handicap accessible cruise lines

Accessible Cruise Ships (Photo: Ivan Cholakov/Shutterstock)

9 Best Ships for Cruisers with Disabilities

Cruise travelers with disabilities have concerns that others might never consider. Can they open their stateroom door and smoothly roll in on a wheelchair? Can they easily take a shower? Is it possible to get off the ship in port or hear the evening show?

The best cruise lines have already thought through these questions. They aim to give these passengers extra peace of mind and a relaxing vacation.

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.

To help you find the best ship for your needs, we're highlighting the vessels that excel in physical accessibility and also accommodate passengers with hearing and visual impairments. In most cases, we recommend the cruise lines' newest ships, which have the most cabins for disabled users and incorporate the latest designs that take into account limitations faced by those traveling with handicaps. We also call out a few fleetmates, older ships that get consistently positive reviews from travelers with disabilities.

1. Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas

Symphony of the Seas (Photo: Royal Caribbean International)

For disabled passengers, bigger may really be better. Royal Caribbean International's large ships give passengers the benefit of some of the roomiest spaces at sea. The line gets top ratings from disability-focused websites like Special Needs at Sea.

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. Staff is attuned to travelers' needs, and the ship offers 46 accessible cabins with wide stateroom and bathroom doors with low doorsills and ramped thresholds, roll-in showers, grab bars and turning spaces. Other touches include lowered sink and vanity, a fold-down shower bench, handheld showerheads, higher toilet and lowered closet rods.

Wide gangplanks accommodate most wheelchairs and scooters. Public areas have accessible public restrooms with automatic doors, and all dining venues and bars offer wheelchair seating. There are lifts for the pool and whirlpool, along with lower playing tables at the casino and guest relations. Forward and rear wheelchair seating is available at entertainment venues, including the Aqua Theater, Royal Theater and Studio B, with the latter two offering assistive listening devices. Another plus: a roll-in shower in the spa's wet treatment room.

Throughout the ship, passengers will find Braille/tactile signage on elevator buttons, stateroom numbers and deck numbers on staircase handrails.

Sign language interpreting services are provided on cruises that depart from and/or return to the U.S. and Canada, with at least 60 days' notice prior to sailing.

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. In addition, the 1,992-passenger Grandeur of the Seas has many fans, who praise the personable crew.

2. Holland America's Koningsdam

Holland America Line attracts a mature crowd, so it's highly attuned to passengers with mobility or other accessibility needs. It receives praise from cruisers with hearing impairments for fleetwide availability of listening and other devices.

Passengers will find 27 fully accessible staterooms on the 2,650-passenger Koningsdam , the line's newest, most technologically advanced ship. Its public computers even have screen-reader software to help the visually impaired.

The fully accessible rooms have wide stateroom and bathroom doors with no sills and ramped thresholds, along with bathroom grab bars, roll-in showers with fold-down benches and handheld showerheads. There are also lower closet rods, a portable visual/tactile alert system by request, and accessible balconies for select cabins.

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. Taken together, the ship has one of the highest percentage of cabins available to travelers who have a disability.

The gangway is wide enough for mobility devices, and dining and bar areas and public restrooms are wheelchair accessible. The ship features lower tables in the casino and guest relations, and wheelchair seating in the main lounge.

The vessel offers large print or Braille menus with prior request, as well as a guided tour during embarkation. It permits service dogs and provides downloadable daily activities and menus for passengers with their own laptops or e-readers, allowing them to enlarge the type, or have it read to them by the device.

Fleetmates : Maasdam and its sister ship Veendam, in the line's Statendam (or S) class, also consistently get top reviews from disabled travelers. But with only eight fully accessible cabins (seven on Maasdam), bookings should be made far in advance.

3. Celebrity Reflection

With an emphasis on accessible shore excursions, Celebrity Cruises offers special amenities on select cruises to disabled passengers. Full-time wheelchair users are usually able to tender in port, an added freedom not afforded on all cruise ships. Celebrity also offers better and more affordable accessible shore excursions (according to Cruise Critic members), especially with the use of full-size coaches with wheelchair lift access.

The line's biggest ship, 3,046-passenger Celebrity Reflection , offers 30 accessible staterooms with automatic doors, an extra plus appreciated by those in wheelchairs. Plus, for those bringing the whole family, accessible cabins include suites that can sleep up to four people.

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. 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. Bed blocks are also available to raise the bed. A kit with strobe door knocker, strobe light telephone and vibrating alarm clock under pillow or mattress is also available.

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. Sign language services are available with at least 60 days' notice on cruises that depart from and/or return to the U.S. and Canada.

Elsewhere, there's wheelchair seating in all dining venues and bars; a lower counter at the Martini Bar, in the casino and at guest relations; and forward and rear wheelchair seating plus an assistive listening system at the Reflection Theater. Passengers with impaired mobility will also appreciate lifts at the pool and whirlpool. There's also an accessible route to the tender platform, again not standard on every ship.

Fleetmates : You'll find similar amenities on Celebrity's Solstice class sister ships: Silhouette, Eclipse, Equinox and Solstice. Millennium, which was last updated in 2012, also gets good reviews, although it's scheduled to be overhauled in February 2019.

4. Princess Cruises' Regal Princess

Princess Cruises has long focused on accessibility, launching its first access program in 1992 and becoming the first cruise line to employ a manager of access compliance 10 years later.

In St. Thomas, the line helped develop tours featuring the island's accessible trolley. Princess Cays, the line's private Bahamas beach, has ramps for easier access. The line's excursion listings indicate the level of access for each tour. Alaska cruisetour passengers will find the line's wilderness lodges meet ADA guidelines, with accessible rooms and public spaces. And Princess' Midnight Sun Express railcars offer wheelchair access to the lower levels of the car, including dining areas and outside observation platforms.

Launched in 2014, 3,569-passenger Regal Princess is one of the line's newest ships, and offers an impressive 38 accessible staterooms -- especially welcome because most cabins on the ship are on the tight side.

The accessible cabins have wide stateroom doors without sills and wide ramped-threshold bathroom doors. They have roll-in showers, grab bars and wide turning spaces. They also have a fold-down shower seat and handheld showerheads, and ship staff can provide shower stools and toilet risers upon request. Each bathroom has a high toilet and bath distress alarms. Rooms have a lower closet rod and refrigerator.

Elsewhere onboard Regal Princess, a wide gangway eases access, and a wheelchair assistance team can help with embarkation and debarkation. There are accessible public restrooms, and a sign-language interpreter can be provided with request several months before sailing. All dining and bar venues have wheelchair seating, as does the main theater, which has an assistive listening system.

ADA kits are available featuring telephone amplifiers, visual smoke detectors, door knock sensors and text telephones. A lift offers access to the Neptune pool and whirlpool. The cabin directory and emergency information are provided in Braille. Most service animals are permitted.

Note that while special gangway stairlifts can help with tendering, access is not guaranteed at all ports, due to local conditions, and passengers may find themselves unable to go ashore.

Fleetmates : Princess' other Royal-class ships, such as Majestic Princess and Royal Princess, have similar accessible amenities. In addition, travelers with disabilities give high marks to Ruby Princess, which was refurbished in late 2015, and welcomes disabled passengers in 31 accessible staterooms.

5. Norwegian Bliss

Norwegian Cruise Line has a long history of working with special needs passengers, employing trained access officers, and even providing passengers an embarkation day meeting with a staff member who will assist with accessibility needs during the cruise. The line also offers accessible ground transportation to and from ports in the U.S.

The line's newest ship, 4,004-passenger Norwegian Bliss , has 42 accessible staterooms with alarm pull rods in bathrooms and alarm buttons beside the beds. Staterooms and bathrooms have wide, ramped entries without sills. Bathrooms have grab bars, roll-in showers, handheld showerheads and high toilets. They also have lower closet rods and accessible balconies with automatic doors. The toilet is high and has collapsible arm guards, proving support and making it easier for transfer.

Gangways are wide enough to accommodate most wheelchairs and scooters, and accessible public restrooms are widely available. All dining and bar venues have wheelchair access, as does the video arcade. There's also wheelchair seating in the theater and showrooms.

The line also provides pagers for the hearing impaired, assistive listening systems and Braille/tactical signage. A sign language interpreter can be provided with at least 90 days' notice before sailing for cruises that depart and/or return to the U.S. Service animals are accepted.

Fleetmates: Sister ship Norwegian Escape is another of Norwegian's newer ship, with similar amenities and 47 accessible staterooms. The older, 2,394-passenger Norwegian Gem, which has 27 accessible cabins, also gets consistently positive reviews from passengers with disabilities.

6. Disney Fantasy

Children with disabilities can still join in the fun on this 2,500-passenger family-focused ship. The line adheres to the philosophy that any child should be able to participate in youth programming, regardless of ability, and youth counselors have experience working with children with special needs, including autism and behavioral challenges.

Disney Fantasy's 25 accessible rooms offer wide cabin and bathroom doors with low doorsills and ramped bathroom thresholds, along with roll-in showers, bathroom and shower grab bars and open bed frames, allowing access from both sides. There are fold-down shower seats, handheld showerheads, lowered towel and closet bars, and emergency call buttons, which can be activated upon request.

The ship can also provide a bed board (which can be helpful to people with a back injury or arthritis), a bed rail, portable toilet, raised toilet seat, shower stool and transfer bench.

A wide gangway allows for wheelchair access, and accessible restrooms are found throughout the ship. On the line's private island, Castaway Cay , paved paths provide access to shops and wheelchairs. Sand wheelchairs are available, and a tram accommodates manual and electric wheelchairs. An accessible cabana is also available.

Large print communication is available, and theaters provide assistive listening systems. Assistance packets also contain show scripts, and stateroom communication kits include a bed-shaker alarm, doorbell and phone alerts, a phone amplifier and a smoke detector with a strobe light. Sign language interpreters can be requested at least 60 days before sailing for U.S.-based cruises, and are available on some European sailings. Trained service animals are allowed.

Wheelchair seating is available at dining venues, in theaters and for on-deck activities. Wheelchairs can also access the miniature golf course and the laundry.

The pool lift is not permanently installed and must be requested when booking the cruise. It will only be available at specified times because it cannot be kept in place throughout the sailing.

Fleetmates : Disney Dream also offers similar amenities.

7. Regent's Seven Seas Explorer

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. Due to Explorer's relatively small ship size, passengers may find it easier to navigate the vessel.

The 750-capacity Seven Seas Explorer , the largest ship in Regent's fleet, has three accessible cabins, which can sell out quickly. They offer wide cabin and bathroom doors, with low doorsills and ramped bathroom thresholds. The roll-in showers have a fold-down bench, handheld showerheads, higher toilet, lowered sink and vanity, and closet rod. A refrigerator and commode chair are available by request, and balconies are accessible for select cabins.

Public restrooms are accessible. All dining and bar venues accommodate wheelchairs, and the showroom and casino are both accessible. There's also Braille/tactile signage for elevator buttons and stateroom numbers. Wide gangways allow wheelchair users to more easily get on and off the ship.

Fleetmates : Seven Seas Mariner, though smaller than Explorer, is similarly equipped and has six cabins for passengers with disabilities.

8. Carnival Horizon

With 65 accessible staterooms, this bold, new ship, launched in 2018, includes plenty of options for disabled travelers. The 3,960-capacity Carnival Horizon has three types of accessible cabins: fully accessible cabins with approach to the bed from both sides, fully accessible cabins with a single side approach to the bed, and ambulatory accessible cabins for passengers that don't require a wheelchair, but can still benefit from accessibility features like grab bars.

Each of the wheelchair-friendly cabins has wide doors with no doorsill, roll-in showers and a fold-down bench with ramped bathroom thresholds, grab bars and additional turning space for wheelchairs or scooters. In addition, they feature tall toilets, lowered closet rod and accessible balconies for select staterooms.

All dining areas and bars have wheelchair seating, as does the main theater. Sign language interpreting services are provided on cruises that depart from and/or return to the U.S. and Canada, with at least 60 days' notice prior to sailing. Service dogs are welcome.

Fleetmates : Other Vista-class ships -- including Carnival Vista, which launched in 2016, and Carnival Panorama, expected to debut in 2019 -- include the latest accessible features and are also good choices.

9. MSC Seaside

The Italian-founded cruise line meets international accessibility standards, and the 4,132-passenger MSC Seaside has plenty to interest passengers who are disabled. It's the line's first purpose-built vessel for the North American market, and offers an impressive 51 accessible cabins, one of the highest numbers (and percentage of cabins) available on any ship.

The accessible cabins have wide stateroom and bathroom doors with no sill or lip. They have bathroom grab bars, fold-down shower benches, handheld showerheads, lower closet rods and accessible balconies.

Wide gangways will accommodate most wheelchairs. The ship has accessible public restrooms and wide elevator openings. For the visually impaired, there are Braille stateroom door plates, stairway handrail markings, elevator button and directional signs in hallways. Personal amplifiers are available in theaters, and hearing impaired kits are provided upon request. Service animals are welcome.

Children or young travelers with special needs can be placed with a lower age group in youth programs, or can take part in specific activities with their parents, if required. Sign language interpreters are provided for cruises that depart and end in a U.S. port with at least 60 days' notice before sailing.

Shore excursions list outings suitable for travelers who are mobility impaired.

Fleetmates : MSC Seaview is similarly equipped.

The best cruise lines for wheelchair users and passengers with limited mobility

If you're a traveler with limited mobility, there are certain considerations that are necessary when planning a trip. Because all major cruise lines are required to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, they are equipped with accessible accommodations, meaning that a cruise can be a great way to see the world without having to worry as much about logistics.

"In my experience, I've found that the newer the ship is, the more accessible it tends to be," Cory Lee, owner of wheelchair-accessible travel website Curb Free with Cory Lee and a TPG All-Inclusive panelist , told The Points Guy. "Any time a new cruise ship comes out, it seems like accessibility improves a bit.

"The major cruise lines here in the U.S. have pretty good accessibility usually. I'd also say that the larger the cruise ship is, the more accessible it is. Small ships and river cruises are not ideal for wheelchair users, and many are completely inaccessible. But if you stick to the big cruise lines, at least some level of accessibility is guaranteed."

From wider gangways, automatic doors and grab bars to lowered sinks and accessible theaters and restaurants, we're calling out the cruise lines that do their best to cater to wheelchair users and passengers with limited mobility.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Note: As a general rule of thumb, cruisers are required to store assistive devices -- such as wheelchairs, scooters, walkers and canes -- in their cabins. Most cruise lines require a minimum of 30 days' notice for disability-related requests; others require 45, 60 or even 90 days. If you book an accessible stateroom, most cruise lines will ask you to fill out a special needs form, attesting to the need for accessible accommodations.

For safety reasons, cruise line crew members are not permitted to assist with lifting passengers into or out of wheelchairs. They are also unable to provide help with bathing, dressing, toileting, feeding or other daily tasks.

Additionally, ports on certain itineraries require tendering when the ship cannot dock. Tender boat accessibility is often limited. Prospective passengers should keep all of this in mind when booking.

In addition to wheelchair-accessible seating in theaters and restaurants, Carnival Cruise Line's ships offer accessible elevators and public restrooms, as well as three different types of accessible cabins.

Stateroom types include ambulatory accessible cabins for cruisers with mobility limitations that require canes and walkers but not wheelchairs. For wheelchair and scooter users, there are fully accessible, stair-free, flat-threshold cabins, which offer wider (32-inch) doorways, turning space and bathrooms equipped with grab bars and shower seats. Some fully accessible rooms come with access to only one side of the bed, while others have access on both sides.

Related: The ultimate guide to Carnival Cruise Line ships and itineraries

Pool lifts are available on Carnival's newest vessels, including Carnival Horizon, Carnival Panorama, Carnival Radiance, Carnival Sunrise, Carnival Vista and Mardi Gras.

Wheelchairs and scooters can be rented and made available on board via Carnival's partnership with Scootaround, and the line also provides airport transfers with wheelchair lifts when arrangements are made in advance.

The line has a dedicated Guest Access Team to answer questions and assist with cruise planning related to accessibility. The team can be reached at 800-438-6744, ext. 70025, or by emailing [email protected] .

Celebrity Cruises offers airport transfers for travelers who need wheelchair lifts, provided arrangements are made in advance. Additional assistance can be provided at the pier upon request during embarkation and disembarkation.

Related: The ultimate guide to Celebrity Cruises ships and itineraries

In addition to accessible public restrooms, wheelchair seating in restaurants and the theater, automatic doors, wheelchair-friendly elevators, lowered machines and tables in the casino, lowered counters at guest services and pool lifts for at least one pool and one hot tub per vessel, Celebrity's ships provide a number of accessible cabins.

Those accommodations include wider (32-inch) doorways, a 5-foot turning radius, ramped bathroom thresholds, bathroom grab bars, lowered sinks and vanities, higher toilets, roll-in showers with fold-down benches, hand-held showerheads, lowered closet bars and accessible balconies (in select staterooms).

To reach Celebrity's Access Department, cruisers can call 954-628-9708 or email [email protected] .

Related: 5 tips for going on a cruise as a wheelchair user

Disney Cruise Line offers both pre- and post-cruise transfers with lifts if requested in advance.

All of the line's ships offer accessible staterooms in a variety of categories. They include entryways that are a minimum of 32 inches wide, emergency call buttons, open bed frames, ramped bathroom thresholds, bathroom and shower grab bars, roll-in showers with fold-down seats, hand-held showerheads and lower closet and towel bars. Raised toilet seats are also available on request.

Related: The ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line ships and itineraries

Most public areas on Disney's ships, including theaters, restaurants and shops, are also accessible, and wheelchair-friendly public restrooms are also available. Pool lifts can be found on all ships in the fleet, but appointments must be made to use them.

Passengers needing wheelchairs, scooters or other assistive devices must bring their own or arrange for pickup and delivery through a third-party provider for use on board. Although Disney doesn't have a partnership with any particular company, it does reference Scootaround and Special Needs at Sea as providers who can make sure necessary equipment is delivered to your vessel.

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 [email protected] .

Holland America

Lee touts HAL as one of the most accommodating cruise brands he's tried. " Holland America is a great cruise line for wheelchair users," he said. "Since the clientele for Holland America skews older, their ships are designed with that in mind. I've cruised Alaska and even Antarctica with Holland America, and both cruises were phenomenal."

Cabin specifics vary by ship, but there are three types of accessible rooms for passengers with limited mobility. Ambulatory accessible staterooms are for passengers who require the use of canes or walkers but not wheelchairs. For wheelchair and scooter users, there are fully accessible cabins. These accommodations provide wider doorways and accessible bathing facilities with grab bars, seats and hand-held showerheads. Some have bed access from one side only, while others have access on both sides.

Related: The 4 classes of Holland America ships, explained

Within these types of cabins, there are three bathroom types available. Roll-in showers feature enough turning space for wheelchairs to enter and maneuver in the shower area. Transfer showers allow room for wheelchairs to be positioned next to the shower for transfers from wheelchair to shower seat. Accessible bathtubs, like transfer showers, allow space for wheelchairs to maneuver alongside the bathtub for transfer to a seat in the tub.

Further, most ships in Holland America's fleet (all except Volendam) have been outfitted with tender lifts that allow passengers in wheelchairs or scooters to roll directly onto and off of tenders while remaining seated.

Passengers requiring regular wheelchair or scooter use must bring their own assistive devices with them on board. If you're not bringing your own equipment, HAL recommends contacting Scootaround or Special Needs at Sea for rental options. Although the line cannot provide wheelchair assistance at airports or train stations, it can arrange for lift-equipped transfers to the embarkation port.

For help, questions or more information, cruisers can reach out to Holland America's Guest Accessibility Department at [email protected] .

Related: Why cruises are a great option for travelers with disabilities

Cruisers requiring special equipment such as wheelchairs, scooters, walkers and canes should arrange to bring those devices with them or contact a rental company that will deliver those devices to the ship pre-cruise and pick them up at the conclusion of the sailing. Airport transfers with lifts can be provided if requested in advance of the sailing date.

Public areas, such as restaurants and theaters, are designed to be accessible, and pool lifts are available on some (but not all) ships.

Related: The ultimate guide to MSC Cruises ships and itineraries

Each MSC Cruises ship is outfitted with accessible cabins for passengers with limited mobility, including wheelchair users. Accommodations vary from ship to ship but include additional space as well as other special amenities, such as grab bars and flat thresholds.

Questions about special requirements can be answered by calling 954-772-6262.

Norwegian Cruise Line offers wheelchair-accessible public spaces, such as theaters, restaurants and public restrooms. Each of the line's vessels is equipped with a pool lift, and airport transfers with lifts are available when requested in advance. On embarkation day, NCL also organizes a meeting with onboard staff dedicated to making sure your voyage is enjoyable and that your needs are met.

Accessible staterooms are available for booking on all ships in the line's fleet, and they include larger entryways, roll-in showers with benches, high-rise toilets and handrails in the toilet and shower areas.

Related: The 8 classes of Norwegian Cruise Line ships, explained

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.

Travelers looking to cruise with NCL can contact the line's Access Desk for more information and answers to questions. The desk can be reached at 866-584-9756 or [email protected] .

Related: How to travel on a budget as a wheelchair user

In addition to ADA-compliant public spaces, including elevators, theaters and restaurants, Princess also offers airport transfers that can handle wheelchairs and scooters with advance notice. All ships also have pool lifts that can be used by appointment.

A selection of cabins for wheelchair and scooter users is available on each ship. Each provides ample turning space for assistive devices, wider doorways with flat thresholds, a roll-in shower with a fold-down seat and grab bars, and an accessible closet and vanity. Specific layouts and amenities vary by ship, but some also include emergency call buttons.

Related: Everything you want to know about cabins and suites on Princess Cruises ships

For rental of assistive devices in lieu of bringing your own, Princess recommends Scootaround and Special Needs at Sea as third-party providers.

Cruisers needing special mobility accommodations can contact Princess' Access Office at [email protected] .

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean provides airport transfers with lifts to accommodate passengers using wheelchairs and scooters. Additionally, the line can provide assistance at boarding and disembarkation. All public rooms have entrances with gradual inclines, and all hallways provide enough space for a 180-degree turn. Further, most deck spaces employ automatic doors.

Blackjack tables in the casinos are lowered for accessibility, as are sections of the guest relations desks. At least one pool and one whirlpool on each ship provide lift access to passengers with limited mobility.

Related: Everything you want to know about cabins and suites on Royal Caribbean ships

The line's accessible staterooms vary by ship, but they feature doorways with a minimum width of 32 inches, no doorsills, ramped bathroom entryways, roll-in showers with benches and grab bars, lowered sinks and vanities, hand-held showerheads, lowered closet rods and extra cabin space to offer a 5-foot turning radius. Raised toilet seats are also available on request. Some rooms also have accessible balconies.

If you aren't bringing your own assistive devices, Royal Caribbean recommends renting one for the duration of your cruise via either Scootaround or Special Needs at Sea.

Royal Caribbean's Access Department can help with planning and answer questions you might have. It can be reached at 866-592-7225 or by sending an email to [email protected] .

Guests With Disabilities

Mobility Disabilities

FACILITIES AND SERVICES FOR GUESTS WITH DISABILITIES

At Carnival, we're dedicated to offering a fun and memorable cruise experience to all our guests. Our team of trained crew members provides attentive service and our ships have a variety of accessible features to ensure our guests with disabilities have a relaxing and enjoyable cruise. We are working on additional modifications to our ships and services to further enhance the guest experience. Look for updates to this page periodically for more details.

While we provide attentive service, we do not provide one-on-one personal care assistance, and all guests must be able to provide such care for themselves (e.g., performing personal tasks such as eating, dressing, toileting, bathing, and getting around the ship). Once on board, our crew will not provide any assistance with such personal tasks.

