With a record 1.32 million Australians taking to the seas in 2024 — a six per cent increase year-on-year — nib Travel is reminding cruise-goers to consider their insurance needs early, as the upcoming peak cruise season is set to be one of the busiest yet.
From South Pacific voyages to local coastal escapes, nib Travel is urging travellers to not only choose the right itinerary but also ensure their travel insurance matches the unique risks associated with cruising — including medical care, cancellations, and disruptions.
Don’t leave cover until it’s too late
Dylan Wilkinson, Head of APAC and Marketing at nib Travel, said today’s travellers are more informed and experience-driven, but often overlook key considerations when booking their cruise holidays.
“Cruising is enjoying a cultural moment, and Australians continue to lead globally when it comes to setting sail,” Wilkinson said. “But being a savvy traveller means planning beyond the booking — it means knowing what you’re covered for, especially with the high costs involved in medical emergencies or delays.”
nib Travel data reveals that Australians book cruise insurance far earlier than land-based trips — typically 90–100 days before departure — and Wilkinson advises that early planning offers better protection for pre-departure disruptions.
“If you purchase your insurance at the time of booking, cover for unexpected events — like medical emergencies or retrenchment before you travel — starts immediately,” he said.
“Leaving it too late could leave you unprotected when you need it most.”
Cruise-specific risks to consider
While 81.5 per cent of Australian cruise passengers travelled within Australia, New Zealand or the South Pacific in 2024, nib warns that many travellers are caught off guard by the reality of medical costs in international waters — which are not covered by Medicare.
nib Travel highlights some of the most common cruise-related claims, including:
- Trip cancellation due to severe weather, strikes or natural disasters
- Medical expenses for illness or injury onboard or overseas
- Delays that cause missed departures
- Lost or damaged luggage between ports
- Medical evacuation or repatriation in serious cases
One of the largest cruise claims paid out by nib Travel in 2024 reached $184,000, demonstrating the high financial stakes for uninsured or underinsured travellers.
For more information or to book travel insurance, visit nibtravelinsurance.com.au or speak to your travel advisor.
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