p&o travel insurance policy

Travel Insurance

An illness, an accident or an unexpected situation can arise before or during any type of vacation. Such an event might cause you to cut short your cruise or cause your trip to be canceled altogether. Unfortunately, most cruise lines impose penalties for canceling a cruise, up to and including loss of the entire cruise price.

Because a cruise is a significant investment, most cruise lines offer some form of insurance to protect their passengers from financial loss in the event of an emergency. Details and prices vary from cruise line to cruise line, as do coverage limits and exclusions.

If you decide to purchase insurance, you will have two options, to go with the cruise line's plan or to use our independent insurance provider, Generali Global Assistance. Use the summaries below to compare policies and prices.

Generali can provide insurance coverage to all customers, regardless of their country of citizenship, except residents of the province of Quebec, Canada.

For more information or a complete copy of a policy, ask your Vacations To Go cruise counselor.

Independent Insurance Coverage

Generali Global Assistance

Cruise Line Coverage

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Travel Insurance

There’s nothing like a cruise to feed the soul and broaden the mind. And nothing like the unexpected to put a dampener on your plans.

With nearly thirty years of experience and more than 2.2 million journeys every year, Cover-More knows what travellers need. That’s why P&O Cruises recommends Cover-More Travel Insurance.

Ensure you are covered for general medical expenses overseas, existing medical conditions, hospitalisation and medical evacuations.

If you plan on participating in sports such as scuba diving or parasailing, ensure your policy covers these activities.

International travel insurance is recommended on Australian coastal cruises, as your cruise is outside the scope of the New Zealand Health system.

If your cruise includes a call to New Caledonia, please note the New Caledonia government requires that all guests hold comprehensive international travel insurance. Guests will be required to bring printed proof of travel insurance and this will be checked at embarkation. Guests may also be requested to present it during the cruise. Any guest who is unable to provide proof of travel insurance will be denied boarding.

Be aware when organising your insurance that uninsured travellers (or their families) are held personally liable for cancellation, medical and associated costs incurred at any time whether before the cruise, on board or overseas. Hospitalisation costs on board or outside of the country and medical evacuation costs are very expensive and are not covered by Medicare or private health insurance. Daily hospital bills can cost as much as AUD 5,000 per day. All consultations, treatments and medications are charged at private rates.

If something goes wrong, you want expert help fast so you can keep travelling.

For more information, please see the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade website at safetravel.govt.nz .

For more information about this travel insurance product, contact us on 0800 550 125.

Disclosure: P&O Cruises Australia has a referral arrangement with Cover-More and may receive a fee or commission if you choose to purchase an insurance product from Cover-More.

Limits, sub-limits, conditions and exclusions apply. Insurance administered by Cover-More (NZ) Ltd, underwritten and issued by Zurich Australian Insurance Limited (ZAIL) incorporated in Australia, ABN 13 000 296 640, trading as Zurich New Zealand. Consider the Policy Brochure and wording therein before deciding to buy this product. For further information see Zurich New Zealand’s financial strength rating.

As Australian Medicare, New Zealand ACC and private health insurance won’t cover you for medical costs onboard, all cruises (even domestic cruises) require international travel insurance.

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All medical conditions considered

Includes Medical Assistance Plus 

Kids go free on family policies (1) 

A choice of travel insurance to suit you

We have different types of cover for whatever you have planned. And we consider all medical conditions.

Single-trip cover

Offering cover for anything from a short UK break to a year of travelling around the world

• Covers you for a one-off trip up to 365 days (2)
• Perfect for short or long trips for anywhere in the UK or abroad 
• No age limit

Annual multi-trip cover

Travelling more than once this year? An annual multi-trip policy could save you time and money

• Cover for multiple-trips for a 12-month period
• 31-day trip limit, with extensions available up to 45 and 60 days
• Available for everyone aged up to 75 years

Backpacker cover

Looking for a gap year, career break or to travel the world? We could have the cover you're after

• Cover for a one-off trip up to 18 months
• Option to return home for up to 7 days on 3 occasions
• Available for those aged 18 – 60

Medical Assistance Plus: 24/7 holiday health support

Have peace of mind when you travel knowing that health professionals are just one click away.

Medical Assistance Plus (3), powered by Air Doctor, comes free with all our travel insurance policies. It gives you access to outpatient medical support while you’re abroad.

Through the service you can book an in-person or video consultation with a doctor. You can also get prescriptions delivered to your nearest pharmacy.

We’ll send you an SMS reminder about the service the day before you travel (for single-trip and backpacker cover) or the day before your policy begins (for annual multi-trip cover).

Living with a medical condition shouldn’t stop you seeing the world. And, with the right travel insurance in place, you can enjoy peace of mind on your adventures – just in case something unfortunate happens.

At Post Office, we cover most pre-existing conditions. Contact us for a quote to see if we can cover you. It’s important to declare upfront all your medical conditions and any medication you're taking.

If we can’t help and yours is a serious pre-existing medical condition, check the Money and Pensions Scheme (MaPS) directory. It lists companies that may be able to help you. Or call 0800 138 7777.

Choose a travel insurance cover level

We can offer you a choice of economy, standard and premier cover levels.

Policy wording

Upgrade your cover with ease

Need cover for your policy that's not included as standard? Just pay a little more to add these upgrades – optional or mandatory depending on the trip type.

This optional extra helps protect you from the impact of airspace disruption, natural catastrophes, terrorist acts or Covid-19 (5)

If you’re happy with the cover offered, but worried about excess fees, you can opt for an excess waiver. For an additional premium, you can add it to any Post Office level of cover for zero excess fees (5)

Insure all your devices with our easy-to-add gadget cover. It’s perfect to protect all your smartphones, tablets, laptops and consoles (5)

Specialist cover is mandatory for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. There’s greater risk of emergency costs. Make sure you’re protected on the pistes (5)

If you're going on a cruise, specialist cover is both important and mandatory. It covers missed departure due to breakdown, falling ill on board, being confined to your cabin, lost baggage and more (5)

Trip extensions are available up to 45 or 60 days, increasing from the standard 31 days (5)

Ready to get a quote?