General Access

We've made substantial modifications to our ships, to help make them easier to navigate. Our ships feature accessible elevators at each elevator bank, equipped with both tactile controls within reach of guests who use wheelchairs and audible signals for guests who are blind or have limited vision.

Accessible routes are available throughout most areas of the ship and signs are posted to assist you in locating these pathways. Accessible tables are available in the dining venues of each ship. In addition to the main dining rooms, each ship offers a variety of accessible dining options within Lido Deck casual dining areas and other restaurant venues. 24-hour room service is also available for all our guests. Pool lifts are available on Carnival Celebration, Carnival Firenze, Carnival Freedom, Carnival Horizon, Carnival Jubilee, Carnival Miracle, Carnival Panorama, Carnival Paradise, Carnival Pride, Carnival Radiance, Carnival Sunrise, Carnival Venezia, Carnival Vista, and Mardi Gras, all of which have a 300 pound weight limit.

For each ship, diagrams of accessible routes, accessible staterooms*, and accessible public restrooms are available below. Use our accessible PDF deck plans to locate accessible rooms, while the interactive deck plans allow you to easily get more details about a particular room, including dimensions, when you search by room number.

* Carnival Celebration, Carnival Jubilee, Mardi Gras – Not all staterooms can accommodate scooters. If you are traveling with a scooter on one of these ships, please review your ship’s PDF accessible deck plan and confirm the stateroom you have selected accommodates your needs.

If you need general information about accessibility before you cruise, or have an ADA complaint, please call our Guest Access team at 1-800-438-6744 ext.70025, or 1800 072 670 ext. 70025 if calling from Australia. You can also email us at [email protected] . All post-cruise ADA concerns will be responded to within 30 days. Carnival's designated ADA Responsibility Officer is Clarisa Stollenwerck, Vice President, Guest Operations.

ACCESSIBLE STATEROOMS

Our ships have specially designed staterooms for guests using wheelchairs, or those who have mobility limitations and could benefit from the features of an accessible stateroom. We request our guests to acknowledge the need for the accessible stateroom by completing this Mobility Questionnaire , or one will be sent to you once the reservation has been secured and you have notified Carnival that you, or the person you are securing the stateroom for, requires the accessibility features of the stateroom.

If an accessible stateroom is booked by a guest who does not need the accessibility features in the stateroom, they may at any time be moved to a non-accessible stateroom in order to accommodate a guest with a disability.

We have four classifications of staterooms:

Fully Accessible Cabins (FAC) : These staterooms are designed for use by guests with highly limited mobility or no mobility, who require the regular use of a wheelchair, scooter or other similar assistive devices. FAC contain accessible elements including turning space, accessible routes throughout the stateroom and an accessible bathroom. Additionally, the bathrooms contain grab bars and shower seats.

Fully Accessible Cabins – Single Side Approach (FAC-SSA) : These staterooms are designed for use by guests with highly limited or no mobility, who require the regular use of a wheelchair, scooter or other similar assistive devices. FAC–SSA are a type of FAC that provide an accessible route and clear floor space on only one side of the bed, in staterooms configured to provide only one bed. In a stateroom configured to provide two beds, the clear floor space will be between the beds, with one side of each bed getting an accessible route. Additionally, these staterooms have an accessible bathroom that contains grab bars and shower seats.

Ambulatory Accessible Cabins (AAC) † : These staterooms are designed for use by guests with mobility limitations, who do not require the regular use of a wheelchair, scooter, or other similar assistive devices. For example, AAC are ideal for guests who only use an assistive device (like a cane or a walker) for traversing longer distances, and who may benefit from certain accessible features like grab bars, to assist with balance. Please keep in mind this type of stateroom has a step going into the bathroom and balcony (if applicable).

Standard Cabins † : These staterooms have an entry doorway measuring approximately 22" (55.9 cm), an 8" (20.3 cm) lip into the cabin bathroom, a 4" (10.2 cm) lip into the shower stall and a 7" (17.8 cm) lip to the balcony (if applicable). If an accessible stateroom is booked by a guest who does not need the accessibility features in the stateroom, they may at any time be moved to a non-accessible stateroom in order to accommodate a guest with a disability.

As with all Carnival reservations, staterooms within each category are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Therefore, it is advisable to reserve the appropriate stateroom in advance. If an accessible stateroom is booked by a guest who does not need the accessibility features in the stateroom, they may at any time be moved to a non-accessible stateroom in order to accommodate a guest with a disability.

† Carnival Celebration ® , Carnival Jubilee ™ , Mardi Gras ® – Not all staterooms can accommodate scooters. If you are traveling with a scooter on one of these ships, please review your ship’s PDF accessible deck plan and confirm the stateroom you have selected accommodates your needs.

PERSONAL MOBILITY DEVICES (WHEELCHAIRS/SCOOTERS/SEGWAYS)

We strongly encourage guests to inform us if they are traveling with wheelchairs/scooters at the time of booking, or as soon as the need is known, to ensure they have a stateroom that best accommodates their needs.

Due to safety considerations, mobility devices cannot be stored in corridors or public areas. In order to purchase a standard stateroom † , mobility devices must be able to fit through its 22" (55.9 cm) wide entry doorway, and must fold and collapse so when stored, allows for safe exit from the stateroom. Guests who bring scooters that are larger than 21" (53.34 cm) wide, or travel with multiple scooters in the same stateroom, must purchase a fully accessible stateroom with a wider doorway (32”, 81.3 cm), or rent a smaller scooter appropriately suited for their stateroom. Guests may be required to have their scooters sized at the time of check-in to ensure it fits in the stateroom. Scooters that do not fit in the stateroom will not be allowed on board. Should a guest be unable to make alternate arrangements to rent a smaller scooter or travel without it, he/she will be denied boarding and no compensation will be provided.

If bringing a scooter, please bring one that can collapse or fold so that it may be stored in the closet or underneath the vanity area. Once on board, guests may contact their room steward for assistance.

Only mobility devices operated with gel, dry cell, absorbed glass mat, or lithium-ion batteries will be allowed on board. Batteries must be charged in the guest's stateroom and for this reason, we recommend guests travel with a scooter that has removable batteries.

Guests must drive at a safe speed to ensure their own safety and the safety of others on board. Raised door thresholds are present throughout the ship, which need to be traversed with care. Careful attention must be paid when backing in and out of elevators as they are often in close proximity to the staircase and may be narrow and difficult to navigate.

Mobility devices cannot be left unattended in any venue area unless the guest is temporarily away attending an event and, the device is parked in an area that allows all guests safe exit from the venue. When in public areas, guests must maintain their device clear of any exits or fire doors and ensure it does not obstruct any fire or safety equipment.

Guests bringing a Segway must store it in their stateroom for use at ports of call only.

RENTAL SERVICES

AIRPORT TRANSFERS

North America Departures: For transportation from the airport to the cruise port, a hydraulic lift transfer is available for guests with mobility limitations. This service must be requested in advance. Hydraulic lifts have a maximum weight limit of 500 pounds (226 kg), including wheelchair/scooter and guest. Standard airport transfer charges apply; there is no additional cost for the lift. If you require this service, please let us know no later than 14 days prior to sailing. After booking your cruise, you can reserve your hydraulic lift transfer online, by accessing the Manage My Cruise page or by calling the Guest Services Contact Center at 1-800-438-6744 ext. 70025 or 1800-072-670 ext. 70025 if calling from Australia.

Barcelona: +34 606-289-559
Lisbon (Portugal): +351 917 630 855
London (Dover): +44 798-988-1258
Rome (Civitavecchia): +39 064-202-0498

WHEELCHAIR ASSISTANCE

Each terminal has a limited supply of wheelchairs used to transport guests on and off the ship, so we are unable to loan you our wheelchairs for the duration of the cruise. If you need wheelchair assistance for boarding the ship, please contact one of our representatives once you arrive at the cruise terminal. Assistance will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis. For assistance with debarkation, instructions on where to meet will be provided the last evening of your cruise.

Please note, all wheelchairs have a maximum guest weight limit of 325 pounds. For safety reasons, we are unable to provide wheelchair assistance to those who exceed the maximum weight limit and we reserve the right to deny assistance if the weight presents operational or safety concerns.

GOING ASHORE

Carnival is committed to accommodating its guests with disabilities so they can fully, yet safely, enjoy the ports of call. Guests wishing to disembark the vessel on their mobility device must be able to safely navigate the angle of the gangway while the ship is docked in port.

At certain ports of call, water shuttles are required to transport guests between the ship and shore. Whether guests with mobility limitations can board a water shuttle is subject to numerous factors, including weather and tidal conditions, which may affect the transfer from one moving vessel to another. Also, facilities in ports vary and, therefore, certain water shuttles may not be accessible to individuals using wheelchairs, scooters and other mobility devices. While the sea and wind conditions may be acceptable to safely board the water shuttle, fluctuations in the weather may make re-boarding to return to the ship dangerous. The final determination of whether any guest may board a water shuttle is made by the captain. Safety restrictions prohibit crew from carrying individuals on or off water shuttles.

In the event you are unable to go ashore, our shipboard team will have activities and entertainment for you to enjoy.

Ports Requiring Water Shuttles

* Limited availability of accessible water shuttles

** No accessible water shuttles available

*** Water shuttles sometimes required; varies by sailing. Based on local availability, accessible water shuttles may not be available.

If you require additional information or need assistance to ensure you have the best accommodations for your needs, please call our Guest Access team at 1-800-438-6744 ext.70025 or 1800 072 670 ext. 70025 if calling from Australia. You can also email us at [email protected] . All post-cruise ADA concerns will be responded to within 30 days. Carnival's designated ADA Responsibility Officer is Clarisa Stollenwerck, Vice President, Guest Operations.

Carnival makes available to all guests who require them a visual-tactile, cabin alert system that notifies room occupants of a door knock, a telephone call, the alarm clock, or a smoke-detection event. A TTY (teletypewriter) is also available to communicate with Guest Services, 24 hours a day.

A safety briefing video with open captions is televised in all staterooms throughout the cruise. Carnival-created TV content has closed captions. Additionally, when available through our service provider, closed captions are offered for certain in-stateroom TV programs and movies. Should you require closed captioning for our outdoor movies, please contact our Guest Services team once on board. Other important information can be found in the Fun Times (our daily newsletter).

Assistive listening headsets are available to amplify the sounds of live, onboard performances in our main show room. You may request them at Guest Services once on board.

Deaf or hard of hearing guests who use sign language as their primary means of communication may request a sign language interpreter. Sign language interpreters can be requested, on a shared basis, for cruises departing from and returning to a U.S port for the purpose of interpreting our main production shows, port and shopping presentations, and other major organized activities.

Please inform the Guest Access Department at the time of booking, or at your earliest possible convenience, if you need a sign language interpreter. A form will be sent to you, which must be completed and returned to us for the request to be processed. We will always make reasonable efforts to obtain a sign language interpreter at the time of the request. Since interpreters are subject to availability, a 60-day notice is strongly encouraged whenever possible. We are unable to take requests for a specific interpreter.

If you need general information about accessibility before you cruise, or have an ADA complaint, please call our Guest Access team at 1-800-438-6744 ext.70025 or 1800 072 670 ext. 70025 if calling from Australia. You can also email us at [email protected] . All post-cruise ADA concerns will be responded to within 30 days. Carnival's designated ADA Responsibility Officer is Clarisa Stollenwerck, Vice President, Guest Operations.

Braille signage, indicating stateroom numbers and public room names, is available on board our ships. The only Braille format document available, absent advance request, is our in-cabin 'Good to Know' Information Sheet.

Large print format is available for our daily newsletter (the Carnival Fun Times), dining room menus, and shore excursion information. We ask that you request large-print items prior to sailing, so we can have them ready for you upon arrival. Please send your request to [email protected] or you may call our Guest Access team at 1-800-438-6744 ext. 70025 or 1800 072 670 ext. 70025 if calling from Australia. We also provide an audible format of our Carnival Fun Times. Additional requests for large print information or alternate formats may be made at the Guest Services desk, once on board; however, there may be a delay if not requested prior to sailing.

Dining rooms menus can be provided in an electronic PDF file, readable via screen-reading software. Our dining team will also be happy to review the menu with you in detail. You can also access information directly on your phone via the Carnival HubApp.

Specific computers in the internet café are equipped with screen-reader software.

If you need assistance with the safety briefing or require an orientation of the ship’s layout, please contact Guest Services once on board. While we provide attentive service, we do not provide sighted guide services throughout your cruise.

Service dogs are welcome on board. For specific details and requirements, please click on the Service Dogs tab.

If you need general information about accessibility before you cruise, or have an ADA complaint, please call our Guest Access team at 1-800-438-6744 ext. 70025 or 1800 072 670 ext. 70025 if calling from Australia. You can also email us at [email protected] . All post-cruise ADA concerns will be responded to within 30 days. Carnival's designated ADA Responsibility Officer is Clarisa Stollenwerck, Vice President, Guest Operations.

Carnival works with parents or guardians to include children within the designated age ranges in the available youth programs. Each child's needs are assessed, on a case-by-case basis, to determine how she or he can be accommodated and integrated in the program to have a fully and equally enjoyable experience. Youth Programs rules and regulations still apply to all children, in terms of age policy, illness, hours of operation and acceptable conduct (unruly behavior) while in the program.

In order to participate in Carnival Youth Program activities, the parent/guardian will need to register their child for the program. When registering the child, the staff will work with the parents to determine what special assistance will help aid the Youth Staff in how to best serve the child while participating in the activities. Parents/guardians may choose to have their child move down one age group as an accommodation. No child who is 18 years or older can participate in Youth Programs. Carnival does not provide one-on-one attention, but the parent or assigned helper may stay and participate in the activities with the child.

Staff members are not to change diapers of children who are older than 5 years old and/or exceeding the diaper weight requirement due to the diaper changing table procedure and safety of child. Due to safety concerns, staff, and crew, cannot lift or carry guests.

Medical care consent is required to participate in youth programs. In the event your child requires regular medication while attending a Youth Programs activity, a parent/guardian must return to administer that medication. The Youth Staff will not administer any medication and/or needles to child participating in a Youth Programs activity, with the exception of epi-pens. Only epi-pens, self-using inhalers, self-administered diabetic testing equipment, self-administered insulin and glucose tablets are permitted in Youth Programs.

Supervised lunch with Youth Staff is scheduled for children ages 2-11, during port days only. Supervised dinner with Youth Staff is scheduled nightly (except embarkation night) for children ages 2-11. Since the Youth Staff is not able to provide one-on-one assistance, children will need to be able to feed themselves. In the event a child needs to be fed, the adult responsible for the child may remain with him/her during dinner or bring the child to activities following the dinner service. Special diets cannot be accommodated for meals served in Youth Programs. Kid’s menus are subject to change based on availability.

Carnival is the first cruise line to be certified “sensory inclusive” by KultureCity ® , a leading nonprofit for individuals with sensory and invisible disabilities (such as Autism, ADHD, Down Syndrome, PTSD, etc.). If a child with a sensory or cognitive need is cruising, you can meet with Guest Services to discuss any special accommodations. Youth Staff have different resources on hand to help soothe, calm and entertain children participating in our Youth Programs, such as weighted vests, conversation cards, sensory games and other aids.

“WE DEDICATE THIS TO ABSOLUTELY EVERYONE.”

KULTURECITY AWARDED CARNIVAL

THE 2022 HUMAN HIGHLIGHT AWARD

FIND OUT MORE

Carnival is the first cruise line to be certified "sensory inclusive" by KultureCity , a leading nonprofit dedicated to accessibility and inclusion for individuals with sensory and invisible disabilities.

All of Carnival’s guest-facing crew have been trained to understand and help guests with sensory/cognitive needs. The Guest Services and Youth Staff are ready to assist adults, youth and children with sensory-related questions or issues relating to conditions such as Autism, ADHD, Down Syndrome, PTSD, etc. KultureCity Sensory Bags can be checked out for the duration of the cruise (on a complimentary and first-come, first-served basis) by visiting Guest Services or one of our Youth programs. Each bag contains items to help calm, relax and manage sensory overload, and include comfortable noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, a visual feeling thermometer, and a KultureCity VIP lanyard, to help the staff easily identify a guest.

These measures have been proven to be helpful to guests in a variety of venues including stadiums, arenas, amusement parks, and now Carnival ships!

Informational videos designed to create greater awareness among all guests, and featuring actor Christopher Gorham, a member of the KultureCity board of directors, are playing in our in-stateroom televisions.

If a guest with a sensory or cognitive need is cruising, the family should meet with Guest Services once they are on board to discuss any special accommodations, including a private safety briefing.

Youth staff has different resources on-hand to help soothe, calm and entertain children participating in our youth programs: such as weighted vests, conversation cards, sensory games, and other aids.

Carnival Cruise Line and KultureCity share a heartfelt commitment to acceptance and inclusivity. Working together, all guests can be the truest versions of themselves onboard a Carnival cruise ship.

MEDICAL CARE

In the event a guest requires medical attention while on board, our ships have medical facilities and staff to assist 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. In case of a serious medical emergency, where more comprehensive facilities are required, guests are referred to shoreside medical facilities. Our Medical Center cannot supply or refill prescriptions.

We strongly encourage guests to carry a copy of their medical records (e.g., a list of medical conditions, allergies, names, and medication dosages as well as the name and contact information of their physician).

For guests who are traveling with injectable medication and need a Sharps disposal container, please contact the Medical Center or the onboard Housekeeping staff. Some ships have staterooms equipped with mini-bars designed to maintain the temperature of beverages. Mini-bars are not to be used to store medications that have specific temperature requirements. Portable medi-coolers are available in limited quantities, and on a first-come, first-served basis with a refundable rental deposit required. If a cooler is not available, our Medical Center can assist guests with refrigeration needs (accessible during operating hours of the Medical Center only) or you may bring your own personal-size cooler for this purpose. Ships equipped with mini-bars are:

There are significant risks associated with undergoing dialysis during a cruise. Guests should be aware that our ships do not have kidney specialists or dialysis equipment and supplies available on board and our medical staff are not trained to perform dialysis.

We highly recommend that guests have been stable on their home dialysis treatments for a period of at least 12 months prior to sailing.

Considerations prior to cruising

Guests requiring peritoneal or hemodialysis, travel on our ships at their own risk. Guests traveling while on dialysis should consult with their nephrologist and provide them a copy of our risk acknowledgement letter prior to making any travel arrangements.

The ship does not carry a nephrologist onboard and timely availability of this specialty may be severely limited during the port visits. Any necessary medical care required by a specialist nephrologist will not be available while the ship is at sea.

Ships do not have back-up battery support for dialysis related equipment. In the event of a power outage on board, dialysis equipment requiring electricity may not be functional.

The risks to the guest who misses a scheduled dialysis treatment are very serious. The guest assumes additional risks when a ship is unable to make a scheduled port of call for operational reasons.

Among the many recognized risks dialysis patients may experience include pericarditis, cardiac tamponade, congestive heart failure, anemia, hemorrhage and death. Risks associated with peritoneal dialysis include infection, obstruction of the catheter, hemoperitoneum and metabolic complications. Recognized risks associated with hemodialysis include low blood pressure, bleeding, infection, clotting of the vascular access, and seizures.

Guests should be aware that charges apply for treatment in the ship’s medical center, which must be paid before disembarkation. An itemized bill will be provided which can be submitted to the guest’s travel or health insurance. Typically, standard trip travel interruption insurance does not cover medical costs.

We strongly suggest that guests contact their own health insurance to determine their benefits for medical providers outside of the United States, as well as available air-ambulance and repatriation benefits. Travelers are advised to purchase travel health insurance with defined out-of-country treatment and repatriation benefits, even if this coverage might be redundant.

Arrangements

Guests are expected to make all arrangements regarding dialysis, whether self-administered on board or at a shore side facility, and therefore take full responsibility for their arrangements, equipment and supplies.

For security reasons, the Guest Access Department must be advised of the type of supplies the guest is taking to the ship, the quantities of each, and the name of the medical/vendor supply company the guest will be using to transport supplies, no later than two weeks prior to sailing, in order for the ship’s security access systems to be updated. If a guest will be bringing their own supplies, it is important that they be hand-carried. Guests should not pack these supplies with their checked-in luggage.

The electrical outlets on all the ships are compatible with U.S. household standards: 110 volts/60 cycles, while our Australia-based ships offer one 230 volt/50 cycle powerpoint per cabin. If there are specific requirements for machinery (such as water intake), these must be communicated to the Guest Access Department as soon as possible. Medical waste receptacles can be provided for disposal of bio-hazardous waste.

Prior to the ship sailing, the guest must verify that all supplies and equipment are on board the ship and any equipment is fully functional in the stateroom. Failure to do so will prevent the guest from sailing. In the case of certain medical complications that cannot be treated onboard, you may be required to be disembarked to a medical facility ashore. The patient will be responsible for all medical expenses both on board and ashore.

If, after considering this information, a guest plans to sail with us while undergoing dialysis, they must send a fit to sail clearance letter from their nephrologist and a signed risk acknowledgement letter by e-mail to [email protected] . Failure to submit this form, along with the fit to sail letter from their nephrologist, 5 weeks prior to sailing will result in full cancellation with penalties.

The Medical Center is equipped with oxygen for emergency use ONLY. If you require the use of oxygen during your cruise, you must arrange for an adequate supply to be delivered to the ship on your sailing date. Please contact Guest Services once on board for proper storage of your oxygen. Guests are responsible for the pickup and delivery of their own oxygen. Please have your medical supply company contact us, otherwise port clearance may not be granted.

If you choose to bring your own personal supply of oxygen, you must hand carry it with you. Packing oxygen cylinders and/or tanks in your checked luggage is strictly prohibited, as is putting them through security x-ray machines. Please hand-carry your oxygen machines (BiPAP, CPAP, Concentrator, Nebulizer, etc.) and not place them in your checked luggage.

* Guests who use oxygen or depend on hemodialysis are welcome to cruise if sailing on itineraries of 15 nights or less.

Carnival can provide our guests with meals suited to the following special dietary needs: vegetarian, low-cholesterol, low-fat, low-carbohydrate, low-sugar, and gluten-free. Our chefs will make every effort to fulfill your requests, and will gladly prepare freshly-made options that meet your dietary needs. Once on board, we ask you speak with the headwaiter or dining room host in advance, so they can assist in planning your daily meals in the dining room. This will allow us the necessary time to prepare foods, as requested, in a timely manner.

Gluten-free pizza dough, pasta, bread for deli sandwiches, and hamburgers buns, as well as cake are available upon request. Plus, our frozen desserts and yogurt are gluten-free. All items are freshly prepared and may take a little longer than regular menu items. Gluten-free alcoholic beverages are available for your enjoyment on our U.S.-based ships.

Guests who require a different dining time than they chose when booking can change once on board the ship. Guests will be accommodated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Food Allergies

Our ships* are equipped with Menu Mate™ food ingredient program fleetwide to accommodate guests with food allergies. Easily operated on touch-screen tablets at food venues, the Menu Mate food ingredient program is powered by award-winning CertiStar software to mitigate the risks of allergic reactions. The new program is the first of its kind among major cruise lines. Our staff will ask guests about food allergies and enter any restrictions into the program. The software will then sort through all available options and display which items are allergen-free, which options can be modified to exclude the specified allergen and which selections should be avoided. If preferred, guests can also use the Menu Mate designated tablet themselves to enter in their own allergy/dietary information and then order from the options curated to meet their needs. Guests will also be able to find a Menu Mate tablet on display near the Lido buffet stations as well.

* Currently not available on Carnival Luminosa ® and Carnival Splendor ®

Other Dietary Needs

Although we do not have dietitians on board, we can offer assistance with simple requests such as the method of preparation of menu items. Diet requirements need to be arranged with the head waiter on the first night of the cruise. If dining in the Lido Restaurant, the guest should discuss requirements with senior dining staff.

