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Cruise travel insurance

Considering a cruise for your next holiday.

There’s nothing better than exploring exciting destinations while enjoying the comfort and luxury of a cruise ship. But like any holiday there are risks involved, and these can be particularly expensive on a cruise…so why wouldn’t you make sure you’re covered if the unexpected happens?

Why choose a cruise?

When it comes to planning your next holiday, choosing the right type of adventure can make all the difference in creating a memorable and relaxing experience. While there are numerous options available, embarking on a cruise is a fantastic choice that offers a unique blend of convenience, exploration, and leisure. We’ve outlined some reasons a cruise could be ideal for your next trip away:

• Convenience & All-Inclusive: Enjoy a hassle-free holiday with accommodation, meals, entertainment, and transportation bundled into one, simplifying your travel experience.
• Diverse Destinations, One Trip: Explore multiple destinations in a single journey, from exotic islands to historic cities, making the most of your travel time.
• Unpack Once: Say farewell to constant packing and unpacking; on a cruise, you unpack just once, waking up in new destinations without moving your suitcase about.
• Variety of Activities: Find entertainment, relaxation, and adventure on board, from world-class shows to spa treatments, catering to travellers of all interests.

Explore our range of cruising insurance policies to find the right cover for you!

Cover for overseas cruises

Our International Comprehensive policy has an optional add-on for cruises overseas, leaving you free to sit back, relax and enjoy the view.

From unexpected changes to tours and lost bags, to health emergencies and cancellations, our cruise cover travel insurance can help you and your family feel secure with our International Comprehensive policy, should something go wrong. Remember to read your policy document  carefully, to ensure you’ll be looked after by our experts when you need it most.

Our International Comprehensive insurance also includes cover for:

• Unlimited medical and evacuation expenses
• Cancellation fees and lost deposits – with the option to increase your cover depending on the cost of your journey
• Damaged or lost baggage
• Personal items if they are stolen or damaged
• Rental vehicle excess
• Emergency dental treatment
• Funeral expenses

Included in your policy, you’ll get access to our worldwide emergency assistance team who are just a phone call away, and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

For more details, including the terms and conditions, please read our travel insurance policy document  to decide if International Comprehensive is right for you and your overseas cruise trip.

Cover for domestic cruises

Perhaps you’re after a shorter trip or just want to enjoy the beautiful coastline or waterways of New Zealand? Our Domestic policy has an optional add-on for cruise cover, so you can relax on your next cruise adventure.

Our Domestic cruise travel insurance also includes cover for:

• Pet services
• Childcare expenses

For more details, including the terms and conditions, please read our travel insurance policy document  to decide if our Domestic policy is right for you and your domestic cruise trip.

Top tips for cruise insurance

For more information on choosing travel insurance for a cruise, read our cruise tips and advice:

• Make sure you select the cruise add-on when buying your policy.
• Consider the total cost of your cruise when selecting your cancellation cover amount.
• If you are planning on participating in any water sport activities during your trip, such as diving or kayaking, please check the policy conditions to ensure these are covered.
• Don’t leave your travel insurance to the last minute. Buy your policy as soon as you’ve booked your cruise to ensure there's cover for unexpected cancellations or illness before you travel.
• Carefully read all policy conditions to ensure you purchase the best cruise travel insurance for you.

What you need to know

This page includes some information about our products but, as with all insurance policies, terms and conditions apply. For our terms and conditions (including information about exclusions, excesses and sub limits) we recommend you read the relevant policy documents to ensure our travel insurance products are right for you.

You can find the relevant documents for all our policies here:  International Comprehensive , Annual Multi-trip ,  Domestic ,  Working Overseas ,  Visiting New Zealand ,  International Student  

The content of this article is general and provided for information purposes only. Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) doesn’t guarantee or warrant the accuracy, completeness or currency of any article.

This article may contain hyperlinks to other websites owned or operated by third parties, or references to third party products or services. SCTI isn’t responsible for, and makes no recommendation about, the content or accuracy of any third party website, or for the suitability or performance of any product or service. The inclusion of a link in this article doesn’t imply that SCTI endorses the website or third party product/service.

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We know how important it is to be able to talk to someone when you need help, that’s why we are available via email, phone and live chat Monday to Friday, 8.30am - 7pm, and Saturday, 9am to 6pm, excluding public holidays. And if you find yourself in a medical emergency our Emergency Assistance team are available 24/7 to help, wherever you are in the world.

Get in touch with the team and we'll be happy to help.

Call us Monday to Friday, 8.30am - 7.00pm.

You can reach our team on: +64 9 979 6593

Related articles

Travel insurance with Covid-19 cover

Air New Zealand travel insurance provides cover if you get ill with Covid-19 prior to your trip commencing or get ill with Covid-19 whilst away. There is also limited cancellation and amendment expenses cover relating to Covid-19.

And your travel insurance policy still covers you for many other reasons you might need it: cancellation due to illness, hospital costs if you get injured overseas, medical repatriation, lost luggage, rental car excess cover, travel delay or disrupt, and much more.

On this page

Travelling to international destinations

Buy an international travel insurance policy that can cover you for Covid-19. With medical expenses and limited cancellation and amendment expenses cover, you can travel with peace of mind.

When you book your international flights online , you can add our one-step travel insurance on the Extras page.

• Cancelling your trip if you have Covid-19 and are unable to travel You should read the policy wording and if you have further questions contact Cover-More on 0800 500 248.
• Emergency medical expenses if you are diagnosed with Covid-19 on your trip and admitted to hospital
• There is limited cover for additional expenses if you are diagnosed with Covid-19 on your journey and must quarantine or self-isolate.
• Repatriation to help you get back home
• If a relative or your business partner not travelling with you becomes sick
• If you are an essential health care worker whose leave is revoked

What's not covered

• This policy does not cover (directly or indirectly caused by Covid-19) claims relating to government travel bans; 'Do not travel' warnings; government directed border closure; denied boarding; or mandatory quarantine or self-isolation requirements related to cross area, border, region or territory travel – unless you are travelling to Australia.
• Your disinclination to travel due to Covid-19.

Note: This is a summary of key conditions and exclusions. Please read the relevant policy wording for full benefits, exclusions and terms and conditions.

Free Look Period

Every insurance policy comes with a money-back guarantee. You have a 21 (calendar) day free look period where, if the insurance doesn't suit your needs, you can request a full refund of the premium paid (as long as no claim is pending and you haven't started your trip). Please contact Cover-More Travel Insurance on 0800 500 248 or email [email protected] for any refund queries.

Contact Cover-More Travel Insurance

Travelling around new zealand, covid-19 frequently asked questions, what countries does my travel insurance provide cover for.

Travel insurance cover may be limited in a destination if the NZ Government - MFAT advice on safetravel.govt.nz is showing as 'Do Not Travel'. You can learn more about travel insurance advice alerts here .

There is no cover for any claims arising from Covid-19 if the country or part of the country you travelled to was subject to 'Do Not Travel' advice on SafeTravel at the time you entered the country or part of the country. (This exclusion only applies if the (or one of the) reason(s) for the advice was the presence of Covid-19).

This exclusion will not apply if your trip destination is Australia.

If you are unsure about cover for your intended destination you should call Cover-More on 0800 500 248 .

If I fall ill with Covid-19, and require medical treatment in a covered country, are medical expenses covered?

Yes. If you fall ill with Covid-19 during your trip, there is provision to claim medical and additional expenses, including the cost of extended quarantine if instructed by a Doctor or Government Health Agency. You should read the policy wording to understand the limits and conditions of any Covid-19 related cover.

There is also limited cover for additional expenses if you test positive to Covid-19 during the period of insurance and are required to self-isolate as per the local health authority regulations or you are hospitalised.

If I fall ill overseas with Covid-19 and need to be repatriated home, am I covered?

Yes, there is provision to claim repatriation costs under the policy. Medical confirmation of this will be necessary from our assistance company.

I've decided I need to self-isolate due to possible contact with Covid-19 (not close contact) and no longer wish to travel. Can I claim for a trip refund under my policy?

No, there is no provision to claim.

There are no government restrictions in place to travel to my destination, but I'm required to quarantine on return from my trip. I no longer wish to travel and want to cancel my holiday. Am I covered?

No. If your trip is impacted by government mandated quarantine restrictions, no cover is provided.

Whilst on my trip, I'm denied entry to a country due to government restrictions imposed in the arriving county on travellers from countries I have visited en route or from which I have departed. Am I covered for the costs to change my trip?

No. If your trip is impacted by any government restrictions, government-issued bans, border closures and mandatory requirements, no cover is provided.

I am an essential Health Care worker and my leave is cancelled due to Covid-19. I need to cancel my trip. Am I covered?

Yes, there is provision to claim for cancellation costs.

There were no government travel restrictions in place when I booked my holiday and purchased my policy. A new outbreak of Covid-19 has led to government restrictions that now prevent me from travelling to the intended destination(s). Am I covered?

No, cover is not available in this scenario.

Note: There is no cover for any claims related to government directed restrictions.

My flight has been cancelled or re-scheduled due to Covid-19. Can I claim for a refund?

No. However, you may be eligible for a credit or refund from your airline or travel provider.

How do I make a claim?

It's quick and easy to lodge a claim with Cover-More's online claims centre . All you need to get started is your policy number.

Limits, sub-limits, conditions and exclusions apply. Air New Zealand offers this insurance as agent for and on behalf of the insurer. 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. See Cover-More's privacy policy.

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Where are you going.

Single Trip

Select a country in the area of travel based on where you will spend the most time on your journey

Note: If you plan to spend more than 20% of your time in the Americas or Antarctica, you must select a country from the area that includes these countries.

Annual Multi-Trip

Select a country you are planning to visit in the area which will cover all the countries you plan on visiting over the year. If you plan to visit a country in the Americas, or Antarctica, you must select a country in the area that includes these countries.

Cover includes domestic journeys provided the destination is more than 100 km from your home in New Zealand. If less than 100 km, your trip must include at least one night paid accommodation booked with an accommodation supplier or provider.

