best cruise ships for disabled passengers

Oriana, an older ship, only has eight, all on F Deck, with a window but no balcony. The toilet is high and has collapsible arm guards, proving support and making it easier for transfer. Fleetmates: Sister ship Norwegian Escape is another of Norwegian's newer ship, with similar amenities and 47 accessible staterooms. Collapsible wheelchairs can be taken into most cabins, but you should ensure that your chair, when collapsed, will fit through your cabin door. 70025, or by emailing access@carnival.com. Plus, earn an additional Free Night Award after you spend $60K in purchases on your Card in a calendar year. Some cruise lines, such as small-ship luxury line Regent Seven Seas, appoint one staff member to each passenger with a disability to make sure he or she is taken care of in case of an. Wheelchair and scooter accessible staterooms feature throughout the entire NCL fleet, providing wider doorways, handrails, roll-in showers and shower benches. Full board. The ship only has one accessible toilet in the public areas, outside the Neptune Lounge on Deck 6. Related: Everything you want to know about cabins and suites on Princess Cruises ships. Passengers who wish to rent assistive devices for use on board, rather than bringing their own, can contact Scootaround, which is Norwegian's authorized vendor. These comfortable cabins feature grab bars in the bathroom, a roll-in shower bench, lowered surfaces, accessible balconies and refrigerators on request. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters must be stored in cabins, not corridors. Additional equipment can also be provided. You may bring and use wheelchairs, mobility scooters and other assistive devices onboard our ships. For more information on mobility and other special access cruise queries, please see the Iglu Cruise Helpcentre, Setting sail in 2023 from Piraeus in Athens, Resilient Lady is the third ship to join Virgin Voyages [], You can now pre-book your P&O Summer 2025 cruise with us. Most cruise lines accept gel, dry cell, sealed lead acid or lithium-ion battery-operated wheelchairs, but it is your responsibility to check with your booking agent before you travel that your wheelchair is allowed on board. The ultimate guide to Carnival Cruise Line ships and itineraries, The ultimate guide to Celebrity Cruises ships and itineraries, 5 tips for going on a cruise as a wheelchair user, The ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line ships and itineraries, The 4 classes of Holland America ships, explained, Why cruises are a great option for travelers with disabilities, The ultimate guide to MSC Cruises ships and itineraries, The 8 classes of Norwegian Cruise Line ships, explained, How to travel on a budget as a wheelchair user, Everything you want to know about cabins and suites on Princess Cruises ships, Everything you want to know about cabins and suites on Royal Caribbean ships, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. Amongst these are: Royal Caribbean: Their ships are amongst the largest and have some of the most accessible cabins available. For those on regular medication, make sure you pack ample supplies because the ship might not be able to meet your prescription needs should you run out, and some medications can be difficult or impossible to find in port. I've cruised Alaska and even Antarctica with Holland America, and both cruises were phenomenal.". Oceanview: 170-182 square feet. While all cruise ships (even foreign-flagged ones) sailing in U.S. waters should be compliant with the U.S. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), there aren't standards specifically addressing cruise ships, which means that some lines do more than others. Top marks to P&O for having a clearly explained section on its website for cruisers with special needs, right down to sections on door widths on each ship and ports where the gangway might be too steep for a less mobile person to go ashore. Due to varying conditions in certain ports, it is not always possible for guests who require a wheelchair or scooter to disembark. We offer cruises sailing from Southampton, as well as fly cruises to over 270 of the world's most wonderful destinations. They also have lower closet rods and accessible balconies with automatic doors. The 5,518-passenger .css-hghiur{transition-property:var(--chakra-transition-property-common);transition-duration:var(--chakra-transition-duration-fast);transition-timing-function:var(--chakra-transition-easing-ease-out);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;font-weight:var(--chakra-fontWeights-medium);border-bottom-width:1px;border-bottom-style:dotted;cursor:pointer;color:var(--chakra-colors-blue-base);border-color:var(--chakra-colors-blue-base);}.css-hghiur:focus-visible,.css-hghiur[data-focus-visible]{box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-outline);}.css-hghiur:hover,.css-hghiur[data-hover]{-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;border-bottom-width:1px;border-bottom-style:solid;}Symphony of the Seas debuted in 2018 as the world's largest cruise ship, but disabled passengers don't get lost in the mix. We also call out a few fleetmates, older ships that get consistently positive reviews from travelers with disabilities. In 2019, Saga Pearl II will retire and be replaced by a new flagship, the 55,900-ton Spirit of Discovery, carrying 999 guests in luxurious, modern style, with a second new ship on order, Spirit