An estimated 34.7 million people are expected to take a cruise trip in 2024, according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). However, some of these travelers may face hefty medical bills if they are not cautious.
It’s crucial for anyone planning a cruise to thoroughly review their cruise line’s terms, especially regarding medical care. In the worst-case scenario, passengers could be charged thousands of dollars for medical care received before they are allowed to leave the ship.
Vincent Wasney, who was uninsured at the time, experienced such a situation. He endured a series of seizures during a cruise in December 2022 and had to be evacuated by a rescue boat for medical care on land. Before leaving, he was presented with a $2,500 bill for onboard medical services. Wasney was on a Royal Caribbean cruise, which requires guests to pay all onboard costs by the end of the trip.
Even insured passengers may face significant bills due to medical emergencies, as most cruise ships do not accept health insurance.
Medical staff on cruise ships typically handle concerns similar to those in emergency departments and urgent care centers, according to Joe Scott, chair of the cruise ship medicine section of the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP). The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also warns that shipboard environments can facilitate the spread of diseases.
According to the CDC, nearly half of all passengers seeking medical care on a cruise are over 65 years old. All oceangoing cruises that are CLIA members must meet medical facility guidelines set by ACEP, which include having at least one qualified medical professional available 24/7. Cruise ships must have an examination room, an intensive care room, and equipment to process lab tests, monitor vital signs, and administer medications.
Most cruise ships do not accept health insurance because they serve a global passenger base with diverse insurance policies. This reduces administrative burdens for cruise lines, which typically ask guests to seek reimbursement from their insurance plans after returning home. Coverage can vary depending on the policy.
To protect themselves, travelers should consider purchasing travel insurance plans that cover medical expenses. These plans can cost a few hundred dollars but can save travelers thousands in case of an emergency. Scott recommends choosing plans that cover current medical conditions and the destinations on the itinerary, and that provide adequate medical evacuation coverage. Air medical evacuations can be very costly, ranging from approximately $20,000 from the Caribbean to the U.S. mainland to over $100,000 from remote locations like Alaska or the South Pacific.
Preventative measures include bringing extra quantities of medications, a list of prescriptions, medical conditions, and doctors’ contact information. Frequent hand washing, staying hydrated, and knowing personal limits are also advisable.
Proper planning and precautions can help ensure a safe and enjoyable cruise experience.