Why Trust MoneySmart?In Singapore, cruise insurance commonly excludes specific situations and behaviours, whether purchased as a specialised plan or as an add-on to standard travel insurance. As of 2026, these exclusions are standard across most insurers, but always check your policy wording, as terms vary by provider and plan.
1. Pre-existing medical conditions
Standard cruise insurance policies typically exclude medical expenses, trip cancellation, or emergency evacuation if they are due to a pre-existing medical condition, unless you have purchased a Pre-Ex rider or a dedicated specialist plan.
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Some plans may allow claims if your pre-existing condition results in a communicable disease that legally requires quarantine. |
2. Itinerary changes & missed ports
It’s common for standard travel insurance to exclude compensation for cruise lines. For example, driven itinerary changes like skipping a port due to bad weather or mechanical issues.
To get compensated for missed ports or changes, you must specifically have a “Cruise Disruption” benefit in your policy.
3. Conduct & lifestyle exclusions
There are also certain circumstances and actions excluded from cruise travel insurance coverage:
Claims relating to intoxication from alcohol or drugs (unless prescribed).
Reckless, dangerous, or illegal acts (“self-exposure to needless peril”).
Competitive sports or extreme activities (including scuba diving without proper certification or outside safe depth limits).
4. Travel outside of coverage terms
Needless to say, travelling for reasons beyond your cruise travel insurance policy scope will be excluded from coverage and aren’t claimable.
Geographic restrictions:
Most Singapore-based insurers require your cruise to depart from Singapore for cover to apply.
Purpose restrictions:
Those who travel primarily for cosmetic medical purposes (medical tourism) must be aware that it’s usually not covered.
You also cannot claim for lost reward points or miles—only amounts paid in cash.
5. Political & global events
Known events:
Named storms or strikes publicised before you buy your policy will not be covered.
General fear of travel or a change of mind is not covered unless you have a Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) rider.
Force majeure:
Most policies also exclude losses caused by war, rebellion, terrorism, or nuclear incidents.
6. Specific domestic exclusions
Domestic exclusions also apply for cruise travel insurance. Its coverage scope extends from post-trip coverage to treatment limits. For instance:
Medical expenses incurred on your return to Singapore are usually excluded.
Continuation-of-treatment is normally limited (often 14–30 days) and only for injuries or illnesses sustained during your cruise.
Where to find comprehensive cruise insurance in Singapore?
Brands like Income Travel Insurance and MSIG’s TravelEasy offer plans that specifically include or address cruise-related benefits. Always read their terms to confirm exactly what’s covered or excluded for your trip.
To compare cruise-specific benefits such as cabin confinement protection and missed port departure coverage, compare the best cruise travel insurance (and their policy highlights) on MoneySmart.
