A
cruise is the perfect vacation to see
the world, and for anyone who is physically
challenged or disabled there is no
more comfortable or convenient way
to travel.
The cruise lines place
a high priority on providing the appropriate
assistance you need. Many cruise ships
use the latest technology to offer
a variety of services and amenities
for guests with visual, hearing or
physical limitations to allow you the
freedom to get the most out of your
cruise experience.
Cabins
Designated cabin accommodations offer
many conveniences such as wider doorways
and modified bathrooms with roll-in
showers and grab bars. Toilets, door
handles, light switches and closet
rods are also accessible. And TTY/TDD
kits can even be pre-installed upon
request, and interface with the Guest
Relations desk.
Public Areas
Cruise ships offer spacious public
areas, elevators and restrooms that
can easily accommodate guests with
disabilities. Lounges, casinos and
dining facilities have specific seating
areas for guests with wheelchairs,
and automatic doors and ramps provide
accessible routes throughout the
ship, including to the open decks.
And you'll find Braille and large-print
signage, menus and other information,
as well as closed-captioned video
screens.
Going Ashore
Many destinations and shore excursions
pose no limitations for disabled
guests. But unfortunately, not every
port of call offers full facilites.
In addition, it's possible that travel
from the ship to shore must be accomplished
by boat, which may further limit
some guests' ability to explore the
port. Every effort will be made to
accommodate guests with disabilities;
however, decisions will be made on
board with your safety in mind.
Medical Services
Every cruise ship provides professional
medical staff and facilities on board
to assist in the event of an emergency.
However, the facilities are limited
by the shipboard environment. The
traveller is responsible to provide
all medications, equipment and supplies
necessary for their care.
Availability of Wheelchairs
Wheelchairs are available to help guests
during embarkation and disembarkation
and for emergency use only. They
are not available throughout the
cruise for the convenience of the
guest. If you require a wheelchair
during your cruise, you should plan
on bringing one with you. All disabled
passengers should also travel with
an able-bodied person capable of
assisting them.
Other Services
Cruise ships can provide storage for
a wheelchair, medication or oxygen,
and dietary restrictions certainly
pose no problem. Special airport
transfers with hydraulic lifts can
be arranged, and assistance boarding
and disembarking the vessel is also
available. Most cruise lines have
special provisions for service dogs. |
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