Considering a cruise holiday this year? Before you book have a look at your travel insurance policy to ensure you’re covered out at sea.

Only 35% of single policies and 40% of multi-trip policies cover cruises, according to new figures by financial information providers Defaqto. Even then, adding cruise cover preimums might cost a whopping sum.

If you find you aren’t covered, then specialist cruise insurance might be right for you. Here’s a rundown of what it is, what it actually covers, plus any pitfalls and exclusions you need to keep a keen eye out for.

What is cruise insurance?

As cruises often involve extra activities like jungle trekking and kayaking, trips like these are seen as pretty high risk so are often excluded from standard travel insurance policies.

Cruise insurance is a little more specific in that it covers you for things that can happen while on this type of holiday.

Think inconveniences like missed port departures, trip interruptions and health assistance wherever you happen to be in the world.

You’ll also be covered for:

• trip cancellation and curtailment;
• accommodation and excursions for emergency cancellations;
• personal belongings, money and baggage if they’re stolen, accidentally lost or damaged on your trip.

See full story at home.bt.com