• United States of America (USA)
• Cook Islands
• Not Sure? See Region List
• Antarctica - Sightseeing Flight
• Antigua And Barbuda
• Cayman Islands
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Falkland Islands
• Northern Mariana Islands
• Puerto Rico
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• St. Vincent and Grenadines
• São Tomé and Príncipe
• United States of America
• Virgin Islands, U.S.
• Afghanistan
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Burkina Faso
• Cape Verde Islands
• Central African Republic
• Congo, The Democratic Republic Of
• Czech Republic
• Equatorial Guinea
• Faroe Islands
• French Guiana
• Guinea-Bissau
• Ivory Coast
• Korea, Republic Of
• Liechtenstein
• Moldova, Republic Of
• Netherlands
• Saudi Arabia
• Sierra Leone
• South Africa
• Switzerland
• Trinidad And Tobago
• Turkmenistan
• United Arab Emirates
• Vatican City
• Northern Ireland
• United Kingdom
• Lao People's Democratic Republic
• Marshall Islands
• Philippines
• American Samoa
• French Polynesia
• New Caledonia
• Norfolk Island
• Papua New Guinea
• Solomon Islands
• Western Samoa
• New Zealand

Dates of Travel

Departure date (travel start date).

Single Trips

The date you depart your home in New Zealand

If you purchase this policy on your trip after leaving home, this cover is subject to a 3-day no-cover period. This means there is no cover under any section of the policy for any event that has occurred already or that arises within the first 3 days of buying the policy.

Cover under the 'Amendment or cancellation costs' benefit begins from the time you buy your policy.

Cover under all other sections begins from the departure date you select.

Annual Multi-Trips

The date your policy will commence

For further information we recommend you read the definition of 'Relevant Time' and 'Period Of Insurance' in the Policy Wording.

Return Date (Travel End Date)

The date you return to your home in New Zealand

Your Annual Multi-trip Policy will expire 12 months from the commencement date of the policy.

Ages of travellers

Who is going.

Enter the current age (at todays date) of each traveller, including children, who you want to cover with insurance.

Click Add+ if you need to add more travellers

Accompanied Children are your children or grandchildren plus one non-related child per adult policyholder who are identified on the Certificate of Insurance and travelling with You on the Journey, provided they are not in full-time employment, they are financially dependent on You and they are under the age of 21 years. See the Policy Wording for more information.

Do all travellers live in NZ?

Most policies can only be issued to New Zealand citizens and permanent residents of New Zealand who:

• Will be returning to New Zealand at the completion of the period of insurance and within 12 months of the journey commencing;

If you are visiting New Zealand from another country you should select New Zealand as your Destination

Travel insurance for your flight, holiday or adventure

Whether you travel once a year or you're a frequent flyer, we have comprehensive travel insurance options for single and annual multi-trips – overseas or travel around New Zealand.

Air New Zealand travel insurance also includes medical expenses and limited cancellation expenses related to Covid-19.

Plus, you can earn Airpoints Dollars™ on every policy or pay using Airpoints Dollars.

Covid-19 cover included

We provide Covid-19 benefits on both Single Trip and Annual Multi-Trip policies to help you travel with greater confidence.

Access to a Travel Doctor

As a policyholder you have access to our bonus Travel GP service free of charge. If you're feeling ill and need to talk to a doctor we can put you in touch with an Australian-based doctor via telemedicine.

Existing Medical Conditions

We can cover a range of existing medical conditions. There are 39 already included in our policies, and you can apply online as part of your policy purchase.

Free cover for children

Free travel cover for accompanying children or grandchildren under 21.

Travel Delay

We automatically include coverage in our comprehensive policies for travel delay of over 6 hours.

Use your Airpoints Dollars™

You can use your Airpoints Dollars to purchase your travel insurance policy. Sign in at any time.

Free look period

Once you’ve purchased make sure you read the policy. If you're not sure you can cancel within 21 days and get a full refund. ** 

Why choose Travel insurance from us?

Air New Zealand has partnered with Cover-More Travel Insurance to bring you world-leading comprehensive insurance for travel within New Zealand and around the world.

Cover-More is part of the Zurich Insurance Group, one of the world’s largest insurance companies. For more than 30 years, Cover-More travel insurance and their 24/7 emergency assistance services have helped Kiwis all over the world.

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TRAVEL INSURANCE

Why is travel insurance important?It is important that all guests take out appropriate international or cruise-specific travel insurance policies once a reservation has been made. Australian Medicare, New Zealand ACC and private health insurance will not cover you for any medical costs or emergency evacuations on board, even on domestic cruises. Insurance policies may also protect your personal possessions and valuables; provide cancellation cover if you miss the cruise or a pre-paid tour; and provide other forms of protection.

NEW CALEDONIAN REQUIREMENT:

New Caledonian immigration authorities have advised that guests who do not hold international travel insurance that covers medical costs, repatriation and other expenses, could be refused entry. We strongly recommend that guests purchase adequate international travel insurance for your cruise.We recommend you contact  Cover-More Insurance , via the website link or phone number below. Alternatively your travel advisor, or an independent insurance broker for details of suitable policies. Further information can be found at  smarttraveller.gov.au.

COVER-MORE INSURANCE

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 have developed three unique Cruise Travel Insurance products.  Premium cover, Comprehensive cover and Budget cover for cruising. All products include generous cover for overseas medical expenses including, onboard medical and dental, ship to shore medical and cover for sea sickness◊. The Comprehensive product includes up to $10 million­~ for overseas medical and dental expenses. It also includes cancellation cover, cover for luggage and personal items, rental car insurance excess and much, much more. The  Budget cover  includes up to $5 million­~ for overseas medical and dental expenses as well as some other basic benefits to protect you while you cruise.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING CORONAVIRUS FOUND HERE.

Website: Cover-More Insurance Australia or phone 1300 889 203

Website: Cover-More Insurance New Zealand or phone (0800) 550 125

Terms and conditions:

Cover is subject to conditions, exclusions, limits and sub-limits of the policy. ~Medical and dental cover will not exceed 12 months from the onset of the illness, injury or condition. ◊The $100 excess is waived for this benefit. Refer to the Policy wording. Read the Combined FSG/PDS available from your travel consultant to ensure you understand the conditions, exclusions, limits and sub-limits that apply and check that the insurance meets your specific needs and financial situation before deciding to buy. Any advice provided is general advice only. 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).

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Protect your cruise with the insurance 70 million+ Americans trust

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Travel Insurance for Cruises

When experienced cruisers are about to set sail, they choose Allianz Travel Insurance to protect their cruise. Why? Because when you’re at sea, small mishaps quickly become major problems. Travel insurance can help make things right.

If the ship sails without you because your flight to Miami was delayed, travel delay benefits can help you catch up. If you break your leg and have to cancel your trip, the cruise line won't reimburse you—but travel insurance can. And if you suffer a medical crisis on board, travel insurance can cover your evacuation and emergency medical care.

Here’s the best part: Allianz Travel Insurance is much more than cruise travel insurance. Our plans can protect your flights, hotel stays, cruise excursions, and just about any other kind of travel. Learn about the options and insure your next cruise, so you can leave your worries at the dock.

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Featured Article

Cruise Line Insurance Plan Comparison

Every cruise line offers some kind of protection plan to it passengers. Should you buy it?...

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Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please see your plan for full details. Benefits/Coverage may vary by state, and sublimits may apply.

Insurance benefits underwritten by BCS Insurance Company (OH, Administrative Office: 2 Mid America Plaza, Suite 200, Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181), rated “A” (Excellent) by A.M. Best Co., under BCS Form No. 52.201 series or 52.401 series, or Jefferson Insurance Company (NY, Administrative Office: 9950 Mayland Drive, Richmond, VA 23233), rated “A+” (Superior) by A.M. Best Co., under Jefferson Form No. 101-C series or 101-P series, depending on your state of residence and plan chosen. A+ (Superior) and A (Excellent) are the 2nd and 3rd highest, respectively, of A.M. Best's 13 Financial Strength Ratings. Plans only available to U.S. residents and may not be available in all jurisdictions. Allianz Global Assistance and Allianz Travel Insurance are marks of AGA Service Company dba Allianz Global Assistance or its affiliates. Allianz Travel Insurance products are distributed by Allianz Global Assistance, the licensed producer and administrator of these plans and an affiliate of Jefferson Insurance Company. The insured shall not receive any special benefit or advantage due to the affiliation between AGA Service Company and Jefferson Insurance Company. Plans include insurance benefits and assistance services. Any Non-Insurance Assistance services purchased are provided through AGA Service Company. Except as expressly provided under your plan, you are responsible for charges you incur from third parties. Contact AGA Service Company at  800-284-8300 or 9950 Mayland Drive, Richmond, VA 23233 or [email protected] .

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Table of Contents

Look to your credit cards, first

What to consider if you buy a separate cruise travel insurance policy, what cruise travel insurance doesn't cover, how to shop cruise travel insurance options, is cruise travel insurance necessary.

Travel insurance can save you when you’re in a pinch, and cruises are especially important to protect. Whether you experience a flight delay, your car breaks down or you get sick, having a backup plan that will cover the cost of your trip, or at least help you get there without extra expense, can be essential. It’s recommended to arrive one day before the departure of your cruise to allow for any delays because if you arrive late to the departure point, the ship may have already left.

If you find yourself stranded at the pier long after your cruise has left, or aren't able to get to the pier at all, cruise travel insurance can help. These are some of the best travel insurance options for cruises.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

Many credit cards provide sufficient travel protection that can help you in the event of a delay or cancellation. It can even help if you arrive on time, but your bags do not. Other travel protections include helping if you need medical attention or evacuation during your trip, as well as insurance for a rental car if you decide to drive in one of the ports you visit.

Some of the popular credit card options that provide ample protections include:

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card .

Chase Sapphire Reserve® .

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card . Terms apply.

United℠ Explorer Card .

You'll need to review the policy before the trip to decide if you need to purchase additional coverage.

» Learn more: What to know before buying travel insurance

If you don't have a credit card with coverage or you want to add more protection, it is wise to buy insurance as soon as possible after booking the cruise. Some companies require that you buy cruise insurance within two weeks of making the initial deposit, particularly if you're hoping for pre-existing medical coverage.