If you need general information about accessibility before you cruise, or have an ADA complaint, please call our Guest Access team at 1-800-438-6744 ext. 70025 , or 1800 072 670 ext. 70025 if calling from Australia. You can also email us at [email protected] . All post-cruise ADA concerns will be responded to within 30 days. Carnival's designated ADA Responsibility Officer is Clarisa Stollenwerck, Vice President, Guest Operations.

The only dogs Carnival permits aboard our ships are working service dogs, which are legally defined and individually trained to meet disability-related needs by performing tasks like guiding a blind person, alerting a deaf person, pulling wheelchairs, alerting and protecting a person who is having a seizure, or performing other special tasks. Working service dogs are not pets.

Pets, or service dogs in training, are not allowed aboard. Emotional support dogs, which are not recognized by the US Department of Justice, are also not permitted on Carnival ships.

If you are traveling with a working service dog that meets the requirements described above, please review the following policies and procedures:

Carnival is not responsible for limitations imposed on working service dogs by entities or shore excursion providers in foreign ports of call.
Note that many of the ports you may visit will only accept annual rabies vaccinations and do not recognize three-year rabies vaccination.
Mexican ports require service dogs to have received an ecto-parasite and endo-parasite treatment no more than 15 days prior to arrival to port and this information should be included in the dog’s health certificate. If you have any questions, please consult with your veterinarian.
If your itinerary includes a visit to Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands requires service dogs to travel with the necessary documentation (including an import license) regardless of whether or not the service dog will disembark in Grand Turk. Grand Turk also has breed restrictions as per their Dogs Control Ordinance 2014. No import license shall be issued for the restricted breeds. Any restricted breed service dog, or any service dog without all the proper documentation, will not be able to board the ship at embarkation.
You must hand-carry (not packed in your baggage) all required documents, along with your working service dog’s current vaccination records. You will be asked to submit these records once aboard.

So that we may provide you with the additional information you will need in order to sail with your working service dog, please email our Guest Access Department at [email protected] , or call 1-800-438-6744 ext. 70025 or 1800 072 670 ext. 70025 if calling from Australia.

Facilities, services and accessibility across ports of call vary significantly and accessibility may not be available for shore excursions or in certain ports of call due to limited infrastructure and other factors. We want our guests with mobility limitations to be able to enjoy their time ashore, and where possible, we will do our best to secure accessible tours, but options may be limited or non-existent altogether. Facilities, services and transportation equipment outside the United States may not be required to be ADA compliant. Carnival is not responsible for accessibility in foreign ports of call or for restrictions imposed by shore excursion providers that are not owned by Carnival. Additionally, numerous factors including weather, tidal conditions, and other safety concerns can impact the ability for an accessible tour to be safely operated. In the event an accessible tour is deemed unsafe to operate in full or for an individual guest, a full refund for the tour will be extended.

Detailed information is provided in the shore excursions section of carnival.com and carnival.com .au indicating the approximate amount of physical activity anticipated for the excursion, as well as which tours are wheelchair accessible. Carnival has a wide variety of onboard activities during every port stop, should guests decide not to disembark.

ACTIVITY LEVEL FOR SHORE EXCURSIONS

Guests can select the shore excursions best suited to their abilities, and we have added descriptions that provide a general idea of the level of activity to expect on each tour:

Easy – May include relaxing or walking short distances over relatively level terrain. Comfortable shoes may be recommended.
Moderate – May involve varying amounts of activity (long walks, rough terrain, basic water play). May not be recommended for guests with physical limitations. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are recommended.
Difficult – Involves physical exertion for an extended period of time; can involve swimming and/or rough, uneven or steep terrain.
Extreme – Involves intense physical exertion for an extended period of time.

We strongly recommend accessible shore excursions be pre-arranged prior to your cruise. However, if you need assistance once on board, please visit our Shore Excursions Desk and specify your accommodations needed. Accessible tours are available in certain destinations only, and our shore excursion staff can provide you with suggestions. Motor coaches and other forms of transportation may require you to climb 2 to 3 steps. Most, but not all motor coaches, can accommodate collapsible wheelchairs. Where available, we require a minimum of 24-hour notice for accessible transportation to be arranged. Vehicles, ramps and lifts may vary depending upon the port and availability. For safety reasons, staff is not able to lift guests into or out of vehicles. Specific dietary requirements cannot be guaranteed on shore excursions.

Shore excursion providers operating within the U.S. and its territories are responsible for providing effective communication. Tours operating in foreign ports may not provide auxiliary aids and services, depending on local law and availability. In non-U.S. ports where guided narrated tours are available but the operator does not provide an interpreter, and the interpreter provided by Carnival Cruise Line elects to participate in the excursion, we will make every attempt to secure a complimentary tour ticket for the interpreter. However, if we are unable to do so, you may purchase the tour for the interpreter or forgo interpreter’s services. Please notify us in advance so we can coordinate the necessary accommodation.

Carnival is not responsible for limitations imposed on working service dogs by independent entities or shore excursion providers in foreign ports of call.

If you have additional questions specifically regarding an accessible tour that is offered, you may email our shore excursion team at [email protected] .

Hello everyone! You're welcome here.

We are proud to welcome guests with disabilities aboard our ships and have worked hard to make sure carnival.com works well for visitors of all levels of ability. This means that however you access the Internet (whether using assistive technologies like screen readers, screen magnifiers or keyboard navigation, etc.), you can expect our website to give you the best experience possible, following best practices and stringent WCAG 2.0 AA standards as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Contact us if you have any questions or concerns.

If you have any issues accessing carnival.com using assistive technologies, we'd like to hear about it! You can contact us via email at [email protected] . When writing to us about your issue, please include pertinent information that will help us replicate the issue, including the device, web browser, and accessibility software you're using, plus the specific address (URL) of page(s) on carnival.com that aren't working as expected for you.

Do you have accessible routes on your ships?

For each ship, diagrams of accessible routes, accessible staterooms, and accessible public restrooms are available.

Please see our Accessibility Aboard section for more details and deck plans.

Do you have accessible staterooms on your ships?

We have three classifications of accessible staterooms. In order to determine which type of accessible stateroom meets your needs, please review the features of each type listed below.

Fully Accessible Cabins (FAC): These staterooms are designed for use by guests with highly limited mobility, who require the regular use of a wheelchair, scooter or other similar assistive device. Fully Accessible Cabins contain accessible elements including turning space, accessible routes throughout the stateroom and an accessible bathroom. Additionally, the bathrooms contain grab bars and shower seats.

Fully Accessible Cabins – Single Side Approach (FAC-SSA): These staterooms are designed for use by guests with highly limited or no mobility, who require the regular use of a wheelchair, scooter or other similar assistive device. Fully Accessible Cabins – Single Side Approach are a type of FAC that provide an accessible route and clear floor space on only one side of the bed, in staterooms configured to provide only one bed. In a stateroom configured to provide two beds, the clear floor space will be between the beds, with one side of each bed getting an accessible route. Additionally, these staterooms have an accessible bathroom that contains grab bars and shower seats.

Ambulatory Accessible Cabins (AAC): These staterooms are designed for use by guests with mobility limitations, who do not require the regular use of a wheelchair, scooter, or other similar assistive device. For example, Ambulatory Accessible Cabins are ideal for guests who only use an assistive device (like a cane or a walker) for traversing longer distances, and who may benefit from certain accessible features, like grab bars, to assist with balance. This type of stateroom has a step in the bathroom and balcony (if applicable).

If you require additional information or need assistance to ensure you have the best accommodations for your needs, please call our Guest Access team at 1-800-438-6744, ext. 70025 or 1800 072 670 ext. 70025 if calling from Australia. You may also email us at [email protected] .

How do I know if I'm reserving the correct type of accessible cabin (FAC, FAC-SSA, or AAC)?

Selecting the best type of accessible cabin is based on the guest's level of mobility.

Guests with highly limited or no mobility, who require the regular use of a wheelchair, scooter or other similar assistive device would benefit from the features of either a Fully Accessible Cabin (FAC) or a Fully Accessible Cabin – Single Side Approach (FAC-SSA) .

Guests with mobility limitations who do not require the regular use of a wheelchair, scooter, or other similar assistive device would benefit from the features of an Ambulatory Accessible Cabin , which include grab bars. This type of stateroom has a step into the bathroom and balcony (if applicable).

How can I be sure to receive an accessible stateroom?

As with all Carnival reservations, staterooms are based on availability within each category and are assigned on a first come, first serve basis. Therefore, it is advisable to reserve an accessible stateroom in advance. Please review all the information that is sent to you to ensure the stateroom you selected meets your needs.

What assistance do you provide guests with mobility limitations getting on and off the ship?

Wheelchair assistance is available at home ports for getting on and off the ship.

Do you rent wheelchairs or scooters for use on board?

Guests who require the regular use of a wheelchair/scooter or other mobility device are encouraged to bring their own or rent from our preferred vendor, Scootaround, if they are sailing from a US port.

Wheelchairs on board are for emergency use only and are limited in size and quantity.

Do you provide accessible transfers from the airport to the cruise port?

For guests with mobility limitations who wish to purchase our transfer services to and from the airport, a hydraulic lift transfer service is available and needs to be requested no later than 14 days prior to sailing.

Hydraulic lifts have a maximum weight limit of 500 pounds (226 kg), including wheelchair/scooter and guest. Standard airport transfer charges apply; there is no additional cost for the lift.

After booking your cruise, you can reserve your hydraulic lift transfer online, by accessing the Manage My Cruise page or by calling the Guest Services Contact Center at 1-800-438-6744 ext. 70025 or 1800 072 670 ext. 70025 if calling from Australia.

What are the requirements for bringing a personal mobility device on board?

Due to safety considerations, devices cannot be stored in corridors or public areas. In order to purchase a standard stateroom, devices must be able to fit in its 22" (55.9 cm) wide entry doorway, and when stored, must allow for safe exit from the stateroom.

Guests, who bring scooters that are larger than 21" (53.3 cm) wide, or travel with multiple scooters in the same stateroom, must purchase a fully accessible stateroom with a wider doorway (32" or 82.3 cm), or rent a smaller scooter appropriately suited for their stateroom.

Guests may be required to have their scooters sized at the time of check-in to ensure it fits in the stateroom. Scooters that do not fit in the stateroom will not be allowed on board. Should a guest be unable to make alternate arrangements to rent a smaller scooter or travel without it, he/she will be denied boarding and no compensation will be provided.

Guests must be prepared to collapse their device so it can be safely stored in a way that allows for safe exit from their stateroom. If bringing a scooter, please bring one that can collapse or fold so that it may be stored in the closet or underneath the vanity area. Once on board, guests may contact their room steward for assistance.

Guests wishing to disembark the vessel on their device must also be able to safely navigate the angle of the gangway while the ship is docked in port. Additionally, if the ship is calling on a water shuttle port, the captain will make a determination as to whether guests may disembark with their device, given prevailing maritime conditions and water shuttle limitations.

Mobility devices cannot be left unattended in any venue area unless the guest is temporarily away attending an event, and the device is parked in an area that allows all guests safe exit from the venue. When in public areas, guests must maintain their device clear of any exits or fire doors and ensure it does not obstruct any fire or safety equipment.

Where can I store my personal mobility device?

Due to safety considerations, devices can only be stored inside their stateroom. Devices cannot be stored in corridors or public areas.

In order to purchase a standard stateroom, devices must be able to fit in its 22" (5.3 cm) wide entry doorway, and when stored, must allow for safe exit from the stateroom. Guests who bring scooters that are larger than 21" wide, or travel with multiple scooters in the same stateroom, must purchase a fully accessible stateroom with a wider doorway (32" or 81.3 cm) or rent a smaller scooter appropriately suited for their stateroom.

What if my personal mobility device does not fit through my stateroom door?

What are the requirements for guests traveling alone with disabilities.

We do not require that a guest with a disability travel with another person as a condition for traveling on our ships. However, we do not provide one-on-one personal care assistance, and all guests must be able to provide such care for themselves (e.g., performing personal tasks such as eating, dressing, toileting, bathing, and getting around the ship). Once on board, our crew will not provide any assistance with such personal tasks.

Do you provide wheelchair push assistance onboard?

Personal wheelchair push assistance service is not provided while on board or in ports of call.

Are personal mobility devices allowed to go ashore in ports of call?

Guests wishing to disembark the vessel on their device must be able to safely navigate the angle of the gangway while the ship is docked in port. Additionally, if the ship is calling on a water shuttle port, the captain will make a determination as to whether guests may disembark with their device, given prevailing maritime conditions and water shuttle limitations.

Are the ports of call accessible for those with mobility limitations?

Facilities across ports of call vary significantly and accessibility may not be available in certain ports of call due to limited infrastructure and other factors. Facilities, services and transportation equipment in non-U.S. ports may not be required to be ADA compliant. In the event you are unable to disembark, Carnival has a wide variety of onboard activities during every port stop should guests decide not to disembark.

Are accessible shore excursions available?

We want our guests with mobility limitations to be able to enjoy their time ashore, and where possible, we will do our best to secure accessible tours, but options may be limited or non-existent altogether.

Detailed information is provided in the shore excursions section of carnival.com, indicating the approximate amount of physical activity anticipated for the excursion, as well as which tours are wheelchair accessible.

Are service dogs allowed on board?

Carnival is happy to welcome working service dogs on board. Service dogs are legally defined and individually trained to meet disability-related needs by performing tasks like guiding a blind person, alerting a deaf person, pulling wheelchairs, alerting and protecting a person who is having a seizure, or performing other special tasks. Service dogs are not pets.

Please see our Service Animal section for more details about our service animal policies.

What are the requirements for traveling with a working service dog?

What type of relief area will my service dog have on board.

A relief area in a non-guest traffic area of the ship using Second Nature Dog Litter will be set up on board by our team.

Should you prefer another material, we ask that you bring it along and provide the Guest Access Department with this information, pre-cruise.

What happens if my service dog is not allowed to disembark at a port of call?

Are emotional support dogs allowed on board.

Emotional support dogs, which are not recognized by the US Department of Justice, are not permitted on Carnival ships. Pets, or service dogs in training, are also not allowed aboard. We do, however, welcome working service dogs, which are legally defined and individually trained to meet disability-related needs by performing tasks like guiding a blind person, alerting a deaf person, pulling wheelchairs, alerting and protecting a person who is having a seizure, or performing other special tasks.

Do you provide Braille formatted material on board?

Do you provide large print formatted material on board.

Large print format is available for our daily newsletter (the Carnival Fun Times), dining room menus, and shore excursion information.

We ask that you request large print items prior to sailing so we can have them ready for you upon arrival. Please send your request to [email protected] or you may call our Guest Access team at 1-800-438-6744, ext. 70025 or 1800 072 670 ext. 70025 if calling from Australia.

Additional requests for large print information or alternate formats may be made at the Guest Services desk, once on board; however, there may be a delay if not requested prior to sailing.

Dining rooms menus can be provided in an electronic PDF file readable via screen reading software. Our dining team will also be happy to review the menu with you in detail.

You can also access information directly on your phone via the Carnival HubApp.

Do you provide alert systems for guests who are deaf or hard of hearing?

Do you have closed captions?

A safety briefing video with open captions is televised in all staterooms throughout the cruise.

Carnival-created TV content has closed captions. Additionally, when available through our service provider, closed captions are offered for certain in- stateroom TV programs and movies. Should you require closed captioning for our outdoor movies, please contact our Guest Services team once on board.

Do you offer assisted audio devices in the Main Lounge?

Do you offer sign language interpreter services.

Guests who are deaf or hard of hearing, who use sign language as their primary means of communication may request a sign language interpreter. Sign language interpreters can be requested, on a shared basis, for cruises departing from and returning to a U.S port for the purpose of interpreting our main production shows, port and shopping presentations, and other major organized activities.

Do you accommodate food allergies?

We ask that you please inform the Maître d' directly as well as your dining team of any food allergies and special preparation you may require to accommodate your allergy. Please discuss this the first evening of your cruise.

Although there are a number of options at our various restaurants, special dietary and food requests can be accommodated in our main dining rooms only.

Can I bring my own pre-packaged food or drinks in order to accommodate a food allergy or specific dietary need?

Due to concerns for food safety and contamination prevention, any food items brought on board must be pre-packaged and unopened. Homemade items or pre-cooked foods are not allowed. We are unable to provide food preparation, refrigeration or storage for personal food or beverage items.

Due to medical needs, guests may bring pre-packaged, frozen meals and certain beverages (Ensure, etc.). However, we need to know in advance to coordinate boarding of the pre-approved items. If pre-approval is not provided, prohibited items will be confiscated on embarkation day.

Please contact our Guest Access department so we can discuss your plans in advance. The Guest Access team can be reached by phone at 1-800-438-6744, ext. 70025, 1800 072 670 ext. 70025 if calling from Australia or via email at [email protected] .

Can I bring a blender to make my own food to accommodate a food allergy or specific dietary need?

Please contact our Guest Access team in advance of your cruise to discuss an accommodation. We do not allow professional industrial grade blenders due to the high voltage. However, we can permit (with approval) items such as a NutriBullet and Magic Bullet. If pre-approval is not provided, prohibited items will be confiscated on embarkation day.

Do you offer gluten-free food and drink options?

Can children with disabilities participate in youth program activities.

Carnival works with parents or guardians to include all children within the designated age ranges in the available youth programs.

Each child's needs are assessed, on a case-by-case basis, to determine how she or he can be accommodated and integrated in the program to have a fully and equally enjoyable experience.

In order to participate in Carnival youth program activities, the parent or guardian will need to register their child for the program. When registering the child, the staff will work with the parents to determine what special assistance will help aid the youth staff in how to best serve the child while participating in the activities. Parents may choose to have their child move down one age group as an accommodation to a disability. No child who is 18 years can participate in youth programs.

Youth programs rules and regulations still apply to all children, in terms of age policy, illness, hours of operation and acceptable conduct (unruly behavior) while in the program.

Does Carnival provide one-on-one attention for children with disabilities?

Carnival does not provide one-on-one attention, but the parent or assigned helper may stay and participate in the activities with the child. Due to safety concerns, staff and crew cannot lift or carry guests. Parents of children who are unable to feed themselves should remain with the child during meal times. Special diets cannot be accommodated for meals served in Carnival youth programs. Kids' menus are subject to change based on availability.

What do you offer for individuals with sensory and invisible disabilities?

All of Carnival's guest-facing crew have been trained to understand and help guests with sensory/cognitive needs. The Guest Services and Youth Staff are ready to assist adults, youth and children with sensory-related questions or issues relating to conditions such as Autism, ADHD, Down Syndrome, PTSD, etc. KultureCity Sensory Bags can be checked out for the duration of the cruise (on a complimentary and first-come, first-served basis) by visiting Guest Services or one of our Youth programs. Each bag contains items to help calm, relax and manage sensory overload, and include comfortable noise- canceling headphones, fidget tools, a visual feeling thermometer, and a KultureCity VIP lanyard, to help the staff easily identify a guest.

Do you offer oxygen for purchase?

If you require the use of oxygen during your cruise, you must arrange for an adequate supply to be delivered to the ship on your sailing date. The Medical Center is equipped with oxygen for emergency use ONLY.

Please contact Guest Services once on board for proper storage of your oxygen. Guests are responsible for the pickup and delivery of their own oxygen. Please have your medical supply company contact us, otherwise port clearance may not be granted.

If you choose to bring your own personal supply of oxygen, you must hand- carry it with you. Packing oxygen cylinders and/or tanks in your checked luggage is strictly prohibited, as is putting them through security x-ray machines. Please hand-carry your oxygen machines (BiPAP, CPAP, Concentrator, Nebulizer, etc.) and not place them in your checked luggage.

Do you offer CPAP machine for rental?

You must bring your own equipment on board for personal use. Please hand- carry these items and do not place them in your checked luggage.

Do you offer distilled water?

Carnival carries distilled water which can be purchased either pre-cruise if you are sailing from a US port, or once on board. For pre-purchase, please contact our Fun Shops department at 1-800-522-7648 ext. 70039, Monday-Sunday from 9:00am-9:00pm ET. For purchase on board, please contact Room Service. Should you wish to bring your own distilled water with you, it must be hand-carried along with your CPAP machine.

Do you offer extension cords?

It is recommended that you bring your own extension cord to accommodate your equipment comfortably.

There is one electrical outlet in each stateroom located in the area of the desk/vanity. The outlet is equipped with a 3-prong 110 volt (North America Grounded) and a 220 volt (Europe/German-Style). Our Australia-based sips offer one Australian powerpoint in each stateroom.

Do you offer sharps disposal containers?

For guests who are traveling with injectable medication and need a sharps disposal container, please contact the Medical Center or the onboard Housekeeping staff.

Do you offer storage for medication?

A small, personal-sized cooler no larger than 12" x 12" x 12" (30.5 cm x 30.5 cm x 30.5 cm) for the purpose of housing medications is permitted as carry-on luggage.

Portable medi-coolers are available in limited quantities, and on a first come, first serve basis with a refundable rental deposit required. If a cooler is not available, our Medical Center can assist guests with refrigeration needs (accessible during operating hours of the Medical Center only).

Some ships have staterooms equipped with mini-bars designed to maintain the temperature of beverages only. Mini-bars are not to be used to store medications that have specific temperature requirements.

Who can I contact for accessibility related concerns or questions?

We strongly suggest you communicate any needs to our team before you cruise so that we can do our best to meet any accommodations. If you need general information about accessibility, please call our Guest Access team at 1-800-438-6744 ext.70025, 1800 072 670 ext. 70025 if calling from Australia, or email us at [email protected] .

Once on board, you can request to speak to the Guest Services Manager.

Curb Free with Cory Lee: A Wheelchair Travel Blog - Sharing the world from a wheelchair user's perspective

10 Wheelchair Accessible Cruises to Consider for Your Next Vacation

cruising with kids Taking a cruise is a very popular vacation option for wheelchair accessibility and for those with disabilities because everything is available within the confines of the ship. Wheelchair accessible cruises and disabled cruises are floating vacations with everything from pools and fine dining to relaxation and spacious living quarters. There’s no need to worry about transportation or mobility once you’re on the ship, as it’s all included and ready for you to explore.

The following 10 wheelchair accessible and disabled cruises cover 5 different destinations: Alaska, the Caribbean, Hawaii, the Bahamas, and Scandiavia or Northern Europe, with 5 different cruise lines. This gives you a wide range of destinations and experiences to choose from. For each of the handicap cruises mentioned in this article , there are disabled cabins on cruise ships and they would be perfect for any wheelchair user or senior with disabilities. Almost all cruises are handicap accessible cruises due to the staterooms and accommodations.

When planning a cruise, whether it’s one that’s been recommended below or to any destination you choose, it’s important to remember to contact the cruise line with any questions. Many cruise ships will dock at each destination, but not every port of call is wheelchair accessible. Speaking with the cruise line about excursions and wheelchair accessibility is the best way to ensure your wheelchair cruise suits your needs.

The Best Wheelchair Accessible Cruises and Disabled Cruises to Consider

1: Alaskan Cruise with Holland America

Alaska is a great destination for disabled cruises because you can see so much from the ship itself and enjoy the destination without having to disembark sometimes. Many of the ports are also docked, which makes it easy to go explore each city, see a show, and do some shopping, along with take in the sights and experiences. Ports of call on these cruises include Ketchikan, Juneau , Skagway, and Glacier Bay.

One of the best ways to take a cruise to Alaska in terms of wheelchair accessibility is with Holland America . There are a variety of Alaskan wheelchair accessible cruises available through this cruise line. The best time to see Alaska is from April to September, due to the weather and these cruises can be scheduled quickly if you’re booking in that window.

Half of the Holland America cruise ships travel to and from Alaska, but one of the most wheelchair and handicap accessible ships is Nieuw Amsterdam . This ship provides 7 day cruises in Alaska, including the Glacier Discovery Northbound, Glacier Discovery Southbound, and Alaskan Inside Passage. Cruises depart from Vancouver, BC, Canada and Whittier, Alaska.

