third-party travel insurance, you can get a free quote and purchase directly through the provider. We’ve listed the major companies and their websites here:

Generali: https://www.generalitravelinsurance.com/ Travelex Insurance: http://www.travelexinsurance.com/ AXA Travel Insurance: https://www.axatravelinsurance.com/

For most people, however, we suggest looking at a site like InsureMyTrip.com . This site searches many companies at once to find the right insurance for you and your trip and bring you all your choices. Whether you are looking for affordability or the best coverage, all your options are laid out for you.

You can get a free quote here , see how much coverage might cost, and see everything it covers.

When should I buy cruise insurance?

The best time to buy is as soon as you’ve purchased your cruise. This allows you all the cancellation benefits immediately should something come up between the time you purchase and the time you actually travel.

One thing to note is that you can’t purchase after you already have an event that will lead to a loss. For example, say you get hurt in an accident that means you won’t be able to go on your vacation. You can’t purchase insurance and then try to be reimbursed for your trip. This is insurance fraud and the company won’t provide reimbursement.

How much does it cost?

Ah, the most important question. After all, every type of insurance is basically a bet between you and the insurance company whether something will happen on your trip.

Prices will vary based on company, trip length, cost, who is being covered, and the sort of coverage you choose. Most companies also offer different levels of plan that have different limits and thus, higher or lower prices.

As a general rule of thumb, traditional cruise insurance offered by a third-party will run about 5%-7.5% of your trip cost . So for a $5,000 trip, expect to pay around $250-$375 for coverage. That can vary widely, however.

Should I buy cruise insurance?

If you want to have some peace of mind on your trip, then yes. However, the vast majority of cruise passengers will never use their insurance.

The problem is that for issues that do come up, the expenses can be large and unknown. For instance, there is no price list of having to be evacuated medically from a cruise ship. The cruise insurance offers valuable peace of mind.

If you do decide to purchase, we highly suggest that you shop around for prices and also read your plan carefully (comparing two or three of the most well-known providers). And while every cruise line strongly recommends purchasing some sort of insurance for your cruise, we don’t recommend purchasing insurance offered through them, as traditional plans can offer better coverage for a similar price.

Get a free quote at the link below

Again, for cruise travel insurance, we suggest looking at a site like InsureMyTrip.com . This site searches many companies at once to find the right insurance for you and your trip and bring you all your choices. Whether you are looking for affordability or the best coverage, all your options are laid out for you.

Disclaimer: Cruzely.com is an affiliate with the travel insurers mentioned in the article above. We receive a small commission if you get a quote or purchase through the links included in this article at no extra cost to you.

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If a cruise is not leaving Australian waters, a passport is not needed. Will your private health insurance / medicare still be applicable on a domestic cruise?

Not familiar with Australian insurance rules. I’d suggest contacting the cruise line.

I believe Medicare doesn’t cover you overseas. That is why we get it

do you have insurace for canadians travelling on a cruise fro new york to bermuda

Any travel insurer should be able to cover you. You can go to a site like InsureMyTrip.com or AIG Travel Guard to see your options.

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Look to your credit cards, first

What to consider if you buy a separate cruise travel insurance policy, what cruise travel insurance doesn't cover, how to shop cruise travel insurance options, is cruise travel insurance necessary.

Travel insurance can save you when you’re in a pinch, and cruises are especially important to protect. Whether you experience a flight delay, your car breaks down or you get sick, having a backup plan that will cover the cost of your trip, or at least help you get there without extra expense, can be essential. It’s recommended to arrive one day before the departure of your cruise to allow for any delays because if you arrive late to the departure point, the ship may have already left.

If you find yourself stranded at the pier long after your cruise has left, or aren't able to get to the pier at all, cruise travel insurance can help. These are some of the best travel insurance options for cruises.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

Many credit cards provide sufficient travel protection that can help you in the event of a delay or cancellation. It can even help if you arrive on time, but your bags do not. Other travel protections include helping if you need medical attention or evacuation during your trip, as well as insurance for a rental car if you decide to drive in one of the ports you visit.

Some of the popular credit card options that provide ample protections include:

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card .

Chase Sapphire Reserve® .

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card . Terms apply.

United℠ Explorer Card .

You'll need to review the policy before the trip to decide if you need to purchase additional coverage.

» Learn more: What to know before buying travel insurance

If you don't have a credit card with coverage or you want to add more protection, it is wise to buy insurance as soon as possible after booking the cruise. Some companies require that you buy cruise insurance within two weeks of making the initial deposit, particularly if you're hoping for pre-existing medical coverage.

The longer you wait to buy cruise insurance, the higher the price may become.

Also, your own health insurance may not cover cruise travel or medical attention onboard a ship. Often, some personal insurance plans do not protect passengers once they have sailed more than six hours from any U.S. port. This may come as a surprise for those who thought they were protected, which is why it can be wise to purchase additional coverage for a cruise.

Since medical treatment on a ship may be more expensive, and evacuation at sea may require a helicopter or small boat, having emergency coverage can be essential.

If you’re still deciding on additional protection, consider these factors:

Destination: Is it remote or far from an airport or medical facility? How difficult will it be for you to find medical care or leave the ship?

Length of stay: How long will you be traveling? If it's only a few days, the probability that you will need coverage is less than if the trip were longer or farther from home.

Credit card protections: Read the fine print of your credit card benefits. If you used that card to pay for your travel, you may already have protection in the event of trip delay or cancellation, missing or lost luggage, medical reasons or weather issues.

Personal liability: Will you be engaging in activities that may make you responsible for someone else’s injury? Will you be renting a car or participating in activities like boating, biking or motorized water sports? If you may be held liable for someone else’s injury, insurance can help protect you.

As important as knowing how you will be protected, it is also paramount to know what is not included.

For example, if any injury or health issue is alcohol-related, it may not be covered. You might also want to know if natural disasters like a hurricane, terrorist incidents or bankruptcy by the cruise line are also covered. Sometimes, there are specific carve-outs for such situations.

Another important factor to consider is COVID-19 protection , as not all insurance plans include it. You will want to consider what happens if you get sick before the sailing or onboard since you may have to find accommodation if you are not able to travel for a period of time.

Some cruise insurance policies will cover itinerary changes. This means if you have your heart set on visiting a particular place, but it gets cut from the itinerary (a common occurrence due to weather conditions), you would receive some form of compensation. Not all plans include this, and for certain trips with a popular port (like visiting Alexandria, Egypt, to drive to the Pyramids), it may be wise to check if you are covered.

» Learn more: Should you insure your cruise?

There are many providers of travel insurance, and often, cruise companies will recommend a partner when making a reservation. Those are often best since the cruise line has a history of working with that company and has considered the intricacies of the various ports its ships are visiting. Still, policies vary.

If you want to buy a policy beyond what is already offered by your credit card, start with an aggregator site like Insure My Trip that compares several policies based on the criteria you choose. How long will you be gone? Where are you going? Do you have any pre-existing conditions? All of these things can affect the price of a policy that you purchase.

There are other respected insurance options like Travel Guard , which has policies specifically geared toward cruise trips. SafeCruise from VisitorsCoverage is another plan that is designed for cruise travel, and it includes an upgrade for a partial Cancel For Any Reason reimbursement.

Deciding if you want to protect your trip probably depends on your budget. If you can afford a worst-case scenario without protection, then maybe you won’t need to purchase travel insurance for cruises.

But for most travelers, having a backup plan in case anything goes wrong makes the trip that much more enjoyable.

How to maximize your rewards

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Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

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50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

A Guide to Travel Insurance for Cruise Travelers

The last thing most of us think about when we plan a cruise is the list of elements that can go wrong before and during our vacation. But there are definite reasons why you should consider travel insurance for your cruise.

Flight delays caused by weather or a mechanical problem can keep us from arriving to our embarkation port in time. The airline can lose our checked bags. We can get sick before we board or, even worse, mid-cruise. We might make a boneheaded move in a port of call and miss the ship. Plus, a host of other general issues can scuttle a vacation, such as the illness or death of a family member, cancellation of plans by a travel companion, job loss, airline delays and lost baggage.

Those reasons and so many others are why cruisers seek insurance coverage -- and why we recommend it. It provides that extra bit of calm and control we all crave. More importantly, it prevents you from losing money due to unforeseen circumstances and travel emergencies, and insurance fees are typically just a small percentage of your vacation expenditure.

On This Page

What does travel insurance on your cruise cover, does everyone in the group need insurance, what's not covered, a la carte policy additions, types of travel insurance for your cruise, how to buy travel insurance for your cruise, when to buy travel insurance for your cruise, real-world examples, travel insurance resources.

One misconception about travel insurance is that it's only necessary for travelers in ill health, those who pack valuable items in their suitcases or those who plan wildly expensive trips. It's important to recognize that travel insurance policies can bail us out of a multitude of quagmires. For example:

Trip Interruption

Say your ship develops a serious mechanical problem, which necessitates the cancelling of the entire voyage and you're forced to disembark at the next port of call. While the cruise line will generally assist passengers in such predicaments, a travel insurance policy will give you ultimate coverage and reimburse you for any unexpected out-of-pocket expenses (such as a hotel stay while you wait for an available flight back home) that the cruise line may not cover.

Additionally, your insurer's hotline representatives may actually be able to get you home faster than the cruise line's travel department, which is busy trying to assist everyone else onboard, often involving thousands of passengers.

Also, in some cases, the cruise line may only return you to your original port of departure, which then may necessitate additional transportation from there to your home. As an example, when Carnival Triumph had mechanical problems that required it to be towed to New Orleans, most passengers were bussed back to the originating port of Galveston. Those with travel insurance could have flown directly from New Orleans to their home airport in most cases.

Trip Cancellation

You're unexpectedly stricken with appendicitis a week before your cruise embarks. If you don't have trip insurance and cancel your cruise now, you'll be hit with an excessive cancellation penalty and may even lose out on the value of the trip altogether. Insurance will reimburse you for those out-of-pocket costs you can't get back.

Trip Delay/Missed Connection

You're on the way to the airport when your taxi breaks down, and you end up missing your flight. Or you're on the first leg of flights to the cruise port, and a mechanical delay means you'll miss your connecting flight -- and your ship. Travel insurance covers these sorts of trip delays and missed connections.

An example of trip delay coverage on your return trip would be a positive test for COVID-19 while in a foreign country and CDC guidelines prohibit you from returning to the U.S. If you are hospitalized, your medical emergency insurance would kick in, but if you are not, the trip delay portion of your policy would cover expenses up to the limits of your policy.

Baggage Delay/Loss

You make it to the Port of Miami on time, but the airline misdirected your luggage to Cleveland. Your formal attire -- and all your other clothes and accessories -- will literally miss the boat. If your bag is delayed a certain number of hours (policies vary), your policy will reimburse you for "necessary personal effects" such as a new outfit and toiletries to tide you over until your bag is delivered.

If your bag is lost and never returned, you can claim for the lost piece of luggage as well as what was inside it. The amount you'll recoup is capped by the terms in your policy. Some policies also include coverage to make sure your bag gets to the next port of call.

Medical Expenses

One minute you're focusing your camera lens on the Parthenon and jockeying into the best position for the shot; the next minute you've stepped on a rock, slipped, fallen and broken your ankle. You require immediate medical treatment.

Robert Gallagher, Senior Vice President and COO of AIG Travel, says that, "Regular health insurance plans typically don't pay -- or pay in full -- for medical care outside of the United States." The appropriate trip insurance coverage will get you patched up right away without exorbitant out-of-pocket expenses. (Note: In many countries, you must pay a doctor or hospital up front, but a travel insurance policy will reimburse you for those expenses in a timely manner.)

It is important to note that regardless of mandates for proof of a negative COVID-19 test, the cost of the tests themselves are not covered by travel insurance. Only tests ordered by a physician to diagnose and thus treat COVID-19 would be covered, provided your policy covers illness from coronavirus.

Financial Default by a Travel Provider

No one wants to think about this, but we all need to be cognizant of the financial health of our travel suppliers. Some insurance policies cover financial default of airlines, hotels, cruise lines and tour operators. (Note: Many policies offered directly through cruise lines do not include financial default coverage. Check each policy carefully before purchasing.)

Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation

If you watch the news, you've probably seen video clips of helicopter evacuations from cruise ships in the middle of nowhere. This may be necessary in cases of health threats -- such as heart attacks or strokes -- in which you require immediate care that goes beyond what's available in your ship's sick bay. If the next port of call is too far away, a medevac may be the only option to save your life or the life of a loved one.

Gallagher says that an emergency evacuation from a cruise ship can cost thousands if not tens of thousands of dollars; it's a big bill to pay out of pocket but it's covered in many trip insurance policies, such as AIG's Travel Guard products and Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection's WaveCare. (Many cruise-line insurance policies do not include emergency medical or evacuation benefits.)

Trip insurance may also cover the repatriation of remains if a death occurs during an insured vacation.

Involuntary Job Loss

Two months before embarkation, your travel partner loses his job and can no longer afford to go on vacation. Without insurance, you may be left holding the bag to either pay an additional single supplement to continue with your plans, or to cancel and get hit with the full force of the cruise line's cancellation policy.

Note: Not all policies offer job-loss coverage, and not all policies cover both you and your travel companions; check the terms of your policy and ask the insurer if it's available as part of a package or add-on service.

War or Terrorism

Incidents related to terrorism and labor strikes may be included in insurance policies. However, like so many other aspects of insurance, there are caveats. It's always advisable to carefully check your policy's description of coverage to determine how these events are covered.

For example, sometimes a policy will cover a traveler if an act of terrorism occurs in his/her hometown or trip destination within a certain number of days of embarkation -- as few as seven or as far out as 30 days. However, if you're just nervous about terrorism and want to cancel a trip to a destination that has not experienced a recent attack, travel insurance will not cover you -- unless you purchase more expensive "Cancel for Any Reason" coverage.

