Q&A with Arno Chrispeels: Navigating International Health Insurance for Sailors and Cruisers

Diane MacDonald-Mackenzie spoke with Arno Chrispeels of International Health Insurance Solutions

Q: Can you tell us a little about your background and how you developed a passion for sailing?

I grew up in San Diego, California, and started sailing when I was 10 years old at the Mission Bay Aquatic Center. I eventually became an assistant instructor at their summer camp and then raced FJ’s for one season at University of California Santa Cruz. Ever since I first stepped foot on a keelboat, I’ve been fascinated by the idea of being able to sail anywhere in the world. Though my cruising experiences have been pretty limited and only along the west coast of the US, I am planning to purchase a boat and start cruising within the next two years. 

Q: How did your professional journey lead you to international health insurance?

My formal education was in molecular biology and biochemistry at UCSC. However, about 16 years ago, I found my niche in selling international health insurance. My love for travel and my desire to sail internationally made this a perfect fit. I realized that many sailors and cruisers need specialized insurance solutions, and I could help them find the right plans to ensure their peace of mind. I have done this alongside teaching biology at a local high school. But now after 30 years of helping teenagers love biology, I’m ready to retire from teaching and just work with cruisers and expats teaching them about the intricacies of insurance. 

Q: What makes working with sailors and cruisers unique in the context of health insurance?

Sailors and cruisers have distinct needs compared to typical travelers. They spend extended periods at sea and visit multiple countries, which requires more comprehensive coverage. They need plans that can handle medical emergencies, evacuations, and long-term health care, often on a global scale.This became even more important during the pandemic, when some companies wouldn’t cover COVID, but others would. And many countries started requiring visitors to have insurance before they got there.  My role is to help them navigate these complexities and find insurance that meets their unique requirements. In addition, their voyages often last multiple years and many have scrimped and saved to make their dreams happen. They need economical solutions that will help to mitigate the risk of losing that precious cruising kitty. 

Q: What types of international health insurance do you specialize in?

I specialize in several types of insurance: travel insurance for short-term needs, long-term annually renewable health insurance for those who spend significant time abroad, and evacuation insurance for emergency medical situations. I also sell trip cancellation insurance, which would reimburse the cost of an expensive crewed or bareboat charter, plane fares and hotels, should a person not be able to go on their planned sailing adventure. Each type of insurance has its own benefits and is tailored to different aspects of international living and travel. 

Q: How do you assist your clients in choosing the right insurance plan?

My approach is very personalized. I take the time to understand my clients' specific needs, budgets, and travel plans. Whether they need short-term travel coverage or a more comprehensive, long-term solution, I provide them with options and explain the benefits and limitations of each plan. My goal is to ensure they feel confident and secure with their choice. As you know, there are many types of cruisers, each with a unique set of circumstances. For example, Medicare recipients don't need any US coverage and often can get by with a travel insurance plan. For many families, having access to pediatric care inside the USA is a requirement. Some cruisers never want to set foot in the US for medical care, but they plan to return to visit family and need some protection should an accident befall them while visiting. On the other hand, many cruisers like to spend their summers in the US and their winters in the Caribbean. They want insurance that allows them to seek care here in the US. 

Q: What advice would you give to someone looking to buy international health insurance for the first time?

First, assess your needs and travel plans. Consider factors like the duration of your trips, the countries you'll visit, and any pre-existing medical conditions. It’s also important to consider where you want to be able to seek care – anywhere in the world, or anywhere but not in the USA? Next, look for plans that offer flexibility and comprehensive coverage, and definitely reach out to me for help! Seeking advice from an expert who can guide you through the process and help you find a plan that fits your budget and needs can make the process much easier. There’s no point in doing all that leg work yourself when I can guide you quickly to the best options.

Q: Do you have any upcoming sailing plans that you’re excited about?

Yes, I hope to transition to a cruising sailboat soon and start traversing the globe. We're currently agonizing about which boat to get. Feel free to stop by the Annapolis boat show this fall and give me your opinions on the best boat for cruising! It's been a lifelong dream, and I’m excited about the adventures and new horizons it will bring. Sailing has always been a passion, and combining it with my professional expertise in international health insurance makes it even more rewarding. 

Q: How can interested individuals get in touch with you for advice on international health insurance?

They can reach out to me via email [email protected] or phone (888) 750-1070 or (858) 750-9080. People can also check out my website www.healthisinternational.com.  I’m always happy to provide consultations and help people find the best insurance solutions for their needs. Sailing and travel should be enjoyable experiences, and having the right insurance coverage is a big part of that peace of mind.