If you use a cane, walker, wheelchair, or other equipment to support your mobility, cruising can be a good way to see the world. Cruise ships must abide by international standards for accessibility, and cruise ships that dock in U.S. ports must meet the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Even older
cruise ships have accessible cabins, bathrooms, restaurants, and common spaces. Newer
ships are designed to make even more features easily accessible to passengers who
have limited mobility or other disabilities.
To help
ensure an enjoyable and happy cruise, here are a few tips:
Bigger and
newer may be better.
Bigger, newer ships usually have more space to work with when maximizing
accessibility. However, some older ships – especially those that have been
renovated – may fit your needs just as well. Ask your professional travel
advisor to help you look at deck plans for ships you’re interested in; it’s
important to be sure that your top choice will meet your needs.
Check
for tender ports.
For passengers with limited mobility, the best cruise itineraries may be those where
the ship can pull up to a dock in all ports of call. When a cruise ship can’t
dock (usually due to its size), it anchors off the coast and uses smaller
boats, called tenders, to take passengers to shore. It can be difficult for passengers
who use mobility equipment to get on and off tender boats.
Book
early. Even on the
biggest ships, the number of accessible cabins may be limited, so make a
reservation as early as possible. If you need to check on details, such as the
width of cabin and bathroom doorways, your professional travel advisor or the
cruise line’s staff can help.
Consider
renting the equipment you need.
Instead of packing your own mobility aids and other equipment that may be difficult
to bring with you, look into renting what you need. Cruise passengers can rent anything
from wheelchairs to hospital beds and shower chairs to commodes from suppliers
that make sure everything is waiting for you when you board the ship. Ask your
professional travel advisor or cruise line to recommend an equipment rental
company.
Your
cruise line may ask you to complete a form that will tell them more about your mobility
and your needs. Be sure to provide complete and detailed information, which
will help the crew to accommodate you and ensure a terrific vacation.
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