Health & insurance

The short answer

Ship medical centers work like urgent care, not a hospital. Medicare usually does not cover you outside the U.S. So the two things to sort out before you book are any special medical needs, and travel medical insurance.

Free guide2 min readUpdated September 2026

Cruising on dialysis

Cruise ships do not provide hemodialysis. MSC allows guests who can manage home peritoneal dialysis on their own. Princess says its medical staff are not equipped for dialysis care. People on hemodialysis plan with specialist dialysis-at-sea providers on selected sailings, with their nephrologist's approval.

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Oxygen and CPAP on a cruise

Ships carry oxygen for emergencies only. If you need oxygen for a long-term condition, you arrange your own supply — often a rented concentrator delivered to the ship. CPAP machines are allowed; tell the line when you book so they can plan power and water.

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The ship's medical center

A ship's medical center is like an urgent-care clinic with a doctor and nurses. It can treat common illness and stabilize emergencies, but it is not a hospital. Care is charged to your onboard account, so travel medical insurance matters.

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Medicare on a cruise

Medicare usually does not cover care outside the U.S. On a cruise ship, Part B may pay only if the ship is in a U.S. port or within 6 hours of one, and the doctor is allowed to treat on board. Medigap may cover emergencies abroad.

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Cruise travel insurance for seniors

Because Medicare rarely covers you at sea, travel medical insurance is the most important purchase after the cruise itself. Look for medical cover, medical evacuation, and pre-existing condition cover — and read the conditions, as Medicare.gov advises.

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Medications on a cruise

Pack every medication in your carry-on bag, with a few days extra in case of delays. Bring a written list with doses and your doctor's number. The ship may not stock your exact medicine, and Medicare drug plans do not cover drugs bought abroad.

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Cruising on dialysis

Oxygen and CPAP on a cruise

The ship's medical center

Medicare on a cruise

Cruise travel insurance for seniors

Medications on a cruise

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