If you’re planning a Caribbean cruise vacation in the latter part of 2010, it might be wise to purchase travel insurance. The Colorado State University hurricane forecasting team has predicted that this year’s hurricane season will produce a whopping eight storms – of which four are expected to be major. From June through November, an estimated 15 tropical storms are being forecasted – five above the Atlantic season’s average

Although most island hopping-cruises fall within the Atlantic hurricane belt, there are several itineraries that call on tropical destinations south of the danger zone – like the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao), Trinidad and Tobago, and Barbados.  The only problem is these voyages often embark from San Juan, Puerto Rico – meaning you’ll have to factor in the extra cost of airfare.

On the plus side, (not that I have a crystal ball) but if these predictions cause enough travelers to postpone their vacation, there will likely be some incredible last-minute cruise deals for those willing to take the risk of sailing in the hurricane belt.