Things disabled cruisers should consider before setting off their journey

Things Disabled Cruisers Should Consider before Setting off their Journey By Special Needs At Sea

Cruising implies a lot of enjoyment and a break from boredom, but it also intimates planning and arrangements. It is, therefore, very important for travelers, who have a disability, to make necessary arrangements and know about the offers and facilities of cruise lines. While cruising enables one to visit places and experience on-board entertainment, it is significant to consider few important things to keep one from any inconvenience and ambiguity, and to have a stress-free journey.

Disabled cruisers should consider following things to have a stress-free and relaxed cruising experience:

Choose a Cruise A new or a big cruise might fascinate you, but it might not be right for you. Thus, don’t underestimate old ships as they are frequently overhauled and provide more accessibility to travelers with special requirements. A best way to help yourself choose a right cruise is to visit the websites of cruise lines and check if they are accessible cruises. If they cater special needs, get all information, know the cruise line’s policy and give details about your requirements.

Book a cruise which understands your needs and limitations and is able to meet them.

Hire an Experienced Travel Agent Hiring a travel agent isn’t mandatory, but beneficial in many ways. With his vast experience in the field, he is familiar with various cruise lines and amenities offered by them. Also, he knows the itineraries and types of excursions available.

He will make sure that you get a cruise that meets your special and specific needs in an effective manner. Things like reservations at accessible hotel rooms, arrangement of medical equipment rental, etc. are well handled by travel agents. A travel agent, thus, makes sure that all your requirements are met, and saves your time.

Contact the Airline (If Required)

You might have to book an airline, but it is important to contact them directly to convey your special needs. When you discuss your needs with the airline, they arrange mobility aides to provide you comfort during traveling.

On-Board Considerations & Limitations Cruise lines offer accessible staterooms for disabled travelers. While they are smaller in size, they are small in number too and, therefore, it is essential to book a room as soon as possible. Don’t be surprised if cruise lines ask you to keep your mobility equipment (ECV, wheelchair, etc.) in your stateroom. They do it for safety rules. Also, if you want to bring to your own equipment, make sure that it is working properly because once you are on-board, it is quite difficult to fix them.

However, if you don’t want to bring it, consider renting it.

Review Shore Excursions Don’t forget to contact the cruise line’s shore excursion department before setting off your journey. It is because shore excursion packages vary from one cruise to the other and it is important to know if they offer accessible excursions.

For instance, if you need a wheelchair-accessible excursion, arrange it through a travel agent. In short, whenever you decide to cruise, get complete information about accessible transportation.

Know the “Tenders� Policy Many cruise lines anchor offshore because of lack of dock availability. In that case people use tenders (small boats) to reach shore. Thus, know the tender policy of the chosen cruise line and let them know your special needs.

Cruising, therefore, requires one to gather information and discuss their special needs with the cruise lines. While it may seem complicated, considering these things is important for your own comfort and ease.

Tips for Disabled Cruisers by Special Needs At Sea Address: 302 NW 1st Street Dania Beach, FL 33004 Phone Toll Free: 1-800-513-4515 Phone Local: 954-585-0575 Website: http://www.specialneedsatsea.com/