The longer you wait to buy cruise insurance, the higher the price may become.

Also, your own health insurance may not cover cruise travel or medical attention onboard a ship. Often, some personal insurance plans do not protect passengers once they have sailed more than six hours from any U.S. port. This may come as a surprise for those who thought they were protected, which is why it can be wise to purchase additional coverage for a cruise.

Since medical treatment on a ship may be more expensive, and evacuation at sea may require a helicopter or small boat, having emergency coverage can be essential.

If you’re still deciding on additional protection, consider these factors:

Destination: Is it remote or far from an airport or medical facility? How difficult will it be for you to find medical care or leave the ship?

Length of stay: How long will you be traveling? If it's only a few days, the probability that you will need coverage is less than if the trip were longer or farther from home.

Credit card protections: Read the fine print of your credit card benefits. If you used that card to pay for your travel, you may already have protection in the event of trip delay or cancellation, missing or lost luggage, medical reasons or weather issues.

Personal liability: Will you be engaging in activities that may make you responsible for someone else’s injury? Will you be renting a car or participating in activities like boating, biking or motorized water sports? If you may be held liable for someone else’s injury, insurance can help protect you.

As important as knowing how you will be protected, it is also paramount to know what is not included.

For example, if any injury or health issue is alcohol-related, it may not be covered. You might also want to know if natural disasters like a hurricane, terrorist incidents or bankruptcy by the cruise line are also covered. Sometimes, there are specific carve-outs for such situations.

Another important factor to consider is COVID-19 protection , as not all insurance plans include it. You will want to consider what happens if you get sick before the sailing or onboard since you may have to find accommodation if you are not able to travel for a period of time.

Some cruise insurance policies will cover itinerary changes. This means if you have your heart set on visiting a particular place, but it gets cut from the itinerary (a common occurrence due to weather conditions), you would receive some form of compensation. Not all plans include this, and for certain trips with a popular port (like visiting Alexandria, Egypt, to drive to the Pyramids), it may be wise to check if you are covered.

» Learn more: Should you insure your cruise?

There are many providers of travel insurance, and often, cruise companies will recommend a partner when making a reservation. Those are often best since the cruise line has a history of working with that company and has considered the intricacies of the various ports its ships are visiting. Still, policies vary.

If you want to buy a policy beyond what is already offered by your credit card, start with an aggregator site like Insure My Trip that compares several policies based on the criteria you choose. How long will you be gone? Where are you going? Do you have any pre-existing conditions? All of these things can affect the price of a policy that you purchase.

There are other respected insurance options like Travel Guard , which has policies specifically geared toward cruise trips. SafeCruise from VisitorsCoverage is another plan that is designed for cruise travel, and it includes an upgrade for a partial Cancel For Any Reason reimbursement.

Deciding if you want to protect your trip probably depends on your budget. If you can afford a worst-case scenario without protection, then maybe you won’t need to purchase travel insurance for cruises.

But for most travelers, having a backup plan in case anything goes wrong makes the trip that much more enjoyable.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

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Welcome to P&O Cruises. This website presents a main menu on the left hand side from where you can browse our cruises, and a toolbar menu at the top page with search, live chat, support, and profile settings.

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• Know Before You Go
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Covid-19 Assurance Policy

Our Covid-19 Assurance Policy applies to cruises departing on or before 31 March 2023.

The following applies to all applicable cruise departures until further notice and is subject to change based on relevant local health requirements.

Prior to Boarding

Please note that effective for all P&O Cruises departures on or after 29th August 2023, any guest who is unable to board due to testing positive to COVID-19 will be subject to our cancellation & refund policy.

Guests with valid travel insurance should submit a claim with their insurance provider.

During your cruise

Any guest who tests positive to COVID-19 during their cruise and is required to isolate onboard, will be eligible to receive a Future Cruise Credit for the number of days in isolation. Any guest who must isolate during their cruise, will be entitled to a Future Cruise Credit for the days spent in isolation. The Future Cruise Credit will be the value of the cruise fare paid for the number of cruise days missed less government taxes, fees and port expenses, and will be subject to our standard terms and conditions for Future Cruise Credits.

Visit our Healthy Cruising pageand FAQs, for more information.

Overseas Covid travel cover for New Zealanders as insurers live with pandemic risk

Thomas Bywater

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Known risk: Coronavirus has begun to be covered by some insurers, despite the ongoing Pandemic. Photo / Can Yilmaz, Unsplash

As Covid restrictions ease travel insurers are rewriting their policies to account for a scenario where we return to travel with cases of coronavirus still in the wild.

The prolonged nature of the Coronavirus pandemic has mean that some insurers are now offering travellers cover for disruptions and medical claims resulting from Covid 19.

While this is welcome news to those planning travel to Australia or elsewhere, it is a remarkable departure from the norm.

"While there will still be a general exclusion for epidemics and pandemics, meaning lockdowns and mandatory quarantines will not be covered, cover will be in place if travellers contract an epidemic or pandemic disease such as Covid-19 after purchasing their policy and can no longer travel," reads the New Zealand policy underwritten by Allianz Partners.

There is also provision for travellers "who contract the disease after they commence their journey."

This would be the first time that travel insurer updated policies to cover a disease that is subject to an ongoing pandemic.

"As a post-pandemic world feels within arm's reach, we know many Kiwis are thinking about how to travel responsibly and how to get appropriate cover," said Blair Turnbull, chief executive of Tower Insurance, which is to begin offering Covid 19 cover to travellers.

Those calculating the risk have decided the challenge of dealing with the disease in New Zealand's safe travel zone is manageable, jumped the gun before the World Health Organisation downgrades the Covid-19 pandemic.

Another reading of the decision is that the underwriters now consider coronavirus a travel risk we will have to live with, for the foreseeable future.

The policy reflects Covid as a personal medical claim. This means that travellers will only be covered for missed travel if the insured party catches the disease.

Disruption such as local lockdowns or new travel restrictions are not part of this.

Pandemic travel cover

Pandemics and epidemics have long been considered a 'force majeure' by insurers.

Anyone caught up in the travel lockdowns of March 2020, will have found the clause buried in the small print.

These large, uninsurable events have traditionally been set aside as exceptions for travel insurance cover.

However, now contracting or having plans disrupted by Coronavirus is a "known risk" with the onus on New Zealanders to avoid the risk of travel.

"Like a storm that's on its way or the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. These would not be unexpected events, " reads Southern Cross's TravelCare policy guidance.

"A reasonably well-informed person would have seen that these events could cause problems for travellers."

However as the New Zealand government eases travel restrictions and updates advice for Australia and the Cook Islands, New Zealanders are no longer being advises not to travel.

MFAT's Safe Travel advice for quarantine-except countries is "Exercise increased caution" in Australia and the Cook Islands.

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Travel insurance with Covid-19 cover

Buy a travel insurance policy that can cover you for Covid-19. With medical expenses and including on-trip additional expenses cover, you can travel with peace of mind.

All international single trip travel insurance policies receive the additional benefits listed below relating to specified Covid-19 related events.

There are further exclusive benefits when travelling to New Zealand.

It is important to note that Covid-19 cover in the policy does not apply in the event that any government calls for border closures or travel restrictions.

• Cancelling your trip if you have Covid-19
• Emergency medical expenses
• Repatriation to help you get back home
• Your travelling companion(s) or people you live with being diagnosed with Covid-19

When travelling to New Zealand:

• Additional expenses if you are ordered to self-isolate in your holiday accommodation if you have Covid-19
• The people you're staying with on holiday being diagnosed with Covid-19

Find out more below and when you're ready, get your quote today.

When you book your flights online, you can also add our one-step travel insurance on the Extras page.

If you change your mind about your holiday, you can also request a refund or credit of your travel insurance policies.

On this page

What's covered

What's not covered.

Note: This is a summary of key benefits. Read the relevant policy wording for full benefits, exclusions and terms and conditions.

Eligibility

Policyholder must be an Australian citizen or resident.

Travel must originate in Australia.

Before you travel, you'll need to know:

• check that the Australian Government ( smartraveller.gov.au ) say it's safe to travel to your destination. It's important you check your destination is safe to visit regularly as advice can change. The cover for trips to New Zealand does not depend on the advice at smartraveller.gov.au
• check your destination's local government advice, safety guidelines and entry requirements.

Note: If the travel advice changes while you're on holiday, you will be covered if your destination was listed as safe when you commenced travel.

Please contact Cover-More Travel Insurance on 1300 728 016 or email [email protected] for any Covid-19 travel insurance queries.

Covid-19 Frequently Asked Questions

What countries does my travel insurance provide cover for.

Covid-19 cover is available to Australian residents and citizens travelling to New Zealand and to Norfolk Island. Cover to any other destination is only activated (i.e. cover is included) when the Australian Government - DFAT advice or updated on smartraveller.gov.au is downgraded from 'Do Not Travel' to "Exercise a high degree of caution".

If I fall ill with Covid-19, and require medical treatment overseas, are Medical expenses covered?

Yes. If you fall ill with Covid-19 during your trip, there is provision to claim medical and additional expenses, including the cost of extended quarantine if instructed by a Doctor or Government Health Agency. The policy also covers your travel companion listed on the Certificate of Insurance. (Note: Cover provided is subject to medical certification of a positive test result, and relevant medical and additional cost receipts are required to make a claim.)

If I fall ill overseas with Covid-19 and need to be repatriated home, am I covered?

Yes, there is provision to claim repatriation costs under the policy when travelling in New Zealand and other countries deemed safe-to-travel to, by the Australian Government.  Medical confirmation of this will be necessary from our assistance company

If I am diagnosed with Covid-19 and can't go on my trip, can I claim my cancellation costs?

Yes. There is provision to claim the non-refundable, prepaid costs under the cancellation section of your policy. If you bought the policy after showing symptoms or seeing a doctor, there is no cover.

Note: Your policy must have been purchased at least 21 days before your departure date.

I've decided I need to self-isolate due to possible contact with Covid-19 (not close contact) and no longer wish to travel. Can I claim for a trip refund under my policy?

There are no government restrictions in place to travel to my destination, but i'm required to quarantine on return from my trip. i no longer wish to travel and want to cancel my holiday. am i covered.

