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Cruise line offers job loss protection
27 Feb 2009
NCL first major cruise line to offer job loss protection plan
nclprotect 
27 FEB 2009:  Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has introduced a plan that will provide a full cash reimbursement to guests should they need to cancel because of job loss prior to their cruise.  The BookSafe Travel Protection Plan, says NCL will take the worry out of vacation planning, and help guests book a stress-free future cruise despite uncertain economic times.
Beginning yesterday, guests who purchase NCL’s BookSafe Travel Protection Plan for any NCL cruise departing on or after May 1, are eligible for reimbursement of any cancellation fees.  The plan applies if an insured guest loses their job - provided the person has been an active employee at the same company for at least one year.

In addition to the new job loss protection feature, NCL’s overall travel protection plan, administered by BerkelyCare and underwritten by National Union Fire Insurance Company of Pittsburgh, Penn., includes a variety of benefits and services.

The programme includes trip cancellation/trip interruption protection, medical protection including emergency evacuation coverage, baggage protection for lost or delayed luggage, and worldwide emergency assistance, such as emergency cash transfers, medical consultation and assistance with lost travel documents.

“In this challenging economic environment, we are offering a safety net for guests who want to book a cruise, but are uncertain about what the future holds in terms of their employment,” said Andy Stuart, NCL’s executive vice president of global sales and passenger services. 

“Our BookSafe plan enables guests to book with confidence knowing that they will receive a full refund if they need to cancel their cruise because of job loss.”

NCL’s enhanced travel protection plan starts at US$29 per person, depending on the cruise fare paid.