insurance for cruise cancellation

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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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Smooth Sailing Ahead: Your Guide to Cruise Travel Insurance [2023]

Jessica Merritt

Editor & Content Contributor

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Keri Stooksbury

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Table of Contents

The 5 best cruise travel insurance policies, what is cruise insurance, is cruise insurance worth it, cruise insurance costs, what cruise insurance covers, how to get cruise insurance, final thoughts.

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Taking a cruise is one of the easiest ways to travel, but cruising isn’t immune to unexpected hiccups. Sudden illness, travel delays, or other unforeseen events could cancel or interrupt your cruising plans — you might even need medical coverage. 

With cruise insurance, you’re covered for unexpected issues that can interfere with your travel plans . Read on to learn what cruise insurance is, how to get it, and how to find the best cruise insurance policies, whether you’re buying directly from the cruise line or a third-party insurance company.

The right cruise insurance policy offers the coverage you need at a good price, but policies aren’t one-size-fits-all. We’ve run quotes for various coverage scenarios — from seniors to adventure tours — to find the best cruise insurance policies . 

Consider these travel insurance policies for your next cruise:

Best Cruise Travel Insurance for Seniors: Seven Corners

Seniors cruising the world can get comprehensive coverage from Seven Corners Travel Insurance . We were quoted $89 for a 70-year-old cruising Mexico . The Seven Corners Trip Protection Basic policy offers trip cancellation and interruption, medical coverage, and medical evacuation, along with COVID-19 cancellation and medical coverage.

Comprehensive travel insurance, regardless of your age, is widely available and relatively affordable. Check out our complete guide to travel insurance for seniors .

Best Cruise Travel Insurance With COVID-19 Coverage: battleface

If you’re concerned about COVID-19 derailing your cruise travel plans, getting cruise travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage is essential. The battleface Discovery Plan covers COVID-19 cancellation and medical expenses, along with regular trip cancellation, medical evacuation, and medical emergency coverage. We were quoted $36.54 for a 35-year-old cruising Italy on this plan.

Best Cruise Travel Insurance for Young Travelers: Aegis

Young travelers often have the lowest-priced travel insurance policies. We got a quote for just $30.27 from Aegis for a 22-year-old cruising the Bahamas . The Aegis Go Ready Choice policy covers COVID-19 medical and cancellation, trip cancellation and interruption, medical evacuation, and medical expenses.

Best Cruise Travel Insurance for Adventure Tours: IMG

Are you planning adventurous excursions on your cruise? IMG’s iTravelInsured Travel Lite , with options for winter, adventure, and extreme sports, can give you the coverage you need. We were quoted $58.87 for a 40-year-old traveler cruising to Costa Rica with plans to zipline . It covers trip cancellation and interruption, medical expenses, medical evacuation, and adventure sports with some exclusions, such as diving and adventure races.

Your travel insurance might not cover everything you want to do — particularly if you plan on adventure activities. Here’s our complete guide to adventure and extreme sports travel insurance .

Best Cruise Travel Insurance, Cancel for Any Reason Coverage: John Hancock Insurance Agency

If you’re especially concerned you may need to cancel your cruise, Cancel for Any Reason coverage allows you to cancel your trip and receive partial reimbursement for nonrefundable trip expenses, even if you cancel for reasons not normally covered by trip cancellation coverage. We were quoted $100.50 for a 55-year-old cruising Alaska for John Hancock Insurance Agency’s Silver plan , which reimburses up to 75% of your trip cost under Cancel for Any Reason coverage. It also offers coverage for COVID-19 medical and cancellation, trip cancellation and interruption, and medical expenses and evacuation with primary coverage.

Cruise insurance is travel insurance that covers cruises . It can help you manage all the what-ifs on your cruise. What if you need to cancel your booking? What if your flight is late? What if you get sick or hurt? Travel insurance for cruises can cover you for all of these things. 

Many travel insurance policies cover cruises, but cruise insurance may be tailored to the risks of cruises, covering transportation, accommodations, and activities. Getting travel insurance for cruises can offer peace of mind if you’re concerned about losing nonrefundable trip payments, travel delays, or covering emergency medical care.

Cruise bookings can be unforgiving, and cruise insurance can help you minimize your risk of losing the money you’ve paid for your trip. Travel insurance coverage is often a good idea if you’re concerned about losing nonrefundable prepaid travel expenses or covering emergency medical expenses . 

Because cruises are often less flexible than other types of travel, it’s generally a good idea to get cruise travel insurance. For example, you might be able to rebook a flight or hotel room, but if you cancel your cruise, you could lose your deposit or more. Often, cruise lines won’t offer any refunds if you cancel within a certain period before your cruise, such as 14 or 30 days .

Additionally, you shouldn’t expect your U.S.-based health insurance plan to cover you on your cruise, especially if you’re on an international cruise. And it’s exceptionally expensive if you need to be evacuated for a medical condition.

While everyone hopes for smooth sailing, the reality is a lot of unexpected issues could pop up on your cruise. Your flight to the cruise port could be delayed, you might get sick or injured on your cruise, or you might have to cancel the whole thing if illness or obligations prevent you from going on your cruise. A hurricane could interfere with cruising in storm hotspots such as the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico. 

Cruise insurance can offer financial support for many unexpected problems you might experience with a cruise. And with a 24-hour travel assistance hotline , you can get knowledgeable help whether you need to find a local pharmacy or coordinate the replacement of lost travel documents such as your passport.

That said, you might have travel insurance coverage available with a credit card . Some credit cards offer travel insurance benefits such as trip cancellation and interruption, emergency medical treatment and evacuation, and travel delay coverage. Still, you should check the details of your credit card’s coverage to ensure it’s enough for your needs. 

Looking for a credit card with travel protections? Read our guide to the best credit cards for travel insurance coverage and protection.

Generally, expect cruise insurance to cost between 5% to 10% of the total cost of your cruise . For a $3,000 cruise, you’ll typically pay between $150 to $300 for comprehensive travel insurance coverage. But keep in mind several factors influence the cost of cruise insurance, including:

• Add-ons, such as CFAR 
• Coverage options 
• Cruise cost 
• Deductibles and limits 
• Destination 
• Group policies 
• Traveler age 
• Trip duration

Learn more about travel insurance costs in our guide to the average cost of travel insurance .

Each travel insurance policy is unique, but travel insurance for cruise coverage typically includes:

• 24/7 Assistance: You can get 24/7 support for itinerary changes, rebooking, medical emergencies, and more.
• Baggage Protection: Your luggage is covered for loss, theft, or damage on your flight or during your cruise.
• Cabin Confinement: You may get reimbursement if you have to stay in your cabin during your cruise, such as a required quarantine due to COVID-19.
• Cancel for Any Reason: Usually available as an add-on, CFAR travel insurance allows you to cancel your cruise for any reason and receive a partial reimbursement of your nonrefundable travel expenses.
• Itinerary Changes: You can get covered for changes in your cruise’s itinerary, missed port calls, or extended delays beyond your control.
• Missed Connections: If you miss your cruise departure due to a flight delay or other covered reason, you can get reimbursed for your nonrefundable travel expenses.
• Medical Emergencies: Cruise insurance can cover medical treatment on the cruise and may offer coverage for medical evacuation.
• Trip Cancellation or Interruption: You can get reimbursed for your nonrefundable travel expenses if you cancel your cruise or end your trip early due to covered reasons such as illness or injury. You’re typically covered if the cruise line cancels due to mechanical issues, weather, or other unforeseen events.

Cruise-specific travel insurance may also offer reimbursement if your cruise ship is disabled. And if you want to cover shore excursions, be sure to include the cost of excursions in your total travel cost when you get quotes for cruise insurance.

While these coverage types are common among cruise insurance policies, checking the terms and conditions to confirm all coverage areas is a good idea.

Types of Cruise Insurance

There are many options for travel insurance, and you can generally choose as little or as much coverage as you’d like. You can opt for a comprehensive travel insurance policy, which may offer Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) coverage, or you might prefer to limit your costs and choose just the coverage you need. For example, you might choose standalone trip cancellation insurance or a travel medical insurance policy but decide you don’t need coverage for missed connections or baggage.

What To Look for in a Cruise Travel Insurance Policy

Consider these factors as you compare the best cruise travel insurance policies:

• Cancellation Window: Understand how many days before your cruise departure you must cancel to qualify for reimbursement.
• Coverage Availability: Travel insurance policies typically offer cruise coverage, but it’s best to confirm that a policy specifically covers cruises before you purchase it. Also, consider availability for coverages that may be important to you, such as CFAR or adventure sports. 
• Customer Reviews and Reputation: You can get insight into the insurance provider and how claims and customer service work by reading customer reviews and ratings.
• Eligibility Criteria: Cruise insurance policies may have eligibility criteria such as limits on age or trip duration and preexisting conditions. For example, some travel insurance policies max out at 90 days.
• Exclusions and Limitations: Read the policy to understand what’s excluded or limited specifically to cruise-related coverage, such as reimbursements for port closures, itinerary changes, or medical incidents on the cruise.
• Policy Cost: Get multiple quotes and compare each cost and coverage value to ensure you get a good value for your cruise insurance policy.
• Purchase Timeline: You’ll usually need to purchase your cruise insurance within a certain period of booking your trip, so be sure you’re buying your policy within that timeframe.
• Reimbursement Structure: Review the cruise insurance policy to confirm how much you can be reimbursed for under qualifying circumstances, such as if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip.

You can buy cruise insurance from the cruise line when you book, or a travel agent may offer cruise insurance plans. You also have the option to purchase cruise trip insurance independently. It’s a good idea to get multiple quotes to compare your costs and coverage and get the best deal on cruise insurance.

You should buy cruise insurance when you make your first deposit so you’re immediately covered for trip cancellation. Here are some of the options and coverages if you purchase cruise insurance directly from the cruise line:

Before you purchase cruise insurance from a cruise line, compare your third-party options. You can get quotes from multiple travel insurance companies at once using a travel insurance aggregator such as Squaremouth .

Even a meticulously planned cruise can run into unforeseen disruptions — and cruise insurance can come in handy for the unexpected.

Cruise insurance covers you for sudden illnesses, travel delays, and more, offering financial protection so you’re safeguarded against uncertainties. Whether you get cruise insurance from the cruise line or third–party insurance providers, understand your coverage and how it protects your investment in cruise travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my health insurance cover me on a cruise.

Some health insurance policies offer limited coverage on cruises, but coverage often depends on where you’re cruising and your planned activities. Check with your insurance provider about coverage before you depart on your cruise. Find out if supplemental cruise insurance is available if you want to use your existing health insurance coverage.

Are cruises covered under travel insurance?

Cruises are typically covered under travel insurance , so you don’t necessarily have to buy specialized cruise insurance, such as coverage from the cruise line. Travel insurance can cover trip cancellations and interruptions, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and more on your cruise trip.

Can you buy cruise insurance after booking?

