Over 1.25 million Australians took a cruise in 2016, Cruise Lines International Association figures reveal

Judging by the number of cruise ships tied up around Sydney Harbour, it should come as no surprise that Australians are among the world's most enthusiastic cruisers. That impression is backed by figures from the Cruise Lines International Association, which shows the number of Australians taking a cruise grew by 21 per cent in 2016 to over 1.25 million. That's one in every 19 Australians, the highest ratio of any country.

The figure is all the more surprising since, according to a recent survey from leading comparison website finder.com.au, a lot of Australians are just plain terrified of taking to the high seas. Among other results from the survey of more than 2000 adults, one in seven would avoid a cruise because they're afraid of pirates. The thought of hitting an iceberg was a deterrent for 12 per cent, while 11 per cent reported fear of falling overboard. The No. 1 fear is food poisoning, with one in three saying it would deter them from cruising.

Less surprising perhaps, Baby Boomers are the most cruise-happy with 32 per cent saying nothing would deter them from hopping on board, compared with 27 per cent of gen X and only 20 per cent of millennials.

Bessie Hassan, Insurance expert at finder.com.au says that while some cruise-related fears are valid, others are irrational. "I think we can blame Titanic for the iceberg fear," according to Ms Hassan, "but the chance of hitting an iceberg is extremely slim. Nightmare scenarios are very rare, but anxiety and doubt can interfere with the best-laid plans. The answer is preparation. Get a travel insurance policy specifically designed for cruising."