Short answer
Cruise insurance should cover emergency medical treatment and evacuation at sea (which can cost US$50,000+), trip cancellation, missed port departure, cabin confinement, itinerary changes and baggage. Standard travel policies often exclude some of these, so choose a cruise-specific add-on.
| Cover | Why it matters on a cruise | Look for |
|---|---|---|
| Medical and evacuation at sea | Ship doctors charge privately; helicopter evacuation is expensive | US$100,000+ medical, evacuation included |
| Missed port departure | Flight delayed, ship leaves without you | Cost to reach the next port |
| Cabin confinement | Confined by the ship's doctor | Daily benefit |
| Itinerary change / missed port | Weather skips a port | Fixed compensation |
| Trip cancellation | Illness before departure | Covers non-refundable fare |
| Schengen compliance | Needed for the visa | At least €30,000 medical, valid in all Schengen states |
Our cruise insurance is designed around these risks, with the policy issued instantly once you pay.
By the Xciting Cruising editorial desk · Updated November 2026