You can buy cruise insurance after booking. It’s generally best to purchase cruise insurance as soon as possible after making your initial trip deposit — when you have money on the line. The sooner you purchase cruise insurance, the sooner you’re covered for trip cancellations.

Can you buy medical insurance for a cruise?

You can buy medical travel insurance to cover your medical expenses on a cruise, offering coverage such as medical emergencies, illnesses, and injuries.

How do I add travel insurance to my cruise?

You can add travel insurance to your cruise when you book with the cruise line or a travel agent. Alternatively, you can purchase travel insurance directly from travel insurance agencies.

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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 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:

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• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
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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 for cruise-specific plan: 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 for cruise-specific plan

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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Travel Insurance

Best cruise travel insurance plans of May 2024

Amy Fontinelle

Heidi Gollub

“Verified by an expert” means that this article has been thoroughly reviewed and evaluated for accuracy.

Updated 12:55 p.m. UTC Jan. 3, 2024

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Editorial Note: Blueprint may earn a commission from affiliate partner links featured here on our site. This commission does not influence our editors' opinions or evaluations. Please view our full advertiser disclosure policy .

WorldTrips offers the best cruise travel insurance, according to our analysis. If you’re shopping for travel insurance for a cruise, use this guide to compare the cost and coverage of top-scoring plans.

Editor’s Note: This article contains updated information from a previously published  story .

Best cruise travel insurance companies

Axa assistance usa, travel insured, trawick international.

• USI Affinity

Why trust our travel insurance experts

Our team of experts evaluates hundreds of insurance products and analyzes thousands of data points to help you find the best product for your situation. We use a data-driven methodology to determine each rating. Advertisers do not influence our editorial content. You can read more about our methodology below.

• 1,517 coverage details evaluated.
• 280 rates reviewed.
• 5 levels of fact-checking.

Top-rated cruise travel insurance plans of 2024

Top-scoring plan

Covers covid, medical & evacuation limits per person, what you should know.

WorldTrips’ Atlas Journey Preferred offers solid cruise travel insurance coverage for a low price. With this plan, you’ll get $1 million in emergency evacuation benefits and $100,000 in emergency medical coverage. Medical coverage is secondary, meaning you’ll have to file medical claims with your health insurance provider first, but you have the option to upgrade to primary coverage.

Atlas Journey Premier also makes our rating of the best cruise travel insurance with 4.5 stars — if you’re willing to pay a little extra you can get $150,000 in primary medical coverage with this plan.

Pros and cons

• One of the cheapest cruise travel insurance plans in our rating.
• Top-notch medical evacuation coverage of $1 million.
• Very good missed connection coverage of $1,500 after a 3-hour delay.
• Covers $1,500 in lost baggage or personal items per person.
• Offers pre-existing conditions exclusion waiver if terms are met.
• Hurricane and weather delay coverage applies after 12 hours.
• No “interruption for any reason” upgrade available.
• No non-medical evacuation coverage.

If you’re worried that missed connections could disrupt your cruise, it’s worth considering TravelSafe for its excellent missed connection benefit.

• Best-in-class $2,500 per person in missed connection coverage after 3 hours.
• Superior baggage loss limit of $2,500 per person.
• Travel delay benefit of $150 per day is on the low side.

AXA Assistance USA’s Platinum offers $1 million in emergency medical evacuation coverage, $250,000 in emergency medical coverage and has a high per-person limit for baggage and personal items loss.

• Good emergency medical coverage of $250,000.
• Best-in-class lost baggage coverage of $3,000 per person.
• Very good missed connection coverage of $1,500 per person after a 3-hour delay.
• Much pricier CFAR coverage than competitors.
• Hurricane and weather delay coverage applies after a 48-hour waiting period.
• Travel delay and baggage delay coverages have a 12-hour waiting period.

Travel Insured Worldwide Trip Protector travel insurance offers $1 million in emergency evacuation coverage per person and $150,000 in non-medical evacuation per person. It also has primary coverage for travel medical insurance benefits.

• Provides a rare $150,000 in non-medical evacuation coverage.
• Very good 75% “interruption for any reason” upgrade available.
• Generous travel delay benefit of $200 per day ($1,500 max) after 3 hours.
• Missed connection coverage kicks in after 3 hours.
• Hurricane and weather delay coverage applies after just 6 hours.
• Baggage loss coverage of $1,000 is lower than most of our top-scoring plans.
• Optional “interruption for any reason” coverage begins 72 hours after your trip starts, not 48.
• Missed connection coverage caps out at $500 and is limited to cruises and tours.

Trawick International’s Safe Travels First Class policy offers top-notch medical evacuation coverage of $1 million, but its emergency medical benefit is secondary coverage. This means you’ll need to file any medical claims with your health insurance provider first.

• $1,000 missed connection coverage for cruises and tours after 3 hours.
• $2,000 in lost baggage per person.
• Emergency medical coverage is secondary.
• Hurricane and weather delay coverage only applies after a 48-hour waiting period.

Nationwide’s Cruise Luxury travel insurance plan provides excellent coverage for missed cruise and tour connections: $2,500 per person after only a 3-hour delay. It’s also one of the lower-priced plans among our top picks.

• $25,000 in non-medical evacuation coverage.
• Great missed connection coverage of $2,500 per person after a 3-hour delay.
• Excellent baggage and personal item loss coverage of $2,500 per person.
• Optional “interruption for any reason” upgrade only covers $1,000.
• Emergency medical benefit is secondary coverage.
• Hurricane and weather delay coverage applies after 24 hours, rather than 6 or 12.

USI Affinity Travel Insurance Services

USI’s Ruby plan offers well-balanced coverage that meets our standards for emergency medical and evacuation coverage. It’s also one of our more expensive top-scoring plans.

• Good emergency medical coverage of $250,000 per person.
• Very good medical evacuation coverage of $500,000.
• Baggage loss coverage of $1,000 is lower than most top-scoring plans.
• One of the higher-priced options among our top-rated plans.
• Missed connection coverage caps out at $750 and is limited to cruises and tours.
• Hurricane and weather delay coverage applies after 48 hours.

Best cruise insurance plans of 2024

Via TravelInsurance.com’s website

Methodology

Our insurance experts reviewed 40 aspects of 37 travel insurance plans to find the best cruise insurance.

We only scored plans that cover COVID-related cancellation and medical expenses, and plans that offer missed connection coverage.

The benefits we scored out of a possible 100 points include:

Cost: 50 points. We scored the average cost for each travel insurance policy — not including “cancel for any reason” coverage — for a variety of international trips and traveler profiles.

Medical expenses: 10 points. Travel insurance plans that offer travel medical expense benefits of $250,000 or more per person were given the highest amount of points.

Medical evacuation: 10 points. Travel insurance plans with emergency medical evacuation benefits of $500,000 or more per person were given the highest number of points.

Missed connection coverage: 15 points. Plans with higher reimbursement levels for missed connections scored more points.

CFAR reimbursement level of trip cost: 5 points. Policies providing 75% reimbursement were awarded full points.

Trip interruption: 5 points. Travel insurance plans with trip interruption reimbursement of 150% or more were given points.

Pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver: 5 points. Travel insurance plans that cover pre-existing medical conditions if the policy is purchased within the required timeline received points.

What is cruise insurance and how does it work?

Cruise insurance is another name for travel insurance . If the trip you’re planning is a cruise, you might be looking for cruise insurance — but you’re really just looking for a comprehensive travel insurance policy with strong benefits for the potential problems that could mess up your cruising plans.

Cruise insurance works by reimbursing you for a certain percentage or dollar amount of the nonrefundable prepaid travel costs you lose if you experience a problem covered by your plan. 

You can buy travel insurance through a cruise line, but experts warn this may be a mistake . The coverage provided may not be as comprehensive as travel insurance you can buy separately from a third-party provider, such as those in our best cruise travel insurance rating.

What is covered by cruise insurance?

Cruise travel insurance plans bundle together several types of coverage. Here are types of coverage you might care about most when you’re planning a cruise.

Trip cancellation insurance

Trip cancellation insurance reimburses you for 100% of your prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses when you decide not to travel for a reason your policy covers. Covered reasons vary by plan and the list can be extensive. It typically includes things like the death of a family member, illness or injury and natural disasters, to name a few.

“Cancel for any reason” (CFAR)

“Cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage typically reimburses you for up to 75% of your prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses when you decide not to travel for a reason your policy doesn’t cover, such as having a vague sense of uneasiness that makes you want to stay home. 

This optional upgrade can increase the cost of your policy by 40% to 90%. It gives you increased flexibility with your travel plans, but only up to a point. You’ll need to cancel your trip at least 48 hours before your scheduled departure to file a successful CFAR claim. 

Trip interruption insurance

This coverage reimburses you for as much as 150% of your prepaid, unused, nonrefundable trip expenses (sometimes even more) if you need to change your plans after departure for a reason your policy covers. Maybe you get sick at your destination and can’t enjoy the last two days of your itinerary and have to change your flight. Or maybe you need to cut your trip short because your teenager was in a car accident. Trip interruption insurance can cover the cost of a last-minute, one-way economy ticket to get you home. 

“Interruption for any reason” (IFAR)

IFAR is an optional upgrade that only some travel insurance plans offer. This coverage reimburses you for up to 75% of your prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses when you change your travel plans after departure for a reason your policy normally wouldn’t cover. It also covers the cost of a last-minute flight home. Adding IFAR to your policy can increase the cost of your travel insurance by 3% to 10%.

Emergency medical expense

Travel medical insurance covers the cost of non-routine health care if you get sick, including contracting COVID-19 , or being injured on your trip, up to your policy limit. It usually has no deductible. 

When shopping for travel insurance, pay attention to whether the travel medical coverage is primary or secondary — if your U.S. health insurance won’t cover you outside of the country, it would be best to have primary coverage. 

Pre-existing conditions exclusion waiver

Most travel insurance excludes pre-existing conditions from coverage unless you meet certain conditions and qualify for a waiver. A pre-existing medical conditions exclusion waiver allows your emergency medical expense coverage to pay for treatment related to conditions you’ve been treated for in the months leading up to your trip.

To get pre-existing condition coverage, you’ll usually need to buy travel insurance within 14 to 30 days of making your first trip deposit, insure the full value of your trip and be medically able to travel.

Emergency medical evacuation

This covers the cost of emergency medical transportation to the nearest facility that can provide adequate care for your illness or injury. 

Emergency medical evacuation insurance can pay to get you back to the United States if you’re abroad and can’t get the treatment you need there. It can also pay for a friend or family member to fly to you and stay with you if you’re receiving emergency care away from home.

Missed connections

Missed connections coverage reimburses you for additional costs to catch up with your itinerary after a transportation delay caused by weather, strikes, natural disasters or other covered problems. 

This coverage applies to transportation by common carriers such as airlines, buses and trains. It refunds parts of your trip that you miss because of a common carrier delay.

Baggage and personal items loss 

Baggage loss travel insurance reimburses you for lost, damaged or stolen personal items up to your policy limit. Look for caps per person, per item and per specific item. 

