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Cruise Travel Insurance
Cruise Travel Insurance
Cruise insurance is a specialized form of travel insurance designed to address the things that can go wrong when on a cruise. From medical emergencies to trip cancellations, cruise insurance provides coverage for a range of scenarios.
It is a form of travel insurance that is separate from normal travel insurance policies, although it can sometimes be bought as a policy extension
Typically, a cruise insurance policy will cover
- Trip cancellation and interruption: If you have to cancel or interrupt your cruise for a covered reason, such as illness or injury, your insurance will reimburse you for the prepaid costs of your trip.
- Medical expenses: If you get sick or injured on your cruise and require medical treatment, your insurance will cover the cost of your care. This includes both on-board and off-board medical expenses, including being restricted to your cabin if necessary.
- Evacuation: If you need to be evacuated from your cruise ship due to a medical emergency, your insurance will cover the cost of your transportation to a hospital or other medical facility.
- Baggage loss or damage: If your luggage is lost, damaged, or stolen, your insurance will reimburse you for your losses.
- Missed port departures: If you miss a port departure due to a covered reason, your insurance will cover the cost of your transportation to the next port.
- Cruise line bankruptcy: If your cruise line goes bankrupt, your insurance will reimburse you for the prepaid costs of your trip.
How much does Cruise Insurance Cost?
You can buy cruise insurance from a variety of sources, including cruise lines, travel agencies, and independent insurance providers.
Some important factors to consider when buying cruise insurance include the cost of the insurance, the coverage limits and exclusions, the reputation and financial stability of the insurance provider, and any additional benefits or features offered by the plan
The cost of cruise insurance can vary, but it generally ranges from 5% to 10% of your total trip cost.
Several factors can influence the price, including your age, the amount you’re spending on your trip, the length of your cruise, the number of people covered under your policy, and your destination and ports-of-call.
For example, the average price of basic coverage for a seven-day trip in February 2023 from the U.S. to Mexico was approximately $124, and the cost of basic coverage for a Disney Cruise Line vacation was about $177 /$200
A couple of more specific examples include :
- For a $3,000 trip, the cost of cruise insurance is estimated to be between $150 and $210, which is approximately 5-7% of the total trip cost.
- The average price of a basic coverage plan for a seven-day trip in February 2023 from the U.S. to Mexico was $124, and the average cost of basic coverage for five different cruise insurance add-ons for a similar trip was $111.20.
- The Travel Basic plan from Travelex Insurance Services cost $116 for a sample trip, which is just below the average for plans listed.
What determines cost of cruise travel insurance?
The cost of cruise travel insurance is influenced by several factors, including age, trip cost, cruise length, number of people covered, destination, and plan type. Older travellers are considered to be at higher risk for health problems, so the cost of travel insurance rises with age.
Cruise Travel Insurance Claims
- Contact the Insurance Company: Always call the insurance company before submitting a claim to understand the required documents, the correct steps to file a claim, and how to submit the claim.
- Gather Supporting Information: Collect all the necessary supporting documents, such as proof of trip cancellation, medical records, or any other relevant information required by the company.
- File the Claim: File the claim either online, through the insurance company’s website or app, or over the phone. It’s essential to provide all the required information and documentation to ensure a smooth process.
- Follow Up: After filing the claim, follow up with the insurance company to ensure that all the necessary information has been received and to address any additional requirements.
- Appeal if Necessary: If the claim is denied, you can file an appeal with the insurance company. In some cases, a significant percentage of appeals are honored.
- Contact Regulatory Bodies if Needed: If the appeal is not successful, contact the appropriate comsumer protection body in your home country.
What documents are needed to file a claim?.
The more the better !
Generally speaking :
- Trip Cancellation/Interruption:
- Copies of all bills, invoices, receipts, and applicable credit card/bank statements pertaining to claimed expenses
- Medical Emergencies:
- For illness or injury, provide the Attending Physician’s Statement Claim Form and Patient Authorization Claim Form.
- Baggage Delay/Loss:
- Documentation related to the loss, theft, or damage of baggage, such as receipts and a copy of the rental car agreement if applicable
- Trip Delay:
- Receipts for additional meal and accommodation expenses incurred during the delay
- Other:
- Proof of incident (e.g., medical receipt, police report) for non-medical trip cancellation or interruption.
The insurance policy should specify exactly what documents are required for any type of claim and they can normally be uploaded to the insurance company website as part of the claim submission, or sent through the normal postal system, along with a printed claims form. Remember to always keep copies.