No. If your trip is impacted by government mandated quarantine restrictions, no cover is provided.

While on my trip, I'm denied entry to a country due to government restrictions imposed in the arriving county on travellers from countries I have visited en route or from which I have departed. Am I covered for the costs to change my trip?

No. If your trip is impacted by any government restrictions, government-issued bans, border closures and mandatory requirements, no cover is provided.

I am an essential Health Care worker and my leave is cancelled due to Covid-19. I need to cancel my trip. Am I covered?

Yes, there is provision to claim for cancellation costs.

My flight has been cancelled or re-scheduled due to Covid-19. Can I claim for a refund?

No. However, you may be eligible for a credit or refund from your airline or travel provider.

You are eligible for a 100% premium refund provided that you have not made a claim against the policy.

How do I make a claim?

It's quick and easy to lodge a claim with Cover-More's online claims centre . All you need to get started is your policy number.

Limits, sub-limits, conditions and exclusions apply. Insurance administered by Cover-More Insurance Services Pty Ltd (ABN 95 003 114 145, AFSL 241713) and issued by 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.

Best Cruise Travel Insurance | Money

Whether you’re taking a cruise domestically or internationally, one way of giving yourself peace of mind while out on the open water is by having the best cruise travel insurance. Such a policy can help pay for unexpected events, from trip cancellations to emergency medical expenses and everything in between.

To help you choose a suitable plan, here’s a lowdown on the cruise travel insurance companies, complete with the packages they offer.

Our Top Picks for Best Cruise Travel Insurance

• Berkshire Hathaway — Best for Cruise-Specific Coverage
• AXA Assistance USA — Best for Affordable Premiums
• TravelSafe Insurance — Best for Senior Passengers
• AIG Travel Guard — Best for Preexisting Conditions
• Seven Corners Travel Insurance — Best for High Coverage Limits

Best Cruise Travel Insurance Reviews

*This sample is based on a 45-year-old traveling to Portugal on a $10,000 trip. Exact costs will depend on your age, destination, trip duration, the policy of choice and preexisting medical conditions, among other factors.

• Cruise delay coverage
• Option to choose LuxuryCare for increased coverage
• Coverage for cruise ship disablement is only $500
• No emergency dental coverage

Why we chose it: While Berkshire Hathaway has a wide range of travel insurance plans, its WaveCare Travel Protection is specifically for cruisers. It comes with up to 150% reimbursement coverage for trip interruption and $750,000 for emergency evacuation.

WaveCare Travel Protection is Berkshire Hathaway’s comprehensive travel insurance for a cruise. For covered reasons, the policy offers:

• Reimbursement up to 150% of the trip cost for trip interruption
• Reimbursement of 100% for trip cancellation
• $750,000 for emergency evacuation
• $75,000 for medical expenses
• $1,500 for lost or stolen baggage, personal items and documents
• $200 for baggage delay
• $500 if your cruise ship is disabled
• $1,000 if your cruise is delayed for five hours or more

Berkshire Hathaway offers add-on options to boost your basic coverage, such asa cancel-for-any-reason (CFAR) add-on that compensates you if you cancel your cruise trip for any reason other than those listed on your policy. Some common reasons include if you or your travel companion:

• Sustain injuries from a road accident
• Have a death in the family
• Receive a jury summons

Other add-ons that Berkshire Hathaway includes are a preexisting medical condition exclusion waiver, accidental death or dismemberment and car rental collision coverage. The latter may be necessary if you intend to use a rental car to and from the port.

If you’re planning a high-value cruise trip and would like more coverage, Berkshire Hathaway also offers LuxuryCare, a more expensive policy for luxury travelers. It’s not cruise-specific, but it provides similar coverage to WaveCare with the added benefit of concierge service and $100,000 in medical insurance coverage. You also get $1 million in coverage for medical evacuation.

Both policies come with 24/7 assistance and the ability to file claims using Berkshire Hathaway’s website or mobile app. It has an AM Best rating of A++, meaning that it has a superior ability to meet its claims and financial obligations.

*This sample is based on a 45-year-old traveling to Portugal on a $10,000 trip. Exact cost will depend on your age, destination, trip duration, the policy of choice and preexisting medical conditions, among other factors.

• Three plans to choose from
• All plans include concierge services
• Generous coverage for lost and delayed baggage
• Silver plan not eligible for any add-ons

Why we chose it: AXA Assistance’s Silver Plan is the most affordable policy on this list — based on the sample traveler — yet its coverage is competitive.

AXA Assistance USA offers three travel insurance plans, each with its own level of protection, with the Silver Plan being the most affordable of the options. Based on the sample above, the Silver Plan costs 2.83% of the total trip expenditures, which is much lower than the industry standard (usually between 4 to 10%). Keep in mind that your exact premium may be higher depending on your age and trip cost, among other factors. Nonetheless, you can expect your cruise insurance cost to be within the market average, if not lower.

The Silver plan provides:

• 100% reimbursement of trip cost for trip interruption
• 100% reimbursement of trip cost for trip cancellation
• $100,000 for emergency medical evacuation
• $25,000 for medical expenses
• $750 for lost baggage or personal effects
• $200 for delayed baggage

The other two plans — Gold and Platinum — cost more but offer more protection. They both include 150% coverage for trip interruption, 100% for trip cancellation and a preexisting conditions exclusion waiver.

The Platinum plan is superior in all other aspects, offering $1 million for emergency medical evacuation, $250,000 for medical expenses, $3,000 for lost or stolen baggage and $600 for baggage delay. The Gold plan comes with $500,000 for emergency medical evacuation, $100,000 for medical expenses, $1,500 for lost or stolen baggage and $300 for delayed baggage.

AXA Assistance currently has two add-ons. The first is CFAR, which provides reimbursement for 75% of the trip cost but is only available with the Platinum plan. The second add-on is collision damage waiver for rental cars, which is available with both the Platinum and Gold plans.

All plans include 24/7 concierge services and worldwide assistance. The company has an A+ AM Best rating, which means that it has a superior ability to pay for claims and meet its financial obligations.

*This sample is based on a 45-year-old traveling to Portugal on a $10,000 trip. Exact costs will depend on your age, destination, trip duration, policy of choice and preexisting medical conditions, among other factors.

• Accident and sickness cover suitable for seniors
• 21-day period for adding CFAR is more than the industry standard
• Classic plan includes itinerary change coverage
• Comes with cruise-specific protection like missed connection
• Trip delay coverage takes six hours to kick in
• CFAR add-on is not available with the Basic plan

Why we chose it: TravelSafe Insurance includes emergency accident, sickness and medical expense coverage in both of its plans, making them ideal for an older traveler who may need medical reassurance while on a cruise.

TravelSafe Insurance offers two coverage packages: the Basic Plan and the Classic Plan. The Classic plan includes:

• 100% for trip cancellation (up to $100,000)
• 150% for trip interruption
• $2,500 for a missed trip connection
• $150 per day (up to $2,000) for trip delay
• $100,000 for accident and sickness medical expenses
• $1 million for emergency medical evacuation
• $25,000 for nonmedical evacuation
• $25,000 for death and dismemberment
• $2,500 for lost or stolen baggage
• $250 for baggage delays

The Basic package is less expensive because it comes with less protection. Under this plan, TravelSafe offers:

• 100% for trip cancellation (up to $10,000)
• 100% for trip interruption
• $500 for a missed trip connection
• $100 per day (up to $1,000) for trip delay
• $35,000 for accident and sickness medical expenses
• $500 for lost baggage
• $100 for baggage delay

The Basic plan doesn’t include nonmedical evacuation, death and dismemberment coverage or coverage for itinerary changes.

TravelSafe provides optional add-ons, such as an extended personal protection package, additional death and dismemberment coverage and rental car damage. If you buy the Classic plan, you may also add CFAR, which gives you up to 75% protection if you cancel your cruise trip for any reason. This will only be valid if you buy the CFAR add-on within 21 days of making the first deposit for your trip.

TravelSafe offers 24/7 emergency assistance on both of its plans. It has an AM Best rating of A, which means that the company has an excellent ability to pay its claims and meet its financial obligations.

• All plans are eligible for a preexisting conditions waiver
• Multiple add-ons available for policy customization
• All plans provide comprehensive coverage
• You must buy the Preferred or Deluxe plan to get CFAR add-on
• Lower-tier plans have low coverage amounts

Why we chose it: All three AIG Travel Guard plans come with an option for preexisting condition waiver, so you can choose a budget plan but still be covered for an identified preexisting condition.

Travel Guard by AIG has three plan options: Essential, Preferred and Deluxe. The Deluxe Plan is the costliest but offers the most coverage, including:

• 150% coverage for trip interruption
• 100% coverage for trip cancellation
• $100,000 for medical expenses
• $500 for baggage delay

The Preferred plan includes:

• $500,000 for emergency medical evacuation
• $50,000 for medical expenses
• $1,000 for lost or stolen baggage
• $300 for baggage delay.

The Travel Guard Essential plan, which is meant for the budget traveler, is the most affordable and includes:

• 100% coverage for trip interruption
• $150,000 for emergency medical evacuation
• $15,000 for medical expenses
• $750 for lost or stolen baggage

The Travel Guard Essential plan doesn’t include travel inconvenience protection or CFAR, both of which the Preferred and Deluxe plans provide.

Travel Guard has other add-ons that are only available with the Preferred and Deluxe plans such as coverage for lodging expenses, trip exchange, security evacuation and trip saver.

Regardless of your policy, AIG Travel Guard provides 24/7 customer assistance. The company has an AM Best rating of A, which means that it has an excellent ability to pay out claims and meet its financial obligations.

• Highest coverage for cruise travel
• You may get coverage for event tickets
• Basic and Choice plans are more expensive than other companies

Why we chose it: Seven Corners’ Choice Plan offers a high coverage limit of $1 million for emergency evacuation and $500,000 for medical protection. Combined, these amounts exceed the coverage you’ll get from any other company we reviewed.