Yes ... and no. It's not strictly necessary for everyone in your group to purchase a policy, but you'll receive more comprehensive protection if you do.

The first thing to know is that your insurance policy only protects you; if you want the rest of your family or travel companions to have the same protection, then they must be added to your policy (or take out their own). The one exception is that some policies cover children under 17 traveling with an insured guardian at no additional charge. Check the policy's fine print.

However, one of the most appealing aspects of travel insurance is the fact that traveling companions and family members (spouses, domestic partners, children, grandparents, grandchildren, daughters- or sons-in-law, nieces and nephews, etc.) count when it comes to covered reasons for canceling your cruise. If your travel companion falls ill and can't make the cruise, or your aging mother is rushed to the hospital, your policy should reimburse you for canceling your trip.

Take this example: Sue and Jim are traveling together. Sue buys an insurance policy, but Jim does not. A week before the cruise, Jim gets appendicitis and must cancel his trip. Since he doesn't have trip insurance, he forfeits all the money he's paid to the cruise line and airline. Since Sue has insurance, she can cancel her trip and make a claim on this "event" (her traveling companion getting sick and canceling). She can do this since her policy includes traveling companions in its cancellation coverage.

But it gets trickier. Say it's Jim's father, not Jim, who gets sick, forcing Jim to cancel his cruise. In this case, Sue is also out of luck, despite her insurance policy. That's because her policy protects her if something happens to her travel companion and he's forced to cancel -- but not if he cancels because something happened to a member of his family not traveling. However, if they both had travel insurance, Jim could be reimbursed for canceling his cruise because his father's illness is covered, and Sue would also be reimbursed because her travel companion canceled for a covered reason.

AIG offers policies with an option to name your own family member whose illness would count as a reason for cancelling a trip. In our previous example, if Sue is fearful of Jim's father's health, she could name him herself and be covered for her cancellation, even if Jim has no travel insurance.

Insurance policies of all types are tricky, and it's not always clear what's covered and what isn't. When you're researching policies, carefully read the description of coverage and call the insurer to resolve any questions you may have. Here are a few things that aren't usually covered by travel insurance:

Don't bother filing a claim because it rained each day of your Caribbean cruise. Inclement weather is not covered. Of course, if a hurricane impacts your trip, then trip delay, trip cancellation or trip interruption coverage may be available to you, provided you purchased your insurance before the hurricane became a named storm.

Disease Outbreaks/CDC Advisories

Very few insurers offer cancellation options based solely on advisories issued by the CDC or other government agencies. If you feel you may need to cancel a trip entirely due to a known outbreak of disease in your destination, such as coronavirus, your best option is to buy a policy that allows you to cancel for any reason.

Medical benefits on policies you purchase after an outbreak becomes a "known event" may be severely limited. During existing outbreaks, you should research policy choices carefully before purchasing, as some will still provide medical coverage for travelers who become ill with the disease in question, while others will not.

Other policy options, like trip interruption, travel delay and missed connection coverage will typically cover you in the unforeseen event that your cruise is cut short, your ship is denied entry to the departure port or is quarantined, preventing you from returning home on schedule.

But again, once knowledge of the outbreak is widespread, everything related to it becomes a foreseen issue in insurance terms and some policies cover those, while others do not. It pays to read the fine print of the actual policy documents before you make your purchase decision.

Itinerary Changes

Travel insurance covers your trip but not changes to the itinerary. The skipping or swapping of a port won't warrant a claim. You agree to those things in your purchase contract with the cruise line.

Travel for the Purpose of Medical Care

This means you can't embark on a cruise with the intention of having dental work or minor surgery in a port of call followed by recovery on board the ship. Not only will your policy not cover the treatments, it also will not pay for delays, evacuations, or related medical expenses.

Frequent-flyer Award Tickets

Airline tickets purchased with frequent-flyer miles aren't covered. However, insurers will reimburse the redeposit fee if you cancel the award before embarking on the first leg of the trip or cover the change fee if you must reschedule your return ticket due to a covered event.

In addition to comprehensive packages, insurers also offer a cadre of a la carte add-ons. They may include:

Cancel for Any Reason

As the phrase suggests, you can cancel your trip for any reason (such as concern over traveling to a particular area due to political unrest or disease outbreaks) -- a luxury normal insurance policies won't allow. Most insurers require this policy add-on be purchased between 14 and 21 days following your final cruise payment.

Read the description of coverage to find out what percentage of your trip deposits are reimbursed under this type of "cancel for any reason" terminology. Most policies max out the coverage at 75 percent of the trip costs, but some cover as little as 50 percent.

These policies are more expensive (roughly 40 percent more than a standard policy) but make sense in certain circumstances -- say, a particularly costly itinerary or during a known event such as the world-wide coronavirus pandemic.

Airline Accident Coverage

This insurance provides extra death and/or dismemberment coverage, but only in the case of an aircraft accident. The insured can select coverage in a variety of dollar amounts; half a million dollars in coverage can cost less than $50 per traveler. While airline accident coverage is typically a supplemental add-on, it might be included in the cost of comprehensive standard policies or offered as "bonus" coverage.

Before buying one of these add-ons to cover cruise excursions that involve small planes and/or helicopters for sightseeing, read the coverage documents carefully or contact the insurer to verify that those types of aircraft are covered.

Car-rental Collision Coverage

If your plans include the rental of a vehicle, car-rental collision coverage can be useful. This type of coverage can cost $15 or less per day. One caveat is most policies will only cover cars, not trucks or even vans, so be sure to read the fine print or call your insurance provider for clarification before you reserve your rental vehicle.

Upgraded Medical Coverage

Some companies offer an add-on that upgrades the amount of medical coverage and/or lowers your deductible.

Emergency Evacuation

While evacuation/repatriation is generally included in top-of-the-line policies, you may also purchase more comprehensive, standalone evacuation policies from companies like MedJetAssist. The company will send a plane and medical personnel to you.

Air ambulance companies that offer these policies will each have specific requirements for evacuations when the insured patient has COVID-19. They must abide by the regulations of both the country they are evacuating from and the country you are returning to, which may limit their ability to provide the service regardless of the restrictions in place at the time you purchased the policy.

A standalone emergency evacuation policy is a good choice if you don't plan on getting other insurance but still want coverage for a medical emergency.

Adventure Travel

Some insurance companies provide additional coverage for those participating in extreme sports or other high-risk activities on their vacation. Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection's AdrenalineCare, for example, offers an upgraded medical expense limit and emergency evacuation limit, as well as an adventure sports exclusion waiver covering more extreme sports than the average policy. This type of policy can apply to scuba diving, rock climbing or even wind surfing.

Not all travel insurance policies are the same, and you need to know which type you're buying, in addition to specific coverages. Just about every cruise line on the planet offers its own travel protection program, but it might not be the comprehensive policy you desire.

Cruise-line insurance usually offers secondary coverage (see below) and is more limited than similarly priced coverage you can buy on your own. (For example, cruise-line coverage generally doesn't cover its own financial default.) Third-party travel insurance companies offer more inclusive policies that provide more protection, and these are often the best bet.

As you look at plans, you'll notice two main flavors of insurance policies: primary and secondary. Primary insurance kicks in the moment something goes wrong -- before or during your trip. Secondary insurance means that you must attempt to collect on any private insurance policies before the trip insurance coverage activates.

For example, if you have secondary insurance and someone steals your camera from your bag in St. Mark's Square, you'll need to try to collect on your homeowner's or renter's policy first. Therefore, secondary insurance can be problematic if the insured can't easily cover out-of-pocket expenses while waiting for insurance reimbursement -- first from your primary plan and then, if not covered, from your travel insurance.

It might not be clear from the outset which type of plan you're looking at, so you need to read the terms carefully. Hint: Primary coverage is usually more expensive, but it generally combines better coverage with the ease that immediate claim service brings. Also, in a package policy, some coverage such as trip cancellation and travel delay might be primary, while others including lost baggage and medical coverage can be secondary.

If you're considering secondary insurance, be sure to review your primary medical coverage before deciding. Will you be out-of-pocket for any medical expenses overseas? (Note: The Social Security Medicare program will not cover hospital or medical expenses that you incur outside of the United States.)

You can purchase travel insurance through your cruise line, travel agent, a specific insurance provider or even a travel-insurance aggregator site like InsureMyTrip.com. (See below for a list of trip-insurance companies and insurance comparison sites .)

Third-party insurance providers and aggregators can often help you with coverage that is specific to cruise travel (like expenses for catching up to your ship if you miss embarkation due to a covered issue.) Ask your travel agent for guidance; he or she will have knowledge of a variety of insurance company policies and can help match the best policy to your needs. Always comparison shop, looking at what amounts of coverage you get for what price.

No matter which policy you select, you want to be sure that it is underwritten by a reputable and licensed insurer; companies are regulated by state insurance departments. The U.S. Travel Insurance Association is a good place to start to research licensed insurers in your state.

It's also easy to search online for feedback on particular insurance providers. Travel-insurance aggregators like SquareMouth will show you the underwriter for each policy and how it is rated by the A.M. Best Company (an agency that rates financial institutions), as well as provide reviews from previous purchasers.

When checking for the details of what is (and is not) covered, it's best to look at the actual policy documents or coverage details. Links to these are often found within or at the end of comparison charts or broad policy descriptions and may involve downloading multi-page PDF documents to read through.

You can purchase insurance plans up to 24 hours before your trip departure date, but we don't recommend waiting that long. If you do wait, you may not be eligible for many important benefits, such as the waiver of the pre-existing conditions clause.

If you want to be covered for pre-existing medical conditions, you should buy insurance at the time you make your final cruise payment. Not all policies offer pre-existing coverage, but among those that do, each insurer dictates its own coverage window. The deadline is usually 10 to 15 days after making that final payment -- or after booking your airfare, if you do that first.

If you aren't eligible for this waiver, your insurer will look back into your medical history (ranging from 60 to 180 days depending on your policy) and will not cover any condition for which you sought medical treatment during that time. (We're talking everything from eczema and asthma to heart angina and strokes.)

When it comes to buying travel insurance, don't worry if you've paid for your cruise but haven't yet purchased your airline tickets. You can estimate the airfare cost when buying your travel insurance and then give your provider your exact travel itinerary once those tickets are booked. Likewise, if you're arranging your plane tickets first, buy your travel insurance within two weeks of that purchase, and enter your full cruise fare, even if you have not purchased it or have only paid the deposit.

You just need to be sure to pay for travel insurance within the booking window of whichever travel purchase comes first. If reimbursement is required, it will be based on your actual receipts for the purchases (within your coverage limits), not your estimates at the time you purchased your insurance. Again, read through what the insurance policy requires in terms of notification. Some may require notification of any changes in anticipated costs prior to travel, particularly if your estimates turned out to be too low.

Remember, too, that you can't purchase travel insurance and expect it to cover events that are already in motion. For example, you book a Caribbean cruise that departs during hurricane season but procrastinate on purchasing travel insurance. Once your local weatherman announces that a hurricane is howling along the path of your cruise itinerary, it's too late for you to buy travel insurance and be covered for any travel cancellations or delays caused by the storm. You'd only be covered if you had purchased the insurance prior to the naming of the tropical storm.

The per-person price paid for a trip insurance policy will vary depending on many factors, including the insurer, where the traveler lives, the traveler's age, cost of the trip, when the policy is purchased (i.e., at the time of the trip deposit or later), pre-existing health conditions and what the policy covers.

Here are some examples of what you might expect to pay.

Policy to Cover a 7-Night $1,599 Mediterranean Cruise.

For example, Travel Guard's Preferred plan offers extensive primary coverage including, but not limited to, the following:

Trip cancellation = 100% of insured trip cost

Trip interruption = 150% of insured trip cost

Trip interruption (return air only) = $750

Trip delay = maximum of $200/day, with coverage capped at $800 total

Missed connection = $1,000

Baggage and personal effects lost, stolen, or damaged = $1,000

Baggage delay = $300

Medical expense = $50,000

Emergency evacuation = $500,000

Accidental death & dismemberment = $30,000

If you're between 35 and 59 years old and plan to insure a cruise fare of $1,599 per person, the cost of Travel Guard's Preferred plan would be between $118 and $136 depending on your state of residency and exact age. The per-person cost edges up to more than $150 for 70-year-old travelers, then jumps to more than $300 for travelers over age 80.

You can also elect "add-on" coverage. For example, an extra $10 gets you upgraded medical expense and emergency evacuation coverage. Spend another $30 and you can add 50 percent Cancel for Any Reason coverage. Car rental collision coverage is available for just over $13 per day and the option to name someone outside your family as a family member for coverage purposes is under $5.

Annual Fee for Medical Evacuation Family Coverage

MedJetAssist offers annual policies for individuals and families. Residents of the United States, Canada and Mexico are eligible for these plans, which cover medical evacuation and repatriation, both domestically and when traveling outside of the country of residence.

The company ensures that a jet will be available whenever the insured needs it; policy members who are hospitalized out of the country can choose to be transported to any hospital of their choice around the world. Annual family memberships (for travelers under age 74) start at $399 for international and domestic travel (policies for individuals start at $295/year), while short-term memberships start at $184.

Bottom Line

In the end, only you can determine if trip insurance -- and which type -- is right for you.

Can you afford to lose the money you've spent on this cruise vacation? Can you roll with the punches when the airline loses your luggage? Do you have an elderly or ill relative who may suddenly require your assistance, causing you to cancel your cruise? What if you lose your job? What if you get promoted and can no longer take time off to go on vacation?

The answers to these questions will guide you to the conclusion of whether trip insurance is needed or not. Determine your tolerance level for loss and go from there.