Major Cruise Lines
Cruise lines are big business and many will make some type of travel insurance compulsory. Some will have their own in house insurance which travellers will have to buy, or show that they have their own equivalent policy in terms of coverage.
Major Cruise Lines include :
- Carnival Corporation & plc: The world’s largest cruise company, operating over 100 ships across 9 cruise lines, including Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, and more.
- Royal Caribbean Group: Operating over 40 ships under the brands Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and partly owning TUI Cruises, Pullmantur, and Hapag-Lloyd.
- Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings: Operating around 30 ships under the brands Norwegian Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas, and Oceania Cruises.
- MSC Cruises: A global cruise line with a fleet of modern ships operating various itineraries around the world.
- Princess Cruises: A well-known cruise line offering a wide range of itineraries and onboard activities.
- Cunard Line, Costa Cruises, and Disney Cruise Line are also major players in the cruise industry.
Here are a couple of examples of a cruise company’s own travel insurance plan
- Norwegian Cruise Line’s Booksafe Travel Protection Plan: This plan offers comprehensive coverage for trip cancellation, interruption, medical expenses, and more. It also includes a “Cancel for Any Reason” option, which allows you to cancel your cruise for any reason and receive a refund of up to 75% of your prepaid expenses.
Travel Insurance by Country
Travel insurance is pretty much a must, whatever country you are going to visit, but its cost and necessity does vary country by country.
For some countries it is a legal requirement, for others things like medical costs, as per USA, make it pretty crucial for most people.
Some countries are safer than others, and some parts of some countries are safer than others.
Insurance companies require people to follow any travel advice that their national government gives out about the state of a country, and how safe it is to travel there.
Governments of other countries than your own will also have travel advice for their citizens, which will be useful to follow.
Whilst travel insurance will usually cover most medical conditions, albeit at a cost, if you have a condition such as epilepsy it is worth remembering that some countries still have quite a cultural and social problem with people who suffer from it.
It is also worth researching the medical system of any country you are going to, especially if you are visiting any remote areas of that country.
Also check if your insurance company will pay any medical bills directly to the hospital, or if you are expected to pay them and claim the money back from the insurance company.
Below is a list of articles about travel insurance to different countries, including some general travel tips and information on safety, airlines, sports, and health systems etc.
iCandy Baby Travel System
iCandy prams and strollers are renowned for their elegant and contemporary design.
Whether you’re a parent who loves sleek modern aesthetics or prefers a classic look, iCandy offers a wide range of styles and color options to suit your personal taste.
Their thoughtfully designed prams and strollers not only deliver on aesthetics but also provide exceptional functionality and comfort for both parent and child.
Features of iCandy Prams and Strollers
Candy prams and strollers are known for their high-quality materials, stylish designs, and innovative features. Here are some of the features of iCandy prams and strollers:
- Travel system: iCandy prams and strollers are designed to be compatible with car seats, making it easy to move your child from the car to the stroller without waking them up. A travel system consists of a pushchair frame, upon which other parts can easily be fitted. These parts include carrycot, seat unit, and a rear-facing car seat
- Versatility: iCandy prams and strollers are versatile and can be used as a single or a double buggy. The Peach, for example, has up to 25 configurations and can be used from newborn to four years old. The Peach is also a tandem design that is as narrow as a single buggy, making it easy to navigate through doorways and tight spaces:
- iCandy strollers are designed to be lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them ideal for navigating busy streets and public transportation. The Raspberry, for example, is a compact stroller that is perfect for city living. It has a one-handed fold mechanism that makes it easy to store and transport
- All-round suspension: The Peach has all-round suspension, making it a smooth ride for your baby. The Peach also has front swivel wheels, quick-release rear wheels, and quick-release front wheels, making it easy to maneuver
- Adjustable handlebar: iCandy prams and strollers have an adjustable handlebar, making it easy for parents of different heights to push the stroller comfortably
- Recline positions: iCandy prams and strollers have multiple recline positions, making it easy to adjust the stroller to your child’s needs. The Peach, for example, has four recline positions in both world and parent-facing modes, which can be adjusted using just one hand
- Large shopping basket: iCandy prams and strollers have a large shopping basket, making it easy to carry all your baby essentials. The Peach has a large shopping basket that can hold up to 10kg
- Leatherette handlebar: iCandy prams and strollers have a leatherette handlebar, which is comfortable to grip and adds a touch of luxury to the stroller
- Folds with seat on: iCandy prams and strollers can be folded with the seat on, making it easy to store and transport the stroller.
- Parent and world-facing seat unit: iCandy prams and strollers have a parent and world-facing seat unit, making it easy to adjust the stroller to your child’s needs. The Peach, for example, has a parent and world-facing seat unit in both single and double modes.
