Carefully evaluate potential risks prior to booking an international cruise. Ensure you are informed about local conditions, entry requirements, health considerations, and safety protocols before making a commitment.
While cruise travel can be enjoyable and memorable, it also presents significant medical, safety, and financial risks that require thorough planning.
Health and Medical Care on Cruise Ships
The communal nature of cruise ships, including shared accommodation, dining, and entertainment spaces, facilitates the rapid spread of illness. COVID-19, influenza, and gastroenteritis are among the most common health risks.
Medical care provided on cruise ships differs from standard practices in Australia in several important ways:
Medicare entitlements do not necessarily apply onboard – even on ships registered to Australian companies.
Cruise companies are not required to employ doctors registered with Medicare.
Medical facilities may not meet Australian standards and may have limited equipment and medicines.
Treatment costs are charged directly to your onboard account and must be settled before the end of the cruise.
If you become seriously ill or injured:
You may be transferred to a hospital at the next port.
Evacuation from a cruise ship can incur extremely high costs, sometimes reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars, and you may be personally liable for all associated expenses.
Evacuation may not be possible if the ship is too far from land.
Cruise ships cannot accommodate plane landings, and helicopter evacuation is not always available.
Urgent or specialist medical treatment may not be available on board. This limitation presents a significant risk for individuals with serious pre-existing medical conditions.
The Australian Government does not cover any overseas medical expenses or evacuation costs. You are solely responsible for these financial obligations.
Before You Travel – Health Planning
Visit your doctor for a health check and recommended vaccinations.
Discuss any existing medical conditions.
Pack enough prescription medication for your trip and delays.
Maintain strict hygiene practices and carry essential items such as hand sanitiser and face masks when neccessary.
Refrain from undertaking a cruise if a serious medical condition renders offshore travel excessively risky.
Travel Insurance Coverage
Not all travel insurance policies provide coverage for cruises.
Cruise insurance policies might typically include coverage for:
Coverage for medical treatment onboard and on shore
Medical evacuation from a ship
Shore excursions and adventure activities
Cruises in Australian waters (Medicare usually does not apply onboard)
Flight delays that cause you to miss embarkation
If travel delays result in missing your scheduled boarding, appropriate insurance may cover the costs associated with joining the cruise at the next port of call.
Passports and Visas
Ensure your passport is valid for the entire trip.
A valid passport may be required when entering foreign waters, even if you do not plan to disembark at those destinations.
Visa requirements vary by destination and must be checked well in advance.
Weather, Natural Disasters and Route Changes
Adverse weather events such as storms, cyclones, tsunamis, and rough seas may necessitate changes to the cruise itinerary for safety reasons.
Regularly monitor weather conditions throughout your journey.
Familiarise yourself with emergency procedures.
Follow crew instructions at all times.
Personal Safety On Board
Use your cabin safe for valuables.
Ensure that all personal belongings are securely stored at all times.
Consume alcoholic beverages responsibly to maintain personal safety.
Exercise caution when near pools and open deck areas.
Remain vigilant in all social settings on board.
Going Ashore Safely
Shore excursions are often a highlight of cruise travel; however, associated risks differ significantly depending on the destination.
Research local health and safety conditions
Keep your passport secure unless required by law.
Watch for pickpockets and professional thieves.
Confirm medical facilities are available.
Use appropriate safety equipment.
Ensure your insurance covers all activities.
Piracy and Regional Conflict
Some regions have higher piracy risks or political instability. Cruise companies monitor threats and may re-route ships if required.
You should check with your Cruise Insurance provider to see if your intended destinations/countries are safe, or if they are on the ‘Do Not Travel’ list.
Ask your cruise operator about:
Security procedures
High-risk areas on your itinerary
In the Event of a Death
Cruise operators have established protocols, but:
Cruise lines do not cover repatriation costs.
The Australian Government does not cover repatriation.
These costs fall to the traveller’s estate or family.
Travel insurance may cover you for repatriation cover.
Getting Help
On board:
Ship staff
Ship security
Medical centre
Your Travel Insurer
On shore:
Tour guides
Local emergency services
Hospitals
Your Travel Insurer
Assistance from the Australian Government
Australian consular officials may be able to assist in limited situations, but they do not pay for:
Medical treatment
Evacuation
Travel disruptions
Read the Consular Services Charter to see what support is available.
