Cruise travel insurance for seniors
The short answer
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.Free guide2 min readUpdated September 2026
What the rules say
Medicare.gov: Because Medicare's travel coverage is limited, you may choose to buy travel insurance. Travel insurance doesn't necessarily include health insurance, so read the conditions carefully.
Source: Medicare.gov, checked September 26, 2026
Medicare.gov: Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) policies may cover emergency care when you travel outside the U.S.
Source: Medicare.gov, checked September 26, 2026
Questions to ask before you buy
- Medical cover: how much, and does it pay the ship's medical center?
- Medical evacuation: is it included, and how much?
- Pre-existing conditions: are they covered, and do I have to buy within a set time after my deposit?
- Cancellation and interruption: for what reasons, and for whom?
- Age limits: some policies charge more, or cover less, at older ages.
Buy soon after you pay your deposit. Many policies only cover pre-existing conditions if you buy within a short window.
Kathryn can walk you through cover options when you book.
Call (239) 357-0814