- Converts to a double mode of transport: iCandy prams and strollers can be converted to a double mode of transport, making it easy to transport two children at once. The Peach, for example, can be converted to a double mode of transport.
- Carrycot suitable for permanent overnight sleeping: iCandy prams and strollers have a carrycot that is suitable for permanent overnight sleeping. The Peach, for example, has a carrycot that is suitable for permanent overnight sleeping and can be removed with one hand.
- Travel system compatible: iCandy prams and strollers are compatible with a range of car seats, including Maxi Cosi, Cybex, Nuna, and Kiddy Evo car seat model.
- Lie flat: iCandy prams and strollers have a lie-flat position, which is advised for newborn babies to aid with lung and spinal development.
- Reversible seat: iCandy prams and strollers have a reversible seat, making it easy to adjust the stroller to your child’s needs.
- Adjustable hood: iCandy prams and strollers have an adjustable hood, which provides shade and protection from the sun,
- Integral Ride-On-Board: The Orange has an integral ride-on-board, which can hold up to 20kg in weight.
iCandy Prams and Strollers
Some of the most popular models include:
Peach 7:
The Peach 7 is a versatile single-to-double pushchair that is perfect for growing families. It features a lie-flat seat that is suitable for newborns, and it can easily be converted into a double pushchair to accommodate a second child.
Orange 3:
The Orange 3 is a lightweight and compact pushchair that is ideal for city use. It features a one-hand fold and a carry strap, making it easy to transport.
Lime Lifestyle:
The Lime Lifestyle is a multi-functional pushchair that is perfect for active families. It features a lie-flat seat, a reversible seat unit, and a large storage basket.
Core:
The Core is an all-terrain pushchair that is perfect for families who love to explore the outdoors. It features large wheels, a suspension system, and a handbrake.
Functional Excellence
iCandy prams and strollers are designed with practicality in mind.
They’re engineered to be lightweight and easy to maneuver, ensuring you can navigate any terrain with ease.
This is especially important for busy parents who might need to run errands, explore parks, or handle various daily tasks while caring for their child.
One of the standout features of iCandy prams is their exceptional suspension system. This system guarantees a smooth ride for your child, even on rough or uneven surfaces.
It’s a testament to iCandy’s commitment to providing the utmost comfort for your little one during every outing.
Moreover, iCandy prams come equipped with spacious storage options, allowing parents to carry all the necessities. Whether it’s baby essentials, shopping bags, or your personal belongings, iCandy prams have you covered, making daily life more convenient.
iCandy prams and strollers:
iCandy Raspberry
The iCandy Raspberry is a stylish and compact stroller that is perfect for city living. It has a sleek design that is similar to the Bugaboo Bee, making it a popular choice for parents who want a functional and fashionable stroller.
The Raspberry is lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it ideal for navigating busy streets and public transportation. It has a one-handed fold mechanism that makes it easy to store and transport.
The Raspberry is also compatible with car seats, making it a versatile travel system.
iCandy Peach
The iCandy Peach is a popular pram that has been around for six generations. It is a stylish and functional pram that can be used as a single or a double buggy.
The Peach is made from premium materials and has a beautiful design that is sure to turn heads. It is extremely versatile, with up to 25 configurations, and can be used from newborn to four years old.
The Peach is also a tandem design that is as narrow as a single buggy, making it easy to navigate through doorways and tight spaces.
However, the Peach can be tricky to assemble with multiple zips, and the one-handed folding mechanism is tricky to engage.i
iCandy Pushchairs
iCandy pushchairs represent an unsurpassable level of quality and world-class engineering to create the perfect travel system for your baby or child.
They are designed to be stylish, functional, and durable, making them a popular choice for parents who want the best for their children.
iCandy pushchairs are available in a range of styles and colours, so you can find the perfect one to suit your needs.
iCandy Travel Systems
iCandy travel systems are designed to make traveling with your baby or child as easy and stress-free as possible.
They are compatible with car seats, making it easy to move your child from the car to the stroller without waking them up.
iCandy travel systems are also designed to be lightweight and easy to manoeuvre, making them ideal for navigating busy airports and public transportation.
Versatility in Parenting
iCandy understands that parents have different needs and lifestyles. That’s why their product line includes various models, each tailored to suit particular parenting requirements.
Whether you need a compact stroller for urban living, a robust all-terrain pram for outdoor adventures, or a travel system that can adapt as your child grows, iCandy has an option for you.
Their flexible designs enable parents to select a model that best aligns with their unique lifestyle.