Trip Insurance Companies

Allianz Global Assistance: www.allianztravelinsurance.com ; (866) 884-3556

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection: www.bhtp.com ; (844) 411-2487

Generali Global Assistance: www.generalitravelinsurance.com/ ; (800) 874-2442

HTH Travel Insurance: www.hthtravelinsurance.com ; (888) 243-2358

Travelex Insurance Services: www.travelexinsurance.com ; (800) 228-9792

AIG Travel Guard: www.travelguard.com ; (800) 826-5248

TravelSafe Insurance: www.travelsafe.com ; (888) 885-7233

Travel Insurance Comparison Sites

Insure My Trip: www.insuremytrip.com ; (800) 487-4722

QuoteWright: www.quotewright.com ; (800) 821-4940

SquareMouth: www.squaremouth.com ; (800) 240-0369

TripInsuranceStore: www.tripinsurancestore.com ; (888) 407-3854

Medical Evacuation Services

AeroCare Medical Transport System; www.aerocare.com ; (800) 823-1911

AirMed International; www.airmed.com ; (800) 356-2161

MedJetAssist: www.medjetassist.com ; (800) 527-7478

© 1995— 2024 , The Independent Traveler, Inc.

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The 6 Best Cruise Insurance Plans of 2024

Nationwide is our top recommended provider for cruise insurance, offering three tiers of coverage with specific cruise-oriented needs.

Sarah Horvath is one of the home service industry’s most accomplished writers. Her specialties include writing about home warranties, insurance, home improvement and household finances. You can find her writing published through distributors like HouseMethod, Architectural Digest, Good Housekeeping and more. When not writing, she enjoys spending time in her home in Orlando with her fiance and parrot.

Tori Addison is an editor who has worked in the digital marketing industry for over five years. Her experience includes communications and marketing work in the nonprofit, governmental and academic sectors. A journalist by trade, she started her career covering politics and news in New York’s Hudson Valley. Her work included coverage of local and state budgets, federal financial regulations and health care legislation.

Based on the MarketWatch Guides industry-wide review, Nationwide offers the best cruise insurance plan. Cruise insurance can help protect your vacation by reimbursing prepaid, nonrefundable expenses if you’re forced to cancel. It can also cover additional expenses you incur unexpectedly on a cruise, including emergency medical bills and costs related to baggage loss.

In this article, we’ll provide comprehensive information on our top picks for cruise insurance plans. We’ll also detail what to look for in a cruise insurance policy, average costs and whether coverage is worth considering.

Why Trust MarketWatch Guides

Our editorial team follows a comprehensive methodology for rating and reviewing travel insurance companies. Advertisers have no effect on our rankings.

Companies Reviewed

Quotes Collected

Rating Factors

The Best Cruise Insurance

Here are our top picks for the best cruise insurance plans:

• Nationwide Travel Insurance : Luxury Cruise
• Faye : Travel Protection Plan
• Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection : WaveCare ®
• Travelex Insurance: Travel Basic
• AXA Assistance USA:  Gold Plan
• Trawick International: Safe Travels Voyager

How We Ranked the Best Cruise Insurance Companies

Not every travel insurance provider offers coverage suited to cruise vacations. In order to recommend only the best providers to our readers, we looked for the following factors when evaluating coverage options. 

• Cruise-specific plan options: Our team prioritized travel insurance providers that offer cruise-specific plans with coverages not found on standard policies. For example, Nationwide scored highly in our review because it offers policies designed for cruises, covering items like shipboard service disruptions and porting itinerary changes. 
• Medical coverage: If your medical insurance does not cover international medical bills or only offers partial coverage, you may prioritize medical coverage. This protection helps pay for medical care at a local facility if you’re injured on your cruise. Companies with more generous medical coverage limits scored higher in our rankings. 
• Medical evacuation: On a cruise, you may need helicopter evacuation services if a medical emergency occurs and you require serious medical attention or surgery. We prioritized companies offering higher medical evacuation coverages, which could be beneficial depending on how long and far you’ll be from a port while on the cruise ship. 
• Coverage maximums: Some insurance providers have upper coverage limits that reduce their ability to properly insure higher-value cruises. If you’re planning a longer trip or opting for an all-inclusive luxury package, look for a provider that specializes in higher-value coverage options, such as Berkshire Hathaway.
• Cost: Cost is also a top consideration our team took into account when comparing providers. We requested sample quotes from dozens of travel insurance providers and compared price and coverage options to determine the insurer offering the best values. 

To calculate an average travel insurance package cost, we collected quotes for each of the following trips: 

• A 30-year-old couple taking a $5,000 vacation to Mexico City, Mexico
• A family of four taking an $8,000 vacation to Mexico City
• A 65-year-old couple taking a $7,000 vacation to London, U.K.
• A 30-year-old couple taking a $7,000 trip to London
• A 19-year-old taking a $2,000 trip to Paris, France
• A 27-year-old taking a $1,800 trip to Athens, Greece
• A 51-year-old taking a $2,000 vacation to Madrid, Spain

We averaged the cost of travel insurance packages for each provider to find the average price.

How To Shop For Cruise Insurance

According to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) 2023 State of the Cruise Industry Report , cruising continues to be one of the fastest-growing sectors of tourism, with a projected 36 million people choosing a cruise vacation in 2024. While purchasing travel insurance to cover your cruise vacation is a personal decision, there are some coverages to look for that can enhance your policy.

If you’re worried about illnesses or potential injuries during your cruise, travel medical insurance covers medical expenses up to a maximum amount. This coverage is worth considering if you’re cruising abroad, as domestic healthcare may provide limited to no coverage out of the country. If you’re worried about suffering a medical emergency and requiring transport to a hospital while at sea, it is important to also have emergency medical evacuation coverage.

Trip cancellation insurance and interruption coverage can reimburse you if you cancel or cut your cruise short for a covered reason. If you’re concerned about canceling your trip for a reason not listed under a policy’s coverage terms, consider cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage . If you’re looking at plans explicitly marketed for cruises, you may find special benefits like cruise diversion, cruise disablement and prepaid excursion reimbursement.

Other benefits to look for with a cruise insurance policy include travel delay coverage, baggage insurance and missed connection coverage. If you are concerned about pre-existing conditions or COVID-19 coverage, check if a cruise insurance plan offers these protections as you shop for a policy.

How We Picked the Best Cruise Insurance Companies

To recommend the best providers to our readers, we looked for the following factors when evaluating coverage options for cruise insurance:

• Cruise-specific plan options: Our team sought out travel insurance providers that offer cruise-specific plans with coverages not found on standard policies, such as shipboard service disruption coverage, prepaid excursion reimbursement and more.  
• Medical coverage: This protection helps pay for medical care at a local facility if you’re injured on your cruise. Companies with more generous medical coverage limits ranked higher in our roundup. 
• Medical evacuation: We prioritized companies offering higher medical evacuation coverage, which can benefit you depending on how long and far you are from a port while on the cruise ship.
• Coverage maximums: We considered whether a provider offered higher-value coverage options for travelers planning longer trips or opting for an all-inclusive luxury package.
• Cost: We requested sample quotes from dozens of travel insurance providers and compared price and coverage options to determine the insurer offering the best values.

Top Cruise Insurance Plans at a Glance

*We determined costs by averaging quotes we pulled for four different traveler profiles. Your actual cruise insurance plan costs and CFAR coverage availability will vary.

The Best Cruise Insurance Options

To determine the best cruise insurance options for our review, we collected several sample quotes, carefully examined policy and coverage details, and evaluated providers with specialized cruising plans. Our thorough research found that the following travel insurance companies provide the best cruise insurance plans in the industry.

Nationwide Travel Insurance

Pros and Cons

Cruise insurance highlights.

• Nationwide offers plans specifically for cruises with benefits such as shipboard service disruption, prepaid excursion reimbursement and missed connection benefits.
• Cruise-specific policies include medical and non-medical evacuation coverage.
• Nationwide covers up to 100% of your total trip costs for a covered cancellation and up to 150% of your total costs for trip interruption.

Coverage and Cost

Plans and Coverage

Nationwide offers three cruise insurance plans with varying coverage limits. Each plan also includes missed connection coverage and reimbursements for itinerary changes.

Add-On Options

Nationwide allows you to add the following optional coverages to your cruise travel insurance plan:

• Accidental death and dismemberment
• CFAR coverage (up to 75%)
• Vendor financial default coverage
• Preexisting medical conditions coverage waiver
• Rental car collision coverage

Based on quotes we obtained using the seven trip profiles outlined in our methodology, Nationwide’s average trip cost is $182.17.

*A.M. Best ratings accurate as of July 2023

• Faye provides policyholders with a comprehensive mobile app and 24/7 customer service, a potential benefit for travelers at sea and restricted to internet-based communication.
• Covers medical and non-medical emergency evacuation, with medical benefits capped at $500,000 and non-medical at $100,000.
• Faye’s travel insurance plan treats COVID-19 like any other illness, including any required care under its emergency accident and sickness medical expense coverage.

Coverage and Add-Ons

Unlike most competitors, Faye only offers one travel insurance policy with the following included coverages:

It also includes other coverage that could benefit cruise-goers, such as a passport replacement benefit, up to $200 for in-trip inconveniences and protection for sporting equipment.

Optional Add-Ons 

Faye offers the following add-on coverage options — though residents in some states such as New York only have access to limited add-ons.

• Cancel for any reason (CFAR) 
• Rental car damage or theft
• Adventure and extreme sports protection 
• Vacation rental damage protection

Based on quotes we obtained using the seven trip profiles outlined in our methodology, Faye’s average trip cost is $298 .

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

• WaveCare® covers up to 100% of your total trip costs for covered cancellations and 150% of your total trip costs for covered interruptions.
• Berkshire Hathaway’s cruise-specific plan offers coverage beyond the norm, including cruise disablement, cruise diversion and river cruise diversion coverage.
• WaveCare® provides coverage for emergency evacuation and repatriation up to $750,000.

While Berkshire Hathaway offers various travel insurance plans, WaveCare™ is specific to cruise protection. In addition to the coverage outlined in the chart below, this plan also includes $500 in fixed coverage if your cruise ship is disabled.

If you are going on a high-value cruise and would prefer increased coverage limits, Berkshire Hathaway also offers travel insurance plans designed for vacations with expensive inclusions. Its LuxuryCare plans include additional leisure protections, such as concierge services and up to $100,000 in insurance coverage.

Berkshire Hathaway currently offers the following additional coverage options:

• CFAR coverage
• Preexisting conditions waiver

Based on quotes we obtained using the seven trip profiles outlined in our methodology, Berkshire’s average trip cost is $163.

• Travelex offers some of the most affordable plans of the providers on our list, and allows parents to extend coverage to their children for a slightly higher rate.
• Add-on coverages available through the Travel Basic plan include car rental collision coverage and flight accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D).
• The Travel Basic policy has no deductible and is considered a primary coverage plan.

Travelex offers three travel insurance plans that can protect your cruise. The Travel America Plan, which can cover up to eight travelers, also includes unique protections like inconveniences caused by sporting equipment delays and medical expenses for your pet.

The following add-on coverages are available on Travel Select plans:

• Car rental collision
• Additional medical coverage
• Accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) benefits for air travel
• Adventure sports coverage

Note that add-on options may be limited for the Travel Basic Plan.

Based on quotes we obtained using the seven trip profiles outlined in our methodology, Travelex’s average trip cost is $242.

AXA Assistance USA

• AXA Assistance’s plans include 24/7 concierge services to help you with travel-related services and emergencies.
• The Gold Plan offers $100,000 in emergency medical coverage, $500,000 in emergency evacuation and 100% trip cancellation coverage.
• Rental car coverage is available through the Gold and Platinum Plans.

AXA Assistance offers three travel insurance plans that you can purchase to protect your cruise. If you are planning sporting or leisurely activities, the Platinum Plan includes daily coverages for lost skier days, lost golf rounds and sporting equipment rentals.

AXA Assistance offers the following optional add-ons for its Platinum Plan:

• Rental car collision waiver

While you can also add rental car collision protection to the Gold Plan, the Silver Plan is not eligible for any add-on coverages.

Based on quotes we obtained using the seven trip profiles outlined in our methodology, AXA’s average trip cost is $265.50.

Trawick International

• The Safe Travels Voyager plan, marketed as Trawick’s most popular cruise insurance coverage, includes 30 covered reasons for trip cancellation.
• Trawick offers various optional add-on benefits, such as CFAR coverage, 24-hour AD&D, trip interruption for any reason (IFAR) coverage and more.
• Trawick provides a stipend for a hospital companion to evacuate with you during a medical emergency.

Trawick has three options for annual cruise insurance, with each plan offering coverage for up to 30 days per trip.

Trawick Travel Insurance does not currently offer add-ons for its annual cruise policies.

Based on quotes we obtained using the seven trip profiles outlined in our methodology, Trawick’s average trip cost is $208.41.

How Much Does Cruise Insurance Cost?

The cost of cruise insurance can vary between customers. The best way to determine what you will pay for your coverage is to get a quote. According to data from Berkshire Hathaway, you can expect to pay between 5% and 10% of your total cruise vacation price for insurance.

To help you get a better idea of what you might pay for cruise insurance, we requested multiple quotes from the providers in our review using various sample traveler profiles. The table below summarizes our findings:

To calculate costs, we collected quotes for each of the following trips and traveler profiles:

• 70-year-old couple taking a $3,000, seven-day cruise in Mexico
• 65-year-old taking a $1,200, five-day cruise in the Bahamas
• 34-year-old couple taking a $6,000, seven-day cruise in Greece
• 21-year-old taking a $900, five-day cruise in the Caribbean

What Affects the Cost of Cruise Insurance?

