4 minute read
Accessibility
From one-on-one support to wheelchair-accessible balconies, cruise ships are delivering smooth sailing for travelers with disabilities.
By Marci Stepak | Illustrations by Alexandra Bowman
Jean Reese and her husband had taken 31 cruises and, for cruise number 32, chose an epic, seven-day trip to Alaska. The couple from Maple Ridge, British Columbia, prefer seeing the world by ship because cruises provide a level of comfort that other modes of travel no longer can — especially for Jean, who uses a walker. “What appeals to me about cruising — particularly on the smaller ships — is the ease of getting around,” she says. Today’s cruise ships are increasingly being designed with accessibility in mind. Widened corridors, accessible staterooms and mobility-friendly features make cruising an appealing travel option that promises both inclusivity and adventure.
From the very beginning of their journeys, people with disabilities can typically take advantage of priority boarding and designated accessible gangways. Celebrity Cruises has upped the ante by creating the “Magic Carpet,” an innovative floating platform that moves around the ship from top to bottom for easier boarding.
Some cruise lines, like Norwegian, offer one-on-one meetings with Access Officers onboard who can provide wheelchair assistance, answer questions about navigating the ship and generally make sure travelers’ needs are met.
“From providing private safety drills to arranging in-room accommodations, such as hearing-impaired kits, seat risers and braille communications, the Access Officer is a guest’s primary point of contact dedicated to providing them an inclusive cruise experience,” says Mark Kansley, senior vice-president, hotel operations at Norwegian Cruise Line.
Accessibly designed staterooms often feature spacious layouts, easy-to-reach amenities and bathrooms equipped with grab bars and rollin showers. Princess Cruises offers a wearable device that allows for touchless stateroom entry, automatically unlocking the door as guests approach. And accessible staterooms on some Silversea ships have wheelchair-friendly balconies.
When it comes to amenities, most ships feature accessible swimming pools with lifts and theaters with designated seating. Assisted Listening Devices are available in theaters on many Norwegian ships, along with a pager that will transmit PA announcements for hearing-impaired guests.
A number of ships have also introduced features to help travelers with disabilities disembark to explore ports of call. Holland America Line vessels, for example, have elevators running to the access points for tenders, or small boats, that transport passengers to shore at some ports.
For Jean, these advancements give her the freedom to cruise on her own terms, whether that means joining her husband on a shore excursion or enjoying a solo day on the ship. Jean says that a quiet day reading in one of the cozy stateroom libraries or chatting leisurely with new friends is often her ideal day onboard. Weeks after their Alaskan cruise, Jean and her husband are already planning their next voyage: a trip from Los Angeles to Mexico next spring.
Ask Your Ensemble Travel Advisor
Diana Reuling in Kissimmee, Florida, shares three questions to ask your advisor when planning an accessible trip.
“What is the level of accessibility on the ship and at the destination?”
Inquire about wheelchairaccessible entrances, adapted rooms, accessible bathrooms and any other amenities that may be essential for your specific needs.
“What do I need to bring?”
You don’t necessarily have to lug all your equipment with you. Companies like Special Needs at Sea or Scootaround will take care of items like oxygen, bed hoists, raised toilet seats, powerchairs, scooters or walkers and have them delivered directly to your stateroom.
“What accessible activities and excursions are available?”
Consider arranging private excursions in advance: Advisors can help with navigating an accessible-van rental or arranging for alternative routes if your excursion destination is not accessible.