Holland America is excellent in terms of accessibility from check in to check out. There’s a specific wheelchair and special assistance check in, the staterooms are very accessible and spacious, and there are accessible restrooms on the most popular levels so you don’t have to waste vacation time traveling back to your room.

2: Alaskan Cruise with Carnival

Another great Alaska option is taking a cruise with Carnival. There are three different Carnival cruise ships that offer an Alaska trip : the Carnival Miracle with 10 day or 11 day cruises leaving from San Francisco, California, the Carnival Spirit with a 7 day or 8 day cruise leaving from Seattle, Washington, and the Carnival Legend with a 9 day cruise leaving from Vancouver, BC, Canada. The Alaska cruises typically run from April to September, as this is the best weather window for visiting Alaska.

The ports of call depend on how long your cruise is, but typically most Alaska cruises with Carnival visit several of the same destinations. The most popular destinations with wheelchair accessible excursions include: Skagway, Ketchikan , and Icy Strait Point. There’s also plenty to do in Juneau and Victoria. Most wheelchair and handicap accessible excursions include a tour, from a train ride at White Pass Summit to a village tour in Ketchikan and a whale cruise at Icy Strait Point.

A unique feature of the Carnival Alaska cruises is the day of Cruising the Tracy Arm Fjord . This is an on ship experience because everyone stays aboard the ship and the ship passes through a narrow waterway surrounded by glaciers on both sides.

Carnival offers a variety of accessibility accommodations, including wheelchair accessible staterooms. There are four different types of accessible staterooms available and Carnival uses a Mobility Questionaire to help assign the appropriate room to guests requiring accommodations.

3: Caribbean Cruise with Carnival

Carnival is also a great cruise line for traveling to the Caribbean. This cruise line offers trips to the West, East, and Southern Caribbean departing from multiple locations along the east coast including Florida, Alabama, Texas, Virginia, New York, South Carolina, and Maryland. Cruises can last anywhere from 4 days to 14 days, which makes it easy to enjoy the trip no matter the length of your vacation. The shorter trips, 4 to 7 days, typically cover the West and East, while the longer trips, 14 days, visit the south.

The 4 to 5 day cruises occur on the Carnival Sensation and the Carnival Fantasy. These trips have two ports of call , Key West and Cozumel where you can take tours to explore the port and maybe even spend some time at the beach. A 6 day cruise typically has 3 stops, but these ports are all different from the shorter cruises, with ports at Nassau, Amber Cove, Grand Turk, and Half Moon Cay, depending on the cruise. Each port has plenty to explore from shopping and dining to beaches, tours, and other excursions. The Carnival Magic, Breeze, and Fascination all run 6 day cruises.

Carnival cruises are great options for anyone looking to take their first cruise. It’s a common cruise line and can be a solid opportunity for a wheelchair cruise, a cruise for seniors with disabilities, or even cruising with kids , as Carnival has a kid’s club and many activities are geared toward children. Carnival offers 4 different accessible staterooms on most of their cruise ships and works with guests to ensure their stateroom suits their needs.

4: Caribbean Cruise with Disney

Disney is a popular cruise line and their cruises to the Caribbean are more popular due to the Disney island stop, Castaway Cay. Disney cruises are great for families and because of this target audience, they’re also great in terms of wheelchair and handicap accessibility. When looking for a cruise for wheelchair users, consider a Disney cruise. While they are typically more expensive, they may also offer more accessible excursions with a family focused atmosphere.

Disney cruises visit Western, Eastern, and Southern Caribbean, depending on which trip you book. 4 night cruises are aboard the Disney Wonder and depart from Galveston, Texas or New Orleans, Louisiana. These short cruises have one port of call, Cozumel, Mexico , which is great for exploring the beach. There’s also 2 days at sea with plenty to do, as Disney hosts magnificent days at sea parties with unique themes. The ideal time of year to take a Disney cruise to the Caribbean is December to May, outside of hurricane season.

7 night cruises are aboard the Disney Fantasy and depart from Florida, Texas, or Lousisana. Some of these cruises even stop at Castaway Cay twice, which is perfect for getting in beach time and to explore each destination. Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island, is very handicap accessible with wide, paved walking paths, sand wheelchairs, an accessible tram, and accessible bathrooms.

Disney cruises are very accessible , from spacious staterooms to accessible bathrooms. Disney provides a list of amenities in each accessible stateroom, as well as a Special Services department to ensure your cruise fulfills all your accessibility needs. A Disney cruise is a great option for all ages, as each cruise provides plenty of on board entertainment and activity along with beautiful ports of call.

5: Hawaiian Cruise with Disney

Another great destination with Disney Cruises is Hawaii . You get all the luxury and accessibility of the staterooms , the wonderful on board entertainment and events, along with a beautiful destination and beachy ports of call. Hawaii cruises with Disney tend to be longer trips, 9 and 10 nights, and have a limited range of ports to depart from.

There is limited availability on these cruises as well, with the Disney Wonder leaving from Vancouver, BC, Canada. Each cruise has a port of call at three or four Hawaiian islands, making sure your whole trip is spent in paradise. The best time to take a Hawaii cruise is during good weather, to avoid storms, ideally April to September.

A 10 day cruise to Hawaii with Disney includes 5 days at sea and 5 destinations, all of which are different Hawaiian islands. A cruise of this length gives you plenty of time onboard to enjoy the shows, dining experiences, character meet and greets, and onboard entertainment, while also getting to visit several Hawaiian destinations to visit the beach, tour the towns, take pictures, and enjoy the atmosphere.

6: Hawaiian Cruise with Norwegian

A unique cruising experience is visiting Hawaii with Norwegian Cruise Line . This line offers long, 14 day cruises starting or ending in Hawaii, along with 7 day Hawaii round trip cruises. This is a unique cruise experience in that you start your cruise in Hawaii and can end in Tahiti or take the ship all the way to Vancouver, depending on your preference. Many cruises are round trip from one specific port, but Norwegian offers a chance to explore even more on one cruise.

The 7 day round trip cruise starts and ends on the island of Hawaii with the ship Pride of America. Ports include popular Hawaiian islands such as Kahului, Hilo, and Kona, and is one of the most well-known and popular cruise options to this destination. Norwegian runs this cruse year-round, which makes it easy to book for whenever you’re ready to take a vacation.

The 11 day cruise starts in Hawaii and ends in Vancouver, which is an amazing way to end a vacation. You can start in Hawaii for a few days, enjoy the island, then island hop your way home to Vancouver and fly from there. Port activities include visiting the beaches, shopping, and spending time at museums, educational centers, and national parks. There’s something for everyone on these trips for all ages and mobility restrictions.

Norwegian Cruise Line believes that cruising should be enjoyed by everyone, which is why they strive to provide the best service for guests with disabilities, handicaps, mobility restrictions, and wheelchair users. Norwegian has Special Assistance Coordinators to help ensure your cruise fulfills your needs, from a specific stateroom to any other accommodations.

7: Bahamas Cruise with Norwegian

Norwegian Cruise Line also offers wonderful cruises for wheelchair users to a variety of destinations, including the Bahamas. Just like with Hawaii, Norwegian offers some unique experiences on their cruises to the Bahamas, including one cruise that leaves New York City, stops in Florida for some theme park fun, and then cruises to the Bahamas for fun, sun, and beachy afternoons. They offer 3 day, 4 day, or 5 day cruises from Florida, or a 10 day or 11 day cruise from NYC. The ships that travel this route include the Norweigan Sky, Norweigan Sun, and Norweigan Escape.

Most of these cruises are round-trip , which makes it easy to arrive at your port, board the ship, and enjoy the trip. Ports of call include Grand Bahama Island, Grand Stirrup Cay, and Nassau on the shorter trips, and additional stops in Orlando and Bermuda for the 11 day cruise. This is a great cruise to visit the beaches, enjoy the warm weather, and to escape daily life for a few days. The best time to travel to the Bahamas is after November and before May, to have the best weather.

Norwegian wants everyone to enjoy their stay and works to provide the best staterooms and service to accommodate the needs of every guest. They have wheelchair accessible staterooms and events for everyone both onboard and at each port as an excursion. Contact Norwegian Cruise Line for specifics.

disabled cruises, wheelchair accessible cruises

8: Bahamas Cruise with Royal Caribbean

Similar to traveling to the Bahamas with Norwegian, Royal Caribbean cruises leave from Florida, Texas, and other eastern coastal states of the United States to explore Nassau, Key West, and Cozumel. This is the perfect cruise for wheelchair users, people with disabilities, and seniors with disabilities as it gives everyone a chance to enjoy the warm weather and get a chance to enjoy beyond their everyday.

Royal Caribbean offers cruises in a range of lengths, from 3 nights to 4 and 5 nights, along with a week long 7 day to 14 days and beyond. Ships that travel to the Bahamas include the Mariner of the Seas, Empress of the Seas, and Independence of the Seas. All ships offer accessible staterooms and excursions. Reservations require a Guest with Special Needs Form to ensure you are assigned the proper stateroom.

Nassau is a docked port, which means it will be the most wheelchair accessible and allows everyone a chance to get off the ship and explore. There’s beautiful beaches, boat rides, tours, and plenty of shopping. This is a great place for a short cruise over a weekend or a longer cruise to enjoy more of the Bahamas.

9: Scandinavia with Royal Caribbean

On Royal Caribbean, their ship Jewel of the Seas takes guests to Scandinavia and Russia over 7, 8, or 10 days. This ship departs from Copenhagen, Denmark or Stockholm, Sweden depending on the trip. These trips are part of the Baltic Cruises this cruise line offers. The best time to visit Scandinavia and Northern Europe is from April to August for the best weather window.

One of the benefits of traveling with Royal Caribbean is that the itinerary tells you if your port will be docked or tendered. Docked is the best option for those with disabilities, mobility limitations, and wheelchair accessibility. Most of the ports of call on the Baltic Cruises are docked, with the rare exception depending on your cruise.

Popular ports of call include Tallinn, Estonia , St. Petersburg, Russia , and Helsinki, Finland . Longer cruises have a few more ports of call including Visby, Sweden. Each location on any of the three cruises include amazing local dining, comprehensive tours and museums to take in the local history, and plenty of shopping for gifts, souvenirs and pictures to document your trip.

Royal Caribbean fully supports that travel should be accessible for all and works to provide accessible staterooms and excursions to all their guests. Their website includes a request form for accessible excursions and a list of tendered ports , which are not typically wheelchair accessible. Accessible staterooms can be requested with a Guest Special Needs Form .

10: Scandinavian Cruise with Holland America

A Scandinavian cruise is commonly referred to as a Northern Europe cruise and visits locations such as Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. In addition to cruising with Royal Caribbean, you can also cruise with Holland America, which is known as one of the most accessible cruise lines, as we saw with cruising to Alaska. The same standard is upheld with cruising to Scandinavia. Holland America offers 7 day, 10 day, 14 day, and 21 day cruises that explore the waterways of Sweden, Norway, and the Baltic sea. Ships available for these trips include Ship Nieuw Statendam and Ship Rotterdam.

Many of these excursions are taking water and motor tours of the surrounding areas, like driving through one of Norway’s longest tunnels, visiting farm villages, sampling local coffee and treats, and exploring the steep roads with hairpin turns. While these are exciting ways to explore the area, it can also make wheelchair accessibility difficult. The best way to approach these excursions is to speak with Holland America directly, as accessible vehicles, ramps, and other accommodations can be made in advance.

Holland America Line strives to provide any accommodations you may need during your stay and uses a Special Requirements Information Form to help provide the proper stateroom and any other adjustments a guest with disabilities or mobility limitations may need. It is suggested to plan ahead and to contact the cruise line well before your stay in order to answer questions about cruises for wheelchair users and to confirm your reservation.

As you can see, there are a variety of handicap cruises and disabled cruises available to consider for your next vacation. Most cruise lines are accommodating in terms of disabled cabins on cruise ships and exciting excursions.

Cruises are a great opportunity to travel for wheelchair users, those with mobility restrictions and disabled individuals. The all inclusiveness of a cruise makes it the perfect way to relax and enjoy without all the planning of a traditional vacation.

Are you interested in booking one of these cruises?? Contact my accessibility-focused travel agency, Curb Free Travel, by emailing me at [email protected]

22 Accessible Activities You Can Enjoy on the Carnival Horizon Cruise Ship

Latest Posts

After being diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy at the age of two, Cory's thirst for adventure never ceased. He went on many trips around the US when he was younger, and then started taking things internationally when he turned fifteen. Since then, Cory has traveled around the world, all while managing to successfully graduate college and start up his travel blog curbfreewithcorylee.com, where he shares his accessible, and sometimes not so accessible, travel adventures with others. Through this, he hopes to inspire other wheelchair users to roll out of their comfort zone and see all of the beauty that the world has to offer.

How to Have the Best Weekend in Mesa, Arizona as a Wheelchair User
Your Wheelchair Accessible Travel Guide to Greater Fort Lauderdale
A Wheelchair Accessible Travel Guide to Switzerland
Pingback: 17 Reasons Why Holland America’s Nieuw Amsterdam Ship is the Best and Most Accessible Alaska Cruise
Pingback: An Accessible Day in Stockholm, Sweden: What I Did and What I Learned
Pingback: The Lowdown on Accessible Cruising: An Interview with Royal Caribbean’s Director of Disability Inclusion
Pingback: 5 Reasons Cruising is the Best Way to Travel in a Wheelchair
Pingback: From Russia, With Love: One Day in Saint Petersburg as a Wheelchair User
Pingback: Lago Mar Beach Resort & Club | A Ft. Lauderdale Luxury Getaway - Ana's World
Pingback: How To Find The Best Cruise Deals For Your Next Vacation
Pingback: Why You Should go on a Cruise at Least Once in Your Life
Pingback: Driving the Parks Highway from Anchorage to Denali

Comments are closed.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Services for Guests with Disabilities

Request Special Services Accessible Staterooms Communication Staterooms on the Disney Wish and Disney Treasure Wheelchairs and Other Personal Mobility Equipment American Sign Language Interpreters Children with Disabilities Wireless Internet Access (Wi-Fi) and Medical Devices Additional Accessibility Information

Request Special Services

Notate dietary requirements
Arrange for wheelchair access and/or ground transportation lift
Specify if a wheelchair-accessible stateroom is required
Indicate your need for communication features for Guests with hearing disabilities. (For the Disney Wish and Disney Treasure, you will need to book a Communication Stateroom, which will have built-in communication features. For all other ships, portable communication kits are available)
Indicate if you will be traveling with a service animal
Provide notification of medical equipment arrangements
Indicate if you will be traveling with oxygen

Accessible Staterooms

32" (minimum) doorways
Ramped bathroom thresholds
Open bed frames
Toilet and shower grab bars
Fold-down shower seats
Adjustable-height shower heads
Lowered towel and closet bars
Emergency call buttons
Portable toilet
Raised toilet seat
Shower stool
Transfer bench
Stateroom Communication Kits containing door knock and phone alerts, bed shaker notification, and a strobe light smoke detector.
A stateroom text typewriter (TTY)

Communication Staterooms on the Disney Wish and Disney Treasure

Smoke detector with visual indication
Indicating panel with light signals for doorbell, telephone calls, general alarm and fire alarm
Vibrating bed shaker under the mattress for doorbell, telephone calls, general alarm and fire alarm

Wheelchairs and Other Personal Mobility Equipment

You must provide your own wheelchair or other mobility aid and arrange for the rental, delivery and pickup of that device to and from the ship on your own.
Certain activities, like accessing a pool or using a tender boat to visit a port of call, require Guests to transfer out of their wheelchairs. We strongly recommend that Guests using wheelchairs sail with someone who can physically assist them when necessary.
Due to safety regulations, wheelchairs, scooters, strollers and other personal belongings may not be stored in public passageways and must be stored inside staterooms or in a designated public storage area.

American Sign Language Interpreters

June 17 through June 24, 2024: 7-Night Mediterranean with Greek Isles Cruise from Civitavecchia
July 24 through August 5 , 2024: 12-Night Norwegian Fjords and Iceland Cruise from Southampton
August 5 through August 12, 2024: 7-Night Norwegian Fjords Cruise from Southampton
September 8 through September 15, 2024: 7-Night British Isles Cruise from Southampton
May 17 through May 24, 2025: 7-Night Mediterranean Cruise from Barcelona
June 30 through July 12, 2025: 12-Night Mediterranean with Greek Isles Cruise from Civitavecchia (Rome) ending in Barcelona
July 24 through July 31, 2025: 7-Night Western Europe Cruise from Barcelona ending in Southampton
August 10 through August 18, 2025: 8-Night Norwegian Fjords Cruise from Southampton
September 8 through September 15, 2025: 7-Night British Isles Cruise from Southampton

Children with Disabilities

Our Youth Activity programs are available to children who are fully toilet trained, able to individually participate within our counselor-to-child ratio groups and interact socially and comfortably with peers of their own age and physical size. We are unable to provide one-on-one counselor care, a counselor with specialty training or counselor-assisted medical attention.

Epinephrine injector medication must be in the original container with the expiration date and labeled with the child’s name, instructions for use and name of the child’s physician. If the epinephrine injector is not in the original container, a hard copy of the prescription with the child's name, instructions for use and the name of the child's physician can be accepted as a replacement.

Additional participation guidelines and restrictions may apply and are established to provide a safe and secure youth entertainment environment. Open House hours are also available so the entire family can join the fun and participate together.

For an additional fee, group childcare is available for children ages 3 and younger; we do not provide childcare in Guest staterooms.

Wireless Internet Access (Wi-Fi) and Medical Devices

Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of internet packages—including family and pay-as-you-go plans. Package costs are based on data usage. Please note that due to satellite connectivity and the technology involved, onboard wireless internet service will be noticeably slower than what you may be accustomed to and may at times be interrupted or unavailable. Guests who monitor/maintain a medical condition wirelessly should be prepared to utilize alternate means to manage their medical condition throughout the sailing.

Additional Accessibility Information

Learn more about the onboard services and facilities available to Guests with disabilities. Information for Guests with Disabilities or Medical Conditions Guest Special Services Information Form Complaints Resolution Officials Information Information for Guests with an Autism Spectrum Disorder

Favorites & Watchlist Find a Cruise Cruise Deals Cruise Ships Destinations Manage My Cruise FAQ Perfect Day at CocoCay Weekend Cruises Crown & Anchor Society Cruising Guides Gift Cards Contact Us Royal Caribbean Group
Back to Main Menu
Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-2-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruises" target="_self"> Search Cruises
Cruise Deals
Weekend Cruises
Last Minute Cruises
Family Cruises
2024-2025 Cruises
All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
Cruise Dining
Onboard Activities
Cruise Rooms
The Cruise Experience
All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-5-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
Cruise Ports
Shore Excursions
Perfect Day at CocoCay
Caribbean Cruises
Bahamas Cruises
Alaska Cruises
European Cruises
Mediterranean Cruises
Cruise Planner
Make a Payment
Beverage Packages
Shore Excursions
Dining Packages
Royal Gifts
Check-In for My Cruise
Update Guest Information
Book a Flight
Transportation
Book a Hotel
Required Travel Documents
Redeem Cruise Credit
All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-7-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
Boarding Requirements
Future Cruise Credit
Travel Documents
Check-in & Boarding Pass
Transportation
Perfect Day at CocoCay
Post-Cruise Inquiries
Royal Caribbean
Celebrity Cruises

ACCESSIBLE STATEROOMS

Our accessible staterooms are designed for guests with mobility disabilities and other disabilities that require the use of the features associated with accessible staterooms. Accessible staterooms range from 159 square feet to 298 square feet, offer a five-foot turning radius in sleeping areas, bathrooms and sitting areas for easy maneuverability. Accessible staterooms are held for people with disabilities until all other non-accessible staterooms in that category are reserved. Upon reserving an accessible stateroom, we require our guests acknowledge the need for the accessible stateroom by completing a Guest Special Needs Form. If a guest is booked in an accessible stateroom and they do not have a mobility disability or other disability that requires the use of the features that are provided in the accessible stateroom, they may be moved at any time to another non-accessible stateroom in order to accommodate a guest with a disability. Please note we investigate and take action on potential misuse of accessible staterooms where there is good cause to believe that such staterooms have been booked fraudulently.

ACCESSIBLE STATEROOMS

Our accessible staterooms are designed for guests with mobility disabilities and other disabilities that require the use of the features associated with accessible staterooms. Accessible staterooms range from 159 square feet to 298 square feet, offer a five-foot turning radius in sleeping areas, bathrooms and sitting areas for easy maneuverability. Accessible staterooms are held for people with disabilities until all other non-accessible staterooms in that category are reserved. Upon reserving an accessible stateroom, we require our guests acknowledge the need for the accessible stateroom by completing a Guest Special Needs Form. . If a guest is booked in an accessible stateroom and they do not have a mobility disability or other disability that requires the use of the features that are provided in the accessible stateroom, they may be moved at any time to another non-accessible stateroom in order to accommodate a guest with a disability. Please note we investigate and take action on potential misuse of accessible staterooms where there is good cause to believe that such staterooms have been booked fraudulently.

We encourage you notify us of your needs at the time of booking, to guarantee availability of specific equipment or services.

- 60 days for sign language interpreting
- 30 days for special needs equipment or services
- 72 hours if traveling with a group of passengers with disability

LIST OF EQUIPMENT AND SERVICES REQUIRING ADVANCE NOTICE

ACCESSIBLE STATEROOM FEATURES:

• Stateroom door width: 32"-34" (vessel-dependent)

• Bathroom door width: 32"-34" (vessel-dependent)

• No doorsill to get into the stateroom

• Ramped bathroom thresholds

• Bathroom grab bars

• Lowered sink and stateroom vanity

• Roll-in shower bench

• Fold-down shower bench

• Hand-held showerheads

• Lowered closet rods

• Refrigerator in stateroom (upon request)

• Raised toilet seats (most are between 17 to 19 inches high; commode chairs available – please request prior to sailing)

• Accessible balconies (selected staterooms)

• Lowered safes for easy access (not including Majesty of the Seas, where safes are located at Guest Relations)

Please note: Accessible suites have roll-in showers, not bathtubs except on Quantum of the Seas.

MORE INFORMATION

Call our Access Department at (866) 592-7225, or send an e-mail to [email protected], or have your local travel agent or International Representative contact us. Our fax number is (954) 628-9622.

ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

My Personas

Code: ∅.

Best Cruise Lines for Disabled Passengers: A Complete Guide

I love cruising. It’s a great and wheelchair-accessible way to travel. However, I often get asked what is the best cruise lines for disabled passengers. So when Dan Claydon, who has worked on various cruise ships, offered to write a post on this topic I was thrilled to accept. Here is what he had to say.

For travelers with disabilities, finding the best cruise lines for disabled passengers can make all the difference between an average vacation and an unforgettable experience. Cruising offers a distinct travel adventure, combining the thrill of exploring multiple destinations with the luxury of onboard amenities and entertainment.

In this guide, we’ll explore how cruise lines are prioritizing accessibility, ensuring every passenger, irrespective of their mobility challenges, can savor a splendid journey at sea.

Are Cruises Good for Disabled People?

Absolutely! Modern cruise lines understand the importance of inclusivity and have made significant advancements to cater to passengers with disabilities. If you’re considering a journey on the seas, you might want to check out these cruise tips to enhance your experience.

With accessible rooms, amenities, and excursions, cruises are increasingly becoming a favorite choice for those with mobility issues. Let’s break this down a bit further.

How Cruise Lines Cater to Individuals with Disabilities

Modern cruise ships have evolved significantly when it comes to addressing the needs of individuals with disabilities. From spacious cabins equipped with accessible amenities to wide corridors and ramps, cruise liners ensure that mobility on board is not a concern.

