Future Cruises to Libya in Question
The revolt in Libya has put many travel plans to the region in jeopardy. Concerned travelers should be aware that a new travel insurance policy will not cover any loss caused by the unrest in Libya, as it is considered a foreseeable event. This doesn’t change the fact that many itineraries are changing and reservations being canceled. An article from USA Today discussed how cruises lines are reacting to the situation.
Cruise lines with Libya on their itineraries are in putting contingency plans into action as unrest spreads throughout the North African nation.
Some cruise lines canceled calls to Libya in March and April, while those with calls further out are taking a wait-and-see approach.
Libya has always been an intriguing but unstable destination for cruise companies looking for unique ports of call in the Mediterranean.
The travel insurance coverage that applies to the revolt in Libya is the same as the available coverage for the civil unrest in Egypt.
Most important for travelers already in the region is non-medical evacuation coverage. This transports a traveler from a place of danger to a nearby place of safety during situations of political unrest. Travelers in need of this coverage should contact their policy’s 24 hour assistance service number.
Travelers whose vacation plans are being changed should check with cruise lines, airlines and other travel suppliers to see what alternate arrangements or restitution is being provided.
Trips cancelled or interrupted by civil unrest, acts of war and rioting are not covered by travel insurance. This is because trip cancellation and trip interruption coverage requires that one of the covered reasons in the policy be met before benefits apply. The revolt in Libya is not covered reasons for trip cancellation and trip interruption.
Travelers en route and experiencing delays can be covered by travel delay or missed connection coverage. Benefits are normally available for any common carrier delay, such as an airline, so long as the delay lasts for the required amount of time. This can be as little as 3 hours or as many as 48 hours.
Always refer to the certificate of insurance for details.