of Adventure. Fleetmates: Royal Caribbean's other Oasis-class ships, Harmony of the Seas, Allure of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas, get similarly top ratings from travelers with disabilities. Thanks to the helpful guide provided before you sail, guests will be able to book step-free excursions or, with the Explore Ashore service, tailor their onshore experiences to suit their needs. Airport transfers with lifts can be provided if requested in advance of the sailing date. Shore excursions list outings suitable for travelers who are mobility impaired. Lifts at the pool make it easier than ever to enjoy sunbathing on deck, while those with audio disabilities can enjoy all the entertainment thanks to Assistive Listening Systems, sign language interpreters and much more. Aurora is an older ship, launched in 2000, with a more intimate feel, as it only carries 1,874, but there's still a good selection of 18 wheelchair-accessible cabins, from insides to balcony accommodation. Cruise liner. Disabled passengers can experience luxury cruising on the small Regent Seven Seas Cruises line, which offers all-suite ships and a high crew-to-passenger ratio. The 5,518-passenger Symphony of the Seas debuted in 2018 as the world's largest cruise ship, but disabled passengers don't get lost in the mix. 6 points per dollar on eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program, 4 points per dollar at restaurants worldwide, U.S. gas stations, wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and U.S. shipping, 2 points per dollar on all other eligible purchases, Earn a free-night award each card renewal month (up to 35,000 points), Receive 15 elite night credits to jump-start status, Must spend $60,000 in a year for second free-night award. Raised toilet seats are also available on request. A fully accessible cabin will be barrier-free, allowing a wheelchair easy access to and from the bathroom, the balcony (if there is one) and of course in the room itself. Accommodations vary from ship to ship but include additional space as well as other special amenities, such as grab bars and flat thresholds. The Best (Free) Things to Do on Carnival Panorama. Fleetmates: Maasdam and its sister ship Veendam, in the line's Statendam (or S) class, also consistently get top reviews from disabled travelers. Email us Message: Name: * Tel: * Email * Postcode: All dining and bar venues have wheelchair access, as does the video arcade. These excursions can include: Assistance can be provided on request for embarkation and disembarkation, however, for safety reasons, staff cannot lift guests or equipment. Related: The ultimate guide to Carnival Cruise Line ships and itineraries. The accessible cabins have wide stateroom doors without sills and wide ramped-threshold bathroom doors. Thanks to their warm Italian hospitality, staff will be more than happy to assist you wherever possible. They have roll-in showers, grab bars and wide turning spaces. Meanwhile adapted means the cabin has been modified based on its original specifications, which could pose a problem to a full-time wheelchair user, as accessible cabins are generally larger than standard rooms to allow for wheelchair manoeuvrability. For questions about or help with planning travel as a person with limited mobility, Disney Cruise Line Special Services can be reached at 407-566-3602 or by emailing SpecialServices@disneycruise.com. Staff will also be able to provide assistance with disembarkation and embarkation, however, some ports of call will require tender boats to shore. Another plus: a roll-in shower in the spa's wet treatment room. The older, 2,394-passenger Norwegian Gem, which has 27 accessible cabins, also gets consistently positive reviews from passengers with disabilities. If you need to hire any equipment, call the cruise line -- items like shower chairs and raised toilet seats can be provided, or larger items that meet the requirements of the International Maritime Organisation can be hired via Mobility at Sea (mobilityatsea.co.uk), which, incidentally, works with all the major cruise lines. Royal Caribbean International's large ships give passengers the benefit of some of the roomiest spaces at sea. Depending on the itinerary you have booked, a few ports might require tender boats to take guests ashore. Those with disabled access requirements may prefer the panoramic coach tours or a leisurely guided visit to a range of landmarks. In recent years, they have continued to implement a focus on accessibility across the fleet, with accessible cabins, wheelchair-friendly venues and dining rooms, lifts and more, as well as assistance for those with audio and visual impairments. Is it possible to get off the ship in port or hear the evening show? We have a 100% success rate at getting [], Cunard has been renowned for its luxurious voyages for more than 180 years. If you're travelling on a ferry or cruise ship that departs from the UK, or elsewhere in the EU, there's an EU Regulation that gives you rights if you're disabled or a person with reduced mobility. All access to the quayside is by a narrow, stepped gangway. This post contains references to products from one or more of our advertisers. Compare the cost in points or miles to cash, and see which option is best. Related: Why cruises are a great option for travelers with disabilities. Related: The ultimate guide to Celebrity Cruises ships and itineraries. No, Michele Monro, author of a new