Adaptable Cabins

These cabins, specifically designed for passengers with disabilities, often include wider doorways , roll-in showers, and lowered sinks.

Public Areas

Elevators, ramps, and modified seating areas ensure that guests can access entertainment venues, dining areas, and other public spaces with ease.

How Cruise Lines Accommodate Passengers with Visual Impairments

The visually impaired community is not left behind when it comes to cruising. Many cruise lines have adopted measures to ensure that their experience is as enriching as any other passenger’s.

Braille Signage

Finding one’s way is made easier with Braille signage present throughout the ship.

Assistance Services

Dedicated crew members can offer personalized services like guided tours or reading menus, ensuring that the onboard experience is seamless.

How Cruise Lines Support Individuals with Autism

Understanding the unique challenges faced by individuals with autism, especially in a new and bustling environment like a cruise ship, several liners have taken steps to provide a comfortable experience.

Quiet Rooms

Dedicated spaces where guests with sensory sensitivities can relax and take a break from the stimulating environment.

Specialized Programs

Tailored entertainment and activity programs that cater to the interests and comfort levels of guests with autism.

Trained Staff

Crew members trained in understanding and assisting individuals with autism, ensuring their needs are met and their experiences are enjoyable.

7 Best Cruise Lines for Disabled Passengers

For many travelers with disabilities, choosing the right cruise line can make all the difference in their vacation experience. With a focus on accessibility and top-notch service, let’s delve into the seven best cruise lines that prioritize the needs and comfort of disabled passengers.

1. Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean International stands out as a premier choice for passengers with disabilities.

Committed to ensuring every guest has an unparalleled experience, the cruise line has integrated various features that cater to those with limited mobility, hearing, and developmental disabilities.

Their emphasis on early booking to secure accessible rooms, and the range of services tailored for various disabilities, underpins their commitment to a seamless and enjoyable cruising experience for all guests.

Staterooms Tailored for Accessibility

Royal Caribbean offers accessible staterooms with a 5-foot turning radius for easy maneuvering. These rooms are spacious, ranging from 159 to 298 square feet, and come with features such as 32- to 34-inch doorways, roll-in showers, lower sinks, raised toilets, and hand-held showerheads.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kristin Secor (@worldonwheelsblog)

Fleet-Wide Accommodations

Automatic doors, wide corridors, gradual inclines leading to public venues, accommodating elevators, and pool and whirlpool lifts ensure mobility across the ship is a breeze. There’s also specific attention to guests with hearing or visual difficulties with offerings like assistive listening devices, Braille signage, and more.

Enriched Onboard and Onshore Experience

Off the ship, the cruise line offers accessible shore excursions, ensuring everyone gets the essence of every destination. While most ports provide wheelchair and scooter access, certain conditions might affect disembarking.

Special Attention to Specific Needs

Recognizing the diversity in disabilities, Royal Caribbean offers specific aids such as large-print menus for the visually impaired and closed-caption televisions for the hearing-impaired. Ships like the Serenade of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas feature over 30 accessible staterooms.

Pioneering Autism-friendly Cruising

Highlighting their dedication to inclusivity, Royal Caribbean became the first cruise line to be certified as “Autism Friendly” by Autism on the Seas. This means individuals with autism can expect a comfortable and understanding environment throughout their journey.

With such comprehensive offerings and consistent top ratings from platforms like Special Needs at Sea, Royal Caribbean undeniably offers one of the most disability-friendly cruise experiences.

2. Princess Cruises

For over three decades, Princess Cruises has been at the forefront of accessible cruising, solidifying its reputation as one of the industry’s best choices for disabled passengers. Beginning its focused accessibility journey in 1992 with the groundbreaking Princess Access program, this cruise line has since been consistently elevating the standards of accessible travel.

Their commitment ranges from thoughtfully designed onboard amenities to onshore excursion arrangements, ensuring that every passenger can savor every moment of their journey.

Impressive Onboard Accommodations

Across the Princess fleet, guests can find more than 350 wheelchair-accessible cabins, with each ship offering up to 31 such cabins. These cabins have been meticulously designed with widened doorways, removed or modified thresholds, roll-in showers, hand-held showerheads, lowered sinks, handrails, and closet railings. Furthermore, any additional accessibility equipment can be arranged upon request.

Two twin beds with green accent pillows are separated in a balcony cruise cabin

Ease of Movement

The architecture and design of most Princess ships emphasize accessibility. Whether it’s open deck spaces, show lounges, spas, restaurants, or theaters, the seamless design ensures ease of access. Elevators on board are spacious with 36- to 42-inch doorways, and there’s provision for wheelchair seating in public areas.

Innovative Provisions for Sight and Hearing Impaired

Princess Cruises thoughtfully provides infrared listening assistance systems in the ship’s theaters. Furthermore, ADA kits, equipped with text telephones, door knock sensors, and visual smoke detectors, cater to the needs of those with sight or hearing challenges.

Prioritizing Ease Onshore

Princess Cruises has made significant investments in specialized gangway mechanisms across most of its fleet, facilitating smooth embarkation and disembarkation for wheelchair travelers at various ports.

Their commitment extends beyond the ship, working in tandem with onshore facilities to enhance accessibility. It’s worth noting the advice from Travel for All specialists who recommend looking for itineraries where the ship docks at a pier for even smoother access.

A History of Leadership in Accessibility

Princess Cruises’ dedication to accessibility isn’t a recent development. They have been champions of this cause since 1992. Their vision then, as it remains today, has been to ensure every passenger, regardless of their physical abilities, experiences the wonder of cruising.

3. Holland America

Holland America is renowned for its dedication to providing an accessible and enjoyable cruising experience for passengers with disabilities. This commitment is evident from their recognition by Porthole Cruise magazine, where they won the accolade for “Best Overall Facilities for Physically Challenged Passengers”.

Their dedication to ensuring a barrier-free cruise experience, combined with its innovative measures, cements its position as one of the leading cruise lines catering to the needs of disabled passengers.

Staterooms Designed for Comfort

All vessels under Holland America offer accessible staterooms. Particularly, their Signature and Vista-class ships stand out with up to 30 accessible staterooms per ship.

These rooms are designed with wide doors, ensuring wheelchair access on both bed sides, and come equipped with roll-in showers with grab bars, accessible controls, and hand-held showerheads.

Aiding the Vision and Hearing Impaired

Holland America goes above and beyond in catering to passengers with visual and auditory impairments. They offer screen reader computer software, allowing visually impaired passengers to read internet text seamlessly.

Additionally, large print or Braille menus can be availed with prior notice. For the hearing impaired, the cruise line offers assistive listening systems in show lounges, stateroom visual and tactile alert kits, and amplified telephones.

Onboard and Offshore Facilities

While Holland America makes unwavering efforts to ensure inclusivity onboard, they have also put measures in place to help guests during shore excursions, even though some port-of-call facilities might have varying conditions.

For passengers with limited mobility , there’s provision for alternative transfers during shore excursions, along with lifts between the ship and tender.

4. Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises has established itself as a premier choice for disabled passengers, thanks to their comprehensive approach to accessibility across all aspects of the cruising experience.

They have seamlessly woven accessibility into every facet of their cruise experience. From innovative stateroom designs and onboard amenities to thoughtfully curated excursions and dedicated assistance, Celebrity truly ensures that everyone, regardless of their physical capabilities, can enjoy an unforgettable cruise journey.

Unparalleled Onboard Experience

Celebrity Cruises prides itself on having ships that are “accessible from bow to stern.” Staterooms are meticulously designed with wide, automatic doorways, generous turning space, and bathrooms equipped with roll-in showers, grab bars, and other essential features.

Beyond the staterooms, guests can expect wheelchair seating in all dining and entertainment venues, pool and whirlpool lifts, and accessible gaming tables in the casinos.

Inclusive Features for Vision and Hearing Impaired

On select ships, including all Solstice Class vessels, guests can find Braille signage and elevator buttons. To further cater to the needs of passengers with hearing difficulties, the ship’s crew offers various assistive devices and provisions.

Life Onshore – Accessible Adventures Awaits

Celebrity Cruises doesn’t limit its commitment to accessibility only onboard. They have curated a diverse range of wheelchair-accessible excursions that require only light activity levels.

Whether it’s guided city tours, scenic drives, or wheelchair-accessible railway journeys, every guest is assured an enriching experience at various destinations.

Dedicated Assistance

Complimentary assistance for guests during embarkation and disembarkation showcases Celebrity’s commitment to smooth sailing for all.

However, passengers should note that staff assistance has limitations, such as not being able to lift guests or their equipment. It’s also worth noting that some ports might necessitate the use of a tender boat for onshore travel.

Special Initiatives

Celebrity Cruises has gone the extra mile with its autism-friendly initiatives. These include priority check-in and departure, tailored menu options, and sensory-friendly entertainment, ensuring that every guest feels welcomed and catered for.

5. Carnival Cruises

Carnival Cruises stands out as a leading cruise line prioritizing the accessibility needs of its passengers, ensuring every age group enjoys a seamless cruising experience.

Their dedication to creating an inclusive environment, combined with their ongoing efforts to retrofit older ships and incorporate state-of-the-art accessibility features in newer ones, make them a top choice for passengers with disabilities. Whether young or old, Carnival ensures everyone is treated to an unforgettable voyage.

Inclusive Stateroom Design

Like its competitors, Carnival offers accessible staterooms across its fleet. Yet, two ships shine the brightest in this regard: The Carnival Horizon with 65 accessible staterooms and the Carnival Panorama boasting 75 accessible rooms.

These rooms come packed with features such as ample turning space, accessible pathways, and specially designed bathrooms with grab bars and shower seats.

Dedication to Continual Improvement

Although newer ships are typically better designed for accessibility, Carnival does not limit its efforts to only the latest vessels. The cruise line has retrofitted older ships with vital modifications like wheelchair-friendly elevators, which have tactile controls and audible signals for visually impaired guests.

Holistic Onboard Experience

The attention to accessibility doesn’t stop at staterooms. Carnival Cruises offers accessible routes across the ship, ensuring everyone can freely explore and engage in onboard activities.

Dining areas, whether casual spaces or upscale restaurants have accessible seating arrangements. Notably, specific ships such as the Horizon, Panorama, Radiance, Sunrise, Vista, and Mardi Gras are equipped with pool lifts, amplifying the fun and relaxation for those with mobility restrictions.

Assistance for Vision and Hearing Impaired

Beyond the tactile and audible signals in elevators, Carnival has integrated Braille signage and offers large-print menus. For those with hearing challenges, visual-tactile room kits are available, ensuring they’re always in the loop.

Tender Ports

While Carnival commits to maximum accessibility, some ports with tenders—smaller boats used when the main ship can’t directly access the port—might not be wheelchair-friendly. However, it’s important to note that even with such limitations, Carnival consistently strives to ensure an enriching experience at every port.

6. Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has cemented its reputation as one of the leading cruise lines for disabled passengers, underpinned by its unwavering commitment and dedicated Special Needs at Sea team.

The Cruise Line’s comprehensive approach to accessibility, paired with its dedicated staff and specialized facilities, makes it a top choice for passengers with special needs, ensuring they have a memorable and comfortable cruising experience.

Personalized Coordination

NCL’s dedication goes beyond mere infrastructure. The cruise line has a devoted Special Needs at Sea team that works tirelessly to coordinate and customize cruise experiences for guests with special needs.

Upon embarkation, guests are personally greeted by a staff member ready to assist with their specific accessibility requirements throughout their journey.

With up to 27 wheelchair-accessible staterooms available on each cruise, NCL is prepared to accommodate guests with mobility concerns. These staterooms are thoughtfully designed with wider door frames, roll-in showers, highrise toilets, shower benches, and handrails.

Certain vessels, including the Sky, Sun, and Pride of America, also offer specialized rooms for deaf and hard-of-hearing passengers. Portable kits and Braille/tactile signage further enhance the experience for visually impaired or blind guests.

A Wealth of Amenities for the Vision or Hearing Impaired

Norwegian’s commitment to accessibility extends to guests with vision or hearing impairments. They offer pagers for announcement alerts, hearing aids, and visually-tactile kits.

Some ships even have sign language interpreters, and the Sky, Sun, and Pride of America boast cabins specifically equipped for those with hearing challenges.

Inclusive Onboard Experiences

NCL’s ships are equipped with features such as pool lifts, ensuring guests with limited mobility can enjoy the onboard amenities. For those needing transportation to the ship, barrier-free options are available upon request.

Thoughtful Shore Excursion Planning

While Norwegian partners with U.S.-based companies to offer accessible excursions, the accessibility of international ports can vary. Travel for All encourages passengers to evaluate these excursions beforehand to ensure they align with their needs.

7. Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line stands out as one of the best cruise lines for disabled passengers, epitomizing its commitment to making every guest’s experience magical, regardless of their specific needs. Here’s a snapshot of why Disney Cruise Line shines in accessibility.

Thoughtfully Designed Staterooms

Beyond just having accessible rooms, Disney has meticulously crafted these spaces with features such as wide entryways (minimum 32 inches), emergency call buttons, open bed frames, ramped bathroom thresholds, and lower closet and towel bars.

Bathrooms are not only equipped with grab bars, roll-in showers with fold-down seats, and hand-held showerheads but also offer raised toilet seats upon request.

Inclusive Public Areas

The magic extends beyond the staterooms. The majority of public areas on Disney’s ships, from theaters and restaurants to shops, are accessible. To ensure everyone gets to take a dip, pool lifts are available on every ship, though appointments are needed.

Specialized Facilities

Catering to passengers with limited mobility, Disney offers bed boards, bed rails, portable or raised toilet seats, shower stools, and transfer benches.

For passengers with vision or hearing impairments, the cruise line provides auxiliary aids, communication kits equipped with bed shakers and TTY, and even has sign-language interpreters available in some instances.

Child-Friendly Approach

Recognizing that children with special needs deserve the same magical experience, the Dream class ships not only boast 24 accessible rooms but also feature youth counselors skilled in working with children with various needs.

Seamless Transfers

Disney Cruise Line goes the extra mile, offering both pre- and post-cruise transfers equipped with lifts, provided they are requested in advance.

Bring Your Assistive Devices

While passengers need to bring their wheelchairs, scooters, or other assistive devices, or make arrangements through third-party providers, Disney Cruise Line ensures that the journey aboard remains hassle-free by suggesting companies like Scootaround and Special Needs at Sea for equipment deliveries.

Tips for Choosing the Right Cruise for Disabled Passengers

Here are five crucial tips to help you select the perfect cruise for disabled passengers.

Research Accessibility Features

Each cruise line and ship can differ vastly in their accessibility features. When looking into potential cruises:

Ensure there are accessible cabins that meet your specific needs, such as roll-in showers, lowered counters, or visual and auditory aids.
Check for accessibility throughout the ship, including elevators, wide corridors, ramps, and modified seating in entertainment and dining areas.

Inquire About Onboard Medical Facilities

For many travelers with disabilities, the presence of medical facilities is a comforting reassurance:

Determine if the cruise ship has a medical center and what services it offers.
If you require specific medications, confirm storage or refrigeration capabilities onboard.

Check the Itinerary and Port Accessibility

While the ship itself might be equipped for accessibility, the real adventure begins at each port:

Research each stop on the itinerary to determine the accessibility of the port and nearby attractions.
Some ports might require tenders (small boats) to get to shore, which can pose challenges for those with mobility issues. Ensure your chosen cruise offers accessible tender options.

Read Reviews and Seek Recommendations

Hearing from others with similar needs can offer invaluable insights:

Browse travel forums and websites dedicated to accessible travel to read reviews from other disabled passengers.
Engage with online communities to seek recommendations or learn about potential challenges and how to overcome them.
Read reviews about appropriate travel gear that suits your specific needs, such as mobility aids or adaptive equipment, to ensure a comfortable journey.

Prioritize Communication with Cruise Lines

A responsive and informed cruise line can make a world of difference:

Before booking, reach out to customer service with a list of your needs and queries. Their willingness and capability to assist can be a good gauge of the overall experience you can expect.
After booking, reconfirm any special arrangements or accommodations you’ve requested to ensure they’re in place for your journey.

Selecting the right cruise for disabled passengers isn’t just about luxury and entertainment – it’s about safety, accessibility, and peace of mind. By following these tips and dedicating time to thorough research, you can set the course for an unforgettable voyage that meets and exceeds your needs.

Make sure to check out my other post for more tips on booking a wheelchair-accessible cruise .

Best Cruise Destinations for People with Mobility Problems

Now let’s look at some of the best destinations around the world for people with mobility problems .

Alaska’s pristine landscapes, from its glaciers to vast fjords, make it a prime cruise destination, especially for those with mobility issues. The comforts of the ship’s deck allow guests to marvel at these breathtaking vistas without the strain of hikes or treks.

Onshore, cruisers can enjoy a variety of accessible shore excursions including whale watching, visiting Mendenhall Glacier, and learning about native Alaskan culture. Furthermore, if guests want to extend their cruise, Alaska cruise tours (which combine a land and sea trip) are also wheelchair accessible.

Guests can witness the rich Alaskan wildlife and partake in local experiences without the usual travel hassles. In short, an Alaskan cruise merges nature’s grandeur with effortless accessibility, ensuring an unforgettable journey for all.

Hawaii’s allure extends far beyond its stunning beaches and rich culture; it’s an excellent cruise destination for those with mobility problems. This state offers wheelchair-accessible beaches with free beach wheelchairs , accessible tours, and iconic sites such as its national parks and Pearl Harbor , making this a fantastic destination.

Grassy land becomes a black cliff that drops off into the ocean. Sea arches are along side of the cliff

From the ship’s deck, passengers can effortlessly soak in panoramic views of the islands’ beauty, from majestic coastlines to breathtaking sunsets. Plus, the convenience of exploring multiple islands without continuous travel adjustments is unparalleled.

In essence, a Hawaiian cruise offers a seamless blend of tropical wonder and ease for everyone.

Mediterranean

The Mediterranean, renowned for its rich cultural tapestry and sun-kissed landscapes, is a dream cruise destination, especially for those with mobility concerns. Guests can effortlessly appreciate the scenic panoramas—from Santorini’s white-washed beauty to Barcelona’s majestic coastline—from the ship’s deck.

Cruise lines ensure tailored, accessible shore excursions that allow for leisurely exploration of the region’s diverse cities without the challenges of frequent repacking or navigating complex transport.

Modern vessels prioritize accessibility, from spacious cabins to onboard cultural experiences, ensuring that the Mediterranean’s charm is enjoyed without compromise. In essence, cruising the Mediterranean offers a seamless blend of cultural immersion and thoughtful convenience for all travelers.

Europe, with its tapestry of cultures and historic landmarks, offers a unique allure for travelers.

For those with mobility challenges, European cruises present an unparalleled opportunity. From the ship, passengers can effortlessly appreciate diverse landscapes, from Norway’s majestic fjords to the cute towns of Bruges or Amsterdam.

The convenience of cruising allows travelers to experience multiple European nations without the complexities of traditional travel.

Additionally, the rich European culture often comes alive onboard through performances and workshops. A European cruise blends the continent’s deep heritage with thoughtful convenience, ensuring a rewarding experience for all travelers.

Make sure to check out my post for cruising to Europe in a wheelchair for additional information and tips.

Cruise Accessibility FAQs

Do cruises have rooms for disabled passengers.

Yes, most modern cruise ships offer specially designed cabins for disabled passengers. These accessible cabins are tailored to accommodate passengers with mobility challenges and may include features like wider doorways for wheelchair and scooter access, roll-in showers with grab bars, lowered sinks and countertops, visual and auditory aids, and more.

It’s always advisable to check with individual cruise lines and ships to understand the specific amenities they offer and to book these rooms well in advance, as they are limited in number and can fill up quickly.

Do Cruise Ships Have Mobility Scooters?

While most cruise ships themselves don’t provide mobility scooters for daily use, many offer the ability for passengers to rent them from approved third-party vendors who specialize in mobility aids. Passengers can arrange for a scooter rental in advance of their trip, and the scooter can be delivered directly to the ship for use during the voyage.

Additionally, some cruise lines have scooters available for emergency or short-term use. If a passenger is considering bringing their own scooter, they should check with the cruise line regarding storage, charging facilities, and any other related policies.

Can You Rent a Wheelchair on Cruise Ships?

Yes, many cruise ships offer the option for passengers to rent wheelchairs either for the entire duration of the cruise or for specific times, such as embarkation and disembarkation. Some cruise lines provide these rentals for free, while others might charge a fee.

Additionally, passengers can often rent wheelchairs from approved third-party vendors, who will arrange for the wheelchair to be available upon the passenger’s arrival on the ship. If you’re considering renting a wheelchair, it’s essential to make arrangements in advance to ensure availability.

Will I Be Able to Get Off the Ship at Ports?

Yes, as a disabled passenger, you will generally be able to get off the ship at ports. Modern cruise ships and port facilities have made significant improvements in accessibility. However, there are a few considerations.

Port Accessibility

While many ports have direct dock access, allowing passengers to disembark via gangways with relative ease, others may require the use of tenders (smaller boats) to reach the shore. Depending on sea conditions and the specific tender being used, it might be challenging for individuals with certain disabilities to transfer safely.

an orange and white ender boat is pulled alongside a grey floating dock

Destination Topography

Some destinations might have hilly terrains, uneven surfaces, or lack wheelchair-friendly infrastructure. It’s a good idea to research each port in advance to understand potential challenges.

Ship Assistance

Some cruise lines offer assistance during embarkation and disembarkation for disabled passengers. If you believe you’ll need help, notify the cruise line in advance to ensure they can accommodate your needs.

In any case, it’s always recommended to communicate with the cruise line before your trip to discuss specific requirements and understand available services and potential limitations at each port of call.

Does the Cruise Line Offer Wheelchair Accessible Shore Excursions?

Most major cruise lines recognize the importance of inclusivity and have made efforts to offer wheelchair-accessible shore excursions. These excursions are designed keeping in mind the needs of passengers with mobility challenges.

They often include:

Accessible transportation: Buses or vans equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps.
Tour destinations with paved paths or even surfaces.
Sites with wheelchair-accessible restrooms and facilities.

However, the availability and extent of accessible excursions can vary based on the cruise line, the specific ship, and the destinations on the itinerary. Some more remote or historic locations might have limited accessibility due to their natural terrain or older infrastructure.

Travel Tip: The US and Europe are destinations where the cruise line will most likely offer accessible excursions. However, the availability of accessible excursions in Europe can vary.

If you’re interested in participating in shore excursions, it’s vital to:

Check with the cruise line directly about available accessible excursions for your itinerary.
Book in advance, as these excursions can fill up quickly due to limited availability.
Clarify any specific requirements you might have to ensure the excursion meets your needs.

In all cases, the cruise line’s shore excursion team can provide detailed information on what to expect and help guide passengers to excursions that best match their accessibility needs.

Recap on the Best Cruise Lines for Disabled Passengers

In this guide of cruise vacations, we delved deep into what makes certain cruises stand out for travelers with special needs. From onboard amenities to shore excursions, the right choice in a cruise can significantly enhance the travel experience. Ensuring accessibility, providing medical facilities, understanding port logistics, and offering tailored excursions are all vital components.

Through reviews, recommendations, and proactive communication, passengers can find the most suitable options for their needs. Remember, the best cruise lines for disabled passengers prioritize comfort, safety, and inclusivity, ensuring every journey is as memorable as the destinations themselves.

Author Bio:

Having journeyed through more than 30 nations and accrued significant expertise working aboard cruise ships, Dan has established himself as a distinguished world traveler. Driven by an unwavering passion for exploration, Dan graciously offers his seasoned insights for traversing by sea, air, or land.