As with most types of insurance, the cost of a cruise insurance policy will vary depending on your trip and personal details. Some of the most significant factors that insurance providers consider when pricing cruise policies include the following:

• Your age: According to the CLIA, the average age of a cruise tourist is around 46 years old. Travelers above the age of 50 will pay higher rates than younger travelers.
• Total trip cost: Expect to pay more for your insurance if you take a luxury or higher-value cruise trip.
• Total trip length: The number of days you travel likely increases your chances of getting sick or injured, raising your cruise insurance cost.
• Plan type: There are several types of cruise insurance policies. The more protection you need, typically the more expensive your cruise insurance quote.
• Number of travelers: While you can buy a single policy for multiple travelers , each traveler will have their own premium, increasing the total cost of your trip coverage.
• Destination: Destination may affect the cost of your cruise trip insurance, especially when you consider on-shore excursions. For example, if you’re embarking on a cruise to a jungle with adventure-centered excursions, you will likely pay more for coverage than someone taking a cruise to a quiet beach town.

Is Cruise Insurance Worth It?

Determining whether cruise insurance is worth it is a personal decision. Cruises can get expensive quickly, so if you’re embarking on a 14-day international cruise that you’ve spent months saving up for, you may prefer to protect your investment. Spending a fraction of your total cruise expenses on insurance can help prevent you from forfeiting the entire cost of a non-refundable trip should the worst happen.

Angela Borden, a product marketing specialist at Seven Corners, noted that “When you’ve made a financial investment in your trip or need to protect your health when you travel, travel insurance is 100% worth it.” She also pointed out that coverage can help you recoup your expenses if the unexpected happens. 

“Travel insurance can also reimburse you if your belongings are lost, stolen, or damaged and you need to replace them during your trip,” she added. “Again, that’s a financial savings you would have missed out on if you didn’t have travel insurance.”

If you are unsure whether cruise insurance is worth it, we recommend getting a quote from our highlighted insurance providers before you set sail.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cruise Insurance

What should cruise insurance cover.

Cruise insurance should provide you with 100% coverage for trip cancellation and at least 100% trip interruption coverage. Your policy should also include baggage loss, trip delay coverage, medical care and emergency evacuations. 

When should I buy trip insurance for a cruise?

While your trip insurance cost might not increase if you buy a policy at the last minute, it’s best to buy coverage as soon as you make your initial trip deposit. Most insurance companies only allow you to add CFAR coverage a few days after you make your first trip payment. If you’re considering this insurance add-on, buy coverage as soon as possible. 

Do I need special insurance for a cruise?

Whether you need travel insurance specifically for cruises depends on the provider. While some travel insurance companies specify that policies provide coverage even if you’re on a cruise, others may exclude cruises from standard travel plans. For this reason, it’s best to check the terms of your coverage before purchasing a policy. 

Some companies, like Nationwide and Berkshire Hathaway, offer cruise-specific protection plans in addition to standalone travel insurance policies.  

What are the benefits of cruise insurance?

There are multiple benefits to investing in a cruise insurance policy. Cruise insurance provides you with money back for nonrefundable trip expenses, which can help you recoup a portion of your costs if you need to cancel at the last minute. Cruise insurance also provides protection when you’re on a boat and visiting international ports of call, with medical insurance coverage and compensation for travel expenses if you’re forced to evacuate during your vacation.

Does cruise insurance include COVID-19 coverage?

Travel insurance policy purchases have spiked since the COVID-19 pandemic. Most travel policies consider COVID-19 the same as any other illness, which means you may be entitled to use your insurance benefits if you’re hospitalized or cannot travel due to COVID-19. However, this also means that the fear of catching a new COVID strain will not entitle you to use your cruise insurance. 

If you’re concerned about the effect of the coronavirus pandemic on your vacation plan, consider upgrading to CFAR coverage.

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Find the Best Cruise Travel Insurance

Compare cruise insurance plans from top providers that offer cancellation, medical, and delay coverage.

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• Protection Before the Cruise
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• Cruise Information FAQs
• Recent Articles

What to Look for in a Cruise Travel Insurance Policy

Whether you’re on the cruise ship, the beach, or enroute to your port of call, a good travel insurance policy will offer coverage and peace of mind for the entirety of your cruise vacation.

Coverage Before Your Cruise

Travel insurance can offer peace of mind heading into a cruise vacation, and protect against unforeseen events that may prevent you from reaching your port of call. This may include cancellations, trip delays, and missed connections that occur as you reach your ship.

• Cancellation Coverage: Offers reimbursement if you cancel your cruise for a covered reason, such as an unforeseen illness, injury, or death of a family member.
• Hurricane & Extreme Weather Protection: Reimburses a traveler in the event they must cancel or interrupt their trip due to inclement weather or natural disasters.
• Trip Delay Benefits: Protects against financial loss if you encounter significant delays or miss a connecting flight enroute to your port of call.
• Baggage Delay: Can reimburse you for toiletry, clothes, and other essential items if your baggage is delayed during transit.

Travel Protection At Sea

While we all hope for smooth sailing when taking a cruise, it’s not always the case. The main reason cruisers purchase travel medical insurance coverage is to protect against unforeseen injuries, illnesses, and other events that may occur during a trip.

Make sure the plan you choose includes strong coverage for the benefits below:

• Medical Coverage: Since most health insurance providers don’t offer coverage outside the USA, most travel insurance plans include Emergency Medical and Medical Evacuation benefits to cover medical emergencies while traveling.
• Interruption Insurance: If you are forced to end your trip early for a covered reason, you may be reimbursed your unused trip costs.
• Baggage Loss Protection: Provides reimbursement for items that were lost, stolen, or damaged at any point during your cruise.

Due to an increase in demand for travel protection while at sea, many travel insurance providers offer plans specifically built for cruisers.

Squaremouth ranks the five best travel insurance companies for cruisers based on policies sold:

• Seven Corners
• Detour Insurance
• Generali Global Assistance

Click here for a full breakdown of the top cruise insurance providers.

If you already have a policy and have any questions for your travel insurance provider or would like to file a claim, please contact your provider directly. Click here to find your provider's contact information .

We're here to help!

Have questions about travel insurance coverage? Call us! 1-800-240-0369 Our Customer Service Team is available everyday from 8AM to 10PM ET.

Best Cruise Insurance Benefits

Cruise insurance tips and information.

Squaremouth shares their tips and recommendations based on the most frequently asked questions from passengers.

How Much Does Cruise Insurance Cost?

Cruisers can expect to pay between 5-10% of their insured trip costs on a comprehensive travel insurance plan. Costs and coverage limits can vary significantly from one policy to the next, so it's best to compare plans before making a purchase decision.

The cost of cruise travel insurance varies based on a variety of factors:

• Total Trip Cost: The sum of your prepaid, non-refundable trip expenses that you plan to insure.
• Length of Your Trip: The amount of days you will be traveling, starting from the day you leave home for your trip.
• Traveler Age: In general, older travelers experience higher travel insurance premiums.
• Coverage Amounts: Policies with higher coverage limits may result in more expensive premiums.

Get a quote today to see pricing for your specific cruise.

What Does Travel Insurance Cover?

Cruise insurance provides financial protection for travelers if their travel plans are impacted before or during their cruise. Most comprehensive travel insurance policies provide coverage for common travel disruptions, including cancellations, medical emergencies, travel delays, missed connections, and personal items.

Is Cruise Travel Insurance Worth It?

For many cruisers, travel insurance is worth it for the peace of mind alone. If things don't go according to plan, travel insurance can protect you from serious financial loss. In addition to well-rounded benefits, most cruise insurance plans also include 24 Hour Travel Assistance Services to support you before and during your cruise.

Do I Need Travel Medical Insurance For My Cruise?

While medical insurance is rarely a requirement for cruises, it is almost always recommended.

Most U.S. health insurance plans won't cover medical emergencies that occur outside of the country. For cruisers especially, this can result in extremely high out of pocket expenses if an unforeseen injury or illness occurs if they don’t have a travel medical insurance policy.

For the best coverage, Squaremouth recommends comprehensive travel insurance plans that include at least $100,000 in Emergency Medical coverage and at least $250,000 in Medical Evacuation coverage. Those with pre-existing medical conditions should also consider plans that offer Pre-Existing Condition waivers .

When Should I Buy Insurance For My Cruise?

While you can buy travel insurance up until the day before you leave for their cruise, Squaremouth recommends buying a policy directly after making your initial first trip deposit. For most cruisers, their first trip payment will likely be their cruise reservation, flights, or hotel accommodations.

This approach offers the most coverage, and allows you to purchase time-sensitive benefits and add-ons like Cancel For Any Reason coverage (CFAR) coverage and Pre-Existing Condition waivers. Purchasing cruise travel insurance early does not necessarily impact your premium.

How Do I Find the Best Travel Insurance Plan?

Travelers can find cruise insurance from a wide-range of sources, including credit cards , cruise lines, travel agents, and third party travel insurance providers. To find the best travel insurance protection for your trip, we recommend taking the time to compare multiple cruise insurance plans that meet your budget and travel needs. Start by using a travel insurance comparison site like Squaremouth.

Can I Cancel My Cruise at the Last Minute?

Yes, many comprehensive travel insurance policies cover trip cancellations under specified circumstances, such as sudden illness, injury, or death of the insured or a family member, natural disasters, or unexpected work obligations. Most policies that include the Trip Cancellation benefit offer 100% reimbursement for all prepaid, non-refundable trip costs.

Does Travel Insurance Cover Excursions?

From scuba diving in the Caribbean sea to riding ATVs through the mainland, excursions offer a chance to experience destinations included in your itinerary. Travel insurance can cover these expenses through the Trip Cancellation, CFAR, or Trip Interruption benefits should you need to cancel your plans. If you plan on partaking in more extreme excursions, you will need to find a policy that explicitly includes Sports & Activities coverage.

Cruise  News Articles

January 12, 2024 — With wave season upon us, cruise lines brace themselves for a potentially record-breaking year on the high seas.  This maritime momentum has been building over the past three years. New data from Squaremouth, the nation’s leading travel insurance marketplace, reveals that the cruise industry is poised to make...

October 26, 2022 — While most travel sectors have made a strong post-pandemic recovery, cruise lines have been slower to rebound. Cruise lines have lessened restrictions in recent weeks, however many still require a negative COVID-19 test prior to embarkation. Despite the continued requirements, travel insurtech Squaremouth.com reports cruisers are now more...

July 28, 2021 — Countries and cruise lines are turning to travel insurance as a resource to regain tourism. Since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, 18 countries have begun requiring visitors travel with insurance for Covid-19. Recently, Royal Caribbean, Carnival and Disney cruise lines announced similar requirements of non-vaccinated travelers. Travel...

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Cruise travel insurance

By   Allstate

Last updated : January 1

plan your next vacation with protection in mind

What is a travel insurance plan for cruises.

A travel insurance plan for your cruise vacation can help you safeguard against unforeseen circumstances, helping you navigate your journey with peace of mind. With cruise travel insurance, you can rest assured that you will be reimbursed for part of, if not all, of your expenses should unexpected events occur.

What does a cruise travel insurance plan usually cover?

A cruise travel insurance plan can serve as a potential safety net for various aspects of your trip. It will provide several key coverages that’ll help you enjoy your cruise without worry.

Medical coverage and emergency evacuation

Imagine a scenario where an accidental injury occurs while snorkeling during your cruise. Medical coverage can help you receive necessary medical attention without the burden of hefty expenses. Additionally, if a situation requires you to be transported to a medical facility, emergency evacuation coverage can help with coordinating assistance depending upon your plan, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) .

Baggage loss or delay

In the event that you arrive at your cruise ship but your luggage does not, travel insurance can help cover losses, delays, or even theft. This coverage provides financial assistance up to your coverage limit , allowing you to secure essentials and carry on with your trip.

Travel delay or missed connection

Flight delays are a reality, and missing a cruise departure can be disheartening. Travel delay coverage can reimburse essential expenses such as accommodations and meals if unforeseen flight delays strand you. And even better, if you miss a cruise connection due to a covered reason, this coverage can help reunite you with your voyage.

Trip cancellation and interruption coverage

Life's uncertainties may require you to cancel or truncate your cruise unexpectedly. Trip cancellation coverage can help safeguard your prepaid expenses in these unfortunate situations. Similarly, trip interruption coverage can provide financial support if you must abruptly return home during your cruise.

Choosing travel insurance for your cruise

Now that we've explored some of the essential facets of travel insurance, let's transition to how you can understand what coverage options are right for you. Tailoring your insurance to your unique needs is vital. Consider these steps in your decision-making process:

Assess your needs

The US Travel Insurance Association suggests that you consider your planned activities as you evaluate your coverage needs. Evaluate the specifics of your trip. Are you engaging in sports or excursions? Do you have any pre-existing medical conditions? Analyzing your travel plans and personal circumstances will guide you in selecting suitable coverage.

Compare coverage

Insurance providers can provide various benefits. To help make sure you choose appropriate coverage, carefully compare the details of each plan to ensure it aligns with your needs. Pay attention to coverage limits, exclusions, and terms.

Evaluate cost

Different cruise insurance plans are priced differently for many reasons. These include coverage types and limits, as well as what benefits may be provided. When comparing plans, it’s important to weigh the cost of different plans with the level of coverage that’s right for you.

Secure your voyage and set sail with confidence

Travel insurance can help give you peace of mind as you enjoy your cruise. By thoughtfully assessing your needs, comparing coverage, and evaluating costs, you can find the coverage you need. Get a travel insurance quote today to protect your seafaring adventures.

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‹  Trip Types

Cruise Travel Insurance Plans

Understand the importance of cruise travel insurance plans for your next vacation and make sure you’re covered with the right Travel Guard plan.

Cruise travel insurance plans are designed to cover you on your water-bound vacations whether you’re traveling across the sea or on a river cruise. From the Bahamas to Barcelona, there is a Travel Guard plan to cover your cruise vacation no matter how long or short it may be.

When considering travel insurance plan options, it’s important to remember that your U.S. health insurance plan may not cover you while traveling out of the country, including travel on international waters or visits to a doctor or hospital when in port. Having a cruise travel insurance plan with medical expense coverage and any necessary medical transport coverage is invaluable if you find yourself with an unexpected illness or injury.