Items will be reimbursed at their depreciated value and baggage loss coverage is typically secondary, which means you’ll have to file a claim with your common carrier — such as the airline that lost your bag — or homeowners insurance first. 

Baggage delay

Baggage delay coverage reimburses you for items you need to buy to tide you over until your bag arrives, up to the policy limit. This coverage kicks in after a delay of a certain number of hours, usually three to 12. Look for a policy with a short waiting period and high daily and per-person limits. 

Travel delay

Travel delay insurance reimburses you for additional expenses such as meals, transportation and lodging you incur because of an unforeseen travel delay. The delay must last a certain number of hours before this coverage applies. Look for a policy with a short waiting period. 

Do I need cruise insurance?

Cruise travel insurance is a good idea if you’ve spent more on a cruise than you can afford to lose. This coverage protects you financially from unforeseen events that can disrupt your plans, both before and during your cruise. 

Travel insurance for cruises can provide coverage for a number of problems, including hurricane disruptions and medical emergencies at sea that may require you to be evacuated from the ship or port.

How to shop for the best cruise insurance

To choose the best cruise travel insurance for you, take a look at what coverage you have through the credit card you paid for your trip with, your health insurance and your homeowners insurance . See if this coverage adequately protects you financially from all the risks you’re concerned about. For example, Medicare is unlikely to cover you abroad.

Compare the types of coverage you have to what standalone trip insurance policies offer. Travel insurance is likely to be more comprehensive and might cover an important risk that hadn’t occurred to you.

“You’ll want to make sure that your policy includes both cancellation and interruption coverage as well as coverage for what we call post-departure problems,” said Daniel Durazo, director of external communications at travel insurance provider Allianz Partners USA. “Those can be as simple as lost or delayed baggage or as complex as serious medical emergencies. You’ll also want to check that your level of coverage of benefits is appropriate for your trip.”

How much does cruise travel insurance cost?

The average cost of cruise insurance is 5% to 6% of the value of your cruise vacation , which should include the cost of all prepaid, nonrefundable expenses such as flights and excursions. 

How much you’ll pay for a cruise insurance plan will depend on factors such as:

• The coverage amounts.
• The value of your trip. 
• The length of your trip.
• The age of the travelers in your group. 

The cost of cruise insurance can vary greatly by company and plan, so it’s a good idea to compare plans before buying. 

Average cost of cruise travel insurance policies 

Our team of insurance experts compared cruise insurance rates for a variety of international trips and traveler profiles. These are the average costs of cruise insurance by plan. 

Average cruise travel insurance costs are based on rates for seven international trips with a variety of traveler ages and destinations, without “cancel for any reason” coverage. Note that plans have different levels of benefits, which can account for price differences.

Travel smart and save: Cheap travel insurance options.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Yes, you can get travel insurance after booking a cruise. But it’s best not to put off this purchase.

“There are a handful of benefits that come with purchasing a travel insurance policy right after making an initial trip payment, with the major perk being maximizing the coverage period,” said James Clark, a spokesperson for the travel-insurance comparison site Squaremouth, which is also the company behind Cat 70 and Tin Leg travel insurance. 

“When a travel insurance policy is purchased, it goes into effect at midnight of the next day,” Clark said. “This means that the longer travelers have the policy, the longer they have protection in the event that problems arise leading up to their trip.”

If you don’t have travel insurance and cancel your cruise, you might be eligible for a refund. It depends on the terms of your agreement with the cruise line. 

A typical cruise refund policy might entitle you to a full refund if you cancel far enough in advance — which might mean 90 days or more before your departure date. If you want to cancel within 14 days of departure, you might not be able to get any refund at all. And if you cancel somewhere in between 14 and 90 days, you might get a partial refund.

You should be able to find the information you need in your booking confirmation email (if you’ve already booked your trip) or on the cruise ship’s website. If you booked your cruise through a travel agent, ask your agent about the refund policy that applies to your trip.

For the most flexibility to cancel your cruise, look into “cancel for any reason” travel insurance .

More: Should you buy travel insurance through a cruise line?

Yes, your credit card may provide some travel insurance for a cruise. However, the coverage might be limited. For example, your credit card may not provide any medical coverage.

“Cruise travelers should look for a product that offers high coverage limits for trip cancellations and for medical emergencies,” Durazo said. “In the unlikely case that you become seriously ill or injured far from home, you’ll also need enough emergency medical transportation coverage to get you safely to an appropriate medical facility, even on an air ambulance if necessary.”

Compare the trip insurance that’s included with your credit card with standalone travel insurance policies . Standalone policies tend to be more comprehensive and offer more coverage. You’ll pay for these benefits, of course, but the cost may be worth it. You won’t know unless you compare your options.

It’s best to do this comparison before booking your trip or as soon as possible after booking. Certain aspects of standalone travel insurance policies only apply when you buy the policy far enough in advance of your departure date.

Our top-scoring cruise travel insurance plans do not have a deductible for any type of coverage, including travel medical insurance .

To learn whether there are deductibles for a specific cruise insurance plan you are considering, ask for a sample policy to review before making a purchase. Then, just to make sure you have the coverage you want, review your actual insurance contract issued directly to you by the carrier as soon as you buy the policy.

“Don’t hesitate to call your insurance provider if you have questions about your policy,” Durazo said. “You should have up to 15 days to adjust your policy, exchange it for a different product or even cancel it for a full refund.”

If there is any conflict between what an insurance provider tells you and what your contract says, the contract is what you should rely on.

Important cruise-specific travel insurance coverages to look for include:

• Emergency medical. Squaremouth recommends at least $100,000 in travel medical benefits.
• Emergency medical evacuation. Squaremouth recommends at least $250,000 in emergency medical evacuation benefits.
• COVID-19. All of the insurers in our best cruise insurance rating offer medical coverage for COVID .
• Missed connection. All of the companies in our best cruise insurance rating offer missed connection benefits. TravelSafe Classic and Nationwide Cruise Luxury each offer $2,500 per person after a three-hour delay.

Cruise insurance typically covers hurricanes, as long as the storm is not named until after you buy the policy, making it an “unforeseen” event.

Trip cancellation insurance can reimburse you if bad weather at home or at your destination prevents you from taking your trip.

Cruise insurance will cover the cost of prepaid, nonrefundable shore excursions, as long as you include them in the value of the trip you are insuring.

Your travel insurance can cover any prepaid cruise expenses that are nonrefundable, including food and beverage packages and onboard entertainment.

More cruise insurance resources

• Travel medical insurance
• Emergency medical evacuation travel insurance
• What does travel insurance cover?
• “Cancel for any reason” travel insurance  
• Average cost of travel insurance

Editor’s Note:   This article contains updated information from previously published stories:

• Coronavirus: Royal Caribbean pauses operations globally, major cruise lines suspend US ships
• Taking a Carnival cruise from Florida but don’t want to get vaccinated? Buy travel insurance
• Want to cruise from Florida but don’t want to get a COVID vaccine? Royal Caribbean says buy travel insurance
• When will it be safe to cruise again? These signs that will help you decide when to sail
• Royal Caribbean, Virgin Voyages, Disney, Carnival cancel additional sailings amid COVID-19 pandemic

Blueprint is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and we encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Blueprint has an advertiser disclosure policy . The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Blueprint editorial staff alone. Blueprint adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.

Amy Fontinelle has more than 15 years of experience helping people make informed decisions about their money, whether they’re refinancing a mortgage, buying insurance or choosing a credit card. As a freelance writer trained in journalism and specializing in personal finance, Amy digs into the details to explain the products and strategies that can help (or hurt) people seeking greater financial security and wealth. Her work has been published by Forbes Advisor, Capital One, MassMutual, Investopedia and many other outlets.

Heidi Gollub is the USA TODAY Blueprint managing editor of insurance. She was previously lead editor of insurance at Forbes Advisor and led the insurance team at U.S. News & World Report as assistant managing editor of 360 Reviews. Heidi has an MBA from Emporia State University and is a licensed property and casualty insurance expert.

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Trip Cancellation Insurance Explained

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Table of Contents

What is trip cancellation insurance?

Covered reasons for trip cancellation, what is not covered by trip cancellation insurance, cancel for any reason trip insurance, is trip cancellation insurance expensive, different ways to get trip cancellation insurance, which insurance coverage is best for me.

When booking travel, particularly expensive trips consisting of nonrefundable reservations, it makes sense to consider trip cancellation insurance since it can protect your deposit if your plans do not materialize due to unforeseen events. However, not every reason for canceling a trip will qualify for coverage, so you’ll want to familiarize yourself with the basics of trip cancellation insurance.

Trip cancellation coverage can be purchased as part of a comprehensive travel insurance policy , or you can receive it for free when you hold certain premium credit cards. The benefit is designed to protect prepaid, nonrefundable reservations, including flights, hotel reservations and other bookings if the trip is canceled due to an extraordinary circumstance. Each policy will state exactly which events are considered valid reasons for cancellations.

With COVID-19 still affecting travel plans, you’ll want to pay close attention to which reasons for cancellation due to the pandemic are valid. For example, wanting to cancel a trip you booked a while ago because your destination now has rising COVID-19 numbers and you’re afraid to travel is not likely a valid reason.

If you want to be able to cancel a trip for truly any reason, consider the Cancel For Any Reason supplemental upgrade when purchasing your insurance policy. CFAR will allow you to get up to 75% of your trip investment back as long as the trip is cancelled at least two days before departure.

» Learn more: Does my travel insurance cover the coronavirus?

Imagine you’ve booked a two-week vacation to Italy costing $5,000 ($1,000 flight, $3,500 hotel and $500 excursions), all of which is nonrefundable. Then, a week before your departure date, you fall and break your leg.

So, what does trip cancellation insurance cover?

If you have trip cancellation insurance, you’ll be able to get your entire prepaid, nonrefundable trip cost back (as long as the entire amount was insured), since injuries that necessitate medical treatment and prevent you from taking your trip qualify as a covered reason.

Other covered reasons include death of your traveling companion, inclement weather that results in disrupted service, jury duty, terrorist incident, job termination and other extraordinary events.

Although this is not an entire list of all the covered reasons, generally the cancellation must be due to unforeseen circumstances to qualify for a reimbursement. Review the fine print of your policy for the details of exactly which reasons are covered. When seeking reimbursement, you’ll need to submit claims to the insurance provider to substantiate your claim.

Although a wide range of reasons allow you to receive your prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses back in the event of a trip cancellation, there are important exclusions to know about.

Trip cancellation insurance will not cover losses arising from self-harm, foreseeable events, acts of war, taking part in activities considered dangerous (e.g., skydiving, bungee jumping, endurance races, etc.), a felony, childbirth, dental treatment and more.

» Learn more: How to find the best travel insurance

So what if you want the flexibility to cancel your trip for reasons other than those covered by your policy? For that, you're going to need the CFAR insurance mentioned above.

CFAR is often available as an add-on to travel insurance policies, and while it can come in handy if you want to cancel your trip just because, you're not likely to get all your money back.