book on sailing with a disability, shares her expert tips, Weve handpicked the best hotels with accessible rooms across the UK, from fancy London pads to rural countryside hotels, Make your journey as smooth as possible with our tips on everything from booking wheelchair spaces to the hacks you can use on the Eurostar, Our cruise editor takes you through all you need to know about rules, routes and whats coming up on the rivers and high seas, The world really is your oyster when it comes to choosing a cruise destination. It will only be available at specified times because it cannot be kept in place throughout the sailing. The majority of cruise ships are mostly accessible, with the general rule being the newer the ship the more facilities will be available. Thanks to a dedicated team of specialist staff to assist you before, during and after your cruise, Norwegian Cruise Line are able to provide some of the best disabled access cruises around the world. 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. .css-18jw8gc{-webkit-appearance:none;-moz-appearance:none;-ms-appearance:none;appearance:none;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-box-pack:center;-ms-flex-pack:center;-webkit-justify-content:center;justify-content:center;-webkit-user-select:none;-moz-user-select:none;-ms-user-select:none;user-select:none;position:relative;white-space:nowrap;vertical-align:middle;outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;line-height:1.2;border-radius:var(--chakra-radii-md);transition-property:var(--chakra-transition-property-common);transition-duration:var(--chakra-transition-duration-normal);height:auto;min-width:var(--chakra-sizes-10);font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-md);background:none;border:0;color:black;display:inline;margin:0px;padding:0!important;font-family:var(--chakra-fonts-Roboto);font-weight:500;padding-top:0.625rem;padding-bottom:0.625rem;-webkit-padding-start:1rem;padding-inline-start:1rem;-webkit-padding-end:1rem;padding-inline-end:1rem;}.css-18jw8gc:focus-visible,.css-18jw8gc[data-focus-visible]{box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-outline);}.css-18jw8gc:disabled,.css-18jw8gc[disabled],.css-18jw8gc[aria-disabled=true],.css-18jw8gc[data-disabled]{opacity:0.4;cursor:not-allowed;box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-none);}.css-18jw8gc:active,.css-18jw8gc[data-active]{border:var(--chakra-borders-none);background:none;}.css-18jw8gc:hover,.css-18jw8gc[data-hover]{border:var(--chakra-borders-none);background:none;}.css-18jw8gc:focus,.css-18jw8gc[data-focus]{border:var(--chakra-borders-none);outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-none);}Cookie Consent. Best Ships for Travelers with Disabilities All Best Bets Amsterdam, Holland America Line Ruby Princess, Princess. Some rooms also have accessible balconies. Many cruise ships are now fully accessible to people with a wide range of disabilities and provide some of the most exciting, inspiring and best value-for-money holidays that you can find. Pool lifts are available on Carnival's newest vessels, including Carnival Horizon, Carnival Panorama, Carnival Radiance, Carnival Sunrise, Carnival Vista and Mardi Gras. Plus, for those bringing the whole family, accessible cabins include suites that can sleep up to four people. In addition, Arcadia has a number of partially accessible cabins; there's less manoeuvring room in these, so they aren't suitable for full-time wheelchair users. They aim to give these passengers extra peace of mind and a relaxing vacation. Taken together, the ship has one of the highest percentage of cabins available to travelers who have a disability. Finally, the free night award certificate with a redemption level of 35,000 points or less can get you hundreds of dollars in potential value each year. Each of the line's vessels is equipped with a pool lift, and airport transfers with lifts are available when requested in advance. Each MSC Cruises ship is outfitted with accessible cabins for passengers with limited mobility, including wheelchair users. Everything is carefully thought out, right down to highlighting which excursions are best for those who are less mobile. The best cruise lines for disabled passengers go above and beyond to ensure their utmost safety at all times, as well as complete relaxation and unrivalled experiences of fantastic destinations. Your information will be used in accordance with our Privacy Policy. With numerous cruise lines providing spacious adapted cabins, accessible cruise excursions and outstanding assistance, disabled access cruises around the world are now easier than ever to book. Package Tours, City Breaks, Countryside, Cultural Holidays, Attraction Holidays. Mediterranean. CMV operates a fleet of older ships from its home base, London's Tilbury, as well as other U.K. ports. Holland America Winner of the Best Overall Facilities for Physically Challenged Passengers by Porthole Cruise magazine, Holland America provides accessible experiences for all disabilities. CroisiEurope: All of CroisiEurope's premium-rated ships offer accessible cabins with wide doors and equipment for passengers with mobility issues. Receive a 7% discount off standard rates for reservations of standard guest rooms at hotels that participate in the Marriott Bonvoy program when you book directly. The current fleet varies from the small, 790-passenger Adonia (until March 2018, when it leaves the fleet) to the flagship, Britannia, carrying 