Or, if unforeseeable bad weather interrupts your trip, Travel Guard has coverage options to help protect you.

Ready to book your cruise vacation?

Travel Guard’s award-winning travel insurance plans provide excellent coverage options and access to 24-hour emergency travel assistance.  Compare our travel insurance plans  to find the best option for your travels today. Get travel insurance the way you want it!

What is a cruise travel insurance plan?

Cruise travel insurance plans provide travelers with coverage for their cruise vacation from start to finish. This includes much more than just your cruise –flights and hotel stays the night before your cruise departs can be covered with your Travel Guard travel insurance plan To learn how to best use your travel insurance plan, visit out article on  how travel insurance works .

What does a cruise travel insurance plan cover?

Travel Guard offers customizable travel insurance plans for your cruise vacation.  Look for a plan  that has the coverage and benefit limits you need. Popular plan features include:

• Medical expense coverage
• Travel inconvenience benefit – a one-time payment for inconveniences you encounter on your trip such as a cruise diversion or runway delay (included with certain plans)
• Emergency travel assistance – specialized representatives are available day or night for unexpected travel issues, no matter how far the next port is
• Lodging expense – coverage for reentry requirements into the U.S. (optional add-on coverage available on certain plans)
• Adventure sports bundle – for if you’re planning extreme activities during your cruise (optional add-on coverage available on certain plans)
• Baggage coverage
• Trip cancellation coverage
• Cancel for Any Reason (optional add-on coverage available on certain plans)

Do I need a cruise travel insurance plan?

For any vacation, it’s smart to cover your travel investment, but with a cruise you’re often coordinating a lot of arrangements – travel to the port city, hotel stays before your cruise, and the cruise itself. One delay and your entire trip could be impacted. With a Travel Guard travel insurance plan, your travel investment can be protected, and you have access to our specially trained representatives for  24-hour travel emergency assistance . A missed flight connection doesn’t have to mean a missed cruise – our representatives will work to help you through and unexpected travel mishaps.

Which Travel Guard travel insurance plan is best for my cruise trip?

Travel Guard has a variety of options to help protect your trip depending on the coverage you need. For shorter cruises, the  Preferred Plan  may have all the coverage you need. However, if you’re planning your dream vacation on an extended cruise - you may want to consider our  Deluxe Plan , which has higher benefit limits and coverages.

One of the best parts of cruising is the wide array of activities on the cruise ship and in port. If you think you’ll be participating in any adrenaline pumping activities like water skiing or ziplining, you might want to consider adding on Travel Guard’s Adventure Sports Bundle!

No matter which Travel Guard insurance plan you choose, you’ll have access to our specially trained representatives for  24/7 emergency travel assistance .

Will a cruise travel insurance plan cover my flights?

Yes! Travel Guard has comprehensive plans to ensure your entire trip is covered. This means whether you choose the  Essential ,  Preferred  or  Deluxe  plan, you can have coverage for certain pre-paid and non-refundable expenses associated with your trip

What is the best travel insurance plan for seniors going on a cruise?

Travel Guard’s  Deluxe Plan  includes our highest benefit limits for our offered coverages. Traveling seniors may find travel medical expense and emergency evacuation coverage to be the most reassuring when taking a cruise.

Insured travelers also have early purchase benefits for the first 15 days after the initial trip payment which includes our  pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver  – which makes it possible to be covered for some medical issues on your trip despite your pre-existing medical conditions.

Why purchase your cruise travel insurance plan through Travel Guard?

Travel Guard is one of the world’s leading travel insurance providers with a network of service centers located in Asia, Europe and the Americas, ensuring the highest quality emergency travel services and medical assistance while you’re traveling. With early purchase benefits and optional add-on coverages, you can customize the plan and coverages you need for your cruise vacation.

Get travel insurance the way you want it!

Reviews and testimonials.

“In March 2017, my husband and I took a two-week Caribbean cruise. During the second week, he developed severe bronchitis and was treated for four days in the ship’s clinic. We called our daughter (back at home), who immediately contacted Travel Guard on our behalf to start the claims process--which was seamless. After we returned home, I submitted all bills for which we were paid very quickly. There were no questions asked and absolutely no aggravation. Working with Travel Guard could not have been a better experience at a very stressful time.

As a result, we have purchased Travel Guard three times since and will continue to be loyal customers. The peace of mind gained by being a Travel Guard customer cannot be overstated. Travel Guard exceeded my expectations. Thank you, Travel Guard!”

- Sharon K.

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Coverage available to U.S. residents of the U.S. states and District of Columbia only. This plan provides insurance coverage that only applies during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home, and automobile insurance policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer or insurance agent or broker. Coverage is offered by Travel Guard Group, Inc. (Travel Guard). California lic. no.0B93606, 3300 Business Park Drive, Stevens Point, WI 54482, travelguard.com . CA DOI toll free number: 800-927-HELP . This is only a brief description of the coverage(s) available. The Policy will contain reductions, limitations, exclusions and termination provisions. Insurance underwritten by National Union Fire Insurance Company of Pittsburgh, Pa., a Pennsylvania insurance company, with its principal place of business at 1271 Avenue of the Americas, 37th FL, New York, NY 10020-1304. It is currently authorized to transact business in all states and the District of Columbia. NAIC No. 19445. Coverage may not be available in all states. Your travel retailer may not be licensed to sell insurance, and cannot answer technical questions about the benefits, exclusions, and conditions of this insurance and cannot evaluate the adequacy of your existing insurance. The purchase of travel insurance is not required in order to purchase any other product or service from the Travel Retailer.

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How to Insure a Cruise Ship

Candace Jenkins is a licensed insurance advisor with over a decade of experience. She is also a writer and loves to write on all things insurance. Candace writes for TrustedChoice.com on a continuous basis and is here with the facts about all your insurance inquiries.

All businesses need to be protected, especially when it's on a big boat in the middle of the ocean. There are risks of all kinds that need protecting, and here's what an independent insurance agent would keep in mind when trying to find the right coverage for a cruise ship.

How Do You Insure a Cruise Ship?

Vacationing on a cruise ship has been a tradition since 1960. While there were undoubtedly cruise liners that sailed on voyages to and from different continents, however, it did not become popular until 1960.

Some of the largest cruise ships today are over a thousand feet in overall length and can hold over 6,000 passengers at a time. Because you're floating on a massive body of water with that many people, you can imagine the liability exposure. Take the Titanic, for instance, a tragic example of what can go wrong aboard even a gigantic vessel.

So what the insurance is for one of these large, seaworthy ships? The following coverages would apply:

• Property coverage:  This would be coverage for the business personal property that is within the boat and not permanently attached to the vessel. 
• Physical damage coverage:  This would provide coverage for the vessel itself against accidental loss or damage to the boat and machinery.
• Ship coverage:  This would be coverage for the ship itself, and it would likely have a higher retention limit involved similar to a deductible. When you are talking about insuring items that are millions and millions of dollars, the insurance company will have the owner foot a decent portion first. Then, when a catastrophic claim occurs, the carrier will kick in the rest.
• General liability coverage:  This would be coverage for bodily injury and property damage to others, such as passengers who slip and fall while on the vessel or lose their personal belongings in a cabin fire.
• Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act:  This is a federal law that provides workers' compensation coverage for ship employees, also known as a crew, if they are injured or become ill as a result of their job. This act applies to most workers whose job duties are related to taking care of a ship or working the docks. It may also refer to any contractor or crew member who is injured or ill in the navigatable waters of the United States and surrounding areas. 

Vital Property and Physical Damage Coverage for a Cruise Ship

A cruise ship has property needs, much like your pontoon, fishing boat, or yacht. A cruise ship will need millions of dollars in coverage to adequately insure the vessel. On average, a 500-passenger cruise ship will run around $260 million. That is why most insurance companies will require the owner to have a high retention limit so they don't have to pay for the entire bill themselves.

Another coverage is property coverage for the cruise ship's belongings and inventory. Anything that is not permanently attached to the vessel itself can usually be included in the coverage amount. 

While you may not be in the market for a cruise ship, your personal boat would fall under these same coverages, just not in the same amounts.

Speak with your independent insurance agent to get the exact coverage and premiums for your little cruiser.  

Essential Liability Coverage for a Cruise Ship

When you think of cruise ships, you may think of fun and relaxation. When insurance companies think of cruise ships, they see liability exposures. Today's largest cruise liners can carry over 6,000 passengers. That's 6,000 people that your cruise ship is responsible for if they get injured or ill while on your vessel.

Remember the Costa Concordia that partially sunk back in 2012 with a whole crew and passenger list aboard? Thirty-two people died, and sixty-four were injured. Talk about a liability payout from that ship's insurance company. If you have passengers big or small on any vessel, your insurance is on the line, and hopefully, it's a good policy from a knowledgeable independent insurance agent.  

Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act for Cruise Ships

There is a federal law called the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act that is available to employees and crew members who work in navigable waters when they get hurt or ill on the job. This coverage is only open when the employee is in US waters and adjoining areas.

When it comes to your ship, you may be sailing on a lake or river, and if you're running a small tour guide business, you may have an employee. That employee should have workers' compensation coverage available so they are covered while working for you. Any workers' compensation policy will supply protection not only for your employees but also for your business. Think about it this way, would you rather be personally sued for medical expenses and damages, or would you rather have your workers' compensation policy pick up the tab? The choice is yours, and every state except for one makes coverage mandatory in some form or another.  

Pools, Spas, and Restaurant Insurance on a Cruise Ship

Your cruise ship is a town, and as such, each piece needs to be accounted for when it comes to insuring it properly. Cruise ships today come fully loaded with malls, restaurants, bars, and your very own spa for pampering. 

Those are like little businesses within a large business, and while they are all connected to the same ship, they require the same coverages as if they were separate. Insurance companies will have guidelines and safety measures that must be adhered to just like on dry land.

Some safety measures insurance companies may require:

• All kitchen equipment msut be regularly inspected and signed off on.
• All pools, water slides, and the like need to have fencing around them and a lifeguard on duty at all times.
• Cruise ship malls and retail stores need surveillance cameras and security systems to avoid and deter theft and robbery. 
• All spa staff that deals with the physical touching of passengers as in massages or facials need to obtain a sexual misconduct policy.
• All employees need to have regularly scheduled safety meetings and a safety officer or manager to be named.

If you don't own a massive cruise ship, then you likely won't need coverages for these items. However, checking on all your boats or mini-cruise liners exposures with your independent insurance agent is essential.

Liquor Liability Insurance on a Cruise Ship

Often called a city on water, the cruise ship has restaurants and bars just like any other city, and with that comes alcohol. These adult beverages pose a liability issue if a passenger has one too many and decides to fall overboard. Even though that patron should have had the self-control not to consume so much alcohol, because your ship's bar served it to them, you're ultimately responsible. That is where liquor liability comes into play.

Liquor liability is liability insurance for alcohol-related bodily injury or property damage incidents. Any restaurant or bar, whether they are on a boat or not, will need liquor liability insurance to be adequately protected.  

What if Your Cruise Ship Has a "Flat Tire"?

If your cruise ship breaks down at sea or has an epidemic of some sort that puts your vessel out of commission for a time, you'll want some coverage. Business income coverage will typically supply for physical covered losses or perils such as weather-related events like a tornado, fire, hail, or lighting. An epidemic is a gray area in some policies. An investigation will have to be done to determine what type of infectious disease broke loose or if it was a bad case of food poisoning. 

All in all, you'll need to talk with your independent insurance agent to determine coverage from your insurance carrier. 

We insure just about anything. Even your house.

Our independent agents shop around to find you the best coverage.

How Much Would It Cost to Insure a Cruise Ship?

A cruise ship will cost a pretty penny to insure. Between liability, property, physical damage, workers' compensation, and more, you'll have multiple insurance policies. When you own a cruise ship, you're going big, and that requires big insurance. Premiums will be different for every owner. 

No matter if you own a small fishing boat or a giant ocean liner, your coverage will be specific and unique to you and your business. Now, the more you have to insure, the more premium you will pay. Let's face it, the cost to insure a $260 million cruise ship is not the same as to insure a speed boat.

Here's How an Independent Insurance Agent Would Help

Independent insurance agents have access to multiple insurance companies, ultimately finding you the best coverage, accessibility, and competitive pricing while working for you. Find an independent insurance agent in your community here.

https://www.usnews.com/news/articles/2013/02/14/the-eight-worst-cruise-ship-disasters

https://www.dol.gov/owcp/dlhwc/faq/lsfaqs.htm

https://www.resolveacademy.com/Resources/Blog/1165/a-history-of-the-cruise-ship-industry

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

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

June 1, 2020

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Travel Insurance for Cruises

When experienced cruisers are about to set sail, they choose Allianz Travel Insurance to protect their cruise. Why? Because when you’re at sea, small mishaps quickly become major problems. Travel insurance can help make things right.

If the ship sails without you because your flight to Miami was delayed, travel delay benefits can help you catch up. If you break your leg and have to cancel your trip, the cruise line won't reimburse you—but travel insurance can. And if you suffer a medical crisis on board, travel insurance can cover your evacuation and emergency medical care.

Here’s the best part: Allianz Travel Insurance is much more than cruise travel insurance. Our plans can protect your flights, hotel stays, cruise excursions, and just about any other kind of travel. Learn about the options and insure your next cruise, so you can leave your worries at the dock.

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Cruise Line Insurance Plan Comparison

Every cruise line offers some kind of protection plan to it passengers. Should you buy it?...

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Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please see your plan for full details. Benefits/Coverage may vary by state, and sublimits may apply.