Key differences between iCandy and other brands
iCandy prams and strollers have some key differences when compared to other brands. Here are some of the differences:
- Convertible prams: iCandy was the first brand to bring convertible prams to life, allowing parents to seamlessly switch between single and double positions as their family grows.
- Compact solutions for city-living: iCandy has a range of compact strollers that are perfect for city living, such as the Raspberry.
- Leatherette handlebar: iCandy prams and strollers have a leatherette handlebar, which is comfortable to grip and adds a touch of luxury to the stroller.
- Innovative features: iCandy prams and strollers have innovative features such as all-round suspension, adjustable handlebar, multiple recline positions, and reversible seat.
- Stylish designs: iCandy prams and strollers are known for their stylish designs, with unique fabric options such as Truffle and Olive.
- Warranty time: iCandy prams and strollers have a longer warranty time than some other brands, such as the Cybex Priam 2022
- Carrycot: Some iCandy prams and strollers have a carrycot that is suitable for permanent overnight sleeping, such as the Peach.
- Integral Ride-On-Board: The Orange has an integral ride-on-board, which can hold up to 20kg in weight.
In comparison to other brands, iCandy prams and strollers have some unique features such as convertible prams, compact solutions for city-living, and a leatherette handlebar.
iCandy prams and strollers are also known for their innovative features, stylish designs, and longer warranty time.
However, other brands may have different features that appeal to different parents, such as all-terrain capabilities, larger storage baskets, and more affordable prices
Customer Reviews
Customer reviews for iCandy prams and strollers are generally positive, with many parents praising the stylish designs, innovative features, and high-quality materials.
However, there are also some negative reviews, with some parents finding the prams and strollers to be heavy and bulky, and others finding them to be expensive.
Here are some customer reviews for iCandy prams and strollers compared to other brands:
- iCandy vs UPPAbaby: In a Reddit thread, parents discussed the iCandy Peach and UPPAbaby Vista 2. One parent found the iCandy to be heavier and bulkier than the UPPAbaby, but both were liked. Another parent suggested buying either one second hand, as they hold their value well.
- iCandy vs UPPAbaby vs Silver Cross: In a What to Expect forum, parents discussed the iCandy, UPPAbaby, and Silver Cross. One parent praised the iCandy for being easy to handle and light compared to other prams, making it easy to put in and out of the car and up stairs.
- iCandy vs UPPAbaby vs Silver Cross: In a YouTube video comparing compact urban pushchairs, the iCandy Lime was praised for its improvements from the original line, including the fabrics and bag.
- iCandy vs Silver Cross: In an Independent article comparing the Silver Cross Wave and iCandy Peach, both were praised for having carrycot and pushchair functionalities, making them evenly matched. The iCandy Peach was praised for being easy to fold and a dream to push and maneuver in tight spaces.
- iCandy: In a Mumsnet thread, parents discussed whether iCandy prams and strollers were worth the money. One parent praised the strollers for being sturdy, easy to fold, and a dream to push and maneuver in tight spaces.
- iCandy: On the iCandy USA website, parents left positive reviews for the strollers, praising the quality and smooth glide
In conclusion, customer reviews for iCandy prams and strollers are generally positive, with many parents praising the stylish designs, innovative features, and high-quality materials.
However, there are also some negative reviews, with some parents finding the prams and strollers to be heavy and bulky, and others finding them to be expensive.
Reviews for iCandy prams and strollers compared to other brands are mixed, with some parents preferring other brands for their own reasons. Ultimately, the choice of pram or stroller comes down to personal preference and needs.
Safety and Comfort
The safety and comfort of your child are paramount when choosing a pram or stroller. iCandy prams are designed to meet and exceed safety standards, giving parents peace of mind.
The five-point harness, well-padded seats, and adjustable canopy provide a secure and cozy environment for your child.
In addition to safety features, iCandy prams offer various customization options to ensure your child’s comfort.
You can adjust the seat position, footrest, and handlebar height, making sure your child is snug and you’re ergonomically comfortable while pushing the pram.
iCandy Innovative Features
iCandy prams and strollers have not only stood the test of time but have also evolved with the changing needs of parents. Many models come with innovative features such as adjustable handlebars, easy fold mechanisms, and compatibility with car seats.
These features enhance convenience and ensure that iCandy prams remain a practical choice for modern parents.
Baby Travel Accessories – UK
Baby Travel Accessories
Travelling with a baby can be a delightful adventure, provided you have the right accessories at your disposal.
In the UK, a range of baby travel essentials ensures a smooth journey for both parents and little ones. Start with a reliable baby buggy or stroller, perfect for navigating city streets or countryside paths.