Let’s find the protection that’s right for your travels. Get a quote for Post Office Travel Insurance

What is travel insurance?

Travel insurance may be able to protect you against a range of unexpected events. From losing valuables to medical emergencies, and anything else that could spoil your holiday. Take a look at our policy documents to make sure that you’re getting the cover that meets your needs.

Cancellation and cutting short your trip

• Emergency medical expenses
• Missed departure
• Delayed departure

Personal liability and legal costs

We'll repay you for any non-refundable, unused travel and accommodation costs if you have to cancel or cut short a trip due to reasons set out in the policy. This includes pre-booked activities and excursions, car hire, cattery and kennel fees, up to the limits shown

We may be able to help if you need emergency medical treatment, return to the UK (getting you back home) and more while you’re abroad 

Missed departure (6)

We’ll also cover any extra travel and accommodation costs you're charged if you arrive too late to travel on your booked transport. As long as they match the reasons set out in the policy

Delayed departure (6)

You’re covered if your first outbound or final inbound international departure is delayed by 4 or more hours. As long as it matches certain reasons set out in the policy wording

Items that are usually carried or worn during a trip are covered if they get lost, stolen or damaged 

You'll also get protection for any unexpected legal costs you might be charged while you're away 

New-look travel app out now

Our revamped travel app’s out now. It makes buying, topping up and managing Travel Money Cards with up to 22 currencies a breeze. Buying and accessing Travel Insurance on the move effortless. And it puts holiday extras like airport hotels, lounge access and more at your fingertips. All with an improved user experience. Find out what’s changed .

An award-winning provider

Best travel insurance provider.

Post Office won a ‘Best Travel Insurance Provider’ award at the Your Money Awards in 2021, 2022 and 2023

Post Office won a “Best Travel Insurance Provider” award at the British Travel Awards in 2023

Defaqto 5-star rated cover

Our travel insurance policies with premier level cover are Defaqto 5-star rated

Cover you can count on. We’ve paid out over £177 million in travel insurance claims since 2007

Common travel insurance questions, what does travel insurance cover.

Post Office Travel Insurance can cover you for a single trip of up to 365 days(2), or multiple trips in a single year. This applies to trips taken anywhere in the UK and abroad too. We also offer backpacker cover(7) for a single trip of up to 18 months.

The type and level of cover provided depends on the insurance policy type and options you choose. It can include cover for:

• Cancellation
• Cutting your trip short and abandonment of your trip
• Lost, stolen or damaged baggage
• Lost, stolen or damaged passports
• Lost, stolen or damaged personal money
• Personal accidents and liability
• Legal protection

You can add additional cover to your policy. Options include:

• Gadget cover
• Excess waiver
• Trip disruption
• 45- or 60-day trip extensions (on  annual multi-trip  only)

Winter sports cover  is compulsory for winter sports trips and  cruise cover  is mandatory if you’re going on a cruise. It’s important to check the different travel insurances available, and their various options and add-ons you can buy. This way, you’re sure to be fully covered for your trip and all you’ll do on it.

Why is it important to have travel insurance?

Having travel insurance is a worthwhile purchase for anyone going abroad for their holidays. Even in relatively safe locations such as central Europe, a number of things can go wrong.

Flights can be delayed. Airlines can lose your luggage. Tourist areas may be prone to opportunist thieves who may target your belongings. And you could fall ill anywhere in the world, to the detriment of your holiday plans.

We hope that none of these events happen to you. But, if they do, you could be out of pocket. And with emergency medical problems it could be by tens or even hundreds of thousands of pounds.

Holiday insurance may be able to help avoid some of this risk. It’s a way to insure for travel you, those travelling with you and your belongings.

If your luggage is lost, holiday insurance may not be able to replace it, but the payout from a claim can help recover any costs that you have had to pay to get replacements.

In particular, the medical cover outside of the EU offered by insurance is a necessity.

Within the EU, you may think that an  European Health Insurance Card (Ehic) or its replacement, the UK Global Health Insurance Card (Ghic), can cover all your medical needs. This isn’t true. Some of the most expensive medical services, such as repatriation, aren’t covered by the Ehic or Ghic. They're limited to health cover and won’t help at all with things like cancellation, loss or theft. And the Ehic no longer provides access to healthcare for UK nationals travelling to Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland.

Even if you’re staying in the UK for your break , having holiday insurance will provide cover for lost, damaged or stolen possessions such as baggage, and cancellation, cutting your trip short or delay to your trip in some circumstances.

To qualify for cover on our annual multi-trip policies, UK trips must consist of:

• At least one night's pre-booked and paid-for accommodation, or
• A stay at least 100 miles from your home, or
• At least one sea crossing

Why choose Post Office?

You’re in safe hands with Post Office. We won Best Travel Insurance Provider at the Your Money Awards in 2021, 2022 and 2023. We also won bronze for Best Travel Insurance Provider at the British Travel Awards 2023, voted for by the UK public.

Our premier cover is 5 Star Defaqto Rated. Defaqto is a financial information business, helping financial institutions and consumers make better informed decisions.

We have a range of cover options available to suit lots of different holidays, so you can choose the cover that suits you best. We’re there for our customers when they need us the most; since we launched travel insurance in 2007, we’ve paid out over £177 million in claims.

What cover is there for Covid-19 as standard?

Policies purchased from the 31 March 2022 onwards provide cover if:

• you test positive for Covid-19 within 14 days of your trip and are required to self-isolate by a medical practitioner, the NHS or any UK government body 
• a medical practitioner certifies you as too ill to travel due to Covid-19 
• you, someone you’re travelling with, or someone you’re staying with is required to self-isolate by a medical practitioner, UK government body or health authority 
• you, an immediate relative (8) or someone you plan to travel or stay with dies or is hospitalised due to Covid-19 

If an insured trip has to be cut short, the unused portion of it can be claimed for if:

• you test positive for Covid-19 after you’ve left the UK and have to self-isolate
• you test positive on arrival in your destination and are not allowed to continue your trip
• you, an immediate relative (8) or someone you’re travelling or staying with dies or is hospitalised due to Covid-19

There’s also cover for medical and repatriation costs if you fall ill with Covid-19 while away. Call our emergency assistance line and we’ll help you seek treatment or, if needed, arrange to bring you back to the UK.