Seven Corners Insurance has two tiers of travel insurance for cruise trips: the RoundTrip Basic and the RoundTrip Choice. The latter has the highest coverage limit, topping out at $1 million for emergency evacuation and $500,000 primary coverage for emergency medical and sickness expenses. You also get up to 150% compensation for trip interruption, 100% for trip cancellation, $2,500 for lost baggage and $100 for baggage delay.

RoundTrip Basic comes with:

• 100% for trip cancellation
• $100,000 secondary medical coverage
• $250,000 emergency medical evacuation
• $500 for lost or stolen baggage
• $100 for delayed baggage

Both of these plans include up to 75% optional CFAR coverage, 75% optional trip interruption-for-any-reason (IFAR) coverage, missed tour or cruise connection compensation and emergency dental protection.

The main difference between the two plans is that RoundTrip Basic doesn’t have certain benefits like the preexisting medical conditions waiver and death and dismemberment coverage. RoundTrip Choice has both as well as other unique advantages that are not available in other policies, including frequent traveler rewards, a pet kennel and event ticket coverage.

With both plans you get 24/7 travel assistance. The company is rated A from AM Best, which means that it has an excellent ability to pay out claims and meet its financial obligations.

Other cruise travel insurance we considered

• Up to 150% compensation for trip interruption
• Covers itinerary changes
• Basic plans have low coverage limits
• CFAR is only available on the Luxury plan

Nationwide has three cruise travel insurance plans: the Universal Cruise plan, Choice Cruise plan and Luxury Cruise plan. The latter is geared toward travelers who prefer luxurious travel, the Choice Cruise is Nationwide’s mid-level policy that’s meant to provide just enough coverage at average market rates, and the Universal Cruise plan makes sense if you’re working with a shoestring budget.

Nationwide didn’t make the cut because CFAR is only available if you choose the Luxury plan, meaning that you will need to purchase the most expensive plan to include this add-on to your travel insurance for a cruise. Also, the medical coverage you get is secondary to your existing health insurance policy, and dental coverage is limited to $750 for all three plans.

World Nomads Travel Insurance

• Covers over 200 cruise-oriented activities
• You can extend your insurance coverage mid-trip
• Coverage period of up to 180 days
• Seniors must choose Silver Nomads policy
• Cancellation and interruption protections are capped at specific dollar amounts instead of a percentage of the total trip cost

World Nomads offers cruise insurance policies geared toward adventurous travelers. It provides coverage for over 200 activities, including skydiving, scuba diving and bungee jumping. The company allows you to buy coverage for up to 180 days, and you can extend your policy mid-trip.

World Nomads Travel Insurance didn’t make the cut because the company pushes its Explorer policy more than the Standard policy, which makes it more suitable for adventure travel rather than general cruising. World Nomads caps trip cancellation and interruption protection at dollar amounts — $10,000 and $2,500 for Explorer and Standard policies, respectively — rather than as a percentage of your total trip cost, which is the industry standard. Also, if you are a senior traveler of 70 years or more, you must include the Silver Nomads add-on to your policy, which may push your cost of cruise insurance upward unnecessarily.

John Hancock Travel Insurance

• Travel delay compensation kicks in after only three hours of delay
• High baggage protection of up to $2,500
• Hurricane and weather protection available
• Costlier than most other cruise insurance policies
• Baggage delay compensation kicks in after a 12-hour wait
• Low tier plans provide minimal coverage

John Hancock has three different travel insurance plans: the Silver, Bronze and Gold plans. Silver is the most basic plan, Bronze is mid-level for the traveler with an average budget while Gold is for the luxury cruiser. The Gold plan covers preexisting medical conditions if you buy the policy within 14 days of making a deposit for your trip, but the other two don’t have this option.

John Hancock didn’t make the cut because of its high premiums, especially if you choose its Gold plan. For the same type of coverage, you can get a cheaper policy from another company if you compare different cruise insurance options.

Cruise Travel Insurance Guide

What is cruise travel insurance.

Cruise travel insurance is a type of insurance that protects you while you are on a cruise. It typically covers unexpected events such as trip cancellations or interruptions, medical emergencies, lost or delayed luggage and ship disablement.

Although some of the best travel insurance companies may offer general travel plans that cover cruises, some companies also sell specific policies for these kinds of trips.

How does cruise travel insurance work?

As with most types of insurance, policyholders pay a premium to the insurance company in exchange for coverage. Policyholders can file a claim to receive compensation for related expenses if an unexpected event occurs.

Cruise travel insurance policies can reimburse you for the cost of canceling a cruise trip. Some common cancellation reasons that you will find in a typical policy include:

• The death of a family member, business partner or travel companion
• If you, your family member, business partner or travel companion falls ill
• If you or your travel companion are forced to quarantine or are summoned for jury duty
• If you or your travel companion’s home is rendered uninhabitable by a natural disaster, fire or another event beyond your control
• If you or your travel companion are involved in a road accident just before you start the cruise
• If an unannounced strike causes the cruise company you booked to halt operations

Cruise travel insurance policies often cover trip interruptions as well. For example, the policy may cover your expenses if the ship breaks down and you have to fly home mid-voyage.

Beyond cancellation and interruption, many policies often cover the medical expenses you may incur while on the ship. These may include the cost of treatment and, if necessary, evacuation to a medical facility or back home.

Types of cruise travel insurance coverages

Emergency medical evacuation coverage.

This coverage helps you pay for evacuation expenses if you have a medical emergency while on a cruise ship if the ship’s medical providers can’t treat you. The coverage will reimburse for the cost of transportation to the nearest medical facility or your home.

Trip interruption coverage

This coverage reimburses your prepaid, unused, nonrefundable expenses in case you must cut your cruise trip short due to an unexpected event, such as illness, death, injury or a family emergency back home.

The coverage typically includes a last-minute return ticket home or to your desired destination. Keep in mind that the policy must state the reason for an interruption for this coverage to be valid. In most cases, your typical cruise travel insurance won’t cover things like parasailing excursions, scuba diving, cancellations due to foreseeable events, such as CDC and NOAA warnings or the death or illness of a pet.

Trip cancellation coverage

Trip cancellation coverage reimburses the prepaid and nonrefundable deposits that you would lose in case you must cancel your cruise trip for a reason covered by the policy. These reasons range from death and illness to jury duty summons and family emergencies.

Cancel for any reason coverage

Typically offered as an add-on, CFAR coverage reimburses a percentage of your trip cost — usually 75% — for any reason, including those not listed on your policy. Many insurance companies often have a time window where you can cancel a trip for any reason. For example, your policy may allow you to cancel at least 48 hours before your set departure date.

Coverage for preexisting medical conditions

Coverage for preexisting medical conditions in cruise travel insurance refers to the extent that an insurance policy covers medical expenses related to a medical condition that the insured had prior to purchasing the policy. To qualify for the coverage, travelers must meet certain requirements such as purchasing the policy within a limited period after paying your first deposit for the trip and purchasing travel insurance for 100% of the trip cost, among others.

Coverage can vary depending on the specific policy and insurer, with some policies excluding coverage entirely for specific conditions or offering limited coverage or waiting periods. It is important to disclose preexisting conditions when purchasing the policy and carefully review the policy’s coverage for such conditions and the aforementioned exclusions or waiting periods.

How much is travel insurance for a cruise?

The cost of cruise insurance varies depending on several factors, including your age, destination, length of cruise, trip cost and the time left before your departure date. Different insurance providers will also have their own underwriting criteria, which leads to varying prices for a single trip.

That said, cruise insurance will typically cost anywhere between 4% and 12% of the total trip cost. Using these percentages, for a $10,000 trip, you should consider budgeting between $400 and $1,200 for travel insurance costs.

How to choose the best cruise travel insurance

Determine if your trip needs to be insured.

Travel insurance is mandatory in some countries and optional in others. Countries that require you to have travel insurance include : Algeria, Antarctica, Argentina, Aruba, Cuba, Ecuador, Fiji, Georgia, Lebanon, Iran, Israel, Jamaica, Jordan, Moldova, Morocco, Nepal, Qatar, Romania, Rwanda, Schengen countries, Seychelles, Singapore, Togo, Turkey and the UAE. That said, even if you’re not legally required to have it, travel insurance may still be beneficial for your protection and peace of mind.

Compare policies

Compare travel insurance policies from various providers to see which one fits your needs and budget. Several cruise insurance comparison travel booking sites may help, including SquareMouth, Insubuy and Aardy.

Get multiple quotes

After you compare travel insurance companies, narrow down your options to policies that provide the amount of coverage you’re looking for. Get online quotes from the company websites and compare the different packages they offer. Make sure to always read the fine print. because that’s where you’ll discover what a policy does and doesn’t cover.

Cruise Travel Insurance FAQ

Does travel insurance cover covid-19, what does cruise travel insurance cover, when to buy travel insurance for a cruise, how we chose the best cruise travel insurance.

We selected the best cruise travel insurance companies based on these criteria:

• The policy options available for cruisers
• The cost of premiums for coverage
• The coverage types the company offers
• Whether the company offered preexisting conditions add-ons
• The percentage of reimbursement for trip cancellation and interruption
• AM Best ratings of the companies

Summary of Money’s Best Cruise Travel Insurance

© Copyright 2023 Money Group, LLC . All Rights Reserved.

This article originally appeared on Money.com and may contain affiliate links for which Money receives compensation. Opinions expressed in this article are the author's alone, not those of a third-party entity, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed. Offers may be subject to change without notice. For more information, read Money’s full disclaimer .

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Travel insurance for New Zealand during COVID-19

The trans-tasman bubble is open, so what does travel insurance cover when travelling to new zealand.

Fact-checked

Checked for accuracy by our qualified fact-checkers and verifiers. Find out more about fact-checking at CHOICE .

Stock images:  Getty, unless otherwise stated.

After more than a year, Australia’s borders have opened for a travel bubble with New Zealand.  And some travel insurers offer limited cover if your travel plans get interrupted by COVID-19.

But these international travel insurance policies only cover you for travel to New Zealand while a government travel ban still prevents you from travelling anywhere else without an exemption.

On this page:

Do you need travel insurance for New Zealand?

Will travel insurance provide cover for covid-19 in new zealand, will travel insurance cover skiing in new zealand, checklist for your new zealand holiday.

