TravTalk India Online Magazine
Cruising has become an increasingly popular vacation choice, shifting from a luxury experience to a mainstream travel option. Dev Karvat, Founder and CEO, Asego, shares insights into the need for tailored travel protection, and how agents can ensure that their clients have a smooth experience every time they embark on a cruise trip.
TT Bureau
The cruise industry has been flourishing, with a significant rise in the number of passengers, especially in the post-pandemic world. In India alone, cruise passengers have increased by over 200 per cent from 2022 to 2024. This boom is not just for a specific age group, as more travellers across age groups are exploring cruises nowadays. Today’s cruise lines offer a wide array of destinations, onboard activities, and even special-themed cruises to cater to every type of traveller.
Additionally, cruise-specific coverage is crucial in the case of medical emergencies. Passengers confined to their cabins due to illness or injury may miss out on scheduled excursions, leading to disappointment and lost opportunities. An exclusive cruise trip protection ensures that such disruptions are handled with financial support and other forms of assistance.
Why standard travel insurance may not be enough for cruise trips
While regular travel insurance is helpful, it often does not cover the specific situations that can arise on a cruise. Dev Karvat, Founder and Chief Executive Office (CEO), Asego, explains, “Many travellers mistakenly believe that regular travel insurance is sufficient for cruise vacations. However, it often does not cover incidents that occur on a cruise.” For example, if a passenger must cancel their trip before departure, a cruise-specific protection plan can offer a refund — something that may not be available through standard insurance.
Medical emergencies on a cruise are another example, where specialised coverage can ensure that passengers receive the necessary assistance, including financial support in case of disruptions to their planned activities.
Cruise travel in India: A growing trend
India’s burgeoning cruise scene has seen a remarkable surge in recent years. As more and more Indians discover the allure of cruising, they are also becoming aware of the potential pitfalls of seafaring adventures. From unexpected weather delays to unforeseen medical emergencies, these challenges can quickly dampen the vacation spirit. A comprehensive travel protection plan can be a lifesaver, ensuring a worry-free and unforgettable cruise experience.
Challenges while cruising
- Although cruising offers a unique travel experience, there are some common challenges to consider:
- Weather disruptions, which may alter cruise itineraries.
- Unexpected delays due to mechanical issues or other reasons.
- Medical expenses, as healthcare on cruises can be costly.
- Limited compensation for lost baggage, which may not fully cover the value of personal items.
- Illness or injury preventing passengers from enjoying the cruise.
How can travel protection (insurance) improve the cruise experience?
The right travel protection can alleviate the stress caused by these potential issues, ensuring that travellers can enjoy their cruise with peace of mind.
For those considering a cruise vacation, it is highly recommended to opt for a cruise-specific protection plan that includes coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, cabin confinement-related losses lost baggage, and more.
The future of cruise travel
Looking forward, the cruise industry is set to keep growing, with more personalised and adventurous options for travellers.
As cruise lines continue to offer unique itineraries, Asego caters to these unique itineraries and has created more flexible protection options. With the growth of this industry, investing in the right travel protection will be essential in ensuring that your cruise experience is nothing short of unforgettable.
