Yes, absolutely! You should never let a disability or special need hinder you from considering a cruise or requesting special accommodations. Cruise lines always make extra efforts to fulfill the special accommodations of all guests. Regardless of your physical or intellectual capabilities, it’s likely modern cruise ships have accommodations that will suit you.
Do your homework when deciding where you want to go on your cruise and what ship you want to sail on. Each cruise line accommodates guests with disabilities differently. Carnival Cruise Lines, for example, has made extra efforts for disabled people to have access around their ships. Most cruise lines do as well, however, some ships are more accessible than others. Make sure to discuss any special accommodations you may need with an agent at CruiseExperts.com so we can book the right cruise for you.
Here are some things you should consider when booking a cruise if you or your partner is handicapped and needs special accommodations:
1) Accommodations
Thanks to the Americans with Disability Act, ships that transport passengers to and from ports in the US are required to build vessels that feature grab bars, handrails, and wheelchair-accessible drinking fountains. This act also has given way to handicapped staterooms that usually include handicapped friendly bathrooms and emergency call buttons. They are designed to be large enough to accommodate the maneuvering of a wheelchair. You don’t have to pay extra for these rooms, but there are a limited number of these special staterooms so book early. You can also request shower chairs and seat risers in your bathroom or a bed extension if you or your companion is tall.
2) Deck plans and room location
Before one of our agents book your cruise, take a look at the ship’s deck plans. Look where the handicapped friendly cabins are and which restaurants, amenities, activities, and services are nearby. Consider which ones you and your partner would be using the most and try to get a room closest to it.
3) Special diet
Are you a vegetarian, have allergies or lactose-intolerant? Onboard chefs are well-versed in catering to special dietary requirements. Cruise ships take pride in their extensive and excellent food served, and will do their best to make sure there is something for everyone!
4) Medicine needs special storage
Some prescriptions need to be stored at certain temperatures. If this is the case with your medicine, tell a cruise line employee and they can bring you a mini refrigerator to keep in your stateroom or allow you to store your prescription in the onboard medical facilities.
For more information on how cruises can accommodate special needs, our agents at CruiseExperts.com can answer any questions you may have. Call us at 1.888.804.CRUISE (2784). You can also visit our website, www.CruiseExperts.com.