Travel insurance is essential for Australians travelling to New Zealand. Buy your insurance at the same time as you book your trip, that way you'll be covered if you have to cancel for some reason before you go. 

Medical costs in New Zealand

New Zealand and Australia have a reciprocal healthcare agreement, meaning that Australian travellers can access New Zealand's public health service in an emergency, and vice versa. 

You'll still have to pay some fees for treatment and medication and it's important to remember the agreement isn't a replacement for travel insurance. 

Remember to take your Medicare card with you

For example, reciprocal health care does not cover you for free or subsidised care by a GP or ambulance, and if you get seriously ill, medical repatriation is very expensive and only covered by travel insurance.

Remember to take your Medicare card with you – you'll need it, along with your passport, to prove that you're eligible.

Accident cover in New Zealand

In New Zealand, accident victims cannot sue a third party for compensation. Instead, the Accident Compensation Commission (ACC) covers the cost of medical care within New Zealand.

This means it's essential that visitors to New Zealand are covered by travel insurance for repatriation, loss of income and disruptions to travel plans as you won't be compensated for those even if the other person was 100% at fault. 

Note: Because of the ACC fund, CTP car insurance is not compulsory in New Zealand, as it is in Australia. However, it's still recommended and travel insurance can reduce the excess on the insurance your car hire company offers you.

Earthquake cover in New Zealand

New Zealand sometimes experiences severe seismic activity. The 2011 Christchurch earthquake claimed 185 lives and levelled much of the city centre. 

Safety campaigns in New Zealand advise you to 'drop, cover and hold' – drop to the ground, take cover and hold on – in the event of an earthquake. See getready.govt.nz for more specific advice.

And read your travel insurance product disclosure statement (PDS) to see if you're covered for medical and cancellation for natural disasters

Some travel insurers, for example, Qantas (NIB), Virgin (Cover-More) or Medibank (Zurich), now offer travel insurance policies with limited cover against COVID-19. But they don't cover you if there's a general government travel ban, quarantine or border closure. 

They normally provide cover for medical expenses should you contract COVID-19 and may cover travel delays or cancellations if you, your travelling partner, or a close relative contract COVID-19 before or during your travel.

You may also be covered if your accommodation, such as a ski resort, closes because of a COVID-19 outbreak or you have to go into quarantine because you were a close contact of someone who contracted COVID-19.

There are also other exclusions, especially for cruises and pre-existing conditions, so you need to read the insurer's PDS carefully to check what you're covered for.

Things can change quickly, flights can get cancelled and places can go into lockdown if an outbreak happens. You need to be prepared for your travel plans to be interrupted at short notice.

As travel insurance won't protect you from government border closures or general lockdowns, the key is to book with providers that allow flexibility should things change.

• Check the rules for travelling to New Zealand .
• Consider going to just one or a few places at a time rather than travelling around.
• Read the terms and conditions before you book.
• Book flexible tickets for flights. Read more about COVID-19 refunds from airlines .
• Make sure your hotel booking can be cancelled or changed.
• If you book through a travel agent or booking site, make sure they don't charge an extra cancellation fee. Read more about travel agent cancellations for COVID-19 . 
• Consider booking at the last minute so you're up to date with the latest travel restrictions.
• Pay by credit card, as this allows you to pursue a chargeback if something goes wrong.
• Keep on top of the latest travel advice for New Zealand .

Many insurers will cover you for standard skiing and snowboarding, but some offer it as an optional extra and some have special conditions.

Before getting insurance for a ski holiday, make sure it will cover you for your specific skiing or snowboarding destination, as well as for the activities you intend to do.

For example, off-piste (backcountry) skiing or snowboarding is often not covered, and when it is covered, it's usually only if you're still within the resort boundaries or skiing with a guide. 

The same goes for riding on a snowmobile, which tends to be an optional cover – check directly with insurers as some may only cover riding a snowmobile if you're using it as a mode of transport rather than recreationally.

• If you're planning on skiing, bungee jumping or doing anything else potentially bone-breaking, make sure your insurance covers it. You'll often need to purchase extra cover.
• Check if your passport is still valid, and if not, renew your passport online .
• Take your Medicare card with you.
• Keep a printout of your travel insurance details with you at all times while on your trip. It's also a good idea to share your insurance details with family or friends before you leave.

Join the conversation

To share your thoughts or ask a question, visit the CHOICE Community forum.

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Where are you going?

Enter the destination(s) you plan to visit or select them from the list of countries and regions in the dropdown.

Planning a stopover? If you’re in a country for less than 72 hours, you do not need to list it as a destination.

Don’t currently know all the countries you’ll be visiting? You can select a region to obtain cover for all countries within that region, or you can select “Anywhere in the world”. Important: If selecting “Anywhere in the world”, your policy will not provide cover for claims arising in countries that are subject to sanctions. Your safety is paramount, so please read and familiarise yourself with the “ Standing Travel Alert for High Risk and Sanctioned Countries ” when undertaking worldwide travel – and before making any side trips to neighbouring countries – to ensure you have adequate cover.

Going on a cruise? If your cruise is in inland Australia (e.g. on the Murray River) or in Australian coastal water (e.g. the Kimberley), enter or select “Australia”. If your cruise embarks and disembarks from Australia ports only without any stopover at a port outside of Australia (e.g. a “Sampler Cruise” or cruise from Sydney to Brisbane), enter or select “Domestic Cruise”. If your cruise is overseas (e.g. a European river cruise, a Caribbean cruise, or a cruise from Sydney to Hong Kong), enter or select the country or region you will spend the most time in during your trip.

Want to come to Australia on our Inbound Plan? Select “Australia Inbound”.

When do you depart?

Enter the date you will leave your home to start your trip.

When do you return?

Enter the date you will arrive home based on AEST (considering any time differences/zones and travel times).

Duration of each trip?

Select the maximum trip duration that best suits your needs.

The maximum trip duration you select will apply to each separate trip you take during the 12-month period of your policy.

For cover to apply, you cannot take trips that exceed this maximum duration. If you make a claim related to a trip that exceeds this maximum duration, it may be declined.

The maximum trip duration you select will be shown on your Certificate of Insurance.

Age of each traveller?

Enter the age (as of today) of each adult and child to be included on the policy.

Travel Insurance for New Zealand

Everything you need to know before taking your trans-Tasman trip

With picturesque landscapes, a plethora of adventure activities, world-class ski areas and amazing produce on offer, it’s no wonder New Zealand is a preferred destination for Australian travellers.

But before you take off on the short flight ‘across the ditch’ – whether it’s to the North or South Island – it’s important to consider covering your trip with suitable travel insurance for New Zealand

Why? Scattered throughout our guide on New Zealand travel insurance cover below, you’ll find real-life examples of when travel insurance “saved the day” for Australians travelling in New Zealand. As Cover-More customers, our global 24/7 Emergency Assistance team supported them when they needed it most.

For support when you’re travelling in New Zealand, get a quote online now.

Travel insurance plans suitable for New Zealand

International Comprehensive Travel Insurance

International Basic Travel Insurance

Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance

Useful cover for a new zealand trip.

Adventure Activities Cover

Snow Sports Cover

Cruise Cover

Skip ahead to find:

Do I need travel insurance to travel from Australia to New Zealand?

What level of travel insurance do i need for new zealand.

• Does Cover-More travel insurance cover adventure activities in New Zealand?

Does Cover-More travel insurance cover skiing and snowboarding in New Zealand?

Does cover-more travel insurance provide cover for covid-19, does cover-more travel insurance cover cruising in new zealand.

• How can Cover-More assist me in an emergency?

Do I need travel insurance for driving a car or van in New Zealand?

• New Zealand travel tips

While a holiday to New Zealand will introduce you to so many incredible new experiences and unique wonders, it has something in common with all other overseas destinations: it encourages you to think about the importance of travel insurance.

You'd be shocked to know how many people think you don’t need travel insurance for New Zealand if you’re travelling from Australia because it’s “just across the ditch”.

However, even though it’s only a few hours from home, it’s important to consider protecting yourself from the expenses of unexpected situations, such as requiring emergency medical care, a hospital visit, lost luggage, travel delays, severe weather, and more.

You should consider buying travel insurance for New Zealand as soon as you plan to go or book your flights. To compare our Cover-More travel insurance for NZ, read this .

If you’re looking for the best travel insurance for New Zealand for your trip, we can help.

After all, choosing the right level of travel insurance for your needs is important when planning a holiday.

At Cover-More, we offer three different international plans suitable for trips to New Zealand: Comprehensive+, Comprehensive, and Basic. We recommend you look at the benefits and benefit amounts below to help you decide what plan level is best for you.

Compare our international travel insurance plans:

* Sub-limits apply. Please refer to the PDS for full policy conditions.    ** Cooling-off period is available if you cancel your policy within 21 days provided you have not made a claim or departed on your journey.    ~ Cover will not exceed 12 months from onset of the illness, condition, or injury.    ^ Cover chosen applies per policy.    ^^ Conditions apply if you are aware of the pregnancy at the relevant time. For a single trip policy, relevant time means the time of issue of the policy and for an annual multi-trip policy it means the first time at which any part of the relevant trip is paid for or the time at which the policy is issued, whichever occurs last.    † Liability collectively for Loss of Income, Disability and Accidental Death is $45,000 on the Comprehensive+ Plan and $30,000 on the Comprehensive Plan.    • Item limit applies for any one item, set or pair of items including attached and unattached accessories. You may increase these items limits if You wish. See PDS for full details.

If you frequently travel from Australia to New Zealand, consider our Annual Multi-Trip policies as it could save you both time and money. It’s available on our International Comprehensive+ and Comprehensive Plans, and lets you purchase one travel insurance policy that covers an unlimited number of trips in a 12-month period (up to the maximum trip duration you select).

Always read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) before purchasing our travel insurance products so you’re clear on what you’re covered for when you travel from Australia to New Zealand.

Does Cover-More travel insurance cover adventure activities when travelling in NZ?

New Zealand is the ultimate destination for adrenaline sports and exploring the great outdoors. A bucket list item for many Australian travellers to New Zealand is bungee jumping, so why not do it at the home of modern bungee – Kawarau Bridge?

