Things disabled cruisers should consider before setting off their journey by Special Needs At Sea.

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

2. 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:

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. 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/