Most CFAR policies will only reimburse 75% of your nonrefundable travel expenditures.

» Learn more: Best travel insurance with Cancel For Any Reason Coverage

The price of trip cancellation insurance can vary based on the traveler’s age, destination, length of trip, cost of trip and insurance company.

Using the same $5,000, two-week trip to Italy as mentioned above, a search of policies on SquareMouth (a NerdWallet partner) ranged from $115 to $470, representing 2.3% to 9.4% of the total trip cost.

» Learn more: How much is travel insurance?

All policies provide 100% coverage of the trip cost, however the more expensive plans usually have higher limits on benefits like medical evacuation.

If you’re only looking for trip cancellation coverage and no other protections, a policy equating to 2.3% of the total trip expenses seems reasonable.

On your travel credit card

Trip cancellation coverage can be included as part of a comprehensive travel insurance plan or offered as a benefit on premium travel credit cards.

For example, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® will reimburse you or your immediate family members up to $10,000 per trip. The Business Platinum Card® from American Express and many other American Express cards also offer up to $10,000 in trip cancellation coverage. Terms apply.

These premium cards also offer other insurance benefits like trip interruption coverage, emergency assistance services, trip delay and more.

If you travel often and typically purchase trip cancellation coverage, consider applying for one of the cards that offer complimentary travel insurance . Not only will you get trip insurance benefits, but you will also get other travel perks and statement credits that can partly offset the annual fee.

Supplement by purchasing policies out-of-pocket

If the coverage limits offered on the cards aren’t sufficient or you’re looking for more protections (e.g., coverage for emergency medical expenses), you’d be better off with a travel insurance . Although you’d incur an additional cost for purchasing a comprehensive plan, you’d have many more benefits not commonly found in the insurance policies offered by the credit cards.

A comprehensive trip cancellation policy is likely to cover canceled flights so long as the flight or flights are nonrefundable and are a part of the total, prepaid expenses covered by your policy. Insurance provided by travel cards typically includes trip delay or cancellation coverage so long as you used that card to pay for your flight reservations.

If you're forced to cancel your trip due to extraordinary circumstances beyond your control, travel insurance will provide coverage for some or all of your nonrefundable travel expenditures, depending on your policy. Covered events will vary, so be sure to review the terms of any plan you intend to purchase.

Trip cancellation insurance is available for purchase from a wide range of companies and is often included as a benefit on travel credit cards. Under certain circumstances, it provides coverage for prepaid travel expenses in the event that you cannot complete your trip as planned.

A comprehensive trip cancellation policy is likely to cover canceled flights so long as the flight or flights are nonrefundable and are a part of the total, prepaid expenses covered by your policy.

Insurance provided by travel cards

typically includes trip delay or cancellation coverage so long as you used that card to pay for your flight reservations.

If you’re going on a trip consisting of costly flights, hotel reservations and excursions and would like to protect your prepaid, nonrefundable deposit but do not need any other coverage, a minimally priced trip cancellation insurance policy is a good choice.

If you have a premium travel credit card , check if you already have trip cancellation insurance as a benefit before you purchase a policy.

However, if you’re looking for additional coverage like travel medical insurance , and/or a basic plan doesn’t have adequate limits, consider a comprehensive travel insurance policy from providers such as AAA , Allianz , and AIG . Read NerdWallet's full analysis of the best travel insurance companies here .

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

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

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

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

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

• Cruise Insurance

Find the Best Cruise Travel Insurance

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

Compare Cruise Insurance Quotes

• Protection Before the Cruise
• Protection While at Sea
• 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
• Travel Insured International

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...

June 1, 2020

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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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CruiseCare Travel Protection

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.

Call to add

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New York residents may call Aon Affinity Services

1-800-797-4516

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.

24/7 Emergency Assistance 3 – emergency travel assistance provided by CareFree Travel Assistance TM

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

View Terms, Conditions and exclusions here.

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Enjoy Even More Peace of Mind with Our New & Improved Princess Vacation Protection

Life can be unpredictable but you can rely on princess vacation protection.

One of the most common questions we hear from our guests is, ‘Should I buy travel protection?’ If you want to spend more time relaxing and less time worrying about the unexpected, the answer is ‘yes’. That’s why we offer Princess Vacation Protection (PVP), which provides a cancellation fee waiver1 plus travel insurance benefits2 and 24-hour worldwide CareFree™ Travel Assistance 3 . Help protect in the event of unforeseen illness, including COVID-19, trip delays, baggage issues and more. It’s a convenient way to help ease your worries before setting sail.

Your benefits just got better – and you can still enjoy low prices!

New improvements:.

• Increased benefits up to 150% of vacation cost for Trip Interruptions.
• Increased Emergency Evacuation benefits up to $50,000 for the standard plan and $75,000 for the platinum plan.*

Benefits at a Glance

Cancel for any reason 1.

Cancellation Fee Waiver 1  (Non-insurance features provided by Princess Cruises) Life is unpredictable… but you can rely on Princess Vacation Protection. If you need to cancel for specified reasons outlined in the Cancellation Fee Waiver section of the plan, you’ll receive a refund of your cancellation fees. If you need to cancel for any reason not listed in the plan, under the “Any Reason” Cancellation Enhancement feature, you’ll receive 75% of the cancellation fee amount in the form of future cruise credits under our Standard plan and 100% under the Platinum plan.

Trip Interruptions

If you need to interrupt your trip due to a covered reason such as an illness or injury, you are eligible for reimbursement of prepaid cruise/land arrangements made through Princess and/or the cost of one-way airfare to get you home.

Medical Evacuation

Princess Vacation Protection also provides coverage in case your medical condition requires emergency evacuation to an appropriate medical facility.

Medical Expenses

Most medical expenses are covered in case you become sick or injured during your trip.

Trip Delays

If you are delayed starting your trip or returning home, you may be reimbursed for expenses that were not arranged through Princess – including meals, hotel, and transportation.

Personal Belongings

Your baggage is also covered in the event it is damaged, lost, stolen, or delayed to your destination.

24/7 Support

Need help? You will have access to 24/7 worldwide assistance for travel, medical, and emergency services.

The plan terms, conditions and exclusions are available online:

Captain’s Circle Loyalty Benefit

Available in both a Standard and Platinum plan, choose the plan you want based on the coverage and plan price that works best for you. Captain’s Circle members who have achieved Ruby, Platinum or Elite status who elect to purchase Standard PVP automatically receive a complimentary upgrade to PVP Platinum; we’ll pay the difference in plan cost on your behalf.

3 Ways to Purchase Princess Vacation Protection

Princess Vacation Protection can be purchased at the time of booking or up until final payment. You are considered enrolled as soon as the plan cost has been paid.

• When you  Book your Cruise  on Princess.com
• Call 1-800-Princess or contact your Travel Advisor
• Already Booked Guests can purchase in  Cruise Personalizer

Product Details

Cancellation Fee Waiver 1 (Non-insurance features provided by Princess Cruises)

Life is unpredictable… but you can rely on Princess Vacation Protection. If you need to cancel for specified reasons outlined in the Cancellation Fee Waiver section of the plan you’ll receive a refund of your cancellation fees. If you need to cancel for any reason not listed in the plan, under the “Any Reason” Cancellation Enhancement feature, you’ll receive 75% of the cancellation fee amount in the form of future cruise credits under our Standard plan and 100% under the Platinum plan.

Travel Insurance Benefits 2 (Underwritten by Nationwide®)

Sail through your vacation with less to worry about.

Trip Interruption:  Up to 150% total trip cost reimbursement for missed, prepaid cruise arrangements and/or the cost of one-way airfare if you must start your vacation late or need to come home early due to illness, injury and more.

Trip Delay:  Up to $500 for any pre-cruise trip delay expenses and/or post-cruise trip delay expenses up to $1,500 (not to exceed $1,500 for both pre- and post-cruise delays) for meals, hotel and transportation.

Baggage Delay:  Up to $500 if your luggage is delayed during travel.

Baggage/Personal Effects:  Up to $1,500 ($3,000 with the Platinum plan) if your stuff is lost, stolen or damaged.

Accidental Medical Expense:  Up to $10,000 ($20,000 with the Platinum plan) if you become injured while traveling.

Sickness Medical Expense:  Up to $10,000 ($20,000 with the Platinum plan) if you become sick while traveling.

Emergency Medical Evacuation/Repatriation: Up to $50,000 ($75,000 with the Platinum Plan) in the event your medical condition requires emergency medical transportation to an appropriate medical facility or in the event of your death, provides coverage to transport your mortal remains.

24/7 Worldwide Travel Assistance Services 3 (Non-insurance services provided by LiveTravel)

Need help while you travel?  Assistance is there for you, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, anywhere in the world.

Princess Vacation Protection can be purchased while booking your next cruise vacation on princess.com, by contacting your travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS, or on Cruise Personalizer. It is available for purchase up until final payment for your trip on all Princess Cruises, Princess Cruisetours, Princess Alaska Land Tours and Princess Canadian Rockies Land Tours, and is available at two levels: Standard or Platinum. Princess Vacation Protection is not in effect until the plan cost has been paid to Princess in addition to any required cruise deposits or payments.

1  Non-insurance feature provided by Princess. WA residents only, Trip Cancellation benefits are underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies, Columbus, Ohio (NAIC #23787).

2  Travel Insurance Benefits are underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies, Columbus, Ohio (NAIC #23787).

3  Travel Assistance services are non-insurance services provided by LiveTravel International.

This plan provides insurance coverage that applies only 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 policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

Princess Vacation Protection – Standard  To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance providing the terms, conditions and exclusions of the certificate, visit  PVP Standard .

Princess Vacation Protection – Platinum  To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance providing the terms, conditions and exclusions of the certificate, visit  PVP Platinum .

Note that Princess Vacation Protection is not available to residents of the state of New York, British Columbia, Quebec, Puerto Rico, or Mexico.

Need to file a claim?

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:  What happens if I test positive for COVID-19 and need to cancel the day before my cruise? A:  Like with any illness diagnosed and treated by a medical professional, if you test positive for COVID-19 after purchasing the plan, you will be eligible to receive a refund to your original form of payment. If you do not have an official medical diagnosis, but feel unwell, you will receive a Future Cruise Credit.

Q:  What if my spouse gets COVID-19 right before the cruise and we can no longer sail? A:  You will be eligible to file a claim for a cash refund if you, your traveling companion or a member of your immediate family is diagnosed and treated for COVID-19, which causes you to cancel your cruise.

Q:  What if my mother, who isn’t sailing with us, gets COVID-19, and we may have been exposed? A:  Princess Vacation Protection has you covered! Even if they are not traveling with you, if someone in your immediate family is diagnosed and treated for an illness, you may request a refund to the original form of payment. If they are ill but are not diagnosed or treated, you may call us and receive a Future Cruise Credit for the cruise fare.

Q:  What if I find out I was exposed to someone either on my way to my cruise or during the cruise, and I end up being isolated in my cabin for part or all of the voyage? A:  PVP provides reimbursement for the days you are confined to your cabin if the confinement is ordered by a medical professional.