There’s no other coronavirus cover on our policies, but for extra reassurance you can add our  trip disruption cover upgrade option. This gives you added protection against missed departures and expenses incurred due to change of testing or quarantine requirements. Add it to your preferred policy for an extra premium.

For policies sold on or after the 31 March 2022

Should the FCDO advise against all travel to your destination, there's no cover under any section of the policy if you decide to travel. 

If the FCDO have advised to only undertake essential travel to a destination and your trip's not essential and you choose to travel, we'll only cover a claim if the cause is not linked to the reason for the FCDO advice. This limitation applies even if you've purchased an optional trip disruption cover upgrade. You may be able to travel with full cover if we authorise in writing that your trip's essential before you depart. Should you like to request this, please email  [email protected]

Please make sure you’re clear what’s covered and what’s not. Check the answers to common questions about coronavirus cover and the full policy wording for more details.

Does Post Office Travel Insurance cover medical expenses?

Yes, our travel insurance covers you for unexpected medical expenses. This includes emergency treatment and hospitalisation, plus repatriation if you need it. Cover's provided up to the limit specified in the policy wording for the specific cover level you choose.

Emergency medical assistance

If you need emergency medical assistance, you can call our dedicated team. They're here 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to get you the help you need. Check the correct contact details for your policy on our travel insurance help and support page .

Non-emergency medical support

If it’s not an emergency but you still need to see a medical professional, you can use our Medical Assistance Plus (3) service. This outpatient service is included free with all new Post Office Travel Insurance policies.

Get easy access to medical experts such as doctors, dentists and gastroenterologists. The single online platform can be used wherever you are abroad.

Choose whether you’re seen at a clinic, in your hotel or via an online video consultation. All sessions are in your own language. They even have prescriptions delivered to your nearest pharmacy.

This takes away the stress of finding medical help, so you can kick back and enjoy your holiday to the full.

Do I need travel insurance for UK trips?

We provide cover whether you’re taking a break in the UK or going on holiday overseas. You’re covered if your luggage or personal belongings are lost, stolen or damaged while you’re staying away from home in Britain. And if you have to cancel or cut short your trip in some circumstances, we can cover that too. As long as it matches the reasons set out in your policy.

Our annual multi-trip travel insurance can cover you for UK trips too. The minimum requirements are one night’s pre-booked and paid accommodation. Or your stay must be at least 100 miles from your home. Or you must have at least one sea crossing.

Where can I go on holiday in the UK or overseas?

The UK Government provides guidance on travel 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Visit the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office website for the latest travel information. It lists if it's safe to visit your chosen country. This information can change at short notice. So it's a good idea to check the FCDO page regularly.

Remember, your cover won’t be valid if you travel against the FDCO advice of all travel, and local government advice. Check the latest on the FCDO site or read our  where can I go on holiday guide .

Does travel insurance include gadget cover?

Our standard travel insurance policies will only provide limited cover for electronic items such as mobile/smart phones, camcorders and their accessories, all photographic/ digital/ optical/ audio/ video media and equipment, iPods, MP3/4 players or similar and/or accessories, E-book readers, and satellite navigation systems up to the single article limit. The single article limit depends on the cover you’ve taken out. For economy it’s £150, for standard it’s £250, and for premier it’s £400.

Gadget cover  is an optional add on you can buy at any time to add protection for your devices. Check the  policy wording for full terms.

Do you offer a student discount?

Yes, we do. We’ve partnered with Student Beans to offer a discount to students. To claim it, you’ll need to either  register for a Student Beans account (to verify your student status) or  log in with your existing account . You’ll be given a unique code, which you’ll need to enter in the promotion code box that appears when getting your travel insurance quote. The discount will be taken off your quote total.

Do you offer a discount for graduates?

Yes, we do. We’ve partnered with Grad Beans to offer a discount to graduates. To claim it, you’ll need to either register for a Grad Beans account (to verify your graduate status) or log in with your existing account . You’ll be given a unique code, which you’ll need to enter in the promotion code box that appears when getting your travel insurance quote. The discount will be taken off your quote total.

• Read more travel insurance FAQs

Need some help?

Travel insurance help and support.

For emergency medical assistance, to make a claim, find answers to common questions about our cover or get in touch:

Visit our travel insurance support page

We’re here to help on your travels

Access your travel insurance policy anywhere.

You can buy travel insurance and view your policy all in our free Post Office travel app. Plus you can order and top-up our Travel Money Card wherever you are too

Travel money made easy

Buy your travel money online. You can click and collect from a branch near you or choose next-day delivery to your home

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About our travel insurance

Post Office® Travel Insurance is arranged by Post Office Limited and Post Office Management Services Limited.

Post Office Limited is an appointed representative of Post Office Management Services Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, FRN 630318. Post Office Limited and Post Office Management Services Limited are registered in England and Wales. Registered numbers 2154540 and 08459718 respectively. Registered Office: 100 Wood Street, London, EC2V 7ER. Post Office and the Post Office logo are registered trademarks of Post Office Limited.

These details can be checked on the Financial Services Register by visiting the Financial Conduct Authority website and searching by Firm Reference Number (FRN).

(1) Kids (under 18s) can be covered at no extra cost on our single-trip and annual multi-trip policies provided they have no medical conditions.

(2) For economy, standard and premier policies, the single-trip policy will cover you for one trip up to: 365 days for those aged up to and including 70 years 90 days for those aged between 71 and 75 31 days for those aged 76 years and above.

(3) Medical Assistance Plus is not available for trips taken in the UK, only for international travel. The service allows up to 3 separate medical events per person, per policy and for each medical event up to 3 appointments per person listed on the policy. All appointment charges are covered by your travel insurance policy. You will not need to pay any excess fees for this service.