3,647 passengers. There's also wheelchair seating in the theater and showrooms. Experience the grandeur of cruising with P&O and cruise to the Adriatic, Italy and Malta. All ships also have pool lifts that can be used by appointment. With 65 accessible staterooms, this bold, new ship, launched in 2018, includes plenty of options for disabled travelers. Inspired to book a cruise? An accessible cabana is also available. Should you opt for a standard stateroom, your wheelchair or scooter must be collapsible. Norwegian Cruise Line staffs each ship with an access officer, who is the go-to person for passengers with disabilities. The cabin directory and emergency information are provided in Braille. You can expect to see the following cabin sizes on Royal Caribbean, although exact size will differ by ship and stateroom type: Interior: 136-172 square feet. E-mail: info@scootaround.com. Fleetmates: You'll find similar amenities on Celebrity's Solstice class sister ships: Silhouette, Eclipse, Equinox and Solstice. Related: Everything you want to know about cabins and suites on Royal Caribbean ships. .css-hghiur{transition-property:var(--chakra-transition-property-common);transition-duration:var(--chakra-transition-duration-fast);transition-timing-function:var(--chakra-transition-easing-ease-out);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;font-weight:var(--chakra-fontWeights-medium);border-bottom-width:1px;border-bottom-style:dotted;cursor:pointer;color:var(--chakra-colors-blue-base);border-color:var(--chakra-colors-blue-base);}.css-hghiur:focus-visible,.css-hghiur[data-focus-visible]{box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-outline);}.css-hghiur:hover,.css-hghiur[data-hover]{-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;border-bottom-width:1px;border-bottom-style:solid;}P&O Cruises operates eight ships, with a ninth, a megaship, due in 2020. The credit card offers that appear on the website are from credit card companies from which ThePointsGuy.com receives compensation. We specialise in providing stress-free holidays to disabled passengers and those who suffer from ill health - with adapted cabins, fully accessible ships with shore excursions, and facilities accessible to all! The desk can be reached at 866-584-9756 or accessdesk@ncl.com. The ship has accessible public restrooms and wide elevator openings. Its fleet even features a specially designed lift system for tender transfers. On This Page P&O Cruises Princess Cruises Carnival Cruise Line Royal Caribbean International Scooters and Service Animals on Cruises P&O Cruises P&O has accessible cabins in all categories (inside, outside, balcony and suite). Saga holidays are specifically for the over-50s and the ships are known for their fine food and friendly, caring atmosphere. Carnival Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas and Royal Caribbean are frontrunners when it comes to onboard facilities for the disabled. But with only eight fully accessible cabins (seven on Maasdam), bookings should be made far in advance. Assistance dogs are allowed on board cruises where all ports of call fit into the EU's Pet Passport scheme. If you're a traveler with limited mobility, there are certain considerations that are necessary when planning a trip. Thanks to extra touches such as chauffeur service and spacious, accessible cabins, a disabled access cruise with Saga will take you to unrivalled destinations in pure comfort. Passengers requiring a wheelchair for excursions but not for use onboard can ask for the chair to be stored. Wide gangways allow wheelchair users to more easily get on and off the ship. Please check Foreign Office advice and testing/quarantine requirements in your destination before booking. Bathrooms have grab bars, roll-in showers, handheld showerheads and high toilets. But its best to arm yourself with the brochures of the lines you are considering and check their websites, as most have pages dedicated to special needs and accessibility. There are also lowered sink and stateroom vanities and a raised toilet, along with lowered closet rods, lowered safe, open bed frames, accessible balconies for select cabins and amplified telephones. Three ships, Arcadia, Oriana and Adonia, are adults-only while the remaining five are very popular with families. We'll run a soft credit check to find special offers, but it wont affect your credit score. If you want to cruise with CMV and have special needs, it is essential that you talk to the cruise line before booking as every passenger's requirements are assessed individually. Can they easily take a shower? The ship also has 13 ambulatory accessible cabins, which have a small step to the shower and are designed for passengers with limited mobility who do not use a wheelchair, scooter or similar device. In addition, Reflection's accessible staterooms offer extra-wide stateroom doors without sills, and bathroom doors provide ramped thresholds, grab bars and roll-in showers with fold-down bench and handheld showerheads. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. Guests wishing to use the tenders must have sufficient independent mobility to negotiate steps and traverse a gap of up to 45cm. In public areas, passengers find accessible bathrooms with automatic doors, along with wide gangways, and Braille/tactile signage in public rooms, elevators, staterooms and deck numbers on staircase handrails.

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