The short answer: check that your policy covers medical care abroad including on a ship, medical evacuation and repatriation, and cancellation of the trip. Cruise-specific cover for missed ports or a missed departure is a useful extra. Read the conditions on pre-existing conditions and age limits.
Why a cruise is different
- The ship's medical centre is private. Treatment on board is usually charged to your on-board account, and public health insurance often does not cover it.
- An evacuation at sea — by helicopter or boat to the nearest hospital — is one of the most expensive things that can happen on a trip.
- You cannot just stay an extra day if you are ill: the ship leaves, and you may have to travel home or to the next port on your own.
What to check in your policy
| Cover | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Medical care abroad, including on board | The ship's doctor is not part of public health care |
| Evacuation and repatriation | Covers transport from the ship to hospital and home |
| Cancellation and interruption | If you cannot travel, or must leave the cruise early |
| Missed departure | If a delayed flight or train makes you miss the ship |
| Pre-existing conditions | Must usually be declared; otherwise claims may be refused |
| Territory and duration | The policy must cover all countries and all days of the trip |
When to buy it
Cancellation cover is most useful when you buy it soon after booking: it protects you from the moment you take it out. Medical cover can be an annual policy you already have — just check the points above.
Practical tips
- Keep the insurer's emergency number and your policy number on paper and on your phone.
- Ask for receipts and a medical report on board if you see the doctor, even for small things.
- A European Health Insurance Card helps in EU hospitals, but it does not cover the ship's medical centre or an evacuation.
Common questions
Does normal travel insurance cover a cruise?
Often, but check three points: medical care on board, medical evacuation and cancellation. Some policies exclude cruises or need an extra option.
Is the doctor on a cruise ship free?
Usually not. Consultations and treatment are charged to your on-board account, so medical cover in your travel insurance matters.
Is the European Health Insurance Card enough?
No. It helps in public hospitals in the EU, but it does not cover the ship's medical centre, an evacuation or the journey home.
When should I buy cruise insurance?
Cancellation cover soon after booking; medical cover at the latest before departure.
How the club fits in
For any sailing, the club's familiar ways of paying apply: the member price (INsider Pricing), about 17% below the retail price, or your Reward Points, which can cover up to half of the price of qualifying bookings. They do not add up in one booking. Insurance is arranged separately. Not every cruise line can be booked through the club: check the specific sailing in the club's search. More about booking with points.
General information, not insurance advice. Policies differ widely; read the conditions of your own policy or ask your insurer. Percentages describe the club's rules and are indicative. Reislite is an independent information site run by partners, not a website of inCruises.