For any online appointments or where the appointment was held at your accommodation, where a prescription is issued, you will need to pay for any medication and claim upon your return home. No excess will be applied for any prescription charges. If your appointment takes place at a clinic and they have a dispensing chemist, you will not need to pay for your prescription and all charges will be covered by your policy at the point of appointment. If there is no dispensing chemist at the clinic, you will either be given a prescription, or the prescription will be sent to a chemist by the treating doctor, and you will need to pay for any medication and claim upon your return home.

If your medical situation needs to be handed over from an outpatient case to an inpatient case and requires hospital admission, you will be handed over to our emergency medical assistance team in the UK. For any inpatient cases, no excess will be applicable.

(4) Increased to £750 if you bought your foreign currency from Post Office.

(5) Terms and conditions apply.

(6) Delayed and missed departure are only available with our standard and premier cover levels.

(7) Backpacker policies only available on the economy level of cover.

(8) Immediate relative: your mother, father, sister, brother, spouse, civil partner, fiancé/e, your children (including adopted and fostered), grandparent, grandchild, parent-in-law, daughter-in-law; sister-in-law, son-in-law, brother-in-law, aunt, uncle, cousin, nephew, niece, step-parent, step-child, step-brother, step-sister or legal guardian.

Travel Insurance. Stay worry-free at sea.

There’s nothing like a cruise to feed the soul and broaden the mind. And nothing like the unexpected to put a dampener on your plans.

With over 30 years’ experience in travel insurance, covering more than 3.8 million journeys every year, cover-more is the perfect travel (and cruising) companion. cover-more helps you explore the world with confidence by ensuring you are covered for general medical expenses overseas, existing medical conditions, hospitalisation and medical evacuations~., if something goes wrong, you want expert help fast so you can keep travelling., travel insurance for all your cruising needs, budget plan.

• Our most affordable insurance especially for cruises
• On-trip cover if you’re diagnosed with COVID-19*
• Up to $5 million of emergency overseas medical expenses~*
• Missed cruise departure cover
• Amendment or cancellation costs*

Comprehensive Plan

• On-trip cover if you’re diagnosed with COVID-19 (including cabin confinement)*
• Up to $10 million of overseas emergency medical expenses~*
• Missed cruise departure, port and connections cover*
• Up to $8,000 luggage cover⬩
• Amendment or cancellation costs^
• Existing medical conditions cover available.

(To ensure your Existing Medical Condition is covered, read page 21 of the PDS )

Premium Plan

• Pre-trip cover if you’re diagnosed with COVID-19#*
• $Unlimited overseas emergency medical expenses~*
• Up to $15,000 luggage cover⬩
• Amendment or cancellation costs^*

~Cover will not exceed 12 months from onset of the illness, condition or injury. To ensure your Existing Medical Condition is covered, read page 21 of the PDS .  ^Cover chosen applies per policy. Read page 14 of the PDS for more information.  *Sub-limits apply. Read the PDS for more information.  #If you bought the policy within the 21 days before your scheduled trip departure date, we will only cover the travel costs that you paid for in the 48 hour period before buying your policy and after buying this policy. ⬩ Sub-limits and item limits apply. You may wish to increase these items limits, read the PDS for more information.

Doing more than relaxing?

If you plan on participating in sports such as scuba diving or parasailing, a premium may apply..

Special Note For New Caledonia

Guests traveling on a South Pacific cruise that calls on New Caledonia must hold a valid international travel insurance policy and present printed proof of this travel insurance at time of check-in. Guests may also be requested to present it during the cruise. Any guest who is unable to provide proof of holding suitable travel insurance will be denied boarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Not all domestic cruise ships have access to a Medicare accessible doctor on board. If you need to see a GP while on a domestic cruise, the cost won’t be covered by Medicare in these cases and – you may have to pay for it yourself in full.

At Cover-More, we can provide cover for these expenses when you tell us you are travelling on a cruise for two or more nights (except for river cruises within Australia). An additional premium will need to be paid and cruise cover benefits will then be available on your policy.

When generating a Cover-More travel insurance quote – the first step in buying our cover – you will be asked if you are travelling on a cruise for two or more nights (except for river cruises in Australia). An additional premium will be applied to your policy and the cruise cover benefits will be available once the premium is paid and the Certificate of Insurance issued.

To buy cover for a domestic cruise in Australia, select “Domestic Cruise” as the destination in the quote box, and answer the cruise question when prompted. To buy cover for an international cruise, select the country or region or “Anywhere in the World” as your destination, and answer the cruise question when prompted. Before protecting your trip with our Cover-More cruise insurance benefits, please read the PDS  to ensure our product is right for you.

No. For cruise cover to apply, your travel insurance policy must include our Cruise Cover and must be purchased before you leave home. This also includes before you catch any flights or transportation required to get to your departing port.

Our Cruise Cover benefit includes cover for onboard emergency medical and dental expenses and ship-to-shore medical expenses incurred by travellers on multi-night cruises. If you fall ill with COVID-19 while on board a cruise, we can help you financially and provide emergency assistance support if required.

For more information on what is and isn’t covered regarding COVID-19 while you’re on a multi-night cruise, please read the PDS . For Cover-More’s COVID-19 FAQs you can read here .

If for some reason you change your mind about your insurance purchase, Cover-More policies give you peace of mind by offering a ‘cooling off period’ of 21 days. During this time, you can obtain a full refund if you haven’t made a claim and your departure date has not passed. If you need to cancel your policy, please phone  1300 72 88 22

Your claim will be managed by Cover-More. You can make a claim online  or call Cover-More, 8am-5pm Mon – Fri and 9am-4pm Sat (Sydney/Melbourne time)

Within Australia: Call Cover-More on 1300 467 951

From overseas: Call Cover-More on +612 8907 5060  (call charges may apply)

For more information, please see the Department of Foreign Affairs website at smartraveller.gov.au.

Disclosure: Carnival Cruise Line has a referral arrangement with Cover-More and may receive a fee or commission if you choose to purchase an insurance product from Cover-More. Limits, sub-limits, conditions and exclusions apply. Insurance administered by Cover-More Insurance Services Pty Ltd (ABN 95 003 114 145, AFSL 241713) on behalf of the product issuer, Zurich Australian Insurance Limited [ABN 13 000 296 640, AFSL 232507). Any advice is general advice only. Please consider your financial situation, needs and objectives and read the Combined FSG/PDS before deciding to buy this insurance. For information on the Target Market and Target Market Determination for these products, contact Cover-More on 1300 77 88 22

With over 30 years’ experience in travel insurance, covering more than 3.8 million journeys every year, Cover-More is the perfect travel (and cruising) companion.

