Even though there are now quite a few Vaccinated Travel Lanes (VTL) opened, many of us may not be ready to travel abroad yet. There can be many reasons that may prevent us from travelling now. Perhaps we’re still concerned about the Covid-19 situation in the destination country; or we might be held back by work or some other reasons.
So, we decide to take a cruise to nowhere instead of being stuck somewhere in Singapore. After all a cruise will just take 2 or 3 days. Surely, we can afford the time? As the various activities offered on such cruises will definitely help you burn off extra calories, pigging out while on a cruise is will surely be well-tolerated.
There are presently 2 major cruise lines operating in Singapore: Royal Caribbean and World Dream. Regardless of the cruise line you’re going with, have you considered getting a travel insurance?
You might ask, “why bother?” After all, it’s just a few nights, surely nothing untoward will happen…right? As Murphy’s law would have it: expect the unexpected.
Here are 5 reasons why you want to consider getting a travel insurance for a cruise to nowhere:
First, medical emergencies do happen. Although there will be medical facilities on board the ship, they are not set up for treating a major medical emergency. A person suffering a heart attack will require immediate evacuation to a hospital. The cost of such an evacuation alone can bring on another heart attack.
Second, the costs for medical treatment on board a ship is not governed by Singapore’s Ministry of Health. There are no guidance on the cost ceiling and you’re at the mercy of the doctors there. Being out at sea, a swell might cause you to lose balance and suffer an injury from a fall or a cut. Even though the charges for such ‘minor’ mishaps may not be prohibitive, why allow the treatment costs to an unfortunate situation to further tarnish the shine of your vacation?
Third, you may lose valuables on board a ship due to theft. These may be the all-important laptop or mobile phones. Although you may never be able to recover all the data, being reimbursed for a portion of the costs of these lost devices will surely help soothe over the sting of losing them.
Fourth, the trip could be cancelled and for some reason, you are not able to get a refund. Even though it is very disappointing when this happens, at least there is some comfort in knowing that your trip cost is covered by insurance.
Fifth, and the most compelling reason to buy a travel insurance: you have been barred from proceeding on to the cruise because you have been tested Covid-19 positive during the pre-departure ART test. A travel insurance with Covid-19 covers will surely be most appreciated during such a time.
Many people feel that travel insurance for a short getaway, like a cruise to nowhere, may not be necessary. They may feel that the travel insurance will unnecessary costs to the trip. Yet, you can’t put dollar value to enjoying peace of mind while on a trip. There’s where a travel insurance comes in.
There are quite a few companies offering travel insurance for cruises to nowhere. These are some of them:
AIG
Allianz
HL Assurance
NTUC Income
Sompo
Be sure to verify that these travel insurance have Covid-19 covers. Also, verify if the insurance policy specifically covers you in the event that you’ve been barred from boarding the ship when you’re tested Covid-19 positive. Some insurance companies can be quite vague on what they cover even though “Covid-19” is attached to the product name. So, it is vital that you do your due diligence before purchasing your travel insurance. Caveat emptor!
Finally, a kind reminder: no insurance can protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. While you’re lounging on the pool deck and getting some vitamin D infusion from the sun, be sure to protect your eyes with a good pair of sunglasses. Sunday Shades is your perfect vacation companion. All Sunday Shades sunglasses offer UV 400 and polarizer protection. They’re weigh just 22g, are super comfortable, ultra-good-looking and very affordable. Check them out at the Sunday Shades online store now!