We strongly encourage you to take out comprehensive international travel insurance as you pay your deposit. P&O Cruises recommends CHI Travel Insurance. Ensure you are covered for general medical expenses, existing medical conditions, hospitalisation and medical evacuations.
If you plan on participating in sports such as scuba diving or parasailing, ensure your policy covers these activities. International travel insurance is also required on Australian coastal cruises, as your cruise is outside the scope of Australian Medicare and the New Zealand Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC).
Be aware when organising your insurance that uninsured travellers (or their families) are held personally liable for cancellation, medical and associated costs incurred at any time whether before the cruise, on board or overseas. Hospitalisation costs on board or outside of the country and medical evacuation costs are very expensive and are not covered by Medicare, ACC or private health insurance. Daily hospital bills can cost as much as AUD 5,000 per day. All consultations, treatments and medications are charged at private rates.
Don't base your insurance decision on the assumption that 'it won't happen to me' – accidents do happen. Please see the Department of Foreign Affairs website at smartraveller.gov.au or safetravel.govt.nz for more information.
For Australian passengers please contact CHI Travel Insurance or phone 1300 653 852 (AU) or your Travel Agent for information on travel insurance. For New Zealand passengers, please contact your travel agent to arrange a policy.