• P&O Cruises ( UK )

Insurance requirements for P&O?

By james95 , April 12, 2022 in P&O Cruises ( UK )

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I am new to cruising, and have just paid for a Baltic cruise in August with P&O for me and my partner (for their 30th birthday present).

I am a little confused by P&O's travel insurance requirements - maybe because I'm new to cruising, but there's lots of specific terminology and it just seems to confuse me and I want to make sure I'm doing it correctly.

I have done some research on insurance comparison sites and found a policy by coverforyou.com. I've attached the policy documents that came with the quote. Does anyone know if this meets all of P&O's specific requirements? Namely:

• cover for emergency evacuations and medical expenses related to COVID-19
• cover for repatriation, cancellation and curtailment including in the event of you contracting COVID-19 as certified by a Medical Practitioner and possibly, if deemed medically necessary, have to leave the ship due to a medical emergency

policywording-cfu-msm-AXA-XM24.pdf important-information-coronavirus-cover-latest (1).pdf ipid-cfu-msm-standard-st-safi-v13.pdf

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2 hours ago, james95 said: Hi all,   I am new to cruising, and have just paid for a Baltic cruise in August with P&O for me and my partner (for their 30th birthday present).   I am a little confused by P&O's travel insurance requirements - maybe because I'm new to cruising, but there's lots of specific terminology and it just seems to confuse me and I want to make sure I'm doing it correctly.   I have done some research on insurance comparison sites and found a policy by coverforyou.com. I've attached the policy documents that came with the quote. Does anyone know if this meets all of P&O's specific requirements? Namely: cover for emergency evacuations and medical expenses related to COVID-19 cover for repatriation, cancellation and curtailment including in the event of you contracting COVID-19 as certified by a Medical Practitioner and possibly, if deemed medically necessary, have to leave the ship due to a medical emergency   Thank you! policywording-cfu-msm-AXA-XM24.pdf 1.02 MB  ·  3 downloads important-information-coronavirus-cover-latest (1).pdf 45.24 kB  ·  0 downloads ipid-cfu-msm-standard-st-safi-v13.pdf 137.38 kB  ·  1 download

My in laws are just back off Iona. I helped them arrange a new annual policy before they left and it’s with cover for you. Was absolutely fine they seemed to make it there with no issues! It’s underwritten by Axa, so big insurance firm, which made me feel confident using it. So I reckon you should be fine

Hi eveyone! Could someone clarify the insurance requirements for P&O for me?

I know there needs to be Covid-19 cover (medical expenses/repatriation/curtailment etc), but what about pre-existing medical conditions?

My dad has a condition being investigated, and some insurance providers are refusing to cover him altogether. Some specifically will cover covid-19 or "new" conditions or accidents etc but not any pre-existing medical conditions. Im not sure of this is enough for p&o? 

https://www.pocruises.com/travel-insurance

This suggests its enough but im sure I read another page on p&o a few days ago (I can no longer find it!) that mentioned you must also have cover for pre-existing medical conditions

Grateful if anyone could shed some light?

terrierjohn

42 minutes ago, CamillaJia said: Hi eveyone! Could someone clarify the insurance requirements for P&O for me? I know there needs to be Covid-19 cover (medical expenses/repatriation/curtailment etc), but what about pre-existing medical conditions? My dad has a condition being investigated, and some insurance providers are refusing to cover him altogether. Some specifically will cover covid-19 or "new" conditions or accidents etc but not any pre-existing medical conditions. Im not sure of this is enough for p&o?    https://www.pocruises.com/travel-insurance   This suggests its enough but im sure I read another page on p&o a few days ago (I can no longer find it!) that mentioned you must also have cover for pre-existing medical conditions   Grateful if anyone could shed some light?

All travel insurance requires you to provide pre-existing conditions if you have any, otherwise your claim will be rejected and could leave you with a big bill.

 Should be ok as long as cruise cover is included.

3 minutes ago, terrierjohn said: All travel insurance requires you to provide pre-existing conditions if you have any, otherwise your claim will be rejected and could leave you with a big bill.

They will be declared but not covered by the insurance, that's why I'm asking about what P&O need. This was with staysure. Holiday Extras refused to provide cover at all.

2 minutes ago, CamillaJia said: They will be declared but not covered by the insurance, that's why I'm asking about what P&O need. This was with staysure. Holiday Extras refused to provide cover at all.

If your insurer wont cover your existing conditions, then I would think carefully about whether you want to cruise, or go on any holiday. Of course if you are happy enough to cover your own risks then that's your decision.

Just now, terrierjohn said: If your insurer wont cover your existing conditions, then I would think carefully about whether you want to cruise, or go on any holiday. Of course if you are happy enough to cover your own risks then that's your decision.

But what is P&Os position? Do they require insurance cover for pre-existing conditions? (Im leaning towards probably) In which case I need to find a different insurer to staysure.

The reason they don't provide cover is because its an undiagnosed condition (being investigated) so they can't cover something they don't know the risks for.

My second question is.. has anyone found an insurer that will provide insurance if you're still awaiting a diagnosis (if not for the undiagnosed condition itself, for other pre existing medical conditions) or is this unlikely?

15 minutes ago, terrierjohn said: If your insurer wont cover your existing conditions, then I would think carefully about whether you want to cruise, or go on any holiday. Of course if you are happy enough to cover your own risks then that's your decision.

To answer the question, this is the first time we've ever got/needed insurance for a trip so willing to risk it (depending on what his condition is like closer to the time!) But our accepted risk vs what P&O require might be different.

I used Cover for You on my last cruise and no problem i also have cover for my Cruise next month

16 minutes ago, CamillaJia said:   But what is P&Os position? Do they require insurance cover for pre-existing conditions? (Im leaning towards probably) In which case I need to find a different insurer to staysure. The reason they don't provide cover is because its an undiagnosed condition (being investigated) so they can't cover something they don't know the risks for.   My second question is.. has anyone found an insurer that will provide insurance if you're still awaiting a diagnosis (if not for the undiagnosed condition itself, for other pre existing medical conditions) or is this unlikely?