Shore Excursions

Cruise Parking Discounts
Hotels with Shuttles
Which Airport Should I Use?
Transportation to the Ports
Dropping Off at the Ports
Fort Lauderdale Airport to Miami
Inexpensive Hotels
Hotels near the Port
Hotels With Shuttles
Budget Hotels
Carnival Tips
Drink Packages
Specialty Restaurants
Faster to the Fun
More Articles
CocoCay Tips
Norwegian Tips
Great Stirrup Cay
Harvest Caye
How to Get the Best Cruise Deal
Best Time to Book a Cruise
Best Websites to Book a Cruise
Cruises Under $300
Cruises Under $500
Spring Break Cruise Deals
Summer Cruise Deals
Alaskan Cruise Deals
107 Cruise Secrets & Tips
Tips for First-Time Cruisers
What to Pack for a Cruise
What to Pack (Alaska)
Packing Checklist
Cruising with Kids
Passports & Birth Certificates
Bringing Alcohol
Cruising with a Disability
Duty-Free Shopping
Cruise Travel Insurance
Things to Do on a Cruise Ship
What Not to Do on a Ship
News & Articles

The Complete Guide to Cruising With a Disability

If you have a disability, then it doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy the experience of vacationing on a cruise ship. In fact, cruising is a great way to get out and see the world, especially since the cruise lines are extremely conscious about making the accommodations needed for passengers with disabilities.

In fact, given the control that cruise lines have over the building of and the services offered on their ships, it’s hard to beat a cruise when it comes to accessibility. Unlike a resort that could have been built decades ago — before accessibility was a major consideration — cruise ships are relatively modern. That means they can offer ease and comfort not often seen in other venues.

However, we know that having a disability means you have to consider how you’ll perform day-to-day activities that most people take for granted — especially when going into an unfamiliar place like a cruise ship. To help you out, we’ve researched the major cruise lines to bring you everything we can about accessibility issues.

Fortunately, cruising is among the most accommodating ways to travel. Even so, there are some things you should know.

Keep in mind that the information below is general. If you have specific questions not answered, it’s best to contact the cruise line directly. We’ve included contact information at the end of the article.

In This Article...

Getting Around the Ship

As we mentioned above, cruise lines have come a long way in making their ships accessible. Whether it be modified elevators to lowered Guest Services desks, there has been a lot of effort put into making the ships more friendly for passengers with disabilities.

In general, guests in wheelchairs or scooters should have no problem getting nearly everywhere on the ship.

You’ll find that many cruise liners have automatic doorways when accessing public decks — especially in the high-traffic corridors. Ships are also equipped with banks of elevators to get you from deck to deck.

If mobility issues are extremely important to you, then you’ll appreciate Carnival’s page on the topic . This page includes different deck plans that identify all of the accessible routes through each ship, along with cabins and restrooms that are accessible. It also shows how serious cruise lines take accessibility.

Keep in mind that public areas are also made to accommodate those with disabilities. For example, Royal Caribbean offers lifts for at least one pool and one hot tub on board each ship in its fleet. The cruise line also offers lowered playing tables and slot machines in the casino. Carnival offers pool lifts on a handful of its newest ships.

Of course, even on the biggest cruise ships space can sometimes be tight. However, in general ships (especially newer ones) are made with mobility issues in mind.

Wheelchairs and Scooters on a Cruise Ship

If you have trouble walking long distances, you may want a wheelchair. The major cruise lines are happy to provide you a chair during boarding and debarking, however, you must bring your own chair or scooter if you’d like one during your entire cruise.

Note: If you’d like a chair or scooter during the cruise but don’t already own one, you can rent one from the following companies:

Scootaround Phone 1-888-441-7575 E-mail: [email protected]

Special Needs at Sea Phone: 800-513-4515 E-mail: [email protected]

One important rule about chairs and scooters is that they should ideally be (or fold) to less than 21″ wide. That limit is so that they can fit within your cabin. Cruise lines don’t allow the devices to be stored in hallways as they impede the walkway, creating a danger in case of emergency. If your device is larger, don’t panic, it’s still allowed. It’s just better if they can be stowed in a smaller space.

Accessible Cabins

Accessible cabins onboard cruise ships are significantly larger than most standard rooms, and filled with features to make getting around easier. For instance, while most cabin doorways are around 23″ wide, accessible rooms have doors that are 32″ wide.

The cruise lines have designed these cabins to be accessible, even in a small space. For example, here are all the features on Royal Caribbean’s ships in its accessible staterooms:

• Available on all ships in a variety of categories • Stateroom and bathroom door width: at least 32 inches • Automatic stateroom doors on Radiance/Quantum-class ships • No stateroom doorway threshold • Lowered closet rods and safes • Lowered sink and vanity • Ramped bathroom doorway thresholds • Roll-in showers with grab bars • Fold-down shower seat and hand-held shower head • Raised toilet seats – most are between 17 to 19 inches high • 5-foot turning radius in sleeping, sitting and bathroom areas • Accessible balconies • Most located near elevators

One thing to keep in mind that the accessible staterooms are limited. For reference, Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas (one of its largest ships) has roughly 35 handicapped-accessible cabins. Therefore, if you know you’ll need one of these rooms and aren’t flexible with dates, be sure to book your cruise early for the best selection.

See the video below for a quick video tour of an example accessible cabin.

Ports of Call

It’s likely that your cruise ship can cover just about any special need you might have for any disability. However, ports of call are a different story.

In general, you’ll likely find that most ports of call have at least some difficulties for those with handicaps. From uneven streets to few facilities for those with a disability, many ports of call just aren’t well setup for people with special needs. That’s not to say you can’t go enjoy yourself. It’s just simply more of a challenge than life on the ship.

That’s not the case everywhere, however. Many ports like Cozumel or Costa Maya have large port areas that are designed specifically to cater to cruise ship passengers. In these modern areas, many of the accommodations (e.g. sloped areas for wheelchairs, accessible bathrooms) are available. Once outside of the port area, however, the story is different.

If your cruise is stopping at a cruise line’s private island, then you’re in luck. Think of these islands as extensions of the ship. They are designed with accessibility in mind. This includes everything from beach wheelchairs to smooth pathways to transportation services to get those with mobility issues around the island, as well as accessible facilities. In short, if you have a disability, then booking an excursion with a private island included is a good idea.

Piers/Tender Boats One other thing to consider is how you’ll actually get into a port. Most ports have piers. The ship docks alongside and passengers simply get out and head into port. But a handful of stops like Norwegian Cruise Line’s Great Stirrup Cay and Belize City use tenders to get to port.

When using a tender, passengers head from the ship onto a small boat to head into port. For those with mobility issues or wheelchairs, this can be more of a challenge, especially if the water is choppy.

Part of the fun of going on a cruise is getting off the ship in port and going on excursions. Of course, not every excursion is going to be able to cater to disabled guests, but the wide mix of activities mean there is something for everyone.

When looking for excursions, all the cruise lines will have descriptions of the tour and some notes about how strenuous it is for guests. Often they will include a handicap symbol if an excursion is accessible. If not, don’t simply take that to mean it isn’t appropriate for someone in a wheelchair. We’d suggest going to talk with the excursion booking staff once on the ship. They will know firsthand what is available, depending on your mobility.

Service Animals on a Cruise

In most cases, passengers can bring service animals on board the ship, but keep in mind there are a number of restrictions.

First and foremost, a service animal is defined as an animal that is specially trained to help with a disability-related need. The cruise lines go out of their way to clarify that service animals are not pets, nor are they “therapy animals” or even service dogs in training.

Service animals must have proof of all current vaccinations for the cruise line, but that’s not all. In addition, passengers must find out on their own which vaccinations for animals are required for each port country. If they fail to have proof of these shots, then it’s likely the animal won’t be allowed to disembark.

For more details on traveling abroad with a service dog, you can check the USDA’s page on the topic: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/pet-travel

You’ll want to contact your specific cruise line for full details and any particular questions you might have about access to areas of the ship with a service animal. In general, the cruise lines refuse to supply food or provide care to the animal. So if you want to go ashore without the animal, don’t expect them to walk or toilet them in your absence.

If you are traveling with a service dog, you’ll want to get in touch with the cruise line well in advance to alert them of the need. They can walk you through any special requirement or specific questions you might have. Most lines can even offer a “relief area” for the animal to use the restroom on the ship.

Prescriptions on a Cruise

Nothing can make a person feel more uncomfortable than bringing loads of medication through a security checkpoint. There is just something about carrying pills that feels like you are asking for trouble. The good news is that cruise lines, which often cater to older crowds, are used to seeing people bringing medications in large quantities.

The best idea is to bring your prescriptions in their original bottles. That way there is no trouble identifying pills, and your pharmacy contact information is right on the bottle should anyone question the prescription. In practice, medication rarely causes a problem.

It is smart to always carry your medication in your carry-on luggage. If you need access, your prescription will always be right by your side.

Diet Needs & Food Allergies

One of the biggest perks of cruising is the food. Of course, if you have special diet needs, it might also be an area that causes some worry. It shouldn’t.

Today’s cruise lines can be extremely accommodative for your diet needs. For example, Carnival boasts that they can “can provide our guests with the following special dietary needs: vegetarian, low-cholesterol, low-fat, low-carbohydrates, low-sugar and gluten free.”

For most diet needs, you don’t even need to alert the cruise line ahead of time. The best thing to do is go to the dining room and let your main dining room waiter know of your needs. They can help answer questions and offer suggestions for meals based on your restrictions. For meals outside of the main dining room, you will have to be vigilant and let the staff know of your needs.

If you have a restrictive diet, it’s a good idea to let the cruise line know at least two weeks before you sail so they can prepare. The good news is that modern cruising can cover just about any restriction you have.

One other thing to note is that you are allowed to bring pre-packaged foods and snacks with you onto the ship. They can’t be homemade and they must be sealed in their original package.

Hearing Impairment

Cruise lines are especially knowledgeable about helping passengers with hearing difficulties. Most cruise lines offer room kits that include visual/tactile alerts for telephones, alarm clocks and door knocking. In addition, a TTY can be placed within your stateroom that connects with the front desk in order to communicate with guest relations.

Other features for those with hearing issues include:

Amplified telephones around the ship
Assistive hearing headsets for use in ship theaters
Closed-captioned televisions across fleets
Sign language interpreting services in places like theaters, presentations, and major events. Guests should contact the cruise line well in advance (90+ days in some cases) to ask for this service if required.

Vision Impairment

Today’s modern cruise ships all come equipped with braille signage throughout the ship. This includes elevators and stateroom signs. As well, many cruise lines will offer orientation tours of the ship and large-form menus. If you have a service dog to help you with vision impairment, be sure to see our section above on service animals.

Cruising with Children with Disabilities

If you have a child with disabilities, cruises are a great vacation choice. Not only are there plenty of opportunities to have fun as a family, but there are also opportunities for respite while on your trip.

Major cruise lines have youth programs where children of all abilities are welcome. The cruise lines usually separate the kids by age (since 5-year-olds want to different things than 14-year-olds), however, if a child has special needs, they will group a child by their ability level.

The rule of thumb is that staff can’t provide specialized attention. That means they can’t help a child take medication, feed them, nor can they offer one-on-one supervision under most circumstances. If this is the case, either the parent or helper can stay with a child.

Cruise lines will give parents pagers/phones to give them piece of mind. If a parent is needed, the pager will alert them aboard the ship.

Tips for Cruising with a Disability

Obviously, there’s a lot to consider when cruising with a disability, but the good news is that cruise lines are extremely accommodating. If you want some of our top tips for making your vacation better, consider the following.

Sail Newer Ships All cruise ships will have accommodations designed for those with disabilities. That said, we’d suggest sticking with the newest ships you can. Newer ships will have the latest features (including things like automatic door openers for accessible cabins on some ships), but most of all, new ships can offer more space. Newer ships are built larger than their predecessors, providing more ease of movement throughout.

Book Your Cruise Early While cruise lines go out of their way to offer accessible features, they are limited in the number of accessible cabins on the ship. And once they are gone, they are gone. For that reason, it’s a good idea to book your cruise as early as possible if you need an accessible cabin. This will give you the most options possible for your schedule.

Contact The Cruise Line Soon If you are sailing and have special needs, then it’s a smart idea to call the cruise line as soon as possible to discuss any accommodations you might need. For instance, those needing a sign language interpreter (which are available) need to give 60-90 days notice before they sail. It’s also a good chance to get any questions you might have answered well before you head to the port.

Contacting the Cruise Lines

If you have special needs or a disability that you think requires special consideration, the best thing to do is contact the cruise line well in advance of your sail date. By contacting them, not only can they answer any questions, but they can also prepare accommodations to make your cruise more comfortable.

Depending on which cruise line you sail, we recommend the contacts below.

Royal Caribbean: [email protected] | 866-592-7225 | Special Needs Form
Carnival: [email protected] | 800-438-6744, ext. 70025
Norwegian Cruise Lines: 866-584-9756
Disney: [email protected] | 407-566-3602
Celebrity: [email protected] | 954-628-9708
Princess: 800-774-6237

The following websites can offer more details about the accommodations for specific cruise lines:

Royal Caribbean https://www.royalcaribbean.com/experience/accessible-cruising

Carnival https://www.carnival.com/about-carnival/special-needs.aspx

Disney https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/guest-services/guests-with-disabilities/

Norwegian Cruise Lines https://www.ncl.com/about/accessible-cruising

Celebrity https://www.celebritycruises.com/special-needs

Princess https://www.princess.com/learn/faq_answer/pre_cruise/prepare.jsp#Passengers_Special_Needs

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

Read next: park & cruise hotels for every port in america, popular: 107 best cruise tips, secrets, tricks, and freebies, related articles more from author, cruising with a baby: what to know from someone who’s done it, answered: how much cash should you take on a cruise, 12 cruise tips that feel wrong (but are 100% right), how much cruise lines spend on food (less than you think), 44 must-have alaskan cruise tips, tricks, and secrets, 11 tips cruise lines don’t want you to know (but they aren’t against the rules).

Im an adult who’s disabled.i want to go on a cruise ship for the 1st time I hear the ship has activities that the disabled can do. What are the activities, what us the Ed layout of the room etc. Any advice we’re all ears

It’s actually difficult to list everything here. During the day there are dozens of things that go on — contests, dancing, shows, eating, etc. Apart from a few of the more active items (such as rock-climbing or something similar) just about everything can be enjoyed by anyone.

Holland America on some vessels have scooters or wheelchairs you can rent onboard for uour cruise. I rented on the Noordam this past September. Made excursions into port so much better.

The Best Gift Ever for People That Love Cruises? This Might Be it…

Nearly 100 passengers fall ill with stomach virus on princess cruise, cruise news: carnival’s new ship, royal’s new beach club, ncl’s big milestone & more, hotels with cruise shuttles for every major port in america, 107 best cruise tips, tricks, secrets, and freebies, 39 useful things to pack for your cruise (including 17 you’d never think of).

Privacy Policy
Terms & Conditions

1-855-932-1711
My Account Hello Credits My Account Log out

Holland America Line received the 2020 Readers' Choice Award for Best Facilities for Guests with Disabilities from Porthole Cruise Magazine (an award they have held for 13 consecutive years)

Holland America Line: Commited To Serving Everyone

Holland America Line is committed to providing safe, easy, and accessible accommodations for all persons with disabilities, to the extent that is feasible. Holland America Line is dedicated to offering the finest cruising experience to our guests, including those with disabilities. Our ships provide a quality of service and a variety of accessible features to make your voyage a relaxing and enjoyable experience.

The Importance of Planning Ahead

Holland America Line does not discriminate against individuals on the basis of disability. We seek, to the extent feasible, to accommodate guests with disabilities. However, some needs require adequate time to prepare for a guest's arrival. It is recommended that guests make every effort to contact our Guest Accessibility Department and to submit a Special Requirements Information (SRI) Form well in advance of the departure of their cruise and/or cruisetour. We recommend submitting an SRI upon booking or a minimum of 45 days prior to departure. Guests who are unable to care for their basic needs (e.g. dressing, eating, moving from wheelchair to seating and/or from seating to wheelchair or standing and attending safety drills) MUST have a capable traveling companion. The medical staff on board is not available for daily care unless an individual is hospitalized in the ship's Medical Center. In limited situations (either on board or ashore), we may find it necessary to ask the individual to make alternative travel arrangements, such as if an individual with a disability is unable to satisfy certain specified safety and other criteria, even when provided with appropriate auxiliary aids and services.

Do You Have Accessible Staterooms?

Yes, our vessels have specially designed staterooms for guests who require mobility assistive features. If you have not booked one of these accessible staterooms but instead will be using a standard stateroom, you need to know about some limitations that adversely impact maneuverability, especially ingress and egress into bathrooms. For example, bathroom dimensions, doorsills, and the height of bathtubs in standard staterooms are often difficult to negotiate for guests who have mobility limitations. Additionally, standard stateroom doors and hallways may be too narrow for a wheelchair or scooter to maneuver into and out of the stateroom. Note: For safety reasons, these mobility devices must be stored and charged in the guests' staterooms. There are three types of accessible staterooms on our vessels.

Fully Accessible rooms are designed for use by guests with highly limited or no mobility who require regular use of a wheelchair, scooter, or other similar assistive devices and provide accessible elements including turning space, accessible routes throughout the cabin, and accessible bathrooms are designed for use by guests with highly limited or no mobility who require regular use of a wheelchair, scooter, or other similar assistive devices and provide accessible elements including turning space, accessible routes throughout the stateroom, and accessible bathrooms. Fully Accessible – Single Side Approach rooms are also designed for use by guests with highly limited or no mobility who require regular use of a wheelchair, scooter, or other similar assistive devices. These rooms provide accessible bathrooms along with an accessible route and clear floor space on only one side of the bed in a stateroom configured to provide one bed and between the beds in a stateroom configured to provide two beds. Ambulatory Accessible rooms are designed for use by guests with mobility disabilities who do not require the regular use of a wheelchair, scooter, or other similar assistive devices. These rooms provide some accessible features. Fully Accessible and Fully Accessible Single Side Approach bathrooms in guest staterooms will provide one of three types of bathing facilities: roll-in shower, transfer shower, or accessible bathtub.

Roll-in Showers provide the turning space necessary for a wheelchair to maneuver within the showering area. Transfer Showers provide the maneuvering clearance alongside a shower stall to allow for transferring to the shower bench from a wheelchair. Accessible Bathtubs provide the maneuvering clearance alongside a bathtub to allow for transferring to a seat in the bathtub from a wheelchair. Details regarding accessible rooms on each ship are listed below and can be found on each ship’s Deck Plan.

Staterooms I-8033, VB6002, VB6001, J1074, K1012, K1011 are fully accessible. Fully Accessible – Single Side Approach These rooms provide wide interior & exterior doors, wheelchair access to one side of the bed, and a roll-in shower with grab bars, shower seat, accessible shower controls, and hand held shower head. Suites SA7057 and SY5002 have wheelchair access on the right side when facing the bed. Suites SA7058 and SY5001 have wheelchair access on the left side when facing the bed. Ambulatory Accessible These rooms provide wide interior & exterior doors, a shower with no threshold, grab bars, shower seat, accessible shower controls, and hand held shower head.

Staterooms VA8119, VA8116, VA8026, VA8025, V6052, V6049, V5140, V5135, V5054, V5051, VA4134, VA4131, H4092, H4089, VA4052, VA4051, D1100, D1099, C1082, C1081 are ambulatory accessible.

Fully Accessible These rooms provide wide interior & exterior doors, wheelchair access to both sides of the bed, and a roll-in shower with grab bars, shower seat, accessible shower controls, and hand held shower head. Suites SA7094, A6150, A6148 and staterooms VA8147, VA8145, VA8134, VA8132, I-7108, I-7101, I-6131, I-6116, V5171, V5152, I-5129, I-5112, V5057, V5055, V5054, V5052, V4167, V4146, V4107, V4096, C1134, C1125, C1123, C1121 are fully accessible.

Ambulatory Accessible These rooms provide a shower with grab bars, accessible shower controls, and hand held shower head. There is step up into bathroom, threshold into the shower, and standard interior and exterior door sizes. Suites B8101, SA7092 and staterooms K11049, VB11038, CQ10033, VE8142, VD7049, K6185, VC6158, V5051, V5048, FB1172, E1165 are ambulatory accessible.

Nieuw Amsterdam

Fully Accessible These rooms provide wide interior & exterior doors, wheelchair access to both sides of the bed, and an accessible shower with grab bars, shower seat, accessible shower controls, and hand held shower head. Suites SA7058 & SA7057 and staterooms J1074, J1069, K1012, K1011 have a roll-in shower.

Fully Accessible – Single Side Approach These rooms provide wide interior & exterior doors, wheelchair access to one side of the bed, and a roll-in shower with grab bars, shower seat, accessible shower controls, and hand held shower head.

Suites SY5001 and stateroom VB6001 have wheelchair access on the right side when facing the bed. The queen bed can be converted upon request to two twin beds if full compliance is not needed.

Suites SY5002 and stateroom VB6002 have wheelchair access on the left side when facing the bed. The queen bed can be converted upon request to two twin beds if full compliance is not needed.

Stateroom I8033 has wheelchair access to twin beds on the left and right side. The beds can be converted upon request to a queen-size bed if full compliance is not needed.

Ambulatory Accessible Unless noted otherwise, these rooms provide wide interior & exterior doors, a shower with no threshold, grab bars, shower seat, accessible shower controls, and hand held shower head. Staterooms VA8119, VA8116, VA8026, VA8025, V6052, V6049, V5140, V5135, V5054, V5051, VA4134, VA4131, H4092, H4089, VA4052, VA4051, D1100, D1099, C1082, C1081 are ambulatory accessible.

Stateroom J1063 is ambulatory accessible with narrow doors, a step up into the bathroom and a low threshold into the shower.

Nieuw Statendam

Fully Accessible These rooms provide wide interior & exterior doors, wheelchair access to both sides of the bed, and an accessible shower with grab bars, shower seat, accessible shower controls, and hand held shower head. Suites SA7094, A6150, A6148 and staterooms VA8147, VA8145, V5055, V5054, V5052, VH4107, VH4096 are fully accessible with a roll-in shower.

Staterooms VA8134, VA8132, I7108, I6116, I5112, V5057, C1134, C1123, C1121 are fully accessible with a transfer shower.

Fully Accessible – Single Side Approach These rooms provide wide interior & exterior doors, wheelchair access to one side of the bed, and an accessible shower with grab bars, shower seat, accessible shower controls, and hand held shower head.

Staterooms I7099, I6131, I5133 have wheelchair access on the left side of a queen bed when facing the bed and a transfer shower. The bed can be converted upon request to 2 twins if full compliance is not needed.

Staterooms V5175, V5152, VH4146, VH4167 have wheelchair access between two twin beds and a transfer shower. The beds can be converted upon request to a queen-size bed if full compliance is not needed.

Stateroom C1125 roll-in have wheelchair access between two twin beds and a roll-in shower. The beds can be converted upon request to a queen-size bed if full compliance is not needed.

Ambulatory Accessible These rooms provide a shower with grab bars, accessible shower controls, and hand held shower head. There is step up into bathroom, threshold into the shower, and standard interior and exterior door sizes. Suites SA7085, B8101 and staterooms K11049, VB11038, VQ10033, VE8142, VD7049, K6185, VC6158, V5048, V5051, FB1172, E1175 are ambulatory accessible.

These suites have a king-size bed convertible to 2 twin beds.

Bathtub with separate accessible transfer shower: Suite SS6108, SY5002 & SY5001

SY5002 & SY5001 are set up with queen bed only to meet compliance spacing. The bed can be converted upon request to 2 twins if full compliance is not needed.

Roll-in Shower: Staterooms J1074, K1011 & K1012

Fully Accessible – Single Side Approach These rooms provide wide interior & exterior doors, wheelchair access to one side of the bed and accessible bathing facilities with grab bars, accessible seat, accessible controls and hand held shower head. Bathtub with separate accessible transfer shower: Suite SY8068 This suite is set up with queen bed only to meet compliance spacing with wheelchair access on the right side when facing the bed. Bed can be converted upon request to 2 twins if full compliance is not needed.