Q:  Does PVP cover my medical expenses if I get COVID-19 during my cruise? A:  Yes, PVP provides reimbursement for eligible medical expenses for any illness, including COVID-19.

Q:  What if I want to cancel my PVP coverage? How does that work? A:  PVP is refundable until final payment is due. For new bookings made within final payment, the PVP plan cost is only refundable within 10 days of purchase provided the person hasn't departed on the trip nor filed a claim.

Q:  Am I protected by my Princess Vacation Protection plan if my mother, who is not traveling with me, develops pneumonia and I have to cancel my trip to care for her? A:  Yes! Princess will refund the cancellation fees (up to the full value of the cruise vacation) if you have to cancel your trip because of a specified reason such as illness, injury or death of yourself, a traveling companion or either of your immediate family members.

Q:  If I have a heart condition and am on continuing medication, am I protected if my heart condition flares up during my vacation? A:  Yes! Princess Vacation Protection provides reimbursement for conditions that are stable during the 60-days prior to purchase, so if you have had no changes in your health (even if you are on continuous unchanged medication), you would be protected.

Q:  What if my condition did change prior to purchasing Princess Vacation Protection? A:  Rest assured, emergency evacuation benefits are still provided in the event of a medical emergency. Also, if you cancel your cruise vacation and do not qualify for cash reimbursement due to an unstable medical condition prior to purchase, you will have the benefit of cancel-for-any-reason protection from Princess.

Q:  If my pet becomes ill and I have to cancel my trip as a result, will Princess Vacation Protection reimburse me? A:  Although you would not qualify for cash reimbursement, as an added feature for purchasing Princess Vacation Protection, Princess will provide a credit toward a future cruise equal to 75% of the cancellation fees imposed (100% if Platinum Vacation Protection is purchased) if you choose to cancel for an ineligible reason. This benefit is provided by Princess Cruises and/or Princess Tours.

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Cancellation Protection Starting at $79

Cancel your vacation plans, for any reason, and receive a refund with a Holland America Line Cancellation Protection Plan (CPP). Get a refund of up to 80% of your total cruise vacation with a Standard Plan, or upgrade to the Platinum Plan to receive additional refunds, worldwide emergency assistance and other protections. 

5 Reasons to choose Holland America Line’s Cancellation Protection

Our standard & platinum plans at a glance.

Unforeseen events happen. When you book your next cruise, be sure to ask about our Cancellation Protection Plans to protect your cruise investment.

This is only a brief description of the programs – see additional details below

* In addition to Holland America Line's baggage liability ** Trip interruption benefits apply at the start of your scheduled travel (sea, land and/or air) arrangements made by Holland America Line. ○ Additional benefits underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company ◊ Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services provided by CareFree Travel Assistance TM

NOTE: CPP Standard is available to all guests, regardless of residency (excluding permanent residents of the United Kingdom).

CPP Platinum is not available to residents of New York State, Quebec, British Columbia, Puerto Rico or the United Kingdom.

More Information on Cancellation Plans

Standard cancellation plan details - read more.

Our Standard Cancellation Protection Plan (CPP Standard Plan) will allow you, for any reason, to provide written cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the start of your scheduled travel (sea, land and/or air) arrangements made by Holland America Line and receive a refund equal to 80% of the eligible amounts paid to Holland America Line. CPP Standard is available to all guests, regardless of residency (excluding permanent residents of the United Kingdom).

In addition, Holland America Line (HAL) automatically assumes an additional $500 (USD) of liability for lost, damaged or delayed baggage of guests who purchase the CPP Standard Plan still subject, however, to the limitations in our baggage policies. For example, we do not cover losses while baggage is in the custody of airlines. Please review our  Baggage Policy .

Please note: The CPP Standard Plan is not insurance – this is an optional purchase offered by and administered by Holland America Line. It may be added to your reservation to provide you with trip cancellation protection for up to 24 hours prior to the start of your scheduled travel. It provides no rights other than those explained above. For example, it does not protect double-triple-quad occupancy rates should one or more members of your party cancel, nor does it cover expenses for unused services due to trip interruption.

The CPP Standard Plan is available for purchase prior to the date on which cancellation fees begin to accrue. Payment is due at time of purchase. The cost of CPP Standard is non-refundable once cancel fees begin to accrue. The per person, per cruise cost is listed with the cruise fares. To add our Cancellation Protection Standard Plan to your new or existing bookings, please visit  Manage my Bookings  or call us at 1‐877‐932‐4259.

Platinum Cancellation Plan Details - READ MORE

Our Platinum Cancellation Protection Plan (CPP Platinum) enables you to supplement the benefits provided under the CPP Standard Plan with higher cancellation reimbursement and extends the eligible cancellation period up until the start of your scheduled travel (sea, land and/or air) arrangements made by Holland America Line. CPP Platinum also provides insurance coverage for trip delays and interruptions, medical expenses and much more. In addition, CPP Platinum includes 24-hour worldwide emergency assistance services.

CPP Platinum is comprised of the following:

Cancel for Any Reason Waiver - Provided by Holland America Line You may cancel for any reason prior to the start of your scheduled travel (sea, land and/or air) arrangements made by Holland America Line and receive reimbursement equal to 90% of the eligible amounts paid to Holland America Line. Note: CPP Platinum does not protect double-triple-quad occupancy rates should one or more members of your party cancel prior to departure.

TRAVEL INSURANCE PROGRAM - Underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies, Columbus, OH

• Trip Interruption:  Enables you to cancel or interrupt your cruise vacation for illness, injury or death to you, an immediate family member or a traveling companion, as well as certain other non-medical reasons affecting you or your traveling companion, and receive up to 150% of your cruise vacation cost.
• Trip Delay:  If you miss the departure of your cruise due to carrier-caused delays or other specified reasons, you could be reimbursed up to $500 for additional accommodations, meals and “catch-up” transportation expenses.
• Baggage Protection:  If your baggage or personal property is lost or damaged, you could be reimbursed up to $1,000. If your bags are delayed or misdirected by a common carrier for more than 24 hours, you could be reimbursed up to $500 for the purchase of necessary personal effects.
• Medical Expense Coverage:  Should you become injured or sick during your vacation, you could be reimbursed up to $20,000 for medical expenses.
• Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation:  In the event that serious illness or injury requires air or ground transportation to a specialized facility or to return home, you could be provided up to $75,000 in covered medical services and supplies (coordinated by our 24-hour assistance provider) to help ensure your safe transport. Repatriation coverage provides for shipment of remains in the event of death during the cruise vacation.

This plan provides insurance coverage that applies only 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 policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

WORLDWIDE EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE - Services Provided by CareFree Travel AssistanceTM

Provides 24-hour assistance services including: pre-cruise health, safety and weather information; assistance with travel changes; lost luggage assistance; emergency cash transfer assistance; emergency medical and dental assistance; lost travel document assistance; and emergency medical payment assistance.

Note that the benefits and services provided in CPP Platinum are available only to guests who enroll in and pay the appropriate program cost to Holland America Line. Payment of the required cruise deposit does not automatically activate enrollment in CPP Platinum Protection. In order to activate enrollment, you must pay the appropriate program costs  in addition  to the required cruise deposit amount.

IMPORTANT:  This is only a brief description of the program

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance providing the terms, conditions and exclusions of the certificate, visit  http://www.affinitytravelcert.com/docs/nwehal01 .

The CPP Platinum Plan is in effect for cancellations for any reason up to the start of your scheduled travel. Other benefits and services provided in CPP Platinum are effective once you depart on your trip.

The CPP Platinum Plan is optional and available for purchase prior to the date on which cancellation fees begin to accrue. Payment is due at time of purchase. The cost of the cancellation portion of CPP Platinum is non-refundable once cancel fees begin to accrue. The per person, per cruise cost is listed with the cruise fares. To add our Cancellation Protection Platinum Plan to your new or existing bookings, please visit  Manage my Bookings  or call us at 1‐877‐932‐4259.

NOTE: CPP Platinum is not available to residents of New York State, Quebec, British Columbia, Puerto Rico, or the United Kingdom. For permanent residents of the U.K., it is a condition of the contract that every guest must have full and valid medical insurance. In the UK we have a relationship with Holiday Extras Ltd. who can offer comprehensive travel insurance covering our requirements. You can obtain a quote and full terms and conditions by calling 0800 316 3061 or by visiting https://www.holidayextras.co.uk/hollandamerica/insurance.html  .

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I purchase one of Holland America Line’s Cancellation Protection Plans (CPP)?

CPP may help protect your cruise payment in the event of unexpected occurrences that may affect your travel plans. You may also want to consider purchasing this coverage to ensure you have medical protection while traveling. Some medical policies, like Medicare, may not provide coverage for medical expenses incurred outside of the United States.

One of Holland America Line’s Cancellation Protection Plans could help reimburse you for unforeseeable losses if:

• You should need to cancel before departure for ANY reason
• Your luggage is lost, damaged, or delayed
• A family member back home becomes ill and you must return from your vacation early
• The flight on which you were scheduled is delayed or cancelled and you miss your cruise departure
• You become injured or sick during your vacation

What is the difference between the two plans?

The Standard Plan (Cancel for Any Reason Waiver) offers the opportunity to receive a refund from Holland America Line beyond the published refund policy for the otherwise non-refundable cancellation fees. This waiver allows you, for any reason, to cancel up to 24 hours prior to the start of your scheduled travel arrangements made by Holland America Line and receive a money back refund equal to 80% of the prepaid, non-refundable cancellation fees applicable to your cruise vacation.  Please refer to the brochure for your cruise for the applicable cancellation fee policy. CPP Standard (Cancel for Any Reason Waiver) is available to all guests, regardless of residency (excluding permanent residents of the United Kingdom), and is a non-insurance feature provided by Holland America Line.

The Platinum Plan provides a 90% cancellation fee reimbursement and extends the cancellation waiver period up until the start of your scheduled travel arrangements made by Holland America Line. CPP Platinum's Cancel For Any Reason Waiver is a non-insurance feature provided by Holland America Line. The Platinum Plan also provides travel insurance coverage underwritten by Nationwide® for trip delays and interruptions, medical expenses and more. Worldwide 24-hour emergency assistance, non-insurance services provided by CareFree Travel AssistanceTM , are included as well. CPP Platinum is not available to residents of New York State, Quebec, British Columbia, Puerto Rico, or the United Kingdom.

If something comes up or I test positive for COVID-19 and I need to cancel before my cruise, am I protected?

Absolutely. Under Holland America Line's Cancel For Any Reason Waiver, no matter the reason, you can cancel by providing written cancellation notice up to 24 hours prior to the start of your scheduled travel (sea, land and/or air) arrangements made by Holland America Line with CPP Standard (or right up to the start of your scheduled travel with CPP Platinum). What's more, you'll get a money back refund. Other programs may not refund cancellation fees if the reason for cancellation is not a "covered" claim.  Written cancellation notice should be sent to: Reservations, Holland America Line Inc., 450 Third Avenue West, Seattle, WA 98119. Cancellations may also be sent via email to [email protected] or faxed to 1-800-628-4855; please retain your fax confirmation.