I dont think you will find any insurance to cover undiagnosed conditions, unfortunately.

8 hours ago, CamillaJia said:   To answer the question, this is the first time we've ever got/needed insurance for a trip so willing to risk it (depending on what his condition is like closer to the time!) But our accepted risk vs what P&O require might be different.

Whilst this is an extremely negative comment, the worst case scenario you are risking is the cost of a helicopter to evacuate someone should they become seriously unwell.  That risk could be tens of thousands of pounds.

All highly unlikely, but it does happen fairly regularly.  

Hi Camilla 

Unfortunately even saga won’t cover until diagnosis.-it is in questions and answers on their website—  if they won’t cover then I don’t think anyone will.

as said already it is approx £25k to evacuate someone from ship then medical bills on top.

Really not cheap and it does happen.

On 4/12/2022 at 11:07 PM, CamillaJia said: They will be declared but not covered by the insurance, that's why I'm asking about what P&O need. This was with staysure. Holiday Extras refused to provide cover at all.

There was a long thread on this a few months ago. Megabear did sterling work. We used goodtogo as DW was awaiting a procedure. As you say, many just said no.

yorkshirephil

I used Staysure for my annual policy this year, I was undergoing investigation for   undiagnosed illness, I explained to Staysure and they were fine, of course my policy went up 60% to £302 which to be fair didn't seem too bad.

https://www.staysure.co.uk/medical-travel-insurance/awaiting-surgery/

My bank wanted an extra £300+ a few years back to insure me after I had a brain tumour removed as it was less than a year after the operation, so I shopped around and used Staysure who were very reasonable. 

On 4/12/2022 at 10:17 PM, CamillaJia said: Hi eveyone! Could someone clarify the insurance requirements for P&O for me? I know there needs to be Covid-19 cover (medical expenses/repatriation/curtailment etc), but what about pre-existing medical conditions? My dad has a condition being investigated, and some insurance providers are refusing to cover him altogether. Some specifically will cover covid-19 or "new" conditions or accidents etc but not any pre-existing medical conditions. Im not sure of this is enough for p&o?    https://www.pocruises.com/travel-insurance   This suggests its enough but im sure I read another page on p&o a few days ago (I can no longer find it!) that mentioned you must also have cover for pre-existing medical conditions   Grateful if anyone could shed some light?

CamillaJia, 

 re your dad being investigated, I personally was under medical investigation and could not get travel insurance cover. Once I had the surgery paid inflated premiums for 3 years and now accepted with normal age and inflation related premiums. Seriously consider your dad not cruising as medical costs abroad are horrendous. Disappointing I know  and sorry to say this to you.   

On 4/12/2022 at 11:32 PM, CamillaJia said:   To answer the question, this is the first time we've ever got/needed insurance for a trip so willing to risk it (depending on what his condition is like closer to the time!) But our accepted risk vs what P&O require might be different.

Presume  you live in UK and use NHS. People have no idea about the price of health care, many £k, and somebody mentioned helo evacuation saw one from QM2 in English channel sailing from Le Havre to New York (2019)  1 x out of 11 cruises, and I am sure people on Cruise Critic boards will tell stories re helo evacuations. Not worth the risk that you want to take.  

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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.

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P&o cruises - background.

P&O Cruises is the oldest cruise line in the world, having operated the world's first passenger cruise ship in 1837. P&O began life as " The Peninsular Steam Navigation Company ", but in 1840 the word “ Oriental " was added to reflect the company's expanding services eastwards beyond the Iberian Peninsula to Egypt and the Orient.

P&O Cruises – Carnival Corporation

P&O Cruises was demerged from the P&O Group (which operates container and channel ferry services) in 2000 and became a subsidiary of P&O Princess Cruises. Just three years later, in 2003, P&O Princess Cruises merged with Carnival Cruises to form the current company.

P&O Cruises – The Passenger Experience

P&O strives to give its passenger a memorable and stress-free holiday. From the moment you drive into either the Ocean Cruise Terminal or the original Mayflower Cruise Terminal in Southampton, your cases and car are whipped away by smiling, cheerful staff. The entire P&O ethos centers on the passenger experience, and it is something P&O is very good at. However, before you arrive in Southampton to take your cruise, you need to have booked the cruise itself and your cruise travel insurance.

P&O Cruises Website

The P&O Cruises website is extremely easy to navigate. Simply select a destination, months to travel, cruise duration and ship. The system will eliminate any dates that are unavailable for that destination which makes selection easy.

Once you have the trip details selected, the system will show you the pricing per travelers. However, you’ll need to call P&O to book the cruise – you cannot book online.

P&O Cruises does not sell their own insurance. They have partnered with Holiday Extras to provide travel insurance to their Non-US guests. Once you go to the Holiday Extras website and put in general information on your trip, you’re presented with several options for insurance (again in British pounds):

When you select one of the three available options, you then answer a series of questions about pre-existing conditions. Finally, you arrive at the declaration page (see below) prior to paying for the insurance. It’s here that the insurance spells out that it is only available to UK residents, and you must have a UK General Practitioner and the trip must start and end in the UK.

To be eligible for cover under this Policy, you confirm and agree that:

• You are a resident and must have an address in the United Kingdom, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man and lived here for at least 6 months in the last 12 months.
• You are 18 years of age or older at the date of buying this policy.
• You are registered with a General Practitioner in the United Kingdom, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man.
• Your trip must start and end in the UK and not have already started your trip.

Since US residents cannot purchase travel insurance from Holiday Extras, we’ll need to look elsewhere for travel insurance.

Let’s book a cruise on P&O and then shop for insurance on the open marketplace.

Our Cruise   – Northern Europe

Our sample couple, both aged 62, chose a 8-night cruise from April 1 – April 8 to several northern European countries. The cruise starts in Southampton and travels through Germany, Netherlands, and Belgium before returning to Southampton.

