UK Swaps Skis For Sailing On the High Seas

The cruise has officially usurped the skiing holiday's place in the affections of the UK, with more people sailing into the sunset this winter than heading to the piste. With more people wanting to have more control over their holidays a cruise is ideal; you can wear what you want, eat when you want (and with whom you want) and, basically, do what you want. You get the freedom of seeing exotics destinations while not being stuck at the same resort.

But while the risk of breaking your limb may seem smaller on deck than on the slopes, the costs if something does go wrong can be even harsher, say travel insurance companies. Insurance may not be foremost in the minds of cruise passengers, but it is just as essential as on any other holiday. And while modern cruise ships are well equipped to deal with many eventualities, the costs of an air ambulance in a worst case scenario can quickly add up to five figures.

"Travel insurance is just as important on a cruise as for any other type of holiday," said a travel insurance manager.

"When people are taken ill at sea and need urgent treatment, transportation from the cruise ship to the nearest hospital can be an added complication sometimes involving the use of an air ambulance."

Cruises are now available to suit all budgets, but travel insurance companies are also warning holidaymakers to check the maximum value of their cancellation policies. This is generally set at an upper limit of £5,000, but the costs of a cruise can often exceed this. Travel insurance companies recommend a specialist policy if needed.

Travel insurance firms also advise cruise passengers planning a long cruise holiday to check that the policy does not restrict the number of days per trip that can be spent out of the UK.

Top cruise destinations:

•    Caribbean
•    Mexico
•    Baltic sea
•    Panama canal
•    Florida
•     Alaska
•    Jamaica
•    Mediterranean
•    Red sea

If you would like to know more about travel insurance why not ask AnswerBank Insurance.