Cruise Line Fans.com , the Admins and Navigators work hard to keep the Hurricane Watch sub-forum constantly updates during hurricane season. We get a lot a questions about different aspects of cruising during this time period and thought we might take shot at answering some for the whole community.

1. When is hurricane season?

The Atlantic hurricane season traditionally begins June 1st and last through November 30th. The overwhelming majority of storms take place within this time window, with a few exceptions. Mid-August through mid-September often see the Eastern Caribbean hit hardest, and then from mid-September to November, the Western Caribbean seems to take the brunt of the storms.

2. Is there any way to avoid hurricanes?

Sure, don't sail during the Hurricane Season. OK, just kidding. Here's some practical advice: Lower your chances of getting struck by a hurricane while on board ship by cruising outside the peak times, or sailing to destinations including Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Trinidad and Tobago or the coast of Venezuela. The Southern Caribbean can be calmer and less storm filled, thereby focusing on these areas can reduce your chances of having to deal with a hurricane. Keep in mind that your ship is mobile...it can sail away from the worst storms, alter itineraries if needed and re-plot their course. And don't forget Alaska, European cruises, or the Mediterranean.

3. Should I buy travel insurance?

Ahhh, the old travel insurance debate. I'm going to pull a YES here. Here's why: It's hurricane season, you're sailing to the Caribbean with the family and you don't want anything to go wrong. This is a good reason to purchase travel insurance,given the increased chance of storm-related cancellations, revised itineraries, etc.

Remember, not all travel insurance plans are the same. Do your research and find a plan that will cover interruption, cancellation, or delays in the event of a major storm, including compensation for any transportation and airfare. Keep in mind that an itinerary change won't net you any refund or compensation if you're on board the ship for as many day as initially booked. You may be able to receive some On Board Credit (OBC) if there is a loss of a port day, but not all lines guarantee this type of compensation.

So, if you stand to lose a large amount of money if your trip was cancelled, then trip insurance is a good bet. Consider purchasing the plan on or around your final payment date for your trip. At this time, you and your fellow passengers will be finalized and committed to the trip, therefore, warranting some extra protection in the form of accredited, government-back, trip insurance.

Do you have some more Hurricane Season related questions for us? Please let us know.

Register At CruiseLineFans.com For Free