Insurance benefits underwritten by BCS Insurance Company (OH, Administrative Office: 2 Mid America Plaza, Suite 200, Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181), rated “A” (Excellent) by A.M. Best Co., under BCS Form No. 52.201 series or 52.401 series, or Jefferson Insurance Company (NY, Administrative Office: 9950 Mayland Drive, Richmond, VA 23233), rated “A+” (Superior) by A.M. Best Co., under Jefferson Form No. 101-C series or 101-P series, depending on your state of residence and plan chosen. A+ (Superior) and A (Excellent) are the 2nd and 3rd highest, respectively, of A.M. Best's 13 Financial Strength Ratings. Plans only available to U.S. residents and may not be available in all jurisdictions. Allianz Global Assistance and Allianz Travel Insurance are marks of AGA Service Company dba Allianz Global Assistance or its affiliates. Allianz Travel Insurance products are distributed by Allianz Global Assistance, the licensed producer and administrator of these plans and an affiliate of Jefferson Insurance Company. The insured shall not receive any special benefit or advantage due to the affiliation between AGA Service Company and Jefferson Insurance Company. Plans include insurance benefits and assistance services. Any Non-Insurance Assistance services purchased are provided through AGA Service Company. Except as expressly provided under your plan, you are responsible for charges you incur from third parties. Contact AGA Service Company at  800-284-8300 or 9950 Mayland Drive, Richmond, VA 23233 or [email protected] .

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

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Best Cruise Excursion Travel Insurance for Scuba Excursions: battleface

Best cruise excursion travel insurance for paragliding excursions: worldtrips, best cruise excursion travel insurance for bungee excursions: tin leg, best cruise excursion travel insurance for covid-19 coverage: aegis, best cruise excursion travel insurance for seniors: seven corners, what is cruise excursion travel insurance, travel insurance often excludes high-risk activities, credit card travel insurance may exclude high-risk excursions, what cruise excursion travel insurance costs, types of cruise excursion travel insurance, what to look for in a cruise excursion travel insurance policy, 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.

The 5 Best Cruise Excursion Travel Insurance Plans

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:

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 .

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 .

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 .

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 .

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.

Is Cruise Excursion Travel Insurance Worth It?

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.

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.

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

What Cruise Excursion Travel Insurance Covers

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.

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.

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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• Cruise Podcast

Carnival Vista Review 2024 + Cruise News [PODCAST]

Doug Parker

• April 5, 2024

In this episode of Cruise Radio, Doug Parker and Richard Sims discuss the dangers of missing a cruise ship’s departure and the benefits of travel insurance in such events.

Dan Silkin from TripInsurance.com elaborates on how insurance can cover missed connections, medical emergencies, and unexpected itinerary changes, including additional costs for accommodation and transportation.

Listener Julia reviews her eight-night Southern Caribbean cruise on the Carnival Vista, Carnival Cruise Line’s first Vista-class ship .

In this interview, Julia details the embarkation process, onboard entertainment, and port experiences in Amber Cove, San Juan, Saint Martin, and Saint Thomas. She also shares tips for future cruisers.

Timestamps:

• The bridge collapse and cruise relocation (00:00:00)  Discussion of cruise relocation due to the Baltimore bridge collapse and the impact on passengers.
• Passengers left behind (00:00:59): This section covers incidents where passengers were left behind due to independent shore excursions and the cruise line’s responsibility.
• Norwegian Viva venue closures (00:05:00)  Coverage of the closure of venues on the Norwegian Viva and its impact on guests.
• Cancellation of sailings (00:06:02)  Norwegian announced the cancellation of sailings for specific ships and the reasons behind it.
• Royal Caribbean’s relocation (00:07:12): This is Information about Royal Caribbean’s relocation of the Vision of the Seas due to the Baltimore Bridge collapse.
• Travel insurance impacts medical emergencies (00:08:44): This discusses how travel insurance covers medical emergencies and evacuations for cruise passengers.
• Travel insurance coverage for missed ship (00:12:30)  Explanation of travel insurance coverage for missing the ship due to common carrier delays.
• Travel assistance in emergencies (00:15:05)  Information about how travel insurance’s claims number can help in emergencies, such as connecting with embassies and providing assistance.
• Cruise relocation due to disaster (00:15:49)  Discussion of how a travel insurance policy could help passengers when a cruise ship returns to a different port due to a disaster.
• Missed Connection Benefit (00:16:09)  Travel insurance coverage for missed connections and extra travel expenses due to ship delays.
• Travel Delay Benefit (00:17:19)  Coverage for expenses like hotel, food, and local transportation due to overnight stays before catching the next flight.
• Contacting TripInsurance.com (00:18:03): How can you email TripInsurance.com for questions and assistance?
• Trip Review and Pre-Cruise Thoughts (00:18:45)  Julia’s experience and decision to cruise aboard Carnival Vista.
• Embarkation Process (00:21:03)  Julia’s experience with embarkation, including time taken from the curb to the ship.
• First Impressions of Carnival Vista (00:22:13)  Julia’s thoughts on the ship’s appearance and features after dry dock.
• Changes during Dry Dock (00:23:27)  During dry dock, Carnival Vista will undergo renovations and additions, including dining and entertainment options.
• Premium View Balcony Room (00:25:58)  Description and review of the premium view balcony room on the cruise ship.
• Dining Experience (00:28:26)  Julia reviewed the food, dining options, and service throughout the cruise.
• Specialty Dining Experience (00:31:25)  Julia’s experience at specialty restaurants and her review of the food and service.
• Entertainment on the Cruise (00:33:49)  Discussion on the various entertainment options, including shows, live musicians, karaoke, and comedy shows.
• Crowds and Congestion on Sea Days (00:38:20)  Description of the ship’s crowdedness and suggestions for finding less congested areas.
• Ports of Call: Amber Cove (00:41:10)  Tips for visiting Amber Cove include avoiding crowds by going later in the afternoon.
• Ports of Call: San Juan (00:43:28)  Highlights of the visit to San Juan, including the fort and the picturesque landscape.
• Ports of Call: Saint Martin (00:44:44)  Experience at Saint Martin, including the beach, water taxi, and island exploration.
• Ports of Call: Saint Thomas (00:47:07)  Description of the helmet dive experience and visit to Koki Beach on Saint Thomas.
• Return to Port Canaveral and Weather Conditions (00:50:13): This section discusses the weather conditions during the return trip, including big swells and a medical emergency evacuation.
• Casino Experience (00:50:57)  Comparison of the smoking and non-smoking areas in the casino.
• The smoking casino experience (00:51:06)  Julia describes the unpleasant experience of the smoking casino on the ship.
• Winning at the casino (00:52:26)  Talking cruise ship casinos.
• Debarkation process (00:53:38)  Discusses the debarkation process, including facial recognition and self-disembarkation.
• Tips for sailing Carnival Vista (00:55:31)  Tips for making the most of the Carnival Vista experience, including finding special places and tricks.
• Highlights of the cruise (00:56:51)  Two highlights of the cruise, including a memorable experience in Saint Thomas and enjoying time with her husband.
• Final thoughts on Carnival Vista (00:58:49)  Final thoughts of Carnival Vista

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Key benefits of travel medical insurance

• Travel medical insurance coverage
• Who needs medical travel insurance?

Choosing the right travel medical insurance

How to use travel medical insurance, is travel medical insurance right for your next trip, travel medical insurance: essential coverage for health and safety abroad.

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

• Travel medical insurance covers unexpected emergency medical expenses while traveling.
• Travelers off to foreign countries or remote areas should strongly consider travel medical insurance.
• If you have to use your travel medical insurance, keep all documents related to your treatment.

Of all the delights associated with travel to far-flung locales, getting sick or injured while away from home is low on the savvy traveler's list. Beyond gut-wrenching anxiety, seeking medical treatment in a foreign country can be exceedingly inconvenient and expensive.

The peace of mind that comes with travel insurance for the many things that could ail you while abroad is priceless. As options for travel-related insurance abound, it's essential to research, read the fine print, and act according to the specifics of your itinerary, pocketbook, and other needs.

Travel insurance reimburses you for any unexpected medical expenses incurred while traveling. On domestic trips, travel medical insurance usually take a backseat to your health insurance. However, when traveling to a foreign country, where your primary health insurance can't cover you, travel medical insurance takes the wheel. This can be especially helpful in countries with high medical care costs, such as Scandinavian countries.

Emergency medical evacuation insurance

Another benefit that often comes with travel medical insurance, emergency medical evacuation insurance covers you for any costs to transport you to an adequately equipped medical center. Emergency medical evacuation insurance is often paired with repatriation insurance, which covers costs associated with returning your remains to your home country if the worst happens. 

These benefits are for worst-case scenarios, but they might be more necessary depending on the type of trips you take. Emergency medical evacuation insurance is helpful if you're planning on traveling to a remote location or if you're traveling on a cruise as sea to land evacuations can be costly. Some of the best travel insurance companies also offer non-medical evacuations as part of an adventure sports insurance package.

It's also worth mentioning that emergency medical evacuation insurance is required for international students studying in the US on a J Visa. 

Types of coverage offered by travel medical insurance

The exact terms of your coverage will vary depending on your insurer, but you can expect most travel medical insurance policies to offer the following coverages.

• Hospital room and board
• Inpatient/outpatient hospital services
• Prescription Drugs
• COVID-19 treatment
• Emergency room services
• Urgent care visits
• Local ambulance
• Acute onset of pre-existing conditions
• Dental coverage (accident/sudden relief of pain)
• Medical care due to terrorist attack
• Emergency medical evacuation 
• Repatriation of mortal remains
• Accidental death and dismemberment

Travel medical insurance and pre-existing conditions

Many travel insurance providers will cover pre-existing conditions as long as certain conditions are met. For one, travelers need to purchase their travel insurance within a certain time frame from when they placed a deposit on their trip, usually two to three weeks. 

Additionally, travel insurance companies usually only cover stable medical conditions, which are conditions that don't need additional medical treatment, diagnosis, or medications.

Who needs travel medical insurance?

Even the best-laid travel plans can go awry. As such, it pays to consider your potential healthcare needs before taking off, even if you are generally healthy. Even if well-managed, preexisting conditions like diabetes or asthma can make a medical backup plan even more vital.

Having what you need to refill prescriptions or get other care if you get stuck somewhere other than home could be essential to your health and well-being. That's without counting all the accidents and illnesses that can hit us when away from home.

Individuals traveling for extended periods (more than six months) or engaging in high-risk activities (think scuba diving or parasailing) should also consider a solid medical travel plan. Both scenarios increase the likelihood that medical attention, whether routine or emergency, could be needed.

In the case of travel via the friendly seas, it's also worth considering cruise trip medical travel insurance . Routine care will be available onboard. But anything beyond that will require transportation to the nearest land mass (and could quickly become extremely expensive, especially if you're in another country).

Like other types of insurance, medical travel insurance rates are calculated based on various factors. Failing to disclose a preexisting health condition could result in a lapse of coverage right when you need it, as insurers can cancel your policy if you withhold material information. So honesty is always the best policy.

Even the best-laid travel plans can go awry. As such, it pays to consider your potential healthcare needs before taking off, even if you are generally healthy. Making the right choice when shopping for travel medical insurance can mean the difference between a minor hiccup in your travels and a financial nightmare. 

When a travel insurance company comes up with a quote for your policy, they take a few factors into consideration, such as your age, your destination, and the duration of your trip. You should do the same when assessing a travel insurance company. 

For example, older travelers who are more susceptible to injury may benefit from travel medical insurance (though your premiums will be higher). If you're traveling for extended periods throughout one calendar year, you should look into an annual travel medical insurance plan . If you're engaging in high-risk activities (think scuba diving or parasailing), you should seek a plan that includes coverage for injuries sustained in adventure sports.

Travel medical insurance isn't just for peace of mind. If you travel often enough, there's a good chance you'll eventually experience an incident where medical treatment is necessary.

Before you submit your claim, you should take some time to understand your policy. Your travel medical insurance is either primary (you can submit claims directly to your travel medical insurance provider) or secondary (you must first submit claims to your primary insurance provider). In the case of secondary travel medical insurance, a refusal notice from your primary insurance provider, even if it does not cover medical claims outside the US, is often required as evidence of protocol.

On that note, you should be sure to document every step of your medical treatment. You should keep any receipts for filled prescriptions, hospital bills, and anything else documenting your medical emergency.

As many people have found out the hard way, reading the fine print is vital. Most travel insurance policies will reimburse your prepaid, nonrefundable expenses if you fall ill with a severe condition, including illnesses like COVID-19. 

Still on the fence about whether or not medical travel insurance is worth it ? It's worth noting that many travel insurance plans also include medical protections, so you can also protect against trip cancellations and other unexpected developments while obtaining travel medical insurance.

While short, domestic trips may not warrant travel medical insurance, it may be a good idea to insure longer, international trips. You should also consider travel medical insurance for trips to remote areas, where a medical evacuation may be expensive, and more physically tasking trips.

While shopping for travel medical insurance may not be fun, a little advance leg work can let you relax on your trip and give you peace of mind. After all, that is the point of a vacation. 

Medical travel insurance frequently asked questions

Trip insurance covers any unexpected financial losses while traveling, such as the cost of replacing lost luggage, trip interruptions, and unexpected medical expenses. Travel medical insurance just covers those medical expenses without the trip interruption or cancellation insurance.

Travel insurance companies usually offer adventure sports as add-on coverage or a separate plan entirely. You'll likely pay more for a policy with adventure sports coverage. 

Many travel medical insurance policies now include coverage for COVID-19 related medical expenses and treat it like any other illness. However, you should double-check your policy to ensure that is the case.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

**Enrollment required.

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Who Will Pay for the Baltimore Bridge Collapse?

Disputes over liability and the cost of claims could take years for insurers to resolve and result in billions of dollars in payouts.

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By Jenny Gross ,  Michael Forsythe ,  Emily Flitter and Peter Eavis

Jenny Gross reported from London. Michael Forsythe, Emily Flitter and Peter Eavis reported from New York.