Are my airfare and pre- and post-packages protected as well?

Yes. If you purchased Holland America Line's Flight Ease Plan and/or our pre-/post-packages, you'll get 80% of your air and package cancellation fees refunded when canceling up to 24 hours prior to the start of your scheduled travel (90% with CPP Platinum when canceling right up to the start of your scheduled travel). Any Future Air Credit generated by the airline will be owned solely by Holland America Line and cannot be redeemed.

If an emergency occurs during our trip, will I be able to see a doctor who speaks English?

If you have chosen CPP Platinum, you'll have access to a 24-hour emergency assistance hotline whose staff will refer you to local doctors who speak your language.

Does CPP Platinum cover my medical expenses if I become ill or should develop COVID-19 during my cruise?

Yes, if you become sick or a pre-existing condition suddenly worsens or becomes acute during your vacation, the plan provides reimbursement for eligible medical expenses for any illness, including COVID-19.

Are there exclusions? I have a history of back trouble. What if my back goes out on the trip and we have to cut it short?

There is no exclusion under the Platinum Plan for pre-existing conditions that cause a trip interruption or a medical expense-related claim.

Does CPP Platinum cover me if I am injured on shore?

Yes. You could be reimbursed up to $10,000 (USD) for covered emergency medical, surgical and dental care should you become sick or are accidentally injured while traveling.

What if I am isolated in my stateroom for part of my voyage due to COVID-19?

CPP Platinum provides reimbursement for any days that you are confined to your stateroom if the confinement is ordered by a medical professional.

What happens if I become ill and must leave the ship?

If you must disembark the ship for a covered reason, including COVID-19, and you incur extra expenses to get home in addition to the lost days of the cruise, CPP Platinum reimburses your covered expenses, up to 150% of your total vacation cost.

What is the cost for CPP?

The plan cost is based on the total cruise fare (including Alaska Tour Supplement) paid, and is the same price for all ages.

How do I enroll in the CPP Standard or CPP Platinum Plan?

The CPP Standard and Platinum Plans are optional. You may enroll by paying the appropriate plan cost in addition to the required cruise deposit payment.

When is payment for the plan due?

Either plan is available for purchase prior to the date on which cancellation fees begin to accrue. Payment for the plan is due at time of purchase. The plan cost is non-refundable once cancel fees begin to accrue.

When does the protection take effect?

The Cancel For Any Reason Waiver is in effect once you activate enrollment by purchasing the plan, up to 24 hours prior to the start of your scheduled travel (sea, land and/or air) arrangements made by Holland America Line with CPP Standard, and up to the start of your scheduled travel with CPP Platinum. Other benefits and services provided with the Platinum Plan are effective once you depart on your trip.

Will I need to file a claim if I have to cancel?

No. If you cancel 24 hours before departure with the Standard Plan or prior to departure with the Platinum Plan, you do not need to file a claim. Holland America Line will reimburse 80% - 90% of the eligible amounts paid (minus the plan cost). Written cancellation notice should be sent to: Reservations, Holland America Line Inc., 450 Third Avenue West, Seattle, WA 98119. Cancellations may also be sent via email to  [email protected]  or faxed to 1-800-628-4855; please retain your fax confirmation.

How would I file a claim (for something that occurs while I was traveling) if I purchased the Platinum Plan?

Participating guests who incurred a loss while on their cruise vacation may initiate a claim at:  www.travelclaim.com .

Where may I obtain more information?

To view the state-specific plan documentation for CPP Platinum which provides the terms, conditions, and exclusions of the plan, visit  http://www.affinitytravelcert.com/docs/nwehal01 .

The CPP Platinum plan provides insurance coverage that applies only 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 policies.  If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

CPP Standard Protection’s and CPP Platinum Protection’s Cancel For Any Reason Waiver are non-insurance features provided by Holland America Line. 

CPP Platinum’s Travel Insurance benefits are underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies, Columbus Ohio.

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Introduction to HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance

• Plans Available
• How to Purchase and Manage Your Policy

HTH Worldwide Customer Service and Support Experience

Compare hth worldwide travel insurance.

• Why You Should Trust Us

HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance Review 2024

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.

No one likes to think about what could go wrong on vacation, but the truth is that anything can happen. That's why travel insurance is so important — it can help you recover from any unexpected emergencies that may occur while you're away from home.

If you're looking for a reputable travel insurance company, HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance is a great option. It's been in business for over 20 years and offers three different travel insurance plans. Whether you need basic coverage or more comprehensive protection, HTH Worldwide likely has a plan that will suit your needs.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Three plans to choose from
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Reasonable premiums
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. CFAR coverage available with some plans
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. High medical emergency and evacuation coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Special coverages for pets, sports equipment, etc not available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited reviews with complaints about claims not being paid
• Trip cancellation of up to $5,000 with the Economy plan and up to $50,000 with the Preferred plan
• Cancel for any reason insurance and missed connection insurance available with the Preferred plan
• Baggage delay insurance starting after 24 or 12 hours depending on the plan

HTH Worldwide is a travel insurance company owned and operated by Worldwide Insurance Services, which also operates GeoBlue Travel Insurance . In fact, many of the policies listed on HTH Worldwide's website are actually provided by GeoBlue, specifically its travel medical insurance . While we'll talk about those policies here, you can find more details in our GeoBlue review . 

HTH Worldwide's stand-alone products are its TripProtector trip cancellation policies. These offer comprehensive protection with relatively low premiums compared to many of its competitors. In fact, HTH Worldwide is among the companies included in our picks for the best cheap travel insurance . 

That said, with the premiums you're paying, you'll encounter some concessions. For one, HTH Worldwide's coverage limits are far below that of many of the best travel insurance companies, particularly when it comes to trip cancellation limits, which start at $5,000 per person for its Economy plan. 

Types of Policies Offered by HTH Worldwide

HTH Worldwide offers three primary plans: TripProtector Economy, Classic, and Preferred. Each plan has different coverage levels and features, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs. But they'll all cover (up to a specified amount) things like trip cancellation and interruption, emergency medical expenses, lost or delayed luggage, and more.

One important note, though, is that the TripProtector Economy plan is not available for trips where the per-person cost is greater than $5,000.

Below you'll find the per-person coverage limits of HTH Worldwide's three travel insurance plans:

These policies also include 24-hour emergency hotline service, an online database to search for doctors while you're traveling, a medical term translation database, and health and security news alerts.

Additional Coverage Options from HTH Worldwide

In addition to the three primary plans, HTH Worldwide also offers the following two plans, through GeoBlue, for travelers only looking for travel medical coverage:

• Single-trip option for travelers with primary health insurance:  HTH Worldwide provides a short-term international medical plan for those who have other travel insurance but need travel medical coverage. It covers pre-existing conditions and medical evacuation costs, with maximum benefit amounts ranging from $50,000 to $1 million and deductibles from $0 to $500.
• Single-trip option for travelers without primary health insurance:  This plan for travelers who don't have primary health insurance has maximum benefit amounts ranging from $50,000 to $1 million and deductibles ranging from $0 to $500. It covers pre-existing conditions for medical evacuation.
• Multi-trip option:  This annual travel insurance plan is for people who are taking multiple sub-70-day trips within a 12-month period.

The following two plans listed on HTH Worldwide's website, also supplied by GeoBlue, are designed for people who live or work outside their home country:

• Xplorer plan: This plan is for individuals and families who intend to be outside their home country for more than three months per year.
• Navigator plan: This plan is specifically for students, faculty, mission, and maritime crews who will be outside of their home country for more than three months during the year.

Like other travel insurance providers, HTH Worldwide offers additional coverages that can be purchased along with the primary policy. These add-ons are only available for a Preferred plan, not an Economy or Classic plan.

The add-ons include:

• Cancel for any reason (CFAR): Will pay 75% of any prepaid trip expenses. You must purchase coverage within 21 days of your first trip deposit, and the trip must be canceled at least two days before your scheduled departure. This add-on is only available for TripProtector Preferred.
• Collision Damage Waiver (CDW):  Coverage for your rental car in the event of damage due to crash, theft, vandalism, windstorm, fire, hail, flood, or any cause beyond your control. (Not available in NY, OR, or TX.)

HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance Cost

The premium you pay will depend on various factors, including the age of the travelers, destination, and total trip costs. The  average cost of travel insurance  is 4% to 8% of your travel costs.

After inputting some personal information, such as your age and state of residence, along with your trip details, like travel dates, destination, and trip costs, you'll get an instant quote for HTH Worldwide plans available for your trip. And from there, it's easy to compare each option based on your coverage needs and budget.

Now let's look at a few examples to estimate HTH Worldwide coverage costs.

As of 2024, a 23-year-old from Illinois taking a week-long, $3,000 budget trip to Italy would have the following travel insurance quotes:

• TripProtector Economy: $93.16
• TripProtector Classic: $115.56
• TripProtector Preferred: $156.20

Premiums for HTH Worldwide plans are between 3.1% and 5.2% of the trip's cost, well within the average cost of travel insurance.

HTH Worldwide provides the following quotes for a 30-year-old traveler from California heading to Japan for two weeks on a $4,000 trip:

• TripProtector Economy: $121.41
• TripProtector Classic: $149.43
• TripProtector Preferred: $200.75

Once again, premiums for HTH Worldwide plans are between 3% and 5% of the trip's cost, within and below the expected range of travel insurance costs.

A Texas family consisting of two 40-year-old parents with a 10-year-old and 4-year-old on a two-week trip to Australia for $20,000:

• TripProtector Economy: $610.74
• TripProtector Classic: $743.15
• TripProtector Preferred: $995.04

HTH Worldwide plans cost between 3% and 5% of the trip's cost, below and within the average cost of travel insurance. 

A 65-year-old couple looking to escape New Jersey for Mexico for two weeks with a trip cost of $6,000 would have the following quotes:

• TripProtector Economy: $324.95
• TripProtector Classic: $389.12
• TripProtector Preferred: $474.12

Premiums for HTH Worldwide plans for older-age travelers are between 5.4% and 7.9%, which is well within the average cost for travel insurance. While it's certainly more expensive than coverage for younger travelers, it's on the lower end of what travel insurance companies often quote for older travelers. 

How to Purchase and Manage a HTH Worldwide Policy

It's fast and simple to get a quote from HTH Worldwide. Visit its website and provide basic information about your trip. You'll receive an immediate quotation for the insurance plans available for your journey, so it's simple to compare each one. Make sure you have all of the following information on hand:

• Primary destination
• Age of traveler(s)
• Total trip cost
• Travel dates
• State of residence

If you're buying a trip cancellation policy, you'll be directed to the HTH Worldwide quote page, where you can choose one of three plans. If you're within the specified purchasing window, you'll also be able to add cancel for any reason coverage to the Preferred plan. 

