Disabled Travelers Shouldn't Rule Out Cruises

Disabled travelers face a range of challenges the rest of us never consider. Cruise companies like the Holland America line work to overcome as many of those challenges as possible on their cruise ships. Thankfully their efforts have made disabled travel more comfortable and filled with more options that at any time in the past. With careful research, a cruise vacation can be an excellent option for disabled individuals.

What Should Be Evaluated In A Cruise For The Disabled?

First, disabled travelers need to consider the age of the cruise ship. Older ships were not subject to the same design parameters and legally mandated access specifications as vessels being built today. Access is about a great deal more than ramps. Factors like thresholds and bathrooms, medical support facilities, and support in public areas must all be considered.

The second thing to consider is the level of disability of the prospective traveler. Passengers are required to participate in such activities as onboard safety drills. If the traveler cannot meet that requirement for whatever reason, most ships require that the individual be accompanied by a caregiver.

Many disabled passengers require a wheelchair or a scooter to get around. Not every cabin onboard has the necessary space to accommodate these assistive devices. Because the number of appropriately designed handicapped rooms on any vessel are limited, it's always best to book your cruise well in advance.

Also, handicapped travelers who rely on assistive devices for mobility will want to get a full access map or diagram of the ship before the trip to learn the accessible routes into and out of the ship's public areas. These routes may represent "the long way around" but they do make it possible for disabled travelers to fully participate in the cruise experience.

The best thing to do is to work with a travel agency and to fully explain your personal situation. If you're buying the package directly from the cruise line, you should have the same level of discussion with a company representative. Don't worry, they are accustomed to handicapped travel issues and will be able to help you with your questions and personal requirements. (Always travel with a physician's report in case of an emergency. In such a situation you want the ship's medical staff to have the necessary information to help you.)

It is especially important for passengers who require oxygen to inform the cruise line. Oxygen poses a potential risk of fire and explosion and each company has different guidelines for how extra bottles are to be handled and stored. It's also a good idea to find out if a backup supply of oxygen is available onboard in the event of the malfunction or failure of private equipment.



Continue to: Holland America Offers Top-Rate Disabled Travel Services