From taking to the rivers with white water rafting, hiking in the pristine mountain wilderness, or taking to the air with skydiving, action-packed adventure activities can be your best – and most thrilling way – to experience New Zealand.

If you’re a thrill-seeker wanting to engage in several adventure activities while you’re in New Zealand, Cover-More can help protect you. Adventure activities often involve remote locations, so without the right level of insurance, you could be looking at a complicated and expensive evacuation if things don’t go to plan.

When you buy Cover-More travel insurance for New Zealand, we can provide cover for:

• Over 80 automatically included activities – see our adventure activities page for the full list and the PDS for conditions.
• Adventure Activities Cover: this additional coverage option including cover for the 80+ automatically included activities, plus cover for 30+ extra activities such as water-skiing and leisure quad biking, as well as less restrictions on certain automatically included activities like scuba diving.
• Adventure+ Activities Cover: this option includes all activities covered by the Adventure Activities Cover option but includes another 20+ activities for thrill-seekers, such as skydiving and BMX riding for leisure.

For the full list of activities cover by both Adventure Activities Cover and Adventure+ Activities Cover, please read the PDS . If you choose to add either option of cover to your policy, an additional premium will apply.

Note: we don’t cover some especially high-risk activities, such as BASE jumping and running with the bulls – as well as sports activities in a professional capacity – so be sure to read the Product Disclosure Statement carefully.

True travel story: capsized kayak leads to evacuation

An adventurous couple’s NZ holiday came to an abrupt halt after their kayak capsized; in attempting to recover the kayak, one of the travellers cut their foot badly. They reached out to our Emergency Assistance team for help, who arranged for the couple to be evacuated the next morning so the customer could be properly treated by a leading doctor. The couple had to ultimately cancel their plans to hike a glorious part of New Zealand’s North Island, but, fortunately the couple, their evacuation and cancellation claim over $1,000 was covered by us.

Ready to protect your trip from Australia to New Zealand? Get a quote online now.

Known as the winter wonderland for good reason, New Zealand has some of the most epic ski slopes in the world. Whether it's conquering Mt Ruapehu on the North Island or flying down the slopes of The Remarkables on the South Island, New Zealand has snow experiences to suit any level.

If you plan on hitting the slopes, we offer additional Snow Sports Cover to help protect you on the mountains, which can be added to your trip as an additional premium. This coverage option will provide cover for accidents or injuries that are sustained when on-piste skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing or snowmobiling, helping you avoid any unnecessary medical bills.

If you’re someone who likes to go off-piste, you’ll want to consider our Snow Sports+ Cover, which includes all the activities on the base level snow cover, plus snow skiing or snowboarding off-piste and heli-skiing/boarding.

For full terms and conditions on both options to vary your cover – Snow Sports Cover and Snow Sports+ Cover – read the PDS and our dedicated winter sports page.

True travel story: snowboarding stack leads to fractured wrist

One unlucky Australian traveller fell while snowboarding on the slopes of NZ’s The Remarkables, hurting their arm as a result. The avid snowboarder quickly realised something was extremely wrong with their wrist, which now looked deformed. Paramedics applied a splint on the scene and transferred the injured traveller to Queenstown where X-rays identified a fractured wrist, and a cast was required to treat the winter sports injury. The customer was left with bills totalling over $600; however, our Cover-More team was able to take care of this thanks to the traveller’s smart decision to take out a travel insurance plan with Snow Sports Cover before travelling from Australia to New Zealand for their snow trip.

Want to know more about our Snow Sports Cover? Read this .

New policyholders now receive extended travel insurance cover for common scenarios relating to COVID-19 when travelling from Australia to New Zealand, including overseas medical costs*~, amendment or cancellation costs*^, and additional expenses*^ cover.

To learn more about our COVID-19 cover – and understand how we can help you protect your travels during the COVID-19 pandemic – we recommend reading our coronavirus travel insurance benefits page .

Important:  our COVID-19 benefits do not provide cover for claims related to government border closures or lockdowns.

*Limits, sub-limits, conditions, and exclusions apply. For full details on exactly what’s covered, please read our Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) document.    ~Medical cover will not exceed 12 months from onset.    ^A special excess will apply if you are diagnosed with COVID-19 and certified by a qualified medical practitioner as being not fit to travel. The special excess applies in addition to any other excess. You cannot remove this special excess.     

One of the best ways to discover dramatic New Zealand is on a cruise. The country's remote coastlines and deep fjords are often best seen from the deck of a boat.

If you’re cruising trans-Tasman from Australia or starting a cruise after arriving in New Zealand, you should consider protecting your trip with travel insurance.

Many people are unaware that even when departing Australia, most medical expenses onboard cruises will not be covered by Medicare – so consider your cruise ship effectively a country of its own.

If you are cruising for two or more nights and buying a Cover-More policy to protect your trip, you will need to answer “Yes” to travelling on a cruise to have Cruise Cover applied to your policy for an additional premium. (This is not required for river cruises.) If you don’t, you will not be protected for any cancellation costs if you need to cancel your cruise or for the duration of your cruise.

Our Cruise Cover doesn’t only help protect you from unexpected and costly onboard medical costs and emergency evacuations – it includes cover for sea sickness, cabin confinement, and more.

For more information on covering your cruise in New Zealand with Cover-More, visit our Cruise Cover and Cruise Cover FAQs pages, or call us on 1300 72 88 22 to speak to a member of our team.

True travel stories: don’t rock the boat – or it might cost big

Flying across your cabin isn’t exactly the idyllic experience one expects when heading off on an exotic cruise, right? Well, one unfortunate traveller experienced this situation, which left them with more than $10,000 worth of medical expenses. When stormy seas and a freak wave hit this traveller’s cruise ship in the middle of the night, they were propelled backwards, hitting their neck and head at a high velocity. After a consultation with the onboard doctor who assessed their condition, our Cover-More team arranged for the traveller to be airlifted from the ship to a hospital on New Zealand’s South Island where a fractured neck was diagnosed. Once hospital treatment concluded and the patient was stable, our team arranged flights back to Australia. Thankfully, having Cruise Cover on their insurance policy, the expenses involved with travel cancellations and emergency evacuation were one thing this injured traveller didn’t have to worry about.

How can Cover-More travel insurance assist me in an emergency?

Emergencies can happen and it’s important you have the right support and assistance available when they do.

When you purchase a policy with us, you have access to our 24/7 in-house Emergency Medical and Travel Assistance , who are there to help when you need it most.

Known for flooding, earthquakes, and wild weather, New Zealand can be prone to natural disasters. If a rare event does occur, our Emergency Assistance team is never far away, no matter the time of day or night.

You can find out all the types of emergency support we offer and which contact numbers to use for our emergency assistance teams here .

What better way to see the vibrant, picture-perfect landscape of New Zealand than behind the wheel of a car or van? Heading off on a road trip is one of the more popular ways of exploring New Zealand, and with our International Comprehensive+ and Comprehensive Travel Insurance Plans, you’ll have up to $5,000 of rental vehicle insurance excess cover.

If you choose our International Comprehensive+ Plan, we also provide rental vehicle comprehensive cover, which has a $10,000 benefit for the rental vehicle insurance excess and provides cover for misfuelling, lockout, cancellation of rental agreement fees, and more.

You can learn more about our rental vehicle benefits for driving holidays here .

4 helpful tips for Australians driving in New Zealand:

• Make sure your driver licence is valid in Australia as well as New Zealand before you leave    
• Snow and icy roads are a hazard; make sure you check the weather conditions and drive accordingly – take it slow.    
• We know you want to explore all the beauty New Zealand has to offer, but it’s important to stop and take breaks when heading off on a lengthy road trip.    
• Physical access to New Zealand’s ski resorts can be a difficult task because of the narrow and windy roads, so take extra caution when driving. Alternatively, most resorts offer a shuttle bus for those wanting a stress-free ride.

True travel stories: stray stones create more than just headaches

One of our Australian customers was grateful for their rental car vehicle excess cover when a flying stone from a passing truck smashed into the windscreen of their vehicle while travelling along a New Zealand road. The next day, a crack began to appear and grow, so the badly damaged windscreen had to be replaced. Fortunately for the customer, their Cover-More Travel Insurance policy saved them over $1,300 in excess costs.

Want more New Zealand travel advice?

Every country around the world is different, and sometimes it can be a little daunting heading into the unknown. Although we’re friendly neighbours to New Zealand, it’s important that you always have an understanding of where you’re heading.

To help you out, we’ve put together a list of travel tips to read before travelling from Australia to New Zealand, which includes the best places to visit in New Zealand, what the weather is like, which currency to use, and even how the country’s Wi-Fi stacks up.

Looking for more travel insurance information? Visit our frequently asked questions page.

Ready to book your dream escape to New Zealand?

Discover our best travel insurance plan for your New Zealand trip today.

Material on this website is provided for informational purposes only. It is general information and discussion about medicine, health and related subjects may not apply to you as an individual and is not a substitute for your own doctor’s medical care or advice. The words and other content provided on this website, and in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, they should consult with an appropriately licensed physician or other health care worker. Nothing contained on the website is intended to establish a physician-patient relationship, to replace the services of a trained physician or health care professional, or otherwise to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The views and opinions expressed on this website have no relation to those of any academic, hospital, practice or other institution with which the authors are affiliated. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Cover-More Insurance Services Pty Ltd. Never disregard medical advice or delay seeking medical care because of something you have read on or accessed through this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.

Click here for our travel alert about the Israel – Gaza conflict. Due to the current conflict in Ukraine, our policies exclude coverage for any trips to Russia, Ukraine or Belarus. Check out latest travel alerts here before buying a policy.

Cruise Travel Insurance

With our tailored Cruise Travel Insurance, cruisers get all the benefits of the Single Trip policy^, plus additional inclusions that are unique to cruising, such as reimbursements for certain necessary additional expenses due to a cruise delay.

Our cruise insurance policy^ is available in three levels of cover; Bare Essentials, Silver and Gold, so you can choose coverage that suits your needs. All levels of cover provide you with access to an expansive global 24/7 emergency assistance network, with over 31,000 points of assistance across all continents, and an easy  online claims process .

