InsureMyTrip reveals cruise travelers' top concerns and trends

InsureMyTrip, the travel insurance authority, announced the results of its travel survey of 568 U.S. respondents. A vast majority of cruisers have experienced some kind of travel itinerary disruption during a trip. Many cruisers are more concerned about an illness or injury affecting a trip than bad weather or terrorism.

During a voyage, 46 percent experienced an unexpected itinerary change. Despite these types of disruptions, cruisers are generally pleased with their overall experience, with 62 percent stating a cruise always met their expectations.

Nearly half polled (49%) worry most about a family member or themselves getting sick or injured. Twenty-six percent worry most about bad weather affecting a cruise. Twenty-six percent also experienced seasickness or a stomach illness during a voyage.

The cruise itinerary is the top reason why travelers choose to book a particular cruise. Other top factors included reputation or reviews (59%) followed by price (14%).

Travelers, who voluntarily participated in this survey, had all researched or purchased travel insurance within the past 24 months. Out of those polled, 25 percent had filed a travel insurance claim for a cruise-related issue. Here are common reasons for filing a claim:

1. Medical care required during a cruise
2. Medical issue forced a trip cancellation
3. Bad weather forced a delay or cancellation of cruise
4. Missed flight led to a delay or cancellation of cruise
5. Items stolen or lost during a trip

A surprising number of travelers are unclear whether their health insurance works outside the US. Over 36 percent polled were not sure whether their domestic health insurance plan would cover any doctor or hospital visits while traveling out of the country.

35 percent said their domestic health insurance would provide coverage, while 28 percent believed their insurance plan would offer no coverage.

River cruising gains more speed

Eighty-two percent of those polled have either been on a river cruise or would like to go on a river cruise. Seven percent have no desire to go, while 11 percent prefer larger cruise ships.

The Caribbean and Europe are hot spots

The Caribbean and Europe are tied as favorite cruise destination while 11 percent chose Alaska as a top place to visit.

35% Caribbean
35% Europe
11% Alaska 
19% Other

Carnival tops cruise lines

Based on travel insurance purchases so far in 2017, Carnival Cruise Line is the most popular cruise line.

1. Carnival Cruise Lines
2. Royal Caribbean International
3. Norwegian Cruise Line
4. Celebrity Cruises
5. Holland America Line
6. Princess Cruises
7. Disney Cruise Line
8. MSC Cruises