by Sarah Forster

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31 October 2023

Cruise

Setting sail on a North American Cruise unlocks a world of unparalleled beauty and vibrant culture, seamlessly blending thrilling adventures with relaxing retreats. The continent unravels a treasure trove of experiences, from the historic towns of New England and even extending to the tropical paradise of the Caribbean.

As you anticipate the cruise of a lifetime, the safety net of Cruise Insurance becomes essential. We are here to help, by working with a panel of insurers to find you a policy you can rely on should something go wrong, paving the way for a secure and delightful journey. Here are five things you should know about North American cruises before you set sail…

 

1. Cultural Exploration

North American Cruises offers an open gate to a rich tapestry of traditions and cultures. Imagine soaking in the vibrant jazz rhythms in New Orleans or immersing yourself in the First Nations heritage in Vancouver. Each port has a unique story, offering many on-shore excursions and activities to satisfy the culture enthusiast in you.

2. Breathtaking Natural Wonders

North America offers an array of natural wonders for every traveller to enjoy. During your cruise, look forward to exploring:

  • The grand glaciers of Alaska
  • The crystal-blue waters of the Caribbean,
  • New England’s vibrant autumn foliage

These stunning sights offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

3. Culinary Delights on Board and Ashore

Experience a feast for your senses with North America’s diverse culinary landscape. As you sail from port to port, here’s a glimpse of what awaits:

  • Miami’s iconic Cuban sandwiches
  • Fresh seafood dishes in San Francisco
  • Classic New Orleans gumbo in Louisiana
  • Canada’s Famous Poutine in Quebec
  • Authentic Mexican tacos in Ensenada

On top of the regional delicacies, your cruise ship promises its own set of gourmet experiences, turning your journey into a non-stop culinary delight. So, whether on board or ashore, you’re in for a gastronomic adventure that beautifully intertwines with your North American exploration.

 

4. Entertainment and On-board Activities

Embark on a North American Cruise with a variety of entertainment activities to suit all tastes and preferences. Here’s what to look forward to:

  • Enthralling Theater Shows: Witness spectacular performances ranging from Broadway-esque dramas to awe-inspiring magic shows, offering a delightful experience each night.
  • Captivating Musical Performances: Discover a rich musical landscape on board, with offerings from poolside live bands to grand orchestral performances, promising jazz evenings, rock nights, and more.
  • Wellness and Recreation: For those looking to keep up with their fitness regimen, modern cruise ships offer state-of-the-art gyms, yoga classes, and wellness seminars. The spa facilities offer a place for relaxation, with a range of treatments available.

Life is full of unexpected moments; considering a Travel Insurance policy that offers reimbursement for unused excursions in the case of unforeseen cabin confinements means securing peace of mind, knowing that you can claim back a portion of your investment if plans change.

5. Preparing for the Unexpected

Embarking on a cruise can come with its own uncertainties, and it is crucial to be prepared. This is where Just Travel Cover comes in, offering a safety net tailored to the unique needs of cruise travellers, ensuring your peace of mind as you explore the wondrous expanses of North America.

Here are some cruise-specific benefits that may come in handy:

  • Cancellation cover of £12,500 per person and higher over the phone
  • Cover for emergency medical expenses and repatriation, including for those with pre-existing medical conditions
  • 24/7 medical assistance
  • Baggage cover up to £3,000

Some insurers also provide additional cruise benefits, including:

  • Missed port departure up to £1,500
  • Cabin confinement up to £1,500 
  • Unused excursions up to £500 
  • Itinerary changes up to £750 
  • Cruise interruption up to £1,500 

Stay prepared for your North American Cruise with Just Travel Cover, and get peace of mind with our Cruise Travel Insurance.

Cruise Travel Insurance

Did you know that you can purchase your Cruise Travel Insurance 18 months in advance? In a few moments you can have your Cruise Travel Insurance quote for sailings up until July 2025!

Cruising Around North America FAQs

Frequently asked questions about cruising around North America.

What areas do North American Cruises cover?

North American Cruises offers a diverse range of destinations to explore. Cruisers can revel in the historical wonders and vibrant cultural scenes of cities along the East and West coasts, including popular stops like New York, San Francisco, and Miami. You can also venture to the picturesque landscapes of Alaska or soak up the sun in the tropical paradises of the Caribbean and Hawaii. Depending on your chosen itinerary, your cruise might take you to several fascinating destinations, each with its unique offerings.

What is the best time of year to go on a North American Cruise?

The best time for a North American Cruise largely depends on your destination. Generally,

  • Alaska: The peak season is from June to August when the weather is warmer.
  • Caribbean: Ideal almost year-round, but many prefer the dry season from December to April to avoid the hurricane season.
  • New England and Canada: The best time to witness the fall foliage is during the fall season, typically in September and October.
  • West Coast: You can enjoy a cruise year-round, with the spring and fall offering milder temperatures.

It’s always recommended to research the specific climate and seasonal attractions of your chosen destinations to choose the best time for your cruise.

Are there Travel Insurance policies available that cover specific cruise-related incidents?

Yes, at Just Travel Cover, we offer policies that cover a range of cruise-specific incidents to ensure your peace of mind during your voyage. Cruises can cost more than a standard leisure holiday, so cancellation cover is important – we can provide up to £12,500 as standard and up to £50,000 via our top up scheme. Medical emergencies are often the main worry for cruisers, especially if you need to leave the ship and be transferred to an on-land hospital. Insurance can step in on both counts and save you thousands of pounds. Some policies also provide additional benefits unique to cruising, such as missed port departures, cabin confinement, unused excursions, and more. It’s advisable to go through the policy wording carefully or call us to check all the details.

What activities and experiences can I expect on a North American Cruise?

North American Cruises offers a wide variety of experiences, both onboard and ashore. Onboard, you can enjoy entertainment options ranging from theatre shows to musical performances. Ashore, your cruise will offer excursions that explore the local culture, history, and natural wonders of the various destinations on your itinerary. This can include gastronomic adventures in cities renowned for their culinary scenes, visits to historic sites, or guided tours through natural parks.

Your Title Goes HereCan I get cover for pre-existing medical conditions while cruising?

Absolutely. At Just Travel Cover, we specialise in providing bespoke insurance quotes that can cover pre-existing medical conditions across all schemes. We work with a panel of insurers, allowing us to offer you a policy tailored to your medical needs and your cruise itinerary, depending on your age and destinations. Specifying any pre-existing conditions while getting a quote is essential to ensure the appropriate cover.

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