Do You Really Need Cruise Insurance for Your Royal Caribbean Holiday?

Wondering if travel insurance is really necessary for your Royal Caribbean cruise? In this guide, we’ll break down what cruise insurance covers, when you actually need it, and how to find the right policy for your trip.

Do You Really Need Cruise Insurance for Your Royal Caribbean Holiday?


Do You Really Need Cruise Insurance for Your Royal Caribbean Holiday?

You’ve booked the cruise. You’ve picked your ship, checked out the dining options, maybe even joined a few Facebook groups. The countdown has begun.

Now there’s one question you might not have thought much about yet. Do you actually need cruise insurance for your Royal Caribbean trip?

Let’s walk through it together. Whether you’re sailing from the UK or the US, this guide will help you understand what cruise insurance covers, when you really need it, and how to find the right policy for your holiday.

What Is Cruise Insurance and What Does It Cover?

Cruise insurance is a specific type of travel insurance designed for holidays at sea. It’s your financial safety net if something unexpected happens before or during your cruise.

Here’s what a good policy usually includes:

Trip cancellation — If you get sick or have an emergency and need to cancel your cruise
Medical treatment — If you fall ill onboard or need treatment in port
Lost or delayed luggage — So you’re not stuck without clothes or essentials
Missed flights or connections — Helpful if your cruise departs from abroad
Shore excursion or port cover — Some policies cover missed ports or pre-booked excursions

It’s all about protecting your plans, your health, and your money.

Is Cruise Insurance Required for Royal Caribbean Cruises?

No, it’s not a requirement to sail. You can board the ship without it.

But should you travel without it? Honestly, no.

Even if everything goes smoothly, cruise insurance gives you peace of mind. But if something does go wrong, it can protect you from massive costs. Medical treatment onboard or overseas isn’t covered by the NHS, and a serious emergency could easily run into the tens of thousands.

For the price of a single dinner at a speciality restaurant, you can protect your entire holiday.

Does Royal Caribbean Offer Insurance? Here’s Where It Gets Specific

Let’s break this down clearly by region, because the options are different depending on where you book.

If You’re Booking From the UK

Royal Caribbean does not sell its own insurance in the UK. Instead, they recommend a third-party provider called Holiday Extras. You’re responsible for arranging your own policy and you can get a quote by calling 0800 781 4231 and quoting HX192.

This means you’re free to compare other providers too, and in many cases, that’s a better option. You might get more cover for less money.

Trusted UK cruise insurance providers include:

Just make sure the policy you choose includes cruise-specific cover. Some basic travel insurance policies don’t.

If You’re Booking From the US

In the United States, Royal Caribbean does offer a Travel Protection Program. It’s administered by Aon Affinity and underwritten by Arch Insurance Company.

It includes trip cancellation cover, emergency medical, baggage protection, and assistance services. You can add it during checkout when booking your cruise.

Still, it’s a good idea to compare it with third-party insurers. Sometimes you’ll find better coverage limits, especially for medical or trip interruption benefits.

What Should You Look for in a Cruise Insurance Policy?

Not all travel insurance is created equal. Here’s what to make sure is included:

Cruise-specific cover — Not just general travel insurance
Medical cover of at least £2 million — Or $2 million for US policies
Emergency evacuation and repatriation — Just in case you need urgent transport
Trip cancellation and interruption — Cover if your plans change or get disrupted
Baggage and personal belongings — For lost, stolen, or delayed luggage
Shore excursion and missed port protection — Some policies include these extras
Cover for pre-existing medical conditions — If applicable, make sure they’re declared
COVID-19 cover — Still important for some destinations and cruise lines

Always read the fine print, and make sure the cover matches your cruise plans.

When Should You Buy Cruise Insurance?

The best time to buy cruise insurance is as soon as you book your trip. That way, you're covered for cancellations or emergencies that happen before your departure date.

Waiting until just before you travel might leave you exposed if anything happens in the meantime.

Is Cruise Insurance Worth It?

If your cruise is costing you hundreds or even thousands of pounds or dollars, then yes, cruise insurance is absolutely worth it.

Most policies start from around £40 to £80 depending on your age, health, and the length of your trip. In the US, policies are similarly priced and often based on the total trip cost.

For that price, you’re buying peace of mind. You’re protecting your health, your belongings, and your investment in the holiday.

Final Thoughts

Cruise insurance might not be the most exciting part of planning your Royal Caribbean holiday, but it’s one of the smartest. Whether you're sailing from Southampton or Miami, it pays to be prepared.

Check your options, get covered early, and make sure your policy fits your trip. That way, you can focus on your time away and sipping cocktails at sea, waking up in a new country, and everything Royal Caribbean does best.