How to File a Claim with HTH Worldwide

For medical claims, you can contact HTH Worldwide by phone at 888-243-2358 or via email at [email protected]. For all other claims, you can call 866-655-3058.

You must notify HTH Worldwide of your claim within seven days of first experiencing the covered loss. You'll also need to provide proof of loss within 90 days after the loss. The company doesn't provide an expected window for response or payment in its terms, but said that a claim usually takes anywhere from 30-45 days to process in response to a review on SquareMouth.

You can find HTH Worldwide's claim forms here .

HTH Worldwide has relatively few customer reviews to speak of. It has an average of 4.24 stars out of five across just under 500 reviews on its SquareMouth page, which comprises the vast majority of online reviews. HTH Worldwide customer reviews were very complimentary about the purchasing experience, saying it was quick.

That said, customers also mentioned that HTH Worldwide is hard to reach for anything — purchasing, traveling, and claims. This can be especially concerning if you're trying to contact the 24/7 hotline while facing an emergency. That said, when customers were able to make contact, they had generally positive things to say about the experience.

One customer getting treated for a medical emergency was given a list of recommended hospitals in their area and HTH Worldwide's connection with GeoBlue meant that some hospitals were able to direct bill instead of the customer paying and getting reimbursed. This created some hoops the customer had to jump through, including obtaining a letter from HTH Worldwide. That said, the customer writes, "The whole thing took less than 30 minutes. With that letter in tow, I was able to be seen, treated and released without payment on my part."

Learn more about HTH Worldwide compares to some of the best travel insurance providers .

HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance vs. Allianz Travel Insurance

If you look at coverage with Allianz Travel Insurance , you'll see that you can select from 10 different insurance plans. Much like HTH Worldwide, Allianz Travel Insurance offers single-trip policies and options for those who plan to be outside the country for longer. And, like with all insurance, the different plans provide varying degrees of coverage.

Allianz Travel Insurance's most popular single-trip option is the OneTrip Prime plan, which offers:

• Trip cancellation coverage up to $100,000
• Trip interruption coverage up to $150,000
• Emergency medical coverage for $50,000
• Coverage for baggage loss, theft or damage up to $1,000
• Travel delay coverage up to $800

Compare that to HTH Worldwide's most popular TripProtector Preferred Plan and you'll see that HTH Worldwide's emergency medical coverage limit is substantially higher. But Allianz Travel Insurance's plan has better trip protection coverage limits. The right choice will depend on what coverages are most important to you and your personal situation.

Read our Allianz Travel Insurance review here.

HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance vs. Nationwide Travel Insurance

Amongst insurance providers, Nationwide Travel Insurance is one of the more familiar household names. Much like HTH Worldwide, Nationwide offers straightforward coverage with only two single-trip plans: the Essential Plan and the Prime Plan. Furthermore, Nationwide has designed policies specifically for those taking cruises or who travel frequently throughout the year.

To compare Nationwide and HTH Worldwide, we took a look at both companies' highest-tier plans.

Nationwide's Prime Plan includes coverage for trip cancellation up to $30,000, trip interruption coverage of 200% of the cost of the trip (with a maximum payout of $60,000), missed connection and itinerary change coverage each amounting to $500, per-day trip delay coverage of up to $250 for 6+ hour delays, and emergency medical evacuation with a limit of $1 million in payouts.

In comparison, HTH Worldwide's TripProtector Preferred plan offers trip cancellation coverage up to $50,000, trip interruption coverage 200% of the cost of the trip, coverage for a missed connection of up to $1,000, trip delay coverage up to $2,000, and emergency medical evacuation coverage of up to $1 million.

The two plans are quite similar in many regards. To determine which is best for you, you'll need to compare quotes based on your personal and trip-specific details.

Read our Nationwide Travel Insurance review here.

Compare HTH Worldwide vs. Credit Card Insurance

It's worthwhile to review the insurance coverage offered by your travel credit cards before you buy a separate travel insurance policy. Some essential coverages, like rental car insurance, might already be included with a card you have.

The coverage from your credit card may be enough if, for example, you don't have any non-refundable trip expenses and you're driving to your destination. Another scenario that could suffice is if your health insurance covers you while abroad, you're in decent health, and you aren't too concerned with potential medical costs while traveling.

It's essential to remember that credit card travel protection is usually secondary to the primary coverage you'd get with a travel insurance policy. This means you'll have to file a claim with the other applicable insurance before filing a claim with your credit card company.

Read our guide on the best credit cards with travel insurance here.

HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance FAQs

HTH Worldwide is known for its strong focus on medical coverage, providing comprehensive support during medical emergencies, including access to a wide network of hospitals and emergency medical assistance.

Yes, HTH Worldwide offers plans that cover travel to high-risk destinations, but it's important to review the specific terms and coverage limitations for such areas.

Pre-existing conditions are covered under HTH Worldwide's Classic and Preferred plans as long as you purchase your policy within 14 and 21 days of your initial trip deposit, respectively. HTH Worldwide TripProtector Economy does not cover pre-existing conditions. 

HTH Worldwidepolicies max out at 90 days. If your trip exceeds this time frame, it's best to look elsewhere for travel insurance. 

HTH Worldwide stands out for its comprehensive coverage at affordable prices. 

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Reviewed HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance

In reviewing HTH Worldwide's travel insurance offerings, we considered things like different types of coverage available, claim limits, what expenses are included, available add-ons, and typical policy costs. We then compared them to similar plans from other top travel insurance companies.

The best policy for you is the one that offers the appropriate amount and type of coverage given your needs and budget. It should also be easy to use in case you ever need to make a claim.

You can read more about how Business Insider rates insurance products here.

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.

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• Main content

3 Reasons You Should Get Cruise Insurance and 1 Reason You Should Avoid It

C ruising the high seas is a favorite way to explore the world for many. 31.7 million travelers took a cruise last year, according to  Statista , and by 2027, that number is expected to climb to 39.4 million. Cruises are a fun way to meet new people and enjoy delicious food and onboard activities while experiencing new travel adventures.

Check Out: Dave Ramsey: 7 Vacation Splurges That are a Waste of Money

Read Next: 5 Genius Things All Wealthy People Do With Their Money

It all sounds great — until there’s a problem. What if there is a delay, interruptions, medical situation, or other problems during the cruise? You can always check with the cruise company to see what’s covered on their end and read the fine print. However, cruise insurance might be the answer for most cases except one.

Trip Cancellation, Delays and Interruption

Anything from unexpected sickness to severe weather conditions can interfere with your cruise. “This kind of coverage is essential any time of the year, but especially during hurricane season when storms can impact your travel plans,” per U.S. News and World Report.

Medical Emergencies

Nobody ever plans for a medical emergency on vacation, but it can happen. Health insurance often won’t cover medical costs while traveling, especially internationally.

According to the  U.S. Department of State , “The U.S. government does not provide insurance for U.S. citizens overseas. We do not pay medical bills or unexpected medical costs. We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel.”

So having cruise insurance that covers medical emergencies could save you big bucks.

Lost, Stolen or Delayed Baggage

Not having your luggage on a cruise is not a great way to start a vacation, but having insurance can give you peace of mind. “Coverage for baggage is important for cruises just like any other trip,” according to U.S. News and World Report. “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.”

Credit Card Travel Insurance

You may not need to buy cruise insurance if your credit card offers travel insurance. Many cards provide this service, but the Chase Sapphire Reserve card has the best travel insurance overall, according to  AP.

Learn More: 11 Expensive Vacation Destinations That Will Be Cheaper in 2024

Benefits include the following:

• Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip for trip cancellation coverage
• Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip for trip interruption coverage 
• Trip delay coverage is worth up to $500 per ticket (a six-hour delay is required)
• Baggage delay coverage worth up to $100 daily for five days
• Up to $3,000 per passenger for lost luggage reimbursement
• Up to $1 million for travel accident insurance 
• Up to $75,000 for primary rental car coverage 
• Up to $2,500 when you’re at least 100 miles from home for emergency medical and dental benefits 
• Up to $100,000 for emergency evacuation coverage

Buying travel insurance for your cruise can be worth it to help alleviate concerns and with the right plan can protect you if things go awry.

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com : 3 Reasons You Should Get Cruise Insurance and 1 Reason You Should Avoid It

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Help! Our Cruise Operator Went Bankrupt and We Are Out $17,905.

A couple purchased an Arabian Sea voyage, but Vantage, the cruise company, went under. Their travel insurance was supposed to cover financial default, but the claim was repeatedly denied.

By Seth Kugel

Dear Tripped Up,

In September 2022, I booked a 17-day Arabian Sea cruise through Vantage Travel Services to celebrate my 80th birthday with my wife. The cruise was to set sail in October 2023. I used my credit card to leave a $2,000 deposit and paid the remaining $17,905 shortly afterward by bank transfer. I also bought the Worldwide Trip Protector plan from Travel Insured International (for $1,954), in part because it covered financial default and bankruptcy of cruise lines. Vantage then canceled the cruise and offered me an alternative date I could not make; I also declined their offer of credit and asked for a refund, which they agreed to. But no refund ever came, and they stopped answering the phone. My credit card returned the $2,000, and I filed an insurance claim for $17,905. It was denied, as was my first appeal. Then Vantage filed for bankruptcy, and my second appeal was denied too. The reasons given by the insurer were outrageous. They cited a vague parenthetical phrase in the policy’s bankruptcy clause, claiming I wasn’t covered because I purchased the cruise directly from the cruise line (rather than, say, through a travel adviser). Then they said my policy lapsed when I canceled the trip. But I did not cancel; Vantage did. I also filed a complaint with the New York State Department of Financial Services, which was rejected. Can you help? Michael, Smithtown, N.Y.

Dear Michael,

When Boston-based Vantage filed for bankruptcy last year, it owed thousands of customers a total of $108 million for cruises and other travel products they had paid for but never received. The company’s former owner is facing lawsuits in New York and Pennsylvania. But you had purchased an insurance policy to cover just such a risk, a smart move. Or so you thought until the insurance company, Travel Insured International, denied your claim and then used exasperating logic to fend off your two appeals, first interpreting the policy’s financial default and bankruptcy clause in a maddening way and then twisting the meaning of the word “cancel.”

You made a few mistakes as well — most notably, by making a claim based on a financial default that had not yet happened. But after speaking with law professors, insurance experts and competing insurance companies, I believe Travel Insured International was wrong, at least by the time of your second appeal, and should pay up.

What does it have to say for itself? For nearly five months, Travel Insured International and its parent company, Crum & Forster, did not respond to my detailed inquiries. Days before publication, however, a spokeswoman, Amy Whilldin, sent the following statement:

“The claim was properly considered, and the correct determination was made based on the facts of this claim, which was to the satisfaction of both the New York Department of Financial Services and the New York State attorney general.”

Ms. Whilldin is correct about the state’s financial services department . An examiner with the department, which regulates the insurance industry, rejected your complaint. “After a review of the policy language," he wrote, “we do not find they are acting in an arbitrary or capricious manner,” referring to Travel Insured International. I disagree with that determination, as we are about to get into.

