I write this the day after American Classic Voyages announced their filing Chapter 11 bankruptcy. They are the Delta Queen Steamboat Company/American Hawaii Cruises/(new) Delta Coastal Voyages people...with fine products, attractive itineraries and hefty fares. They are the second cruise line to go "under" since the September 11th attacks; the first was Renaissance Cruises, also a pricey line.

If you are thinking of purchasing a package vacation or a cruise or a tour...please, please invest in the insurance! Most legitimate travel providers offer insurance as an option, and coverage varies. Carefully read what is covered...this is not the time for assumptions. If the trip you are taking doesn`t offer insurance, ask your travel agent to recommend a private travel insurance company. IF YOUR PACKAGE CANNOT BE COVERED, THIS IS A BIG WARNING FLAG...two companies ceased new policies on American Classic Voyages about two weeks ago.

Most policies will cover (non pre-existing) illness, death of you or immediate family member or traveling companion and other reasons specified. I have seen policies that allow you to cancel for any reason, others that will waive for jury duty, military obligations, and more esoteric reasons. The travel supplier (cruise line or package company) has very little leeway in what they cover; they usually contract the insurance to a third party. Acts of God, war, or terrorism is usually listed as "not covered."

The cost of the insurance, once paid, is never refundable.

If you need to cancel a trip for a reason which is not protected under a purchased policy, try to negotiate with the travel provider for credit towards a future trip. They would prefer to keep you happy than to just lose your business.

Trip insurance should never be confused with health insurance; it will not cover medical bills while traveling, though they may assist with transporting you home.

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