Why Travel With Us for a Cruise Trip?

Cruise Travel Insurance Benefits:

• Trip Cancelation Before Departure:  If it is necessary and unavoidable to cancel your cruise, we will pay certain unrecoverable travel costs and expenses. This is available in our Cruise Silver and Gold levels of cover, and you should consider purchasing cover as soon as you book your cruise, in case of cancellation.
• Missed Cruise Departure:  Should you miss the scheduled departure of your pre-booked cruise from Australia due to certain events, we will cover you for certain reasonable and necessary additional travelling expenses to continue with your original itinerary.
• Medical Expenses:  We offer unlimited cover for necessary and reasonable medical expenses on board and onshore (outside of Australia) such as medical, surgical, hospital treatment and ambulance.
• Missed Port Cover:  If your cruise never docks at a port during a trip due to adverse weather restrictions or mechanical breakdown, we will pay for each scheduled missed port. This is available in the Cruise Silver and Gold policies.
• Personal Belongings & Baggage:  We provide coverage if your personal belongings are lost, stolen or damaged during your cruise, or up to 72-hours prior to your cruise departure in Australia. Sublimits apply.
• Reimbursements for Shore Excursions:  If it is necessary and unavoidable for your cruise to be cancelled or cut short, you may be covered for certain costs, subject to the level of cover selected.
• Cabin Confinement:  If you are confined to your cabin due to medical reasons as advised by a ship medical officer, InsureandGo will pay $75 for every 24 hours a passenger is confined up to the defined amount outlined in table of benefits in our Silver and Gold cruise policies.
• Cruise Delays:  We will reimburse the cost of your necessary additional meals and accommodation expenses, if during a trip your departure by sea vessel is delayed for more than 12 hours. This cover is available in our Silver and Gold cruise policy and you will be reimbursed for each complete 12-hour period you are delayed. Limits and sublimits pay apply.
• Emergency Medical Transportation:  We provide certain cover (outlined in the policy wording) for passengers, if they require urgent transportation to a medical facility or need to return home for emergency treatment.

These benefits are a summary, so please see our  PDS  for full terms & conditions.

Which destination to select for your cruise journey :

Please note:  Our policies do not cover claims arising directly or indirectly from travel in, to or through Afghanistan, Belarus, Chad, Crimea, Cuba, Democratic Republic of Congo, East Timor, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Liberia, Myanmar, North Korea, Pakistan, Russia, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Uganda, Venezuela, Yemen and Zimbabwe.

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• United Kingdom

Travel insurance and COVID: Expert answers to your questions

Southern Cross Travel Insurance CEO Jo McCauley answers some commonly asked questions, including when you can and can't be covered for COVID.

International travel is back with flights to Singapore resuming over the weekend. Demand is only expected to grow as states open up and visitors no longer need to quarantine.

But there's still some uncertainty surrounding overseas travel and COVID. Many countries have made travel insurance compulsory and require you to pay for a PCR test.

We spoke to Southern Cross Travel Insurance CEO Jo McCauley to get answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about travel insurance , including when it can and can't cover COVID-19.

Jump to the answers you want to know

Can i get travel insurance with covid cover if i go to a "do not travel" country, can travel insurance cover covid, what covid-related expenses can travel insurance cover, what covid-related expenses will travel insurance not cover, does travel insurance cover pre-departure pcr tests, will my travel insurance premium differ depending on what time of year i travel, when should i take out travel insurance, how has cover changed pre-pandemic vs post-pandemic, how much more can customers expect to pay for a policy post-pandemic, are there any "cheap and cheerful" plans to cover domestic or short trips to safe countries like new zealand, why is it so hard to get cruise cover at the moment.

Due to the high risks associated with pandemics, most travel insurance providers typically list pandemics as a general exclusion in their policy. Insurance providers are highly unlikely to pay out on any claims that are related to a general exclusion, even if a country is considered safe to travel to.

A similar approach is taken to countries with a "Do Not Travel" advisory.

Travel advisories are used by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) to provide Australians with information about the risk of travelling to certain destinations or regions. These are available on the Smartraveller website which hosts DFAT travel advisories for all countries around the world.

If you choose to travel to a destination or a region that has a level 3 or 4 travel advisory in place before you travel to the area, your insurance policy is unlikely to cover you for any event that is related to the reason why that advisory was put in effect.

Some insurers, including SCTI, have extended their cover to include a level of COVID-19 cover (despite the pandemic general exclusion).

However, that extended cover will generally only apply when you are travelling to a destination with a Smartraveller travel advisory of "Exercise normal safety precautions" (level 1) or "Exercise a high degree of caution" (level 2) in relation to COVID-19.

Therefore, before you book your holiday, it's essential you check your destination on Smartraveller .

While some insurance providers are offering a level of COVID-19 cover to customers who buy their policies, we recommend that you carefully read all of the terms and conditions of the cover so you're fully aware of what you will and won't be covered for.

Conditions may include full compliance with entry requirements for destinations and carriers such as evidence of vaccination or pre-departure tests, or for the place you're visiting to be considered a safe travel destination.

Insurance cover for medical expenses arising as a result of being diagnosed with COVID-19 is, in some countries, now a mandatory requirement for entry .

For our international (TravelCare) products, the policyholder is covered for costs related to any medical treatment required should they test positive for COVID-19 (subject to the terms and conditions detailed in our Supplementary Product Disclosure Statements).

We always try to remind our customers that COVID-19 cover aims to provide a level of protection, but it won't cover everything. This is because of the unpredictable travel environment and uncertainties associated with COVID-19.

When it comes to COVID-19 cover, we strongly encourage our customers to carefully read their policy to really understand the benefits available to them, and the circumstances in which they could realistically make a claim.

SCTI includes cover for the following:

• Medical expenses if you are diagnosed with COVID-19 while on your journey (International [TravelCare] products only).
• Costs ($2,500 up to Unlimited) to change your travel arrangements if you or a relevant person are diagnosed with COVID-19 before you leave and your journey is cancelled or amended.
• Costs (up to $5,000) to change your travel arrangements if you or a relevant person are diagnosed with COVID-19 after you leave and your journey is interrupted or cut short.

The important thing to remember is that "pandemics" typically remain a general exclusion in many travel insurance policies so the only benefits for which you can claim are likely to be those listed in the insurer's COVID-19 cover. That is why it's so important to read the policy wording carefully.

We won't cover COVID-19 losses or expenses in the following situations:

• If you or a relevant person are not fully vaccinated .
• If a claim is connected to a government restriction due to COVID-19 .
• Where boarding of transport is denied because of a failure to get the documents necessary for the journey , such as a COVID-19 vaccination history or a negative COVID-19 test.
• Getting COVID-19 while travelling to a destination or a region which has a level 3 or 4 travel advisory in place for COVID-19 on the Smartraveller website.

There are other exclusions, so we encourage you to read your policy wording and supplementary product disclosure statement carefully.

A PCR test detects whether a person has COVID-19. Depending on where you're travelling to or from, you may need to take a PCR test and return a negative diagnosis of COVID-19 before the date you're due to travel.

The costs associated with PCR testing to comply with your travel requirements are typically at the expense of the traveller, and SCTI does not cover this cost.

In other markets, we have seen overseas insurers partnering up to offer discounted PCR tests to its customers. However, it's still such early days for international travel in Australia that we haven't seen this yet, but we may start to see this happening locally as we move into next year.

We don't operate seasonal pricing. Your travel insurance premiums will remain the same regardless of when in the year you travel.

What we've seen following the global pandemic is increased consumer awareness for the need for travel insurance, and as a result it is no longer being viewed as a "last-minute" add-on but a travel necessity that is integral to the travel planning process.

We always recommend that people take out travel insurance as soon as they have booked their holiday because then you may be covered for events that lead to cancellation costs before you even start your journey.

Overall, the COVID-19 pandemic has forced the industry to evaluate its products and services to ensure they're continuing to meet customer expectations, especially in this new environment where peace of mind is paramount.

Prior to COVID-19 many travel insurance policies didn't cover pandemic related incidents. However, now there is a customer expectation that a travel insurance policy should have some level of COVID-19 cover .

Different countries will also have different travel requirements, so it's really important that travellers familiarise themselves with their destination's travel requirements.

As a result of the more complex travel environment, our travel habits may change and we may see fewer multi-stop journeys due to the varying requirements of different destinations.

Since the pandemic, there is a stronger desire from our customers for greater transparency. The pandemic has shone a spotlight on the fact that many Aussies were not clear on what their travel insurance policy covered them for.

However, since the pandemic, the industry has witnessed a considerable shift in consumer understanding and, as a result, the Australian consumer is now much more informed about what is and isn't included in their travel insurance policy.

To make it easy for our customers, we've gone through a process of "plain Englishing" our domestic and international (TravelCare) policies, to make them easier to understand and to ensure our customers are clear on what they're covered for before purchasing a policy with us. We've also launched a digital assistant on our website to help customers find the information they need quickly and easily.

Most insurance providers will review their premiums on a regular basis and adjust according to risk.

Given the unpredictable travel environment and increased risks of medical treatment due to COVID-19, travel insurance companies are taking on a significantly increased risk, so it is likely premiums will rise across the industry.

Australians travelling locally can buy a domestic travel insurance policy which includes some cover for COVID-19 in the event of cancellation or changes to their journey. As SCTI's domestic policy is only available to customers who live in Australia permanently and are eligible for a Medicare card, there is no cover for medical expenses.

SCTI does offer competitive premiums for its short haul trips to destinations such as New Zealand, but it doesn't offer specific plans for "safer" destinations and, at this stage, it's too early to say whether this will change.

This is because the COVID-19 risks associated with cruising are fairly high. The environment in a cruise ship often includes confined spaces and areas where people congregate, which provides multiple opportunities for the virus to spread.

There are also limited medical facilities on board, and evacuation costs are often high because the patient is situated out at sea.

Finder looked at over 30 travel insurance policies and found 3 partner brands offering COVID-related cover, including Southern Cross Travel Insurance. You can find them here .

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