*Unlimited means there is no cap on the maximum dollar amount which may be paid out for this benefit, however, amount payable depends on the specific cover, exclusions and terms outlined in the relevant section of the PDS/FSG. Medical, hospital, dental or any ancillary benefits or expenses incurred more than 12 months from the time treatment for the injury or illness was first received will not be covered.
^ Dependants is defined as any of your children, stepchildren, foster children or grandchildren who are 19 years of age or under at the time you purchase your policy, are financially dependent on their parents or grandparents and not working full time. Dependants must be travelling with you for your entire trip and listed on your Certificate of Insurance.
A Cruise Destination Guide for Australian Travellers
Cruising has become a popular way to travel for Australians, and for good reason! A cruise can be a great way to tick destinations off your bucket list solo or with family, but either way timing is everything when it comes to matters of the sea. Whether you’re planning a cruise from Sydney, a cruise from Brisbane, or dreaming of a once-in-a-lifetime Antarctica cruise, choosing the right time to set sail can make or break your holiday. Weather, crowds and even itinerary changes can all vary significantly by region.
If you’re thinking of taking out cruise travel insurance, make sure to check out its combined PDS/FSG for more detail of cover in each section, as conditions, exclusions, section limits and sub-limits may apply as set out in each section, and additional sub-limits may apply.
South Pacific Cruises (Fiji, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, Whitsundays)
Best time to cruise the South Pacific: May to October
Why: Dry season, lower humidity, calmer seas, ideal beach weather. The South Pacific is a popular region for cruises from Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane to escape winter over this period. Expect turquoise water, coral reefs and warm island hospitality.
Hot tip: March to April and October to November offer great weather with fewer crowds.
Travel insurance: Cyclone season (November to April) can cause itinerary changes. Cruise travel insurance could help cover trip interruptions.++
New Zealand Cruises
Best time to cruise New Zealand: December to March
Why: Warm summer weather, perfect for fjords, wildlife and outdoor excursions. New Zealand cruises are popular for Aussies looking to explore the scenic routes through Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound and Dusky Sound.
Hot tip: October to November and April offer cooler temps but stunning scenery.
Travel insurance: Weather can be unpredictable. Travel insurance could help cover cancelled day excursions.++
Antarctica Cruises
Best time to cruise Antarctica: November to March
Why: Milder summer conditions and wildlife activity. This is the ultimate bucket-list cruise destination. Penguins, icebergs and surreal landscapes.
Travel insurance: Medical evacuation from Antarctica can be expensive. Travel insurance could help cover some medical costs.**
Mediterranean Cruises
Best time to cruise the Mediterranean: May to June and September to October.
Why: Peak season is July-August but can be hot and crowded so shoulder periods can be more comfortable. Mediterranean cruises are ideal for culture lovers, foodies and history buffs. Popular European itineraries include Italy, Greece, Spain and Croatia.
Travel insurance: Summer heatwaves can cause port cancellations. Travel insurance could help cover missed tours.++
Cruising Australia
Best time to cruise Australia:
Whitsundays: June to October
Great Barrier Reef: June to November
Tasmania: December to February
Why: More likely to avoid rocky weather from cyclone season up further north. Australia’s coastline offers everything from tropical islands to rugged wilderness.
Travel insurance: Stinger season in Queensland (November to May) can affect water activity plans. Travel insurance could cover cancelled activities.++
Choosing the best time to go on a cruise depends on where you’re headed. From the sun-soaked South Pacific to the fjords of New Zealand or the icy landscapes of Antarctica. Planning around weather, crowds and seasonal highlights help you get the most from your holiday. A little preparation goes a long way toward a smoother, more memorable cruise!
++Refer to combined PDS/FSG to determine if Cruise cover is required for your trip. Terms, conditions, limits, sub-limits and exclusions apply.
**Terms, conditions (including eligibility criteria), limits, sub-limits and exclusions apply. Refer to combined PDS/FSG for full details. Some cover benefit limits or sub-limits may be less than your chosen excess and therefore the insurer may not contribute anything to your claim.