Roll-in Shower: Staterooms VB6003, VB6004, C1082, C1081, D1100, I-8037

VB6003 is set up with queen bed only to meet compliance spacing with wheelchair access on the left side when facing the bed. The bed can be converted upon request to 2 twins if full compliance is not needed.

VB6004 is set up with queen bed only to meet compliance spacing with wheelchair access on the right side when facing the bed. The bed can be converted upon request to 2 twins if full compliance is not needed.

C1082, C1081, D1100, I-8037 are set up with 2 twin beds only to meet compliance spacing with wheelchair access between the beds. The beds can be converted upon request to a queen-size bed if full compliance is not needed.

Ambulatory Accessible These rooms provide wide interior & exterior doors, a shower with no threshold, grab bars, shower seat, accessible shower controls, and hand held shower head.

Staterooms VA8032, VA8031, VA6049, VA5140, VA5137, VA5054, VA5051, VA4132, VA4131, H4090, H4089, VA4052, VA4051 are ambulatory accessible.

Fully Accessible – Single Side Approach These rooms provide wide interior & exterior doors, wheelchair access to one side of the bed and accessible bathing facilities with grab bars, accessible seat, accessible controls and hand held shower head. Bathtub with separate roll-in shower: SY 8068 has wheelchair access on the left side when facing the bed. Roll-in Shower:C1082, C1081, D1100, I-8037

Ambulatory Accessible Staterooms VA8032, VA8031, VA6049, VA5140, VA5137, VA5054, VA5051, VA4132, VA4131, H4090, H4089, VA4052 provide wide interior & exterior doors, a shower with no threshold, grab bars, shower seat, accessible shower controls, and hand held shower head. Staterooms J1067 and J1063 have a step up into bathroom, threshold into the shower, and standard interior and exterior door sizes.

Fully Accessible These rooms provide wide interior & exterior doors, wheelchair access to both sides of the bed, and an accessible shower with grab bars, shower seat, accessible shower controls, and hand held shower head. Transfer Shower: Suite A6150 and staterooms VA8149, VA8147, VA8134, I-7099, I-6131, V5175, V5152, I-5133, V5055, V5054, VH4165, VH4144, VH4105, C1134, C1123, C1121

Roll-in Shower: Suites SA7094 & A6148, and staterooms VA8132, I-7108, I-6116, I-5112, V5057, V5052, VH4094, C1125

Ambulatory Accessible These rooms provide a shower with grab bars, accessible shower controls, and hand held shower head. There is step up into bathroom, threshold into the shower, and standard interior and exterior door sizes. Suites SA7085, B8103 and staterooms K11049, VB11040, VQ10033, VE8142, VD7049, K6185, VC6158, V5048, V5051, FB1172, E1175 are ambulatory accessible.

Suite SA7034 and stateroom H1804 have wheelchair access on the left side when facing the bed.

Ambulatory Accessible These rooms provide wide interior & exterior doors, a shower with no threshold, grab bars, shower seat, accessible shower controls, and hand held shower head. Staterooms EE3396, EE3391, HH3431, HH3430, E2702, L2700, J2555, J2554, G2500, FF1964, FF1955, G1807, G1806 are ambulatory accessible.

Bathtub with separate accessible transfer shower: Suite SS6108, SY5002 & SY5001.

SY5002 & SY 5001 are set up with queen bed only to meet compliance spacing. The bed can be converted upon request to 2 twins if full compliance is not needed.

Ambulatory Accessible These rooms provide wide interior & exterior doors, a shower with no threshold, grab bars, shower seat, accessible shower controls, and hand held shower head. Staterooms VA8032, VA8031, VA6049, VA5140, VA5137, VA5054, VA5051, VA4132, VA4131, H4090, H4089, VA4052, VA4051 are ambulatory accessible.

Fully Accessible These rooms provide wide interior & exterior doors, wheelchair access to both sides of the bed and accessible bathing facilities with grab bars, accessible seat, accessible controls and hand held shower head. These rooms have 2 twin beds convertible to a queen-size bed unless otherwise noted below. Roll-in Shower and bathtub: Suites SC6175 & SC6164 These suites have a king-size bed convertible to 2 twin beds. Bathtub with separate accessible transfer shower: Suite SS6108, SY5002 & SY5001 SY5002 & SY 5001 are set up with queen bed only to meet compliance spacing. The bed can be converted upon request to 2 twins if full compliance is not needed.

How will I get on and off the ship with mobility equipment?

For individuals with limited mobility, the use of a wheelchair will be the primary mobility assistance aid for getting on and off the ship. Certain ship transfer operations (i.e. during tendering and at the gangways) may not be fully accessible to wheelchairs or scooters. When a ship is unable to dock, guests are taken ashore on smaller boats called tenders. Some guests with limited mobility may find it difficult to embark or disembark the ship at certain times while tendering or while docked due to steep gangways and steps, particularly during low or high tide. Also, please note staff are not allowed to transfer scooters and wheelchairs which are more than 100 lbs. without the from the ship to tender and/or from tender to shore. Tender ports are noted in the itinerary detail of each voyage in the Plan A Cruise section of our website as well as the itinerary detail on your Booking Confirmation. As to tenders, with the exception of the Volendam and Zaandam , Holland America Line vessels have elevators to the tender level that allow guests to roll directly on and off the ship’s tender platform. However, please be advised that adverse weather conditions such as wind, swells, or extreme tide levels may prohibit the ability to transfer from the platform to the tender. Additionally, some port facilities may not be accessible due to stairs or steep ramps. If you have questions regarding tendering procedures while on board, please speak with the Guest Services Manager. Situations may occur in which guests with limited mobility may not be able to go ashore at the time they desire or are unable to go ashore at all in certain ports. For the safety of all concerned, the Captain shall make the final determination regarding whether or not it is advisable to provide assistance to guests with mobility limitations, or to carry their mobility assistance device (wheelchair, scooter, walker, etc.), taking into account all appropriate matters including, but not limited to, weather conditions, ship's location, weight of the guest or their mobility device, etc.

Are Service Animals Permitted On Board?

Holland America Line only permits service animals on board, defined as those animals that are individually trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability. We do not permit our guests to bring pets, therapy/companion animals, and other animals that do not meet the definition of service animals. If you have any questions about whether the animal you wish to bring on board is, in fact, a service animal, you may contact our Guest Accessibility Department.

Your itinerary may include ports of call that have very specific and strict requirements that need to be met prior to your service animal being allowed off of the ship. Please be sure you understand the requirements for a service animal to disembark in each port of call. The best places to obtain specific information on required documentation and immunizations for your service animal are the U.S. Department of Agriculture's website , local customs offices in the specific ports, and from your service animal's veterinarian. All documentation and immunization requirements are established by government authorities and not by Holland America Line. Should you need assistance in locating this information, please contact our Guest Accessibility Department.

To board the ship, your service animal must have current vaccinations. Records confirming the vaccination status should be provided to our Guest Accessibility Department prior to your departure. We also recommend that you carry the immunization records with you in case they are required at any port of call. If you do not have the proper documentation and proof of vaccinations for your service animal required at a port of call, or if there are local quarantine requirements, your service animal will be denied the right to leave the ship. If your service animal is denied the right to leave the ship in a specific port of call, the staff and crew will work with you to determine what actions may be possible to allow you to visit the port without your service animal. Please note that in your absence, you will need to provide for the care and supervision of your service animal. Except in those circumstances where your service animal has been denied disembarkation, you may not leave your service animal unattended on the vessel or in your stateroom at any time.

Important Information for Service Animals on Australian Cruises The Australian quarantine authorities have changed their approach regarding service dogs on-board cruise ships. Unfortunately, their new approach makes it practically impossible for us to accept service animals on domestic or roundtrip cruises from Australia. The Department of Agriculture now considers these cruises to be akin to an international voyage and therefore under ‘biosecurity control’. As a company, we are incredibly disappointed with the Department’s new approach, and we have written to the Federal Minister to ask for a return to their previous way of doing things. At this time guests will not be able to travel with service animals on voyages that end in Australia or call upon a port in Australia after visiting a foreign country. Guests sailing on voyages that begin in Australia will be able to sail with their service animal provided the voyage does not return to Australia after visiting a foreign port. Should you have further questions please contact our Guest Accessibility Department via email at [email protected] .

What Options Are Available For Guests Who Are Deaf Or Hard Of Hearing?

To help maximize the cruise experience for our guests who are deaf or hard of hearing, Holland America Line has made the following items available:

Stateroom kits that include a visual and tactile alert for someone knocking at the door, the phone ringing, or an alarm.
Stateroom televisions capable of showing closed captioning (some satellite feeds do not transmit with captioning, so this feature is available only when the signal the ship receives has captioning).
Telephones with amplified sound or an amplification attachment for telephones in staterooms.
Assistive Listening Systems with portable receivers in the show lounges to assist guests who are hard of hearing to hear the shows.
Written safety information and a copy of the lifeboat drill safety speech.

What If I Have Food Allergies?

For guests with food intolerances or allergies that are not life-threatening, please contact our Ship Services Department at (800) 541-1576. For guests with life-threatening food allergies, we ask that guests provide detailed information to our Guest Accessibility Department by completing a Special Requirements Information (SRI) Form. Guests should indicate on this form which foods may potentially cause a severe reaction.

Guests with a variety of severe food allergies sail with Holland America Line regularly. Our galley staff on board is accustomed to and experienced in dealing with these types of needs. The galley itself has many different areas of food preparation, which can help reduce the possibility of cross-contamination. It is important to note, however, that meals are prepared in mass quantities on board, thus there is always the possibility of some cross-contamination. As such, Holland America Line cannot guarantee that a guest will not come in contact with those items. Although our Guest Accessibility Department will provide the ship with an advance notice of all food allergies detailed on an SRI submitted to them, it is recommended that guests also contact the Dining Room Manager upon boarding to review the details of these special dietary needs.

What About Cruising For Children With Special Needs?

At Holland America Line we do not discriminate against individuals on the basis of disability. We seek to the extent feasible to accommodate the needs of all individuals with disabilities, including children. However, due to the sensitivity of caring for any child, with or without a disability, we must first determine what the child's specific needs are so we may properly evaluate and determine the best and safest way to meet the child's needs. We encourage families to contact our Guest Accessibility Department prior to their cruise, to evaluate and determine what the child's specific needs will be and how best to accommodate those needs. Kids Club is unable to accommodate children requiring one-on-one care into programming. Special needs participants who meet eligibility requirements and require one-on-one care must have a parent or guardian present.

Who Do I Contact For More Information Regarding Accessible Cruising?

For additional information on the ship's facilities or ability to accommodate guests’ needs that may not be covered in this section, please feel free to contact the Guest Accessibility Department at:

For post sailing questions or concerns please contact our Guest Relations Department at:

For information regarding the Transportation Security Administration’s Screening Tips for Persons with Disabilities, please visit the Travelers with Disabilities and Medical Conditions section of their website .

The ADA Responsibility Officer for Holland America Line is Paul McClelland, Chief Ethics Officer & General Counsel.

Can I Use My Personal Mobility Equipment On Board?

For the safety of all our guests and crew and to enhance accessibility, Holland America Line strongly recommends that all personal electric mobility equipment meets the following criteria:

We recognize that for some people, a larger scooter may be essential. If you believe you need a larger scooter, please contact our Guest Accessibility Department so that we can discuss your requirements.

For the safety of all guests and crew:

Scooters and other mobility equipment need to be securely stored and charged in the guest's stateroom; not in hallways or elevator lobbies. Scooters left in hallways and elevator lobbies could restrict people needing to travel through these areas in an emergency, particularly other guests using mobility aids, since they would have no way of getting by a scooter left in a hallway.

Holland America Line is no longer able to provide complimentary wheelchair assistance for any purpose other than embarkation, disembarkation, and emergency situations. Holland America Line wheelchairs are not available for shore excursions or for use on board. If you will require regular use of a wheelchair, we recommend that you bring your own wheelchair with you. You may also make advance rental arrangements prior to your sailing and have a wheelchair delivered directly to the ship for use on board and in ports of call.

Special Needs at Sea and Scootaround are vendors we recommend for delivery of mobility devices. Please contact these vendors directly for pricing and availability. Their contact information is listed below for your information.

Scooter Tips and Reminders (PDF)

Special Needs at Sea

Scootaround

Please be advised that all pre-arranged mobility equipment rentals must be made by the guest and the third party provider. Consequently, you assume the entire risk of utilizing these third party services subject only to whatever terms or arrangements are made by you or on your behalf with the service provider. Refund issues must be dealt with solely between you and the service provider. We recommend contacting one of these companies to confirm your arrangements as soon as possible in order to ensure the availability of your specific requests.

Is Wheelchair Assistance Available Shoreside?

Airports and/or Train Stations

Wheelchair assistance that is requested for airports or train stations must be done directly through the airline or rail station. Holland America Line is not able to arrange for wheelchair assistance at airports or train stations.

Land Tours and/or Shore Excursions

Because facilities in ports around the world vary significantly, wheelchair accommodations may not be available for some land tours and/or shore excursions. Furthermore, many transportation vehicles around the world do not have wheelchair lifts. Thus, it may be necessary for Holland America Line to make alternate transportation arrangements such as a sedan vehicle. This requires that a guest who uses a wheelchair be able to transfer from his/her wheelchair to the front or back seat of a sedan. Additionally, when lift equipped vehicles are available, many do not have the facilities for the safe transport of mobility scooters in the passenger compartment. Therefore if you are using a mobility scooter you may be asked to disembark your scooter and enter the coach by the front steps and ride safely in a regular coach seat, transfer to a provided boarding chair and take the lift onto the coach and transfer to a regular coach seat, or ride the lift on your scooter and then transfer to a regular coach seat. In some cases, it may be possible for your scooter to be stowed in the luggage compartment for use in the ports of call. If your scooter must be stored in the luggage compartment of a motorcoach it may be necessary for someone traveling in your party to load the scooter into the luggage compartment; the policy as to whether or not the coach drivers are able or allowed to provide assistance is that of the Tour Operator and not Holland America Line. The ability to provide assistance may depend on certain factors such as the weight or dimensions of the scooter. If you are unable to transfer from your mobility scooter and alternative arrangements are required, please advise Holland America Line at the time of booking or as far in advance of your sailing as possible. Please be assured this is for your safety.

Due to the limited number of lift-equipped vehicles in foreign locations, guests may incur additional costs for transportation related to airport transfers, shore excursions, and tour/hotel packages. Please note, lift equipped transportation within the United States may be arranged without additional costs. For information on alternative transportation arrangements and associated costs please contact our Guest Accessibility Department. Please advise Holland America Line as far in advance as possible of any special needs for transfers. This will help to ensure availability of the appropriate vehicle(s) and for Holland America Line to provide an estimate of additional associated costs.

Guests should be aware that certain third party shore excursion facilities may not be fully accessible to guests with disabilities. Although we endeavor to make sure these companies comply with legal requirements, we cannot guarantee that all are able to provide facilities that are accessible to individuals with disabilities. For detailed information on accessibility of shore excursions, we strongly recommend contacting our Shore Excursions Department prior to embarkation at 1-888-425-9376 (or locally at 206-626-7320) or visiting the Shore Excursions Office on board.

What Options Are Available For Guests Who Are Blind Or Have Low Vision?

To help maximize the cruise experience for our guests who are blind or have low vision, Holland America Line has made the following items available:

Screen reader computer software in the Explorations Café that allows guests to navigate the web by listening to the text.
Downloadable daily activities, news, and menus for guests with laptops with screen reader programs. These items may also be downloaded to the screen reader-enabled computer in the Explorations Café.
With 45 days notice, large print or Braille menus describing the inspired cuisine offered across a myriad of venues, from the elegant Dining Room to the casual Lido Market.
A familiarization tour of the vessel upon arrival.

Can I Receive Oxygen Deliveries On Board?

Guests requiring continuous or intermittent oxygen for chronic conditions must make their own arrangements prior to travel. Holland America Line ships are not equipped to provide guests with these services other than on an emergency basis in the Ship's Medical Center. For security and safety reasons, we have selected Scootaround and Special Needs at Sea as the only outside vendors that we will permit to deliver oxygen supplies to our ships:

Note: Oxygen and/or oxygen equipment deliveries will not be accepted from any other companies.

Please be advised that all oxygen and oxygen equipment rental arrangements must be made by the guest and the third-party provider. Consequently, you assume the entire risk of utilizing these third-party services subject only to whatever terms or arrangements are made by you or on your behalf with the service provider. Refund issues must be dealt with solely between you and the service provider. We recommend contacting one of these companies to confirm your arrangements as soon as possible in order to ensure the availability of your specific requests.

You are also welcome, however, to bring your own oxygen and/or oxygen equipment from your home. Please note that our staff and crew are not permitted to handle your oxygen and/or oxygen equipment during the embarkation and disembarkation process. Thus, you must be able to handle your supplies if you bring your own. Please contact the Guest Accessibility Department prior to sailing if you will require oxygen while on your cruise.

Please Note: In accordance with FAA regulations, airlines have restrictions concerning traveling with oxygen and oxygen containers. It is the traveler’s responsibility to be familiar with and comply with the regulations of the airline they are traveling on.

How Do I Know What Routes Are Accessible On Board?

For individuals using a wheelchair or scooter, accessible route maps for each ship are available by selecting the links below:

Eurodam Koningsdam Nieuw Amsterdam Nieuw Statendam Noordam Oosterdam Volendam Westerdam Zaandam Zuiderdam

Holland America Line Website Accessibility

Holland America Line welcomes all guests to explore our cruise vacation offerings. Our websites follow the official guidance of the World Wide Web Consortium’s Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). To ensure our websites are as easy to use as possible we incorporate assistive technology including Accessible Rich Internet Applications (ARIA).

Due to web accessibility standards, users may experience slight variations according to the browser used. We recommend that visitors to Holland America Line websites who require screen reader software use specific combinations of screen reader and browser. For Microsoft Windows, NVDA and the Google Chrome browser are recommended. For OSx, MacOS and iOS systems, VoiceOver and the Safari browser (with Safari's support for keyboard shortcuts enabled) are recommended.

To further ensure website accessibility and improved user experience, Holland America website is monitored, tested and remediated regularly as part of a fully managed accessibility compliance solution provided by AudioEye, a third-party provider of Web Accessibility services dedicated to eradicating digital access barriers. AudioEye certifies that the Holland America website is continually optimized to substantially conform with WCAG 2.1 AA.

AudioEye Accessibility Certification

The AudioEye Trusted Certification represents a commitment to accessibility and digital inclusion.

Providing Users With A Free Customizable Assistive Utility

Audioeye toolbar.

In addition to the above-mentioned techniques and strategies – and since not all site visitors have access to assistive tools such as screen readers – we provide free Web Personalization Tools that allow site visitors to customize their user experience. Activate the AudioEye Toolbar to access each tool listed below.

AudioEye Tools are [off/on]

Activate AudioEye Toolbar

Need help? 1-888-751-7804 1-888-751-7804
Let Us Call You CALL ME
Drink Packages
Flights by Celebrity℠
Hotels by Celebrity
Manage Reservation
Shore Excursions
Upgrade with MoveUp

My Tier and Points
Join Captain's Club

Already booked? Sign in or create an account

South Korea
New Zealand
Grand Cayman
St. Maarten
U.S Virgin Islands
New England & Canada
Pacific Coast
Antarctic Ocean
Panama Canal
Transatlantic
Transpacific
Cruise Ports (+300)
Mediterranean
Perfect Day at CocoCay
All Inclusive
Bucket List Cruises
Cruise & Land Package
Groups & Events
New Cruises
Popular Cruises
Specialty Cruises
Destination Highlights
Group Excursions
Private Journeys
Shore Excursions Overview
Small Group Discoveries

360° Virtual Tours
Celebrity Apex®
Celebrity Ascent℠ NEW
Celebrity Beyond℠
Celebrity Constellation®
Celebrity Edge®
Celebrity Eclipse®
Celebrity Equinox®
Celebrity Infinity®
Celebrity Millennium®
Celebrity Reflection®
Celebrity Silhouette®
Celebrity Solstice®
Celebrity Summit®
Celebrity Xcel℠ COMING SOON
Explore Edge Series

Galapagos Expedition Series

Celebrity Flora®
Celebrity Xpedition®
Celebrity Xploration®
The Retreat
All Suites. All Included
Iconic Suite
Penthouse Suite
Reflection Suite
Royal Suite
Signature Suite
Celebrity Suite
Aqua Sky Suite
Horizon Suite
Sunset Suite
Concierge Class
Galapagos Accommodations
Eat & Drink
Entertainment
Spa & Wellness

Cruising 101
Cruise Fare Options
Cruise Tips
First Time on a Cruise
What is Included on a Cruise
Future Cruise Vacations
Accessible Cruising
Captain's Club Rewards
Cruise Insurance
Flights by Celebrity
Healthy at Sea
Manage Cruise
The Celebrity Store
Travel Documents
Royal Caribbean International
Celebrity Cruises

75% Off 2nd Guest
3rd and 4th Guests Sail Free
Galapagos 20% Savings + Free Flights
Resident Rates
Exciting Deals
View All Offers
All Included
Cruise & Land Packages
Dining Packages
Photo Packages
Wi-Fi Packages
View All Packages
Captain's Club Overview
Join the Club
Loyalty Exclusive Offers
Tiers & Benefits
Celebrity Cruises Visa Signature® Card

Enjoy 75% off your second guest’s cruise fare. Plus, additional guests in your stateroom sail free on select sailings.

Accessible Staterooms
Accessibility
Visual & Hearing Disabilities
Medical Needs
Autism-Friendly Cruising
Accessible Shore Excursions
Service Animals

Celebrity Cruises® opens the world for every traveler. A disability should never stop you from experiencing the joys and pleasures of traveling the world. Our accessible staterooms are intended for guests with mobility disabilities and other disabilities that require the use of the accessible features of the staterooms.Special needs accessible staterooms are designed with wider doors, roll-in showers, grab bars, lower sink and vanity, bathroom grab bars, higher toilet, and ramped thresholds. Most staterooms also offer an ample five-foot turning radius.

Explore Accessible Accommodations

Customize your accommodations.

To customize accommodations to meet your specific needs, please complete the special needs form. For more information, contact our Access Department at (866) 592-7225 (voice), fax (954) 628-9622, send an e-mail to [email protected], or have your local travel agent or international representative contact us.

For more information, visit our FAQ's

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

Enable Accessibility

1-866-234-7350 1-855-577-9489 1-877-288-3037 1-877-288-3037 1-877-474-2969
11-Reasons to Cruise to Alaska this Summer | NCL Travel Blog
14-Day Authentic Alaska - Northbound Cruisetour | Norwegian Cruise Line
14-Day Authentic Alaska - Southbound Cruisetour | Deck Plans | Norwegian Cruise Line
20-Day Transpacific from Tokyo (Yokohama) & Alaska | Norwegian Cruise Line
11 Reasons to Cruise to Alaska this Summer | NCL Travel Blog
View All Results
Preferences
Latitudes Rewards
Special Offers
Personalized Recommendations
Make reservations before you cruise
1 (current)

* Terms & Conditions Package not available on sailings less than 5 days or charter sailings.

1-877-397-1504

ACCESSIBLE CRUISING

Accessibility Mission Statement
Wheelchair & Motorized Scooter
Amenities & Services

Assistance On & Off Ship

Ship Transfers & Excursions
Tender Ports List
Deaf and Low Hearing
Blind and Low Vision

Service Animals

Allergies & Diabetes

Children with Disabilities

Cognitive Disabilities
Web Accessibility Statement

Accessibility Assistance

Email Sign Up For Special Offers
Phone Let Us Call You

Carefully read the documentation that each guest must present at the pier prior to boarding. Travel to some destinations require special visas and travel authorizations. The information below explains what is required when traveling to each destination and how to obtain this documentation.

