P&O Cruises has issued a stark reminder to all passengers: without proper travel insurance, they may be denied boarding at their own expense. The popular cruise operator emphasizes that packing proof of insurance is compulsory for every guest, regardless of the vessel they sail on.
Mandatory Insurance Requirement
As the peak travel season approaches, many UK holidaymakers have booked trips with P&O Cruises, one of the largest cruise operators in the country. The company's fleet of seven ships, which includes family-friendly vessels like Arvia, Iona, Britannia, Azura, and Ventura, as well as adult-only ships such as Arcadia and Aurora, departs year-round from Southampton. However, before embarking, all guests must ensure they have suitable cruise travel insurance.
On its website, P&O Cruises states: "We're delighted that you've chosen to set sail with us, and we cannot wait to welcome you on board. Before we get there, it is mandatory for all guests to have suitable cruise travel insurance cover in order to sail with us." The company warns that failure to confirm insurance arrangements will result in denied boarding at the passenger's own expense.
Proof of Insurance
Passengers may be asked to provide proof of their cruise travel insurance. P&O Cruises advises bringing either a printed or digital copy of insurance documentation that confirms cover for the named travellers over the dates of travel. The company explains that travel insurance is essential for peace of mind, covering unforeseen incidents before, during, or after the holiday.
Choosing the Right Insurance
P&O Cruises provides a checklist for selecting appropriate cruise insurance:
- Ensure your insurance covers a cruise holiday
- Covers the full length of the trip
- Includes all destinations – choose worldwide cover if unsure
- Includes medical and repatriation cover of at least £2 million
- Declare any pre-existing medical conditions
- Consider adequate cancellation cover to protect the cost of your trip
Standard vs. Cruise Insurance
Many passengers may already have travel insurance through bank accounts or standard policies. However, P&O Cruises warns that standard travel insurance is typically designed for land-based holidays and may not cover cruise-specific elements, such as medical evacuation at sea. The company advises passengers to inform their insurer that they are going on a cruise and ensure the policy provides adequate cover.
Consequences of Not Declaring Medical Conditions
Failing to declare pre-existing medical conditions can lead to serious consequences. P&O Cruises warns: "You run the risk of not being fully covered and having to pay for medical treatment which can be extremely costly. Emergency medical treatment can even be refused if you do not have the correct insurance, this includes failing to declare pre-existing conditions."
Cancellation and Refunds
If a passenger cancels their holiday, the cancellation policy in the Booking Conditions applies. For cancellations due to medical reasons, if the condition was declared, the insurer should refund monies paid less the relevant policy excess.