Total cost for both travelers after converting to US dollars is $1413.94.

Alternatives to Holiday Extras Travel Insurance

As US residents, we’ll have to find alternate insurance. We used the same trip information to create a quote at  CruiseInsurance101  and our system provided 25 results for a variety of plans and insurers.

CruiseInsurance101 consistently recommends carrying at least $100k Medical Insurance, $250k Medical Evacuation, and a Pre-Existing Medical Condition Waiver when traveling outside the US.

For this trip, the Trawick Voyager plan is the least expensive policy that meets the recommended coverage amounts, at a total of $99.74 for both travelers combined. It provides $250,000 of medical coverage and $1 million of medical evacuation coverage. Pre-existing medical conditions will be waived if the policy is purchased on or before the final trip payment date.

Next, we looked for the least expensive Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) plan that meets our minimum recommended coverage, which is the Trawick Voyager (CFAR 75%) for $169.64. This is the same plan as the standard Trawick Voyager but includes the added benefit of allowing you to cancel your trip for any reason not otherwise covered by the policy and receive a 75% reimbursement of your trip cost.

Price and Value

CruiseInsurance101  recommends carrying at least $100k in Medical Insurance when traveling outside the country. Both Trawick Voyager policies provide $250k in medical coverage, so you can feel assured you will have sufficient medical coverage should you need it.

We recommend at least $250k of Medical Evacuation coverage when traveling to Europe. For trips farther afield, we recommend at least $500k of Medical Evacuation coverage. The Trawick Voyager provides $1 million of Medical Evacuation coverage so you’ll be well covered in a medical emergency that requires evacuation to a hospital and back to the US.

If needed, CruiseInsurance101 also recommends getting a policy that provides a waiver for Pre-Existing Medical Conditions. The Trawick Voyager policies provides coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions, if purchased on or before the final trip payment date.

Next, we’ll discuss other important benefits in travel insurance.

Trip Cancellation

Sometimes unexpected events interfere with your travel plans, forcing you to cancel your trip.  Trip Cancellation  reimburses you for your pre-paid and non-refundable trip costs if you must cancel your trip for a covered reason.

Most plans available from CruiseInsurance101 cover cancellation for:

• Unforeseen illness, accidental injury, or death (traveler, traveling companion, family member, or host)
• Inclement weather, strike, or mechanical delay of a common carrier
• Financial default of a common carrier
• Traffic accident en route to the destination
• Hijacking, quarantine, jury duty, subpoena
• Fire, flood, burglary, or natural disaster
• Documented theft of passport or visas
• Mandatory evacuation
• Called to military duty or revocation of leave
• Involuntary job termination or lay off

Hopefully, none of these things happen, and you can leave for your vacation without a hitch. 

Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR)

Cancel For Any Reason  policies provide peace of mind against any uncertainty about traveling. This coverage helps you recover 50% - 75% (depending on policy) of your trip cost if you must cancel your travel plans for any reason not covered by the policy. Without it, you would lose all your pre-paid and non-refundable trip costs for a non-covered cancellation.

Suppose your main concern for cancellation is uncertainty about Covid rates at your destination. You may worry that you shouldn’t travel on your scheduled trip if your destination country sees a large spike in Covid rates. Even if your doctor advises against traveling, Trip Cancellation does not cover cancellation due to fear of traveling because of Covid concerns.

Travel insurance with a Cancel For Any Reason benefit is the only option.  CruiseInsurance101  offers a variety of Cancel For Any Reason options for residents in most states.

There are some rules to keep in mind when purchasing a Cancel For Any Reason plan:

• You must insure 100% of your pre-paid and non-refundable trip costs
• You must purchase the policy within the Time Sensitive Period (10-21 days of the date you placed your initial payment or deposit towards the trip) and insure subsequent payments
• You must cancel your trip no later than 48 hours prior to departure

The Trawick Voyager (CFAR 75%) will reimburse 75% of your trip cost should you cancel for a reason not listed in the policy.

Trip Interruption

While Trip Cancellation covers you before you depart,  Trip Interruption  covers you once you leave for your trip. It reimburses you for the unused portion of your trip costs and the cost to catch up to your trip, if you’re able, or return home early.

Trip Interruptions covers circumstances like Trip Cancellation. For example, suppose you fall and break your leg during one of your excursions. You certainly will not be able to continue the rest of your vacation.

Once the local hospital takes care of you, the physician will likely recommend you return home to recover. Trip Interruption reimburses you for the portion of the trip you did not use and covers the cost to travel home early

Travel insurance also covers if your Trip Interruption is temporary and resolves before the end of your trip, such as for a quarantine due to Covid or similar. You can claim the unused portion of the journey while hospitalized or quarantined and the transportation costs to rejoin the trip.

Trip Interruption reimbursement ranges between 100-150% of the insured trip cost. Any amount above 100% helps cover transportation expenses. In this case, the Trawick Voyager policy provides a 150% benefit.

Pre-Existing Medical Conditions

Travel insurance does not pay benefits for  Pre-Existing Conditions . It’s a standard, industry-wide exclusion. However, many policies offer a waiver that adds coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions back into the policy. These policies typically must be purchased within 14-21 days (depending on policy) of the date you place your initial payment or deposit towards the trip. This timeframe is called the Time Sensitive Period.

The Trawick Voyager will provide coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions if the policy is purchased on or before the final trip payment date. Several other terms must also be met:

-  you are medically able to travel at the time the coverage is purchased; and - you insure 100% of your prepaid Trip costs that are subject to cancellation penalties or restrictions.

Medical Insurance If Sick or Injured Traveling

Travel  Medical Insurance  pays for medical treatment if you are injured or ill during your planned vacation. Even healthy people can be victims of an accident that requires costly care. A broken leg, a car accident, or even severe food poisoning can land you in the hospital.

If you plan overseas travel, it’s important to keep in mind most health insurance plans do not pay for medical treatment outside of the US. Even if your health insurance does provide some coverage while you travel, it may restrict the nature of care and provider.

Also,  Medicare   does not pay for treatment outside the US. While some Medicare supplements cover up to $50k for treatment, it is a lifetime limit and for emergencies only. In addition, you must pay a deductible and 20% copay. 

