Why Third-Party Travel Insurance Beats Cruise Line Coverage

When booking a cruise, you're often offered a quick and convenient insurance option by the cruise line itself. But before you check that box, it's worth taking a closer look at what you're actually getting—and more importantly, what you’re not.

At Insurance Consultants International (ICI), travel insurance is all we do. We're not a cruise line, airline, or booking engine—we're a team of licensed insurance agents who specialize in helping travelers find the right protection for their unique trip. We shop the market for you, comparing plans and coverage so you're not left underinsured when it matters most.

“The cheapest insurance can end up being the most expensive if it doesn’t cover you adequately.”
– Craig Robinson, Owner & General Managing Agent, ICI

What Cruise Line Insurance Really Covers (And What It Doesn’t)

Cruise line insurance (often called "waiver plans") may sound appealing, but it’s typically designed to protect the cruise company more than the traveler. Here are some critical limitations:

• Partial Credit Refunds, Not Cash: Many cruise line plans reimburse cancellations with a future cruise credit—not cash—which can expire and often isn’t transferable.

• Limited Coverage Scope: They may only cover arrangements booked directly through the cruise line—so if you've arranged your own airfare, hotel, or excursions, you’re likely out of luck.

• No Protection for Financial Default: If the cruise line or a tour operator goes under, their insurance may not cover you.

• Minimal Emergency Medical Limits: Cruise plans often cap emergency medical coverage at $10,000–$25,000—which might not come close to covering a serious medical evacuation or overseas hospital bill.

How ICI Travel Insurance Plans Are Different

When you buy through ICI, you're not getting a cookie-cutter plan. You're getting advice, options, and coverage that truly protects your trip.

• Cash Reimbursement for Covered Cancellations
  No cruise credits—if you’re covered, you’re paid in U.S. dollars.

• Comprehensive Medical Coverage
  Most of our plans offer up to $1,000,000 in emergency medical coverage.

• Independent Arrangements Are Covered
  Flights, hotels, excursions—your full trip is protected.

• Coverage for Financial Default
  If your airline or tour operator shuts down, you're covered—provided plan requirements are met.

• Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) Options
  Available with many plans if purchased within the required timeframe.

• Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions
  Waivers are available when coverage is purchased early.

• Trip Delay and Interruption Protection
  Trip doesn’t go as planned? Coverage can kick in even before you leave.

Why Work With ICI?

• We only sell travel and global health insurance—this is our specialty.

• We’re independent and licensed, so we work for you, not a cruise line.

• We shop multiple top-rated carriers to find you the best value and coverage.

• We’re real people. When you call us, you get a US-based agent who’s here to help—not a call center.

A Real-World Reminder

A Minnesota man made headlines when he won a free Caribbean cruise—but caught the flu onboard and racked up a $47,000 medical bill. His insurance that he purchased through the cruise line only covered $20,000, leaving him on the hook for the rest.

Ready to Compare Plans?

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