On the day the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed, President Biden said the federal government would pay the “ entire cost ” of rebuilding it, which some suggest could run to more than $1 billion. Washington will foot the bill so the bridge and nearby port can reopen “as soon as humanly possible,” he said.

The hope is that much of the cost will be recouped from insurers, but determining who is ultimately on the hook for the deadly disaster is set to become one of the messiest and most expensive disputes of its kind. Rebuilding the bridge, repairing the cargo ship that hit it and compensating companies for the disruption at one of the nation’s busiest ports may take years to resolve.

“We’re not going to wait,” said Mr. Biden, who plans to visit Baltimore on Friday to survey the damage.

The legal wrangling began this week when the shipowner, Grace Ocean Private Ltd., and the ship manager, Synergy Marine, both based in Singapore, filed a petition in U.S. District Court to limit their liability to $43.7 million. They cited an 1851 law that allows a shipowner to cap financial damages mostly to the value of a ship after a crash, if the owner is determined not to have been at fault.

Claims against the ship’s owner and manager must be filed to the federal court in Baltimore by Sept. 24, a judge said.

Experts in maritime law and insurance said determining liability was particularly complex because of the many parties involved, from shipowners in Asia to insurers in Europe to companies around the world that move goods in and out of Baltimore. Numerous lawsuits are expected, and the six deaths caused by the disaster add a grim layer of complications.

“You can’t just necessarily settle with one party and make it go away,” said Franziska Arnold-Dwyer, a senior lecturer in insurance law at Queen Mary University of London.

Investigators are still determining what caused such a catastrophic failure on the cargo ship, the Dali; why the massive vessel appeared to lose power and propulsion before hitting the bridge; and whether negligence was involved. The answers will have implications for who is liable for damage that may cost insurers and reinsurers up to $4 billion, according to industry experts.

“You’re looking at historic, record losses” for maritime insurers, said Sean Kevelighan, chief executive of the Insurance Information Institute, a trade group. The higher estimates could exceed the roughly $1.5 billion paid out after the Costa Concordia crisis in 2012, when 32 people were killed as the cruise ship ran aground off the Italian island of Giglio .

Losses are accumulating, with the Port of Baltimore, a top destination for car shipments , largely closed. Officials said this week that they had opened a channel around the wreckage for limited traffic. A full reopening of the port is expected in late May .

Very little is known about the owner of Grace Ocean, a Japanese businessman named Yoshimasa Abe, except that he is very wealthy.

Most of his known wealth comes from his fleet of more than 50 vessels, including container ships, bulk carriers, tankers and refrigerated cargo ships. They are owned by two Singapore-based companies, Grace Ocean Private and Argosy Pte., that Mr. Abe controls through an offshore company. VesselsValue , which compiles shipping data, estimates that those ships, including the damaged Dali, are worth a combined $2.9 billion.

Shipowners often borrow large amounts of money to buy their fleets. There is little public information about Mr. Abe’s debts, but in 2010 Grace Ocean borrowed $250 million from Mitsui & Company, a Japanese trading firm.

Mr. Abe is also the majority owner of two Chinese shipyards on islands off the coast of Ningbo, according to Sayari and WireScreen , companies that compile and analyze corporate data. Combined, the two shipyards can repair more than 200 vessels a year.

It is unusual for foreign companies to control Chinese shipyards, especially in recent years as industry consolidation in the country has favored state-owned companies, said Matthew Funaiole, who has written about Chinese shipyards for the Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies. “There’s really not much space for there to be foreign ownership,” he said.

Among the 68 member companies, schools and associations focused on ship repair that belong to the China Association of the National Shipbuilding Industry, a trade group, three are foreign-owned shipyards, of which Mr. Abe has a majority interest in two.

Mr. Abe did not respond to a request for an interview or answer written questions about his business. “Out of respect for the investigation and the legal process we will not be making additional public statements,” Jim Lawrence, a spokesman for the Dali’s management company and for Grace Ocean, said in an email. He confirmed earlier that Mr. Abe owned Grace Ocean Investment Limited, a company based in the British Virgin Islands that owns both Argosy Pte. and Grace Ocean Private.

If the shipowner is found liable, its insurer, a mutual association called Britannia P&I Club, will cover the first $10 million of claims, which could include coverage for loss of lives, debris removal, property damage and cargo damage. The Dali was carrying products including paper, U.S. soybeans destined for China and some hazardous materials, according to Concirrus, a marine insurance data provider, and DG Global, an agricultural exporter with goods on the ship.

Beyond $10 million, the 12 clubs including Britannia that make up the London-based International Group of P&I Clubs, which collectively insure about 90 percent of the world’s oceangoing tonnage, would share the cost of claims of up to $100 million. For claims above $100 million, dozens of reinsurers will cover costs up to roughly $3 billion.

The $3 billion figure is so widely known that it could become a target for businesses making damage claims. “There are some reinsurers expecting the worst,” said Hugo Chelton, a managing director at Howden Re, a reinsurance broker.

The global reinsurance industry ended last year with $670 billion in capital, according to Aon , an insurance broker. Though the bridge damage promises to be costly, it is not likely to be among the largest payouts reinsurers have faced recently. Hurricane Ian, which hit Florida in 2022, caused more than $50 billion in insured losses.

Sridhar Manyem, an analyst for AM Best, a ratings agency for insurers, said the potential losses from the bridge collapse did not seem large enough to do long-term damage to any insurers or reinsurers. “It should not affect their balance sheets,” he said.

While a significant share of the claims may be directed at the ship’s insurers, other businesses affected by the bridge and port closure could make claims on other policies to cover their losses, adding to the insured losses caused by the incident.

Scott Cowan, the president of International Longshoremen’s Association Local 333, the union representing Baltimore dockworkers, said on Tuesday that nearly 2,000 workers were still doing jobs at the port, like unloading cargo that arrived before the bridge collapsed.

Mr. Cowan said union leaders had asked for help from the federal and state governments. “The longer the channel’s closed and the longer we’re out, the bigger the problem is going to be,” he said. Many jobs at the port are considered daily hire jobs rather than full-time positions, so they will last only as long as work remains to be done.

Government funds for companies whose operations have been disrupted may not be fully recouped from insurers, said Oscar Seikaly, chief executive of NSI Insurance Group, an insurance broker.

In recent years, when Washington has stepped in with emergency aid after a commercial disaster, taxpayers have later largely recovered the costs, although the international scope of claims in the Baltimore bridge collapse will add complexity to the process.

Representative Dan Meuser, Republican of Pennsylvania, said he was outraged that Mr. Biden had immediately offered to use federal money to pay for the bridge’s reconstruction without considering other sources of funds, including from the owners and insurers of the Dali.

“Insurance payouts could potentially cover the entire cost of rebuilding the bridge without any taxpayer dollars being spent,” he said.

Robyn Patterson, a White House spokeswoman, said the responsible party or parties must be held accountable, but added, “We’re not waiting to get started on this critically important infrastructure project.”

Alain Delaquérière contributed research.

An earlier version of this article misstated a division of an insurance broker. It is Howden Re, not Howden.

How we handle corrections

Jenny Gross is a reporter for The Times in London covering breaking news and other topics. More about Jenny Gross

Michael Forsythe a reporter on the investigations team at The Times, based in New York. He has written extensively about, and from, China. More about Michael Forsythe

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What happens if I miss my cruise ship?

Tales of passengers being left behind at port would strike fear into the heart of the most punctual traveller — this is what to do if it ever happens to you.

T hey’re known in cruise circles as “pier runners” and there’s much mirth at their plight on TikTok and YouTube.

These passengers arrive at the port after the ship’s scheduled departure time, only to be faced with a horrible sinking feeling as they watch the lines being cast off and the vessel edging off the dock.

Those who have made it back in time lean smugly over their balconies, filming the scene as often terrified passengers sprint along the dock, desperately hoping the ship will stop.

Of course there’s nothing remotely funny about being left behind; it’s a nightmare. But it happens. Not often, but it does. Ships have schedules to stick to. On large vessels thousands of other passengers’ holidays and their activities at the next port are at risk. Waiting behind in port is expensive for the cruise line too.

If you’re late back and it’s your fault, essentially you’re at the mercy of the ship’s schedule, the port regulations and the mood of the captain.

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Why do people miss cruise ships?

People miss ships for all sorts of reasons. Some lose track of time, holed up in some beach bar (booze can be a big factor) or engrossed in shopping. Some may have their phones set to their home time zone or still on airplane mode (which is what you’re advised to do on a cruise ship, to avoid satellite roaming charges). Some have booked excursions independently of the ship’s tours that have not made it back in time, in which case it’s made very clear that the ship will not wait for latecomers.

In defence of cruise lines, you are always told when to be back at the ship. If you’re with a larger line you’ll find the return time on the app, while on smaller ships it will be printed on the daily programme. On both large and small vessels it’s always posted on a board as you disembark. An emergency contact number for the ship is usually printed on your keycard, which you need to get on and off the boat.

What happens if I don’t make it back to the ship on time?

The captain will always wait as long as possible for latecomers, but there comes a point, particularly if the passengers haven’t contacted the ship or the cruise line’s agent (the numbers for both will be on the daily programme), when the ship has to leave. Calls will be put out again and again over the PA for the missing passengers to contact reception, in case they have somehow slipped through the net and are in fact on board (which is extremely unlikely).

• Tips for first-time cruisers

If your ship has to depart, the crew will usually leave your passport with its port agent, who will also wait as long as possible for latecomers. You will then need to work with the port agent to make arrangements to get to the next port. They’re not obliged to do this but most will try to help.

Beyond not being late back, there are precautions you can take for the worst eventuality. Carry a copy of your passport and don’t go ashore without a credit card and a charged phone. I would always keep the number for a decent travel agent at home who can jump in and start booking flights and hotels on your behalf if the worst happens. Contact the ship as soon as possible to let the crew know you will be rejoining at the next port.

Will my insurance cover me if I miss the ship?

This depends on the level of insurance cover you have and the reasons for missing the ship. Staysure, for example, which offers extra cover tailored to cruises, will pay if you miss the ship because you’ve had to go to hospital ashore but are deemed well enough to rejoin your ship at a subsequent port.

Most insurers will cover you if you miss the ship at the embarkation port for reasons beyond your control, for example, your car breaking down or your train being cancelled.

But even specialist cruise insurance won’t pay out because you were waylaid in a bar or nodded off on the beach and didn’t make it back in time.

Does it make a difference if I don’t book one of the cruise line’s own shore excursions?

Yes, it makes a big difference. Book through the cruise line and the ship is guaranteed to wait as it’s their responsibility to get you back. Book independently and the risk is entirely yours.

Sometimes there are compelling reasons not to book an excursion through the ship. You may find something that the ship doesn’t offer, or you may get a better price. You may want to travel in a smaller group, or in a private vehicle. Third-party tour operators have got wise to the fear of missing the ship and nowadays offer all sorts of guarantees. Venture Ashore (ventureashore.com), for example, offers a “back-to-ship guarantee” and says: “If for reasons beyond our control (for example road accidents, extreme weather delays) — we will transport you to your next port of call at no extra cost to you.”

Shore Excursions Group (shoreexcursionsgroup.com), another big provider of third-party excursions, says on its website: “We have never had a customer miss their ship … We are not aware of a single case in which a customer on an independent tour missed a ship.” Like Venture Ashore, the company offers a back-on-time guarantee. If you miss the ship through one of its excursions, your accommodation, meals, transport to the next port and an inconvenience payment of £800 per person will be paid.

On the other hand, taking a local taxi to a distant beach and failing to agree a pick-up time for the return offers no such guarantees.

Of course, going it alone and exploring is one of the joys of travel. Just plan sensibly if you’re on a cruise. Allow lots of extra time to get back to the ship. Have a back-up plan, especially if you’ve hopped on a ferry somewhere or have driven and might get caught in traffic.

Do your homework about the port. For example, on Santorini the queues for the cable car down to the dock can be two hours at peak times. You can walk down the donkey track but the less mobile should factor in the extra wait.

Think about the nature of the trip you’re planning. Is it a long, difficult journey with potential for delays? I once joined a tour from the Indonesian port of Probolinggo to Mount Bromo, a journey that took three hours through lengthy traffic jams. Some shipmates had taken a local taxi to save money. They arrived at the volcano just as we were departing, in a state of panic as their taxi had taken hours to get there and there was no possibility of them returning on time.

Our guide allowed them to jump on to the tour bus, but their day had been both stressful and wasted. Moral of the story: in places that are unfamiliar to you and if a sight you want to see is a long way from the ship, you’re probably better off taking an official excursion for peace of mind.

How worried should I be?

You shouldn’t be overly worried about missing your ship, as it’s unlikely to happen. Just respect the ship’s schedule, make sure you always allow plenty of time to get back and check your watch or phone is synced to the ship’s time.

If you’re on an expedition cruise to the remotest corners of the world, rest assured that the ship will never leave without you. You’ll always be in a group with an expedition leader in places like Antarctica or Svalbard and there’s no opportunity to wander off alone and get lost.

If you’re nervous, or less mobile, then perhaps an official tour or a decent third-party tour with a back-to-ship guarantee are better options. But if you’re simply wanting to wander around a city or an island where the ship is docked and you can walk back to it or jump in a taxi, don’t feel intimidated into booking the cruise line’s tours.

Do you think the captain should wait until everyone is on board before sailing? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below

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Insurers could face losses of up to $4 billion after Baltimore bridge tragedy

LONDON − Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse could cost insurers billions of dollars in claims, analysts say, and one put the toll at as much as $4 billion, which would make the tragedy a record shipping insurance loss.

Officials have turned toward a salvage operation with four people still missing in the wreckage and two bodies recovered after a collision with a Singapore-flagged container ship destroyed the landmark bridge on Tuesday, forcing the closure of one of the busiest U.S. ports.

