Do you need cruise travel insurance?

There's nothing quite like a cruise. You unpack once and wake up somewhere new every day, the perfect mix of adventure and ease. But even the most relaxing holiday can hit rough seas. From medical emergencies to missed departures or bad weather, things can go wrong.

That's where travel insurance that includes cruise cover comes in. It's your safety net for the unexpected. With the right policy, you can focus on sunsets and cocktails, not unexpected costs.

What is cruise travel insurance?

Travel insurance that includes cruise cover is designed for life at sea. It covers things standard policies may not cover like onboard medical care, emergency evacuations, and missed excursions.

Medical treatment at sea can be pricey, and getting home in an emergency might mean a helicopter or specialist vessel is needed. Cruise cover can help with those costs, plus delays and disruptions unique to cruising.

The good news? Cruising is already covered under our International Travel policy. If you're cruising around New Zealand, you can add our optional Cruise Pack to your policy.

Do you need special travel insurance for a cruise?

Cruises involve more moving parts than land-based trips, so your cover often needs to work harder. Even small disruptions at sea can lead to bigger costs, so having a policy designed for cruising can make a difference.

Tip: Some cruise companies may ask for proof of travel insurance before you board. It's worth checking this when you book.

International cruises

Some insurers require cruise-specific add-ons for international trips. With Tower, you don't need to worry about the extras. Our International travel insurance automatically includes cruise cover. That means cover for medical emergencies at sea, travel disruptions, and unexpected delays.

Domestic cruises

Even if you're just cruising around New Zealand travel insurance matters. Once your ship leaves port, you're a long way from public hospitals. If something goes wrong, travel insurance can help with medical evacuations or support you if you're confined to your cabin with illness.

For domestic cruises, choose our Comprehensive Plan and add the optional Cruise Pack so your cruise is covered.

What does cruise insurance usually cover?

Cruise holidays come with unique risks, so your cover needs to go beyond the basics. Here's what you can expect:

Onboard medical care: Covers medical bills and hospital stays while you're at sea.

Trip cancellations and delays: Helps reimburse prepaid costs and covers extra expenses if your trip is delayed or you need to cancel due to reasons outside your control.

Missed excursions: Compensation if you miss an excursion you've paid for, if you can't attend due to illness or injury.

Lost or delayed luggage: Pays for essentials or replacements if your bags don't arrive when you do.

Emergency evacuation: Covers evacuation by air or sea and your return home in a medical emergency.

Choosing the right cover

Always read the policy document as exclusions, limits, sub-limits, and extras can make a big difference. With Tower's Travel insurance, cruises are automatically covered under our international plans, so you're covered before you even set sail.

Still unsure? Check out our travel insurance tips for more advice on choosing the right level of cover for your cruise.

Tips for a smooth-sailing cruise

Be on time: Cruise ships run on tight schedules.

Choose shore excursions wisely: Book through your cruise line or a trusted operator.

Lock it up: Lock your cabin and keep valuables secure in your cabin safe.

Stay in ship-shape: Regular hand washing goes a long way.

For more practical tips on preparing for a cruise, check out SafeTravel's guide to going on a cruise.

FAQs

What happens if my cruise is cancelled?

Cancellation cover can help with non-refundable costs like fares, excursions, or accommodation if your cruise is cancelled due to illness, bad weather, or mechanical issues. Changed your mind? That's usually not covered.

Can I add cruise cover to my existing travel insurance?

With our Comprehensive International Travel insurance, you don't need to for international trips as Cruise Cover is included. For domestic cruises, choose our Comprehensive Domestic Travel insurance and add the optional Cruise Pack.

What if I test positive for COVID-19 before departure?

Tower Travel insurance includes COVID-19 benefits, so you can claim back non-refundable fares and prepaid extras.

What if my flight is cancelled and I miss my cruise?

If the disruption is beyond your control, travel insurance can cover costs like rebooking missed connecting flights, catching up with the ship, or reimbursement costs.

For more tips, check out what to do if your plans go off schedule.

Set sail with confidence knowing you’re covered for the unexpected with Tower Travel insurance.

*This is a summary only. Please read the policy wording to understand the terms, conditions, excesses, limits, sub-limits and exclusions that may apply. Cover is subject to the current underwriting criteria.

Tower Travel insurance is issued and managed by AWP Services New Zealand Limited trading as Allianz Partners and underwritten by Tower Limited. You should read the policy wording before making any decisions about your insurance policy.

The links we provide to third-party websites are for your convenience and do not constitute any endorsement or authorisation by us. The information provided on this page is general in nature and is not intended to be professional or legal advice. Tower does not accept any liability for the accuracy or content of information on this website that belongs to third parties or on any third-party website.