In addition, you can’t count on universal health care in foreign countries to pay for your treatment. Citizens pay taxes for this privilege. If you are not a citizen of that country, you will pay full price for treatment at a private hospital, which can cost $3,000-$4,000 per day.

Consequently, we recommend that you  travel with at least $100k Emergency Medical Insurance while traveling abroad .

Trawick Voyager provides $250k for Medical Insurance.

Emergency Medical Evacuation Brings You Home

Emergency Medical Evacuation   pays for transportation to a medical facility capable of treating your condition. Typically, Emergency Medical Evacuation is uncomplicated, like a ground ambulance to the nearest hospital. However, Emergency Medical Evacuation can include a costly airlift by medical personnel. If, after your condition is stabilized, it’s determined you need further treatment, Emergency Medical Evacuation transports you to a hospital near your home so you can recover. When traveling outside the US,  CruiseInsurance101 always recommends a policy that includes at least $250k of Emergency Medical Evacuation . This ensures you have enough financial protection, especially in a critical situation.

The Trawick Voyager exceeds this recommendation and provide $1 million of Medical Evacuation coverage.

When shopping for travel insurance, it’s important to make sure the policy has sufficient Medical and Medical Evacuation benefits for overseas expeditions and includes coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions. Though we cannot get P&O’s recommended insurance in the United States, we were able to find excellent policies at competitive prices through  CruiseInsurance101 . As such, we always recommend comparison shopping to find the best value for your money.

Will I Get a Better Deal Going Directly Through the Insurer?

No. Many don’t realize that they won’t find the same travel insurance plans available at a better price directly from the insurer. Travel insurance rates are state-regulated, and no one can change those rates.

Travelers can find the best plan to fit their travel needs by using a comparison site like CruiseInsurance101 to shop their options and find the appropriate coverage.

Next time you cruise,   run a comparison quote with us  and see how much money you can save on a similar or better policy. You can even run a sample quote before you book your cruise.

Questions?  We would love to hear from you. Please stop by and chat with us,  send an email , or give us a call at  +1(786) 751-2984 .

Safe travels!

This article has been written for review purposes only and does not suggest sponsorship or endorsement of AARDY by the trademark owner.

Recent AARDY Travel Insurance Customer Reviews

Kenneth Reeves

Good place to find Cruise Insurance

Talked to Don at Cruise insurance 101 about Cruise Insurance. I know nothing about Cruise Insurance. Don answered all my questions and was very helpful. Believe I got what I needed.

Frank Fedel

We have used them a few times.

We have used CruiseInsurance 101 a few times now and we've always been happy with their service. I especially like the list of policies to compare. It saves a lot of time sorting the key elements of their very comprehensive list of options from many reputable companies. I highly recommend their services!

Easy to use

Easy to use, Nice mix of different companies

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Travel Insurance

There’s nothing like a cruise to feed the soul and broaden the mind. And nothing like the unexpected to put a dampener on your plans. We strongly encourage you to take out international travel insurance once you have booked your cruise holiday, to ensure you are covered if things don’t quite go according to plan.

Some countries included in your cruise itinerary may have a requirement for you to hold valid travel insurance.

The New Caledonia government requires that all visitors hold valid international travel insurance, which means if your cruise itinerary includes a call to New Caledonia, before you board, you must show printed proof of having valid international travel insurance. You may also be requested to present proof of insurance during the cruise. Any guest who is unable to provide proof of valid travel insurance on a cruise visiting New Caledonia, will be denied boarding.

For all cruise itineraries, including domestic cruises, it’s important to know that onboard medical, emergency evacuations costs, and any onshore medical costs (if overseas) are not covered by Australian Medicare, New Zealand ACC, or private health insurance. All onboard medical consultations, treatments and medications are charged at private rates, which may be able to be claimed through international or cruise-specific travel insurance.

Insurance policies may also provide cancellation cover if you miss the cruise or a pre-paid shore tour; protect your personal possessions and provide other forms of protection.

Make sure to check the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) of any insurance policy you are considering to ensure it provides the type of cover you need for your cruise, including any pre-existing conditions, and if there are any exclusions that may apply. If you plan on participating in activities such as scuba diving or parasailing, ensure your policy covers these activities.

For more information about travel insurance, visit smartraveller.gov.au or www.safetravel.govt.nz/

For Australian guests, please obtain a quote here with  Cover-More Travel Insurance  or phone 13 24 94 (AU).

Limits, sub-limits, conditions and exclusions apply. Insurance administered by Cover-More Insurance Services PTY LTD (ABN 95 003 114 145, AFSL 241713) on behalf of the product issuer, Zurich Australian Insurance Limited [ABN13 000 296 640, AFSL 232507). Any advice is general advice only. Please consider your financial situation, needs and objectives and read the combined FSG/PDS before deciding to buy this insurance. For information on the target market and target market determination for these products, contact Cover-More on 1300 77 88 22.

Important Information for Credit Card Travel Insurance

Your credit card may offer travel insurance coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, baggage loss and other issues.

Credit card travel insurance policies can differ to other travel insurance policies and you should request a copy of the PDS to check the coverage and any exclusions that may apply. For example, some credit card travel insurance policies may not cover cruises.

If you plan to use credit card travel insurance for your cruise, there are some important reminders to be aware of:

• Not all credit cards offer complimentary or included travel insurance, and not all policies cover cruises.
• Some credit card insurance is only valid for the first 3-6 months of holding the card – please check your insurance is valid for the period you are travelling
• Check with your bank to see if you need to activate your credit card travel insurance policy prior to your departure and ensure it will remain current for the duration of your cruise.
• Make sure the insurance covers all people travelling – not just the card holder.
• Ask your bank for a copy of your policy number and/or the Certificate of Insurance. Valid travel insurance is mandatory for all itineraries that visit New Caledonia and you will need to present proof at check-in. If you are unable to do so, you will be denied boarding.
• Additional information may need to be provided to your bank prior to credit card travel insurance being valid for your personal circumstances. For example, you may need to disclose a pre-existing medical condition.