Is Cruise Insurance Worth It? 5 Reasons Why You Should Buy It

Cruises offer a unique escape, think endless ocean views, all-you-can-eat buffets, and waking up in a new country each morning. But they also come with risks that standard travel insurance may not cover. From costly emergency evacuations to cancelled port stops, cruising without proper insurance could leave you stranded — financially and literally.

If you're planning to set sail, here’s why having cruise insurance in Singapore is one of the smartest (and safest) pre-trip decisions you can make.

If you're planning a cruise, especially one that includes multiple countries or remote ports, a cruise-specific travel insurance is essential. Standard plans often don’t provide adequate protection at sea.

Here’s why it’s worth getting travel insurance for cruises before you set sail:

• Emergency medical evacuations can cost over S$10,000, and not all policies cover sea rescues.

• Cruise lines can reroute or cancel trips due to weather or mechanical issues, sometimes without offering full refunds.

• Accidents from rough seas or even falling overboard may be excluded under basic travel insurance.

• Pre-existing medical conditions are commonly excluded unless you purchase a specific cruise insurance plan that includes them.

• Island excursions not listed in your original itinerary may not be covered, leaving you unprotected during detours.

• Limited law enforcement on board makes resolving theft or assault more difficult.

• Onboard medical care is private and expensive, and cruise operators aren’t liable for malpractice by ship doctors.

• Bundled insurance plans sold by cruise lines may offer only minimal protection — the best cruise trip insurance often comes from standalone providers.

» READ MORE: When Is the Best Time to Book a Cruise?

Though often grouped together, there are key differences between cruise insurance and regular travel insurance.

Cruise insurance in Singapore is tailored to maritime travel, offering more relevant protection for seafaring risks. If your current travel insurance doesn’t clearly cover cruise scenarios, it’s time to explore dedicated insurance for cruise holidays.

Cruise holidays may look seamless from the outside, but things can go wrong quickly — and at sea, those risks can become more expensive and harder to manage. That’s where the right cruise insurance comes in. Travel insurance for cruises ensures you're protected from the moment you check in to the minute you return to port.

1. Medical evacuation is a top priority

Onboard clinics are limited to minor ailments. If you suffer a serious issue like a heart attack, you’ll need an emergency airlift, which can cost upwards from S$10,000.

Not all policies include this unless they’re designed for cruises. The best cruise trip insurance plans offer unlimited or high-limit medical evacuation coverage, even for pre-existing conditions if declared in advance.

2. Bad weather can trigger delays and cancellations

A storm or technical fault can derail your entire itinerary. Cruise lines aren’t required to offer refunds or replacements, especially for missed shore stops or shortened cruises.

Early purchase of cruise and travel insurance is the only way to claim for non-refundable expenses if plans change at the last minute.

» READ MORE: 6 credit cards that provide travel insurance

3. Beware of swells and waves on the high seas

Rogue waves or sudden shifts in the ship’s motion can result in serious accidents. Unlike air turbulence, there are no seat belts to keep you secured.

Cruise insurance in Singapore often includes onboard accident coverage that general policies skip.

4. Unexpected island stops may not be covered by insurance

Some cruises detour to lesser-known islands. If these weren’t listed on your itinerary, your insurance may not apply when accidents happen onshore.

Make sure your plan includes island stopover coverage and isn’t limited to the embarkation/disembarkation ports only.

Picture yourself waking up to ocean breezes, sipping coffee on your balcony as the sun rises over the horizon. Cruises offer the perfect blend of exploration and relaxation — all without the stress of airport hopping. But beneath the surface, unexpected mishaps can turn paradise into panic. That’s why cruise insurance in Singapore is your best travel companion.

Whether it's a sudden detour, a medical emergency at sea, or a missed island stop, the right cruise and travel insurance will have you covered. Ready to set sail? Compare the best cruise trip insurance plans with SingSaver today.