The Hidden Costs Of Falling Ill At Sea — What Cruise Passengers Need To Know

The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) predicts that 34.7 million people will board cruise ships in 2024, a sign that the cruise industry is on the mend. However, many people may be unaware of the potential financial risks lurking beneath the surface of their dream vacation. While cruise ships offer a world of entertainment and relaxation, falling ill at sea can lead to unexpectedly high medical expenses that could turn a holiday into a financial nightmare.

Why Costs Can Skyrocket

Consider the case of Vincent Wasney, who went on a Royal Caribbean cruise with his wife in December 2022. As reported by ABC News, uninsured at the time, Wasney suffered a series of seizures that necessitated evacuation from the ship. Before he could leave, however, he was presented with a $2,500 bill for onboard medical care. This scenario highlights a crucial point in Royal Caribbean’s terms of agreement: guests must settle all onboard costs before disembarking.

And costly medical expenses can happen not just on the Royal Caribbean. Several factors contribute to the high cost of medical care on cruise ships. While these ships are equipped with medical bays that can handle many common ailments, their capabilities are limited compared to land-based hospitals. Dr. Joe Scott, chair of the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) cruise ship medicine section, explained to Quartz that ships are “typically equipped to manage the first few hours of any emergency.”

Furthermore, most cruise ships don’t accept health insurance. This policy is due to the complexity of dealing with hundreds of international plans. Passengers are usually required to pay upfront and seek reimbursement later. And, in severe cases requiring evacuation, costs can be astronomical. Air medical evacuations from the Caribbean to the U.S. mainland can cost around $20,000. Similar evacuations from Alaska, the South Pacific, or Australia could exceed $100,000.

Protecting Yourself Financially

To mitigate these risks, consider the following steps:

• Purchase Comprehensive Travel Insurance : Look for policies that cover your specific medical conditions and the locations you’ll be visiting. Make sure they include adequate medical evacuation coverage.
• Understand Your Regular Insurance: Check if your health insurance covers international or cruise ship incidents. Medicare, for instance, doesn’t cover services more than 6 hours from a U.S. port.
• Bring Extra Medication: Pack more than enough of your regular medications, along with a list of prescriptions, medical conditions, and your doctor’s contact information.
• Practice Prevention: Wash your hands frequently, stay hydrated, and know your physical limits during shore excursions.
• Read the Fine Print: Familiarize yourself with your cruise line’s medical policies and payment requirements before sailing.

The Bottom Line

While the prospect of hefty medical bills shouldn’t deter you from cruising, preparing for anything is crucial. By understanding the potential costs and taking proactive measures, you can enjoy your cruise with peace of mind. You will know you’re financially protected against unexpected health issues at sea. Remember, a small investment in preparation and insurance can save you from a tide of medical debt that could otherwise wash away your vacation savings.