With little clarity on when the Port of Baltimore would reopen, insurers and analysts are now assessing the likely losses borne by underwriters across several product lines including property, cargo, marine, liability, trade credit and contingent business interruption.

"Depending on the length of the blockage and the nature of the business interruption coverage for the Port of Baltimore, insured losses could total between $2 billion and $4 billion," said Marcos Alvarez, managing director for global insurance ratings at Morningstar DBRS. That would surpass the record insured losses of the  Costa Concordia  luxury cruise liner disaster in 2012, he said.

Mathilde Jakobsen, senior director, analytics at insurance ratings agency AM Best, also said the claims would likely run into "billions of dollars."

Protect your family: Find the best life insurance policies of 2023

Ship liability insurance, which covers marine environmental damage and injury, is provided through protection and indemnity insurers known as P&I Clubs.

The International Group of P&I Clubs collectively insures approximately 90% of the world's ocean-going tonnage and member P&I clubs mutually reinsure each other by sharing claims above $10 million. The IG Group declined to comment.

According to AM Best, the group holds general excess of loss reinsurance cover up to the value of $3.1 billion.

Spreading the cost

Moody's Ratings analyst Brandan Holmes said approximately 80 different reinsurers provided that cover to the ship's insurers.

"While the total claim is expected to be high, it is unlikely to be significant for individual reinsurers since it will be spread across so many," he said.

Insurer Britannia P&I said in a statement that the vessel, named the Dali, was entered with the club, adding that it was working closely with the ship manager and relevant authorities "to establish the facts and to help ensure that this situation is dealt with quickly and professionally."

Loretta Worters, spokesperson at the Insurance Information Institute, said AXA XL was the lead reinsurer on the first layer of cover for IG's reinsurance program, with other global reinsurers also involved. AXA XL did not immediately respond to request for comment.

Alvarez said the disaster would likely put upward pressure on marine insurance rates globally.

Worters added she believed Aon was the insurance broker for the property policy for the bridge. Insurance Insider reported that Chubb was the lead underwriter for the policy. Aon and Chubb declined to comment.

Initial estimates of the cost of rebuilding the bridge, which is likely to be paid by the federal government , are at $600 million, economic software analysis company IMPLAN said.

The closure of the port for just one month could see a total loss of $28 million for the state of Maryland, according to IMPLAN analysis.

"The economic disruption and pain felt by businesses and individuals in Maryland and the Baltimore economic area will be widespread and likely take years to fully comprehend and compensate those affected," said Julien Horn, partner, Ports & Terminals and Logistics, at insurance broker McGill and Partners.

• International

March 26, 2024 - Baltimore Key Bridge collapses after ship collision

By Helen Regan , Kathleen Magramo , Antoinette Radford, Alisha Ebrahimji , Maureen Chowdhury , Rachel Ramirez , Elise Hammond , Aditi Sangal , Tori B. Powell , Piper Hudspeth Blackburn and Kathleen Magramo , CNN

Our live coverage of the Baltimore bridge collapse has moved here .

Crew member on DALI said everyone on board was safe hours after bridge collapse, official says

From CNN’s Amy Simonson

A crew member on the DALI cargo ship sent a message hours after the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed Tuesday saying everybody on board was safe, according to Apostleship of the Sea director Andy Middleton.

Middleton, who spent time with the captain of the DALI Monday, told CNN’s Laura Coates he reached out to a crew member after hearing about the incident Tuesday morning. 

He said there were 22 members aboard the ship from India who were setting sail earlier Tuesday morning and were heading toward Sri Lanka.

“I was able to reach out to a crew member very early this morning around 5:30 (a.m. ET) or 6 (a.m. ET) and get a message to them asking if they were OK,” he said. “That crew member responded within just a few minutes advising that the crew was safe, and everybody that [was] on board was safe.”

Middleton was told by the ship's captain Monday that the vessel was going to take a longer route to avoid risks along the Yemen coast.

“When I was out with the captain yesterday, we were talking while we were driving, and he advised that they were sailing down and around the tip of South Africa in order to avoid the incidents that are going on off the Yemen coast, and it was a safer way to go,” he said.

Middleton said the  Apostleship of the Sea  is a ministry to seafarers with members that spend time in the port and on the vessels as a friendly face to the seafarers that visit the Port of Baltimore, “taking care of their needs to make sure that they're reminded of their God-given human dignity when they're here in Baltimore.”

Search operation ends in "heartbreaking conclusion," Maryland governor says. Here's the latest

From CNN staff

Six people, who were believed to be part of a road construction crew, are presumed dead after Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed early Tuesday morning. The collapse came after a 984-foot cargo ship hit the bridge's pillar.

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore told reporters Tuesday evening it's a "really heartbreaking conclusion to a challenging day."

Late Tuesday, it was discovered that two of the construction workers who went missing after the bridge collapsed were from Guatemala , the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said late Tuesday.

Here's what you should know to get up to speed:

• The victims: Eight people were on the bridge  when it fell, according to officials. At least two people were rescued — one was taken to the hospital and was later  discharged , fire official and the medical center said.
• The incident: Video shows the moment the entire bridge structure falls into the water, as the ship hits one of the bridge's pillars. CNN analysis shows that the  ships lights flickered  and it veered off course before it hit the bridge. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said the crew on the ship were able to issue a "mayday" before colliding into the bridge, which allowed the authorities to stop incoming traffic from going onto the bridge.
• Response efforts: Earlier, dive teams from various state and local agencies were brought in to assist in search-and-rescue operations, according to Maryland State Police Secretary Col. Roland L. Butler Jr.. The mission started with 50 personnel and continued to grow before the Coast Guard announced Tuesday evening that it was suspending its active search-and-rescue operation and transitioning to a "different phase."
• The investigation: Authorities are still working to establish exactly how the crash occurred. The National Transportation Safety Board will look into  how the bridge was built  and investigate the structure itself. It will "take time to dig through" whether the bridge had ever been  flagged for any safety deficiencies , NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy said.
• Rebuilding the bridge: US Sen. Chris Van Hollen said the path to rebuilding the bridge will be "long and expensive." Senior White House adviser Tom Perez told reporters Tuesday “it’s too early” to tell how long it will take to rebuild the bridge. President Joe Biden said Tuesday he wants the federal government to bear the full cost of rebuilding the collapsed bridge, noting that it will not wait for the company who owns the container ship DALI to shoulder the costs. Funding could come from the Federal Highway Administration as well as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, but it may require additional funding from Congress.

2 of the missing construction workers from bridge collapse were from Guatemala, foreign ministry says

From CNN’s Allison Gordon, Flora Charner and Amy Simonson

Two of the construction workers missing from the bridge collapse in Baltimore were from Guatemala, the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement late Tuesday.

Those missing included a 26-year-old originally from San Luis, Petén. The other is a 35-year-old from Camotán, Chiquimula, the statement said.

The ministry said both were part of a work team “repairing the asphalt on the bridge at the time of the accident.”

The statement did not name the two people missing, but it said the country’s consul general in Maryland “went to the area where the families of those affected are located,” where he hopes to be able to meet with the brothers of both missing people.

The consulate   also issued a statement Tuesday saying its consul general in Maryland "remains in contact with local authorities," and also confirmed that two of those missing "were of Guatemalan origin.”

Six people, who were believed to be part of a road construction crew, are presumed dead after Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed early Tuesday morning when a cargo ship hit the bridge's pillar.

State and federal officials have not released information about the identities of any of the six missing workers.

Underwater mapping of bridge collapse area to begin Wednesday, Baltimore fire chief says

From CNN's Jennifer Henderson

Search operations near the Key Bridge collapse have shut down for the night due to dangerous conditions, but the process of underwater mapping with many local, state and federal dive teams will begin Wednesday, Baltimore City Fire Chief James Wallace told CNN’s Anderson Cooper Tuesday night.

Wallace said the portion of the Patapsco River is “tidal influenced, so it goes through tide cycles just like the open waters of the Chesapeake Bay does.”

The water depths in the area under the bridge vary from 40 feet to more than 60 feet, Wallace said. The deeper the divers go, the colder the temperatures they encounter, and the visibility is zero, he added.

 Wallace said when crews arrived Tuesday morning, the surface water temperatures of the Patapsco River were about 47 degrees with an air temperature of 44-45 degrees.

Here's what you should know about the historic Francis Scott Key Bridge

The Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed early Tuesday after a massive container ship lost power and crashed into the iconic Baltimore bridge, sending people and vehicles into the frigid Patapsco River.

Six people, believed to be part of a road construction crew, are presumed dead and the Coast Guard has ended its active search and rescue mission.

Here's what you should know about the historic bridge:

• How old?: The Francis Scott Key Bridge, also referred to as just the Key Bridge, opened to traffic in March 1977 and is the final link in the Baltimore Beltway, according to the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA.) It crosses over the 50-foot-deep Patapsco River, where former US attorney Francis Scott Key found inspiration to write the lyrics to the Star Spangled Banner, the MDTA says.
• How long?: The bridge was 1.6 miles long when standing, MDTA reports.
• Traffic volume: More than 30,000 people commuted daily on the bridge, according to Maryland Gov. Wes Moore.
• How much did it cost?: The bridge cost $60.3 million to build, MDTA says. Since its collapse, President Joe Biden said he’s committed to helping rebuild the bridge as soon as possible.
• About the port: Baltimore ranks as the ninth biggest US port for international cargo. It handled a record 52.3 million tons, valued at $80.8 billion, in 2023. According to the Maryland state government, the port supports 15,330 direct jobs and 139,180 jobs in related services.
• About the ship: The bridge collapsed after a container vessel called Dali collided with one of its supports. Dali is operated by Singapore-based Synergy Group but had been chartered to carry cargo by Danish shipping giant Maersk . The ship is about 984 feet long , according to MarineTraffic data. That’s the length of almost three football fields.

Baltimore woman says bridge collapse was "like a piece of family dissolved"

From CNN's Kit Maher

For longtime Baltimore resident, Ceely, who opted not to share her last name, seeing footage of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse  Tuesday was deeply personal.

“I was very heavy-hearted,” Ceely told CNN. “Very tearful, thinking about the families whose loved ones may be in the water and just remembering when the bridge was constructed, and it was just like a piece of family dissolved.”

Ceely was at a prayer group Tuesday morning when she saw the news. She recalled being afraid when she first crossed the bridge while in Ford Maverick in 1975, but grew to like it because it saved time on the road.

“It was a main artery just like a blood line. It was a main artery to the other side of town. It was awesome. It beat going through the city all the time,” she said.

Elder Rashad A. Singletary , a senior pastor who led Tuesday night’s vigil at Mt. Olive Baptist Church told CNN that many church members watched the bridge's construction.

"It’s a part of the community. A lot of our individuals in our congregation drive that bridge to go to work, and so now it’s really a life changing moment,” he said.

"Heartbreaking conclusion to a challenging day," Maryland governor says as Coast Guard ended search operation

From CNN's Aditi Sangal

More than 18 hours after the collapse of the Baltimore bridge, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said it was a heartbreaking conclusion after the Coast Guard ended the search-and-rescue operation for the six people who were on the bridge when it collapsed.

It's a "really heartbreaking conclusion to a challenging day," he said.

"We put every single asset possible — air, land and sea" to find the missing people, he told reporters on Tuesday evening. "While even though we're moving on now to a recovery mission, we're still fully committed to making sure that we're going to use every single asset to now bring a sense of closure to the families," the governor added.

6 people presumed dead after Baltimore bridge collapse, Coast Guard says. Here's what we know

As the sun sets in Baltimore, six people are presumed dead after a major bridge collapsed overnight Tuesday, according to the Coast Guard. The Francis Scott Key Bridge came down around 1:30 a.m. ET after a cargo ship collided with it.

The Coast Guard said it has ended its active search-and-rescue operation for the missing construction workers who were on the bridge when it collapsed.

• What we know: Eight people were on the bridge when it fell, according to officials. At least two people were rescued — one was taken to the hospital and has been discharged . The Coast Guard has been searching for six other people. But, around 7:30 p.m. ET, the Coast Guard said it has transitioned to a “different phase” of operation, now it did “not believe we are going to find any of these individuals alive,” Rear Adm. Shannon Gilreath said.
• About the ship: The bridge collapsed after a container vessel called Dali collided with one of its supports. The vessel is operated by Singapore-based Synergy Group but had been chartered to carry cargo by Danish shipping giant Maersk . The US Embassy in Singapore has been in contact with the country’s Maritime and Port Authority, a State Department spokesperson said.
• The investigation: The National Transportation Safety Board is leading the investigation into the collapse. A team of 24 experts will dig into nautical operations, vessel operations, safety history records, owners, operators, company policy and any safety management systems or programs, said NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy. A voyage data recorder will be critical to the investigation, she added. 
• Vehicles on the bridge: Officials are also working to verify the numbers of how many cars and people were on the bridge, Homendy said. Gov. Wes Moore said the quick work of authorities in closing the bridge had saved lives . Radio traffic captured how authorities stopped traffic and worked to clear the bridge seconds before the impact . Maryland State Police Secretary Col. Roland L. Butler Jr. said there is a “ distinct possibility ” more vehicles were on the bridge, but authorities have not found any evidence to support that.
• Looking ahead: NTSB will look into how the bridge was built and investigate the structure itself, including if it was flagged for any safety deficiencies , Homendy said. The federal government has also directed its resources to help with search and rescue, to reopen the port and rebuild the bridge, Vice President Kamala Harris said . Earlier, President Joe Biden said t he federal government will pay to fix the bridge.
• The economy: Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg warned the collapse will have a serious impact on supply chains . Until the channel is reopened, ships will likely already be changing course for other East Coast ports. Ocean carriers are already being diverted from the Port of Baltimore, where the bridge collapsed, to the Port of Virginia to “keep trade moving."

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