But the attorney general’s office was not satisfied. You had complained to its Department of Consumer Frauds and Protection, and they did not receive a response from the company. “Despite our repeated efforts,” an employee wrote, “they have failed to respond.” The letter goes on to recommend you consider suing the company.

I have a better idea. You should file a formal grievance with Travel Insured International, which under your policy allows you to submit new evidence, and if that fails even argue your case in person. (You told me you are not interested in a third option, to accept travel credits under the conditions offered by the Australian company that bought Vantage’s assets.)

In the meantime, your story provides great lessons on how travelers should choose the appropriate travel insurance policy, and what can go wrong even when they do.

In your initial claim to Travel Insured International, filed in late 2022, you cited Vantage’s “very poor record” in refunding its customers and your “assumption that the company is in default in making payments.”

This was an error: Your policy defines financial default as “the total cessation of operations,” and Vantage at the time was running at least some cruises. Travel Insured International’s response simply said that “your travel supplier canceling your trip is not a covered reason.” True.

When you first appealed in April, Vantage was two months short of declaring bankruptcy outright, and was not yet in financial default as defined by the policy. But it was teetering. (That one of its cruises left at all made headlines in The Boston Globe .) This time, Travel Insured International denied your claim, citing the bankruptcy clause, which protects policy holders in case of “Bankruptcy or default of an airline, cruise line, tour operator or other travel provider (other than the Travel Supplier, tour operator, travel agency, organization or firm from whom you purchased your travel arrangements).”

That parenthetical says you are not covered if the organization that sold you the cruise goes bankrupt. You purchased the cruise directly from Vantage, so you are not covered, according to the claims adjuster’s reasoning. (Why the company even cited this clause, if the cruise line was not yet in default, remains a mystery.)

Similar clauses appear in many travel policies, but that’s not what they’re supposed to mean, said Loretta Worters, vice president for media relations at the Insurance Information Institute , an industry group.

Such provisions, she explained, are intended to exclude coverage for an unscrupulous or financially flailing middleman that goes belly-up after collecting your money but before passing it along to the actual travel provider.

“Some of these are fly-by-night, travel-agencies-in-their-kitchen kinds of things,” Ms. Worters said. ( We encountered one such agency in a previous Tripped Up column .)

Guess who agreed with Ms. Worters: The agent who answered the phone when I called Travel Insured International’s customer care line as a potential customer. I asked about the clause and she agreed it was ambiguous, checking with a supervisor before saying: “If you are booking directly with the company and the company itself goes under default or bankruptcy, you would be able to file a claim for the nonrefundable portion of your trip.”

Ms. Whilldin, the spokeswoman for Travel Insured International, did not specifically answer my question about this apparent conflict. But it seems their claims adjuster made a mistake, aided by the ambiguous language of the underwriter who wrote the policy. (That’s United States Fire Insurance, another Crum & Forster company.)

Now, let’s discuss the second appeal. “Once you cancel your trip, the coverage under the plan ends,” Travel Insured International said. Your argument is that you did not cancel; Vantage did.

I think almost anyone who isn’t a lawyer would agree with you. But Oren Bar-Gill , a professor at Harvard Law School and the author of “Seduction by Contract: Law, Economics and Psychology in Consumer Markets,” explained to me the opposing argument. Vantage was contractually allowed to change the dates or offer credit, and you refused, the equivalent of canceling.

But, he added, when Vantage agreed to refund your cruise, it could be “considered a waiver of their contractual rights,” weakening the argument that you canceled your contract.

In a lawsuit New York State filed against the now-defunct Vantage and its former owner, Henry Lewis, the issue also comes up: The suit says Vantage “deceptively” mislabeled cancellations as “postponements.”

Even Travel Insured International admitted that Vantage had canceled, in its original letter rejecting your claim. “It is our understanding that your travel supplier, Vantage, canceled your cruise,” the claims adjuster wrote. Somehow, however, by the third response you had gone from cancelee to canceler.

You also missed a red flag when you chose your policy. Suzanne Morrow, the chief executive of InsureMyTrip , where you found your plan, told me you called the company within minutes of your purchase and asked an agent to point you to the bankruptcy clause. (You confirmed this to me.)

That means you’re not the typical insurance customer blindsided by small print you never read. If you were so concerned about the cruise line’s solvency, you could have canceled your plan during the insurer’s “free look” period and chosen one with more straightforward language — I found several on the InsureMyTrip website.

What lessons can we take away from your debacle?

To begin with, pay for everything with a credit card when your credit limit allows. Because of an odd quirk in a 1974 law , card issuers are required to reimburse you if the company you interacted with goes bankrupt.

Beyond that, the basic advice for travel insurance remains unchanged: Shop for a plan separately through a provider you trust or an aggregator like InsureMyTrip, rather than adding trip protection by checking a box just before you purchase a big-ticket item. Read the policy summaries fully and click through to the actual policy document to read fine print on issues that concern you most (say, bankruptcy protection or medical coverage for pre-existing conditions).

If you don’t understand anything, call the company. If it cannot answer satisfactorily and follow up in writing, choose another provider.

If you need advice about a best-laid travel plan that went awry, send an email to [email protected] .

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Seth Kugel is the columnist for “ Tripped Up ,” an advice column that helps readers navigate the often confusing world of travel. More about Seth Kugel

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How to cancel your car insurance in 3 easy steps

There are many reasons you might need to cancel your car insurance. Whether you’re preparing for a big move, buying a new car, or just trying to save money, you’ll be relieved to know that the cancellation process for auto insurance is relatively straightforward.

However, there are steps you should take to avoid any financial fallout with your car insurance company — or worse, leave yourself uninsured on the road. Let’s take a closer look at how to cancel your car insurance, some of the more common reasons you might need to change your current coverage, and whether canceling your existing policy could result in a cancellation fee.

How to cancel car insurance in 3 easy steps

For the most part, canceling a policy with your insurance provider is a simple process with minimal financial risk. But there’s an important caveat: You should avoid an insurance lapse at all costs.

Step 1: Buy a new auto insurance policy first

The best way to avoid an auto insurance gap? Purchase a new car insurance policy from a licensed insurance agent or reputable company before you stop coverage or cancel your old policy.

Lapses in liability insurance do more than result in higher premiums. The insurance industry reports gaps in coverage to each state’s department of motor vehicles. Since most state laws make it a crime to drive without some level of liability coverage , letting your car insurance lapse could result in having your vehicle registration or driver’s license suspended, a ticket or fine, or even jail time.

Read more: What happens if you don’t have car insurance?

Step 2: Contact your current insurance company

Once you have new coverage or determine you don’t need to maintain coverage, contact your current insurer to make a cancellation request. Do not simply stop paying the insurance premiums, as that may trigger the company to report a lapse in your coverage.

Every insurance provider has a different cancellation process, so this is where it pays to read the fine print and speak to a representative. Some insurers charge cancellation fees or give a prorated refund or a policy credit on the unused portion of car insurance coverage if you paid in advance.

Step 3: Request a policy cancellation confirmation

Some insurance companies require a formal cancellation letter or a 30-day cancellation notice to terminate your car insurance coverage. Others will allow you to speak to an agent or simply fill out an online form, and they will generally send a cancellation confirmation.

Regardless of your insurer’s cancellation process, verify that the policy has been terminated with an assigned cancellation number, email, or letter that includes the effective cancellation date and policy number for your records.

Can you cancel car insurance at any time?

Whether you want to switch insurers to save money or you’re giving up your car or taking an extended vacation, you can cancel your car insurance coverage at any time. But since gaps in coverage have serious consequences, it may not always be worth the risk (or the potential fees) to terminate your current policy.

Instead, you could suspend or drop certain types of coverage with the same company. Just keep in mind that if you haven’t paid off your car loan, with some types of auto financing or leasing, the lender requires you to maintain full coverage , including comprehensive insurance and often gap insurance .

4 reasons for canceling your auto insurance

There are many reasons for canceling your car insurance. Here are some of the most common:

1. You don’t have a car or no longer drive.

If you recently sold your car and don’t plan to invest in a new set of wheels, you might be eager to drop your insurance. Sit tight until the title is transferred to the new owner, and you submit any necessary paperwork or turn license plates over to the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles).

However, if you think there’s a chance you’ll get a new car soon, consider changing your coverage to a non-owner policy . This could help you avoid an insurance lapse and fend off any rate increases or loss of a multi-policy discount .

Don’t plan on driving temporarily for health or other reasons? Before you cancel insurance, consider suspending your insurance with your carrier or switching to a parked vehicle or stored vehicle policy .

2. You're moving internationally.

Moving to a different state? Most insurance products work similarly no matter where in the country you live. But check with your insurance company to ensure they operate in your new state and that your current coverage aligns with state insurance laws .

But if you’re moving outside the United States, it’s likely you’ll need to find a new insurer or at least adjust your coverage.

3. You're covered under someone else's car insurance.

Hanging up your keys for a while or headed into wedded bliss? A change in marital status often means either you’ll add someone to your policy or they’ll add you to theirs. Newly married and now residing at the same address? A cancellation or change to your current coverage may even be required.

If, on the other hand, you’re planning on casually driving someone else’s car without your own insurance coverage for a significant length of time, consider short-term or temporary car insurance .

4. You're switching car insurance companies for a better rate or changing coverage.

If you’re considering switching insurers , the best time to do so is a few weeks before your current policy is set to renew or expire. Before you trade in your current insurance card for a better rate or lower deductibles, make sure you won’t be losing money through cancellation fees.

The best way to avoid a dreaded lapse in insurance (or pay more than you should for overlapping policies) is to ask your old insurer to cancel your auto insurance coverage on the start date of your new policy.

Read more: How to save on car insurance in 2024

What happens if I forget to cancel my car insurance coverage?

If you go out and get a sparkly new car insurance policy and leave canceling the old one in your pile of things to do, you might end up in trouble for not paying.

Failing to pay premiums usually causes your car insurance company to cancel your policy after a grace period of anywhere from 10 to 25 days. This could result not only in late fees and other charges, but make it difficult for you to find an auto insurer in the future.

Frequently asked questions

1. will i have to pay a cancellation fee if i switch auto insurance companies.

Whether you have to pay a cancellation fee for ending your insurance coverage before the policy expires depends both on your insurer and on the state you live in.

Depending on state laws, cancellation fees can be charged in two ways: short-rate or flat fees. Short-rated cancellations usually charge the policyholder around 10% of the unearned premium, which is then subtracted from any refund owed.

Flat fees for policy cancellation are exactly what they sound like and usually involve paying a one-time fee of anywhere from $30 to $50.

2. Can my insurance company cancel my car insurance coverage?

What if the insurance company cancels your policy? Yes, this can happen. However, the Insurance Information Institute states that after your policy has been in effect for 60 days or more, the only reasons your coverage can legally be canceled include non-payment of premiums, driver’s license suspension, or serious fraud or misrepresentation on your insurance application.