Accessibility Mission Statement:

Norwegian Cruise Line is committed to providing inclusivity and access to world-class vacation experiences by continuously improving and applying the most updated accessibility standards to exceed our guests’ expectations.

Important Information for Guests with Special Needs

The fun and excitement of Freestyle cruising should be enjoyed by everyone. That's why we are committed to providing all of our guests the freedom of choice to cruise your way.

Our team of Accessibility Coordinators have experience in furthering Norwegian Cruise Line's mission to provide a safe and accessible cruise experience for all guests with special requirements, to the best of our ability and feasible extent.

The Accessibility Coordinators will contact you prior to your cruise as soon as we receive your Accessibility & Medical Questionnaire so that we can try to viably meet your needs and expectations. Onboard, the Norwegian Cruise Line Access Officer will be the primary person managing all of your special needs.

To get more information or request accessibility assistance on your upcoming cruise, fill out the Guest Special Needs Request Form or contact us using the phone number at the bottom of this page.

Special Accessibility Coordinators Before and During Your Cruise

Norwegian Cruise Line has a dedicated team of experienced travel professionals specifically trained to assist guests with disabilities and special needs, before, during and even after your cruise.

The Access Desk

Within our Reservations Department, an exclusive team of experienced professionals operate to help facilitate your travel. After receiving your Accessibility & Medical Questionnaire , these specially trained in Norwegian Cruise Line's policies and procedures, will document your reservation with information concerning your service requests. These details will be communicated to our cruise staff who will take care of the accommodations and prepare for your vacation.

A member of the Access Desk will speak with you about each and every aspect of your cruise, from transportation to and from the vessel, your stateroom, shore excursions and any other expectation or need that you may have.

Once you have boarded, you will be met by staff who will have all of the information that you conveyed to Norwegian Cruise Line either directly or through your travel professional. Staff will be available throughout your cruise to see to your needs. Norwegian Cruise Line has Access Officers who will be the primary point person working to make sure all your needs are met. Norwegian Cruise Line also has a centralized internal corporate resolution staff to assist the Access Officer, available by telephone 24 hours a day.

To get more information or request accessibility assistance on your upcoming cruise, fill out the Accessibility & Medical Questionnaire or contact us using the phone number at the bottom of this page.

Advance Notice Needed

Whatever your special requirements are, Norwegian Cruise Line will do whatever it reasonably can to accommodate you. But we do need adequate time to prepare for your arrival. Please make every effort to contact our Access Desk well in advance of your cruise – at least 90 days for interpreters and 45 days for all other requirements.

The more information that we have concerning any special requirement you may have, the more prepared we are to meet your needs during your cruise. What works well for others may not meet your requirements. You'll have a much more enjoyable cruise experience if you tell us what you need. We will work with you to try to meet all your reasonable needs for your cruise, but due to the nature of travel on a passenger cruise vessel, if advance notice is not given, Norwegian Cruise Line may not be able to provide you with what you need.

In limited situations (either on board or ashore), we may find it necessary to ask you to make alternative travel arrangements, such as if a disabled guest is unable to satisfy certain specified safety and other criteria, even when provided with appropriate auxiliary aid and services. Guests who are unable to care for their basic needs (e.g. dressing, eating, and attending safety drills) MUST have a capable traveling companion. It is essential that we be notified of any special medical, physical, or other requirement you may have as soon as possible, including whether you intend to bring a scooter with you.

Pre-arranging for special assistance helps travel proceed more smoothly. Assistance is arranged for at the time of booking upon identification of your specific service request.

Guests with Mobility Disabilities

For guests who cannot walk on their own, a wheelchair, scooter or walker may be the primary mobility assistance aid for getting on and off the ship. Norwegian Cruise Line has a limited supply of wheelchairs onboard. In order to accommodate our guests, Norwegian Cruise Line wheelchairs are reserved exclusively for embarkation and disembarkation situations. If you will require regular use of a wheelchair, we strongly recommend that you bring your own wheelchair with you or make rental arrangements with Scootaround. The limited supply of wheelchairs onboard are available for emergency rental arrangements and are on a first come first serve basis.

Wheelchair accessible staterooms are available on all our ships. We recommend you book well in advance as possible as availability is limited. Accessible staterooms offer wider door frames, roll in showers, shower benches, high-rise toilets and handrails in shower and toilet area.

Motorized wheelchairs and scooters are allowed in our accessible staterooms provided that they are powered by gel-cell batteries and the chargers must be adaptable to 110 volts. Should you choose a stateroom that has not been designated as accessible, you will need to bring a collapsible wheelchair, or if you have a motorized wheelchair or scooter, the width must not exceed 26 inches to enter the stateroom door. All scooters and wheelchairs MUST be stored in the stateroom. Due to the safety and escape way requirements established by SOLAS regulations, they cannot be stored in the hallways, stairways, or any other public area. Beach wheelchairs can be rented for use on Norwegian Cruise Line's private island.

For additional details on the prearranged rental program for wheelchairs, scooters and other medical equipment, please contact our authorized vendor. Please note that the other vendors will not have access to Norwegian ships:

Scootaround

Phone: (toll-free) 888-441-7575 or 204-982-0657

Fax: 204-478-1172

www.scootaround.com

Amenities and Services include:

Embarkation day meeting with staff member who will see to your accessibility needs during the cruise
A limited number of wheelchair accessible staterooms with grab bars in the bathrooms, raised beds, adjustable hanging rods in the closets, shower seats, extra wide doors for easy access
Wheelchair rental available for use on the vessels
All Norwegian Cruise Line ships have pool lifts
All Norwegian Cruise Line ships have accessible restrooms in a variety of public spaces
Accessible transportation to and from the vessel can be arranged in advance for all US destinations with 15 day advance notice provided to the Access Desk
The Access Desk can provide specific and up to date information on the accessibility of shore excursions prior to your cruise

Guests requesting wheelchair assistance on and off the ship during embarkation / disembarkation, must be able to enter and exit the terminal without assistance.

Assistance onto the ship at embarkation

Norwegian Cruise Line crew cannot exit the terminal, therefore guests cannot be picked up at the drop-off area/curb. Guests must enter the terminal before they can be provided wheelchair assistance. Guests are taken to the check-in area and then up the ramp to board the ship, but cannot be taken all the way to their stateroom.

Assistance off the ship at disembarkation

Announcements will be made onboard to advise guests to meet at a specific location, where they will wait for crew members with wheelchairs, to arrive and assist them to the security/check-out area. Guests are dropped off at the check-out area. Guests will need to make their own way out of the terminal to the curb.

Ship Transfers and Shore Excursions Facilities

Ship Transfers & Tenders

Guests must be aware that certain vessel transfers, such as tendering and gangways, may not be fully accessible to wheelchairs or scooters at the time that they desire or that they cannot go ashore at all. When a ship is unable to dock, guests are taken ashore on smaller boats called tenders. Guests may need to utilize steps or a stair case to access the tender and to re-board the ship. Some guests with limited mobility may find it difficult to embark or disembark the ship at certain times while at dock or while tendering.

Note: scooters and wheelchairs and/or guests that weigh 100lbs or more are not allowed to be transferred from the ship to tender and/or from tender to shore.

Please see Tender List here

Shore Excursions

Some shore excursion facilities may not be fully accessible to guests with mobility challenges. Although we endeavor to make sure that companies based in the United States provide accessible shore excursions, we cannot guarantee that all are able to provide facilities that are accessible to persons with disabilities. Moreover, shore excursions in foreign ports can present challenges to disabled guests. For detailed, up-to-date information on accessibility issues involving shore excursions, we recommend that you contact our Shore Excursion team experts at 1-866-625-1167 or visit our website .

Guests who Are Deaf or Have Low Hearing

At Norwegian Cruise Line, we will attempt to provide our Deaf or Low Hearing guests with an enjoyable cruise, which means making every attempt to make the technology available to assist Deaf and Low Hearing guests during your Freestyle cruise experience. We strongly encourage Deaf or Low Hearing guests to contact the Access Desk prior to cruising so that your specific needs can be discussed prior to your cruise. Many different options are available prior to the cruise and needs vary from guest to guest.

The Sky, Sun and Pride of America have staterooms that are hard wired for Deaf and Low Hearing guests which includes a visual-tactile alert system to alert you if there is knocking at the door, telephone ringing, alarm ringing or smoke detection
On those vessels where rooms have not been hardwired, a portable kit is available upon request in your stateroom that includes a visual-tactile alert system to alert you if there is knocking at the door, telephone ringing, alarm ringing or smoke detection
Individual and/or group emergency drills for all Deaf or Low Hearing guests upon request
Pagers are available upon request on all Norwegian Cruise Line vessels to alert Deaf or Low Hearing Guests to vessel announcements and a manual for same can be provided in advance
Assistive listening devices are available on many vessels in the main theatre through the Guest Service Desk
Closed-captioned televisions are available for your state room
Closed-captioned movies are available on the ‘New Movie Release’ channel. A DVD player may be requested if a guest wishes to bring their own DVD movies from home
Sign language interpreting services may be provided for Deaf guests if that is their primary means of communication. A request for sign language interpreting should be made with the Access Desk at the time of booking through the Special requirements Information Form that can be obtained from the Access desk, but no later than 90 days prior to sailing. Requests are subject to a number of considerations, including but not limited to, the availability of interpreters and cabin space. Sign language interpreting services may be provided on cruises that depart from and/or return to the U.S. Please make every effort to contact our Access Desk well in advance of your cruise - at least 90 days for interpreters. A request for an interpreter with less than 90 days’ notice may still be granted but cannot be guaranteed
TTY Phones are available onboard all ships except Norwegian Spirit that use handy phones and text messaging. The guest can request that the phone in their room be replaced with a TTY phone and this will enable them to communicate with the Guest Services Desk staff by teletype

Guests who are Blind or Have Low Vision

At Norwegian Cruise Line, we will attempt to provide our Blind or Low Vision guests with an enjoyable cruise, which means providing personal, customized service to make your cruise fun, safe and happy.

Amenities and Services Available include:

A vessel orientation tour is available upon request
Braille / tactile signage
Service animals allowed onboard and must be arranged through the Access Desk prior to the cruise

Norwegian Cruise Line accepts service dogs that are trained to perform a specific task. A service dog may be needed for many different conditions, which would be acceptable under the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines.

In accordance with the ADA, Norwegian Cruise Line does NOT accept “Emotional Support” dogs as service dogs, they CANNOT sail.

Guests must provide copies of the dog’s current vaccination records that show all shots are up-to-date (including Rabies), as well as a USDA or International Health certificate
Guests are responsible for checking with all ports of call for any special requirements they may have. Guests are responsible for bringing all food, medication and life jacket for the dog
A relief sand box will be provided

All guests traveling with service animals must book at least two weeks in advance to allow enough time to check with each port of call and provide Norwegian Cruise Line with all required documentation.

For more information on document requirements, visit:

U.S Department of Agriculture
Hawaii Department of Agriculture
UK Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

Dietary Requirements

Special Medical, Allergy and Diabetes

Guests with special medical diets and/or food allergies should contact the Access Desk to discuss Norwegian Cruise Line's policies and procedures concerning special diets and your specific allergies prior to your cruise. Because the vessels are supplied all over the world, it may be easier to meet your specific food allergy requirements in some countries, but very difficult in others. Special dietary requests should be submitted at least 45 days prior to sailing. Any requests inside 45 days cannot be guaranteed. We can arrange to have no sugar and low sodium meals for guests with those specific medical dietary restrictions upon request. Refrigerators are available upon request for storing insulin.

Kosher Dining

Norwegian Cruise Line offers Kosher dining options during your cruise with advanced notice. Simply contact our reservations experts at 1-800-237-7030 at least 30 days prior to your sail date and they will make note of your dining preference. If it is within 30 days of your sailing, please contact 1-800-327-7030 Ext. #11134. A notation will be made on your reservation and the onboard staff will be able to assist you in making your meal selections on embarkation day.

Reservations: 1-800-237-7030

PLEASE NOTE: Kosher Dining is not handled through the Access Desk. Click here for more information.

Medical Needs

Guests requiring continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis are welcome to board all vessels. However, Norwegian Cruise Line does not have the ability to assist or administer hemo-dialysis treatments. Those guests using peritoneal dialysis should have all solutions and equipment needed to perform the dialysis delivered to the vessel on the day of sailing at least two hours prior to sailing. Please contact the Access desk prior to the cruise for more information on Norwegian Cruise Line's policies and procedures.

The ship is not equipped to provide guests with these services other than on an emergency basis in the Ship's Medical Center. For security and safety reasons, we have selected Scootaround as the only outside vendors that we will permit to deliver oxygen supplies to the ship. We believe they will meet your on board respiratory needs.

However, you are also welcome, to bring your own oxygen and/or oxygen equipment from your home. Please contact the Access & Compliance Department prior to sailing if you will require oxygen while on your cruise. Please note that liquid oxygen is not permitted on any Norwegian Cruise Line vessel.

For additional details on the prearranged rental program for oxygen equipment and other medical equipment, please contact our exclusive supplier and authorized vendor. For the safety and security of everyone, oxygen and/or oxygen equipment deliveries will not be accepted from any other company other than Scootaround.

Norwegian Cruise Line will not accept guests who will have entered their 24th week of pregnancy by the time their travel with Norwegian Cruise Line concludes. Norwegian Cruise Line will not be responsible or liable for any complications of pregnancy which arise or occur during the cruise.

Norwegian Cruise Line will not accept guests who will have entered their 24th week of pregnancy by the time their travel with Norwegian Cruise Line concludes. A statement from the expectant mother's doctor (letter head form required), stating her due date and fitness to travel must be sent to Norwegian Cruise Line's Access Desk, please send back up documentation details Guest Special Needs Request Form here. Norwegian Cruise Line will not be responsible or liable for any complications of pregnancy which arise or occur during the cruise.

Other Needs And Additional Assistance

Norwegian Cruise Line welcomes guests with medical, emotional or any other challenge to Freestyle cruising. If you have a need that has not been discussed, we encourage you to contact us at the Access Desk regarding your special requirements or requests and our policies and procedures.

Children with disabilities are welcome on all Norwegian Cruise Line vessels. Please contact the Access Desk to discuss Norwegian Cruise Line's policies and procedures regarding children with disabilities and how we can assist you in making your child's cruising experience safe, fun and comfortable.

Cognitive, Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Guests with cognitive, intellectual and development disabilities such as autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome and Alzheimer's disease are encouraged to contact the Access Desk to discuss your cruise. Upon request, every effort will be made to meet your cruising special requirements, including:

Boarding and disembarkation assistance

Website Accessibility Statement

At Norwegian Cruise Line (“NCL”), we are committed to facilitating and improving the accessibility and usability of our Website, www.ncl.com (the “Website”), ensuring that our Website services and content are accessible to persons with disabilities including, but not limited to, users of screen reader technology. To accomplish this, NCL has partnered with UsableNet Inc. (“UsableNet”), a leading web accessibility consultant, by implementing technology that will enable and maintain accessibility in accordance with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), which also brings the Website into conformance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

The initial accessibility work has been completed (where testing has been performed both with automatic accessibility testing tools and users of screen readers to identify issues) and remediation has been applied. UsableNet will continue to monitor the Website and make accessibility updates when needed. Users can “Enable Accessibility” via the link at the top of the site navigation and always get the accessibility enabled enhancements ensuring equal access to all features and functions.

Please be aware that our efforts to maintain accessibility and usability are ongoing. While we strive to make the Website as accessible as possible, some issues may be encountered by different assistive technology as the range of assistive technology is wide and varied. We appreciate your understanding.

If, at any time, you have specific questions or concerns about the accessibility of any particular web page on the Website, please contact us by email at [email protected] or by phone at the number below. If you do encounter an accessibility issue, please be sure to specify the web page and nature of the issue in your email and/or phone call, and we will make all reasonable efforts to make that web page or the information contained therein accessible for you.

Early Bird Sale 🛳 £300 Off 2025 Cruises - £50 Deposits - Ends 3rd May

Accessible Cruises

Cruise the world with confidence.

Our accessible cruise holidays will sail you effortlessly to some of the greatest destinations around the world, from the sun-soaked sights of the Mediterranean to the breathtaking landscapes of the Norwegian Fjords . Sit back and relax as we take care of everything.

We guarantee each stage of your journey is 100% accessible, including our wheelchair-friendly door to door pick up service, taking you from home to holiday without hassle. We also bring professional carers on every cruise for complete peace of mind.

Whether you're wanting to set sail in 2024 or 2025 , we’re here to help you plan your perfect holiday, from booking to boarding and beyond! Browse our disabled-friendly cruises below, or speak to our team on 0800 711 7112.

Amsterdam 5-Day Cruise, 2024

P&O, Ventura

This short-stay holiday is the perfect taster for those who are new to cruising. Set sail for Amsterdam.

Norwegian Fjords Classic Cruise, 2024

P&O, Iona

Spend the week cruising the Norwegian Fjords aboard P&O Iona. Includes visits to Alesund, Stavanger, and Haugesund.

Norwegian Fjords Cruise, June 2024

P&O, Britannia

Snow-capped peaks, labyrinth waterways and the most spectacular coastline you’re ever likely to see.

Norwegian Fjords Cruise with Olden, Summer 2024

Discover the Norwegian Fjords this summer aboard P&O's Britannia ship. Includes visits to Flam and Stavanger.

Norway & Northern Lights Cruise

P&O, Aurora

Set sail for the Arctic Circle in search of the majestic Northern Lights. Plus, cruise the Norwegian Fjords.

Norwegian Fjords Classic Cruise, 2025

Enjoy luxury at sea while cruising the spectacular Norwegian Fjords aboard P&O's Iona ship.

Norwegian Fjords Cruise, Summer 2025

Set sail for 8 days cruising the spectacular Norwegian Fjords aboard P&O's Iona ship.

Norway & Northern Lights Cruise, December 2025

Explore Norway's stunning Fjords aboard P&O's Aurora. Journey to Andalsnes, Bodø, Narvik, Tromsø, and Haugesund.

France & Spain Cruise, August 2024

Royal Caribbean, Anthem of the Seas

Discover the best of Bordeaux, Bilbao, La Coruña, and Paris aboard the Royal Caribbean''s Anthem of the Seas.

Spain & France Cruise, 2024

Enjoy a European medley of beautiful ports and sights, cruising aboard P&O’s world-class Ventura cruise ship.

Spain & Portugal Cruise, Summer 2024

Discover the best of the Mediterranean aboard P&O Ventura this summer, cruising to Spain and Portugal.

Portugal & Spain Cruise, July 2024

Visit the Iberian Peninsula aboard P&O's Ventura cruise ship on this accessible Portugal and Spain Cruise.

Spain & Portugal Cruise, August 2024

Set sail for Spain aboard P&O's Ventura Ship, the perfect opportunity to experience some of the best holiday hotspots.

Spain, Portugal, & France Cruise, October 2024

Cruise Spain, Portugal & France on P&O's Ventura Ship. Embarking from Southampton, escorted with our Limitless Care Team.

Spain & Portugal Cruise, October 2024

Embark from Southampton on the P&O Iona to Spain & Portugal. Escorted by our Limitless care team.

Spain & La Rochelle Cruise, May 2025

Make 2025 a year to remember, with this P&O Ventura cruise exploring vibrant destinations in Spain and France.

Spain & Portugal Cruise, June 2025

Experience an unforgettable disabled-friendly cruise along Spain and Portugal's west coast aboard P&O's Ventura ship.

Spain & Portugal with Bilbao Cruise, October 2025

Sail aboard the Iona for an enchanting cruise to Spain and France. Visit Bilbao, La Coruña, Vigo, and Cherbourg

Spain, Italy, & Gibraltar Cruise, August 2025

Sail the Mediterranean on a 14-night cruise. Explore charming ports like Cadiz, Palma, Cagliari, and Ibiza.

France, Portugal, & Spain Cruise, 2025

Cruise along Spain and Portugal's west coast aboard P&O's Ventura cruise. Visit Vigo, Lisbon, Leixoes, and Cherbourg.

Spain, Italy, & France Cruise, 2025

P&O, Arvia

Experience the luxury of P&O's Arvia cruise ship on this Mediterranean adventure. Includes Barcelona and La Coruna.

Spain & Cherbourg Cruise, April 2025

Embark on an accessible cruise aboard P&O's Britannia, includes Gijon, La Coruña, Santander, and Cherbourg.

Spain, France, & Portugal Cruise, Spring 2025

Cruise along Spain and Portugal's west coast aboard P&O's Ventura. Visit Santander, Vigo, Lisbon, Leixoes, and Cherbourg.

Spain & Gibraltar Cruise, Summer 2025

Cruise the Mediterranean on P&O’s Britannia ship. Includes visits to Cadiz, Ibiza, Mallorca, and Gibraltar.

Arvia In La Coruna Stepping Stone Media 1 All Rights

Spain & France Cruise, 2025

Embark on a thrilling Mediterranean cruise aboard P&O's Arvia. Explore La Coruña, Costa del Sol, and Barcelona.

Spain & Portugal Cruise, March 2025

Relax on a 12-night cruise of Spain and Portugal's west coast P&O's Iona ship. Visit Gibraltar, Cadiz, and Lisbon.

Spain & France Cruise, September 2025

Royal Caribbean, Independence of the Seas

Embark on this 7-night accessible cruise to Spain and France aboard Royal Caribbean's Independence of the Seas.

Portugal & Canary Islands Cruise, February 2025

Look forward to a sun-soaked adventure exploring the Iberian Peninsula aboard P&O's Ventura cruise ship.

Spain, Portugal, & Canary Islands Cruise, May 2025

This 12-night Royal Caribbean cruise takes you through the Canary Islands, and the best sights of Spain and Portugal.

Spain & Portugal 8 Day Cruise, July 2025

Cruise Spain and Portugal aboard Royal Caribbean Independence of the Seas ship. Includes Vigo, Bilbao, and Lisbon

Spain & Portugal 10 Day Cruise, Summer 2025

Cruise effortlessly through European beauty aboard The Independence of the Seas. Discover Lisbon, Vigo, and La Coruña.

Spain, Canary Islands, & Portugal Cruise, November 2025

Cruise the best of the Canaries and Portugal on this 14-night holiday. Includes visits to 4 beautiful islands.

Spain & France 14 Day Cruise, Autumn 2025

Discover Mediterranean gems with P&O's Arvia cruise, visiting La Coruña, Costa del Sol, Toulon, Barcelona, and Cadiz.

Mediterranean Classic Cruise, 2024

Spend two week cruising the Mediterranean aboard P&O's Ariva, P&O's newest ship! Escorted by our Limitless care team

Mediterranean with Cadiz Cruise, October 2025

Explore captivating Mediterranean destinations cruising aboard P&O's accessible Britannia.

Mediterranean with La Coruña Cruise, November 2025

Embark on a 14-night accessible cruise with Limitless. Explore La Coruña, Lisbon, Canary Islands, and Madeira aboard P&O Ventura.

Mediterranean Cruise 2025

Enjoy 14 nights cruising the Mediterranean aboard P&O's Arvia, P&O's newest ship! Escorted by our Limitless care team.

Canary Islands Cruise, November 2024

Explore seven exotic ports on this cruise of a lifetime, embarking on P&O's Iona from Southampton. Escorted by our Limitless Care Team.

Canary Islands & Lisbon Cruise, Autumn 2024

Experience 12 nights of winter sun in the Canary Islands & Portugal, accompanied by our Limitless Care Team.

P&O X Mas Ventura 144 Captain Derek Gray

Canary Islands Christmas Cruise, 2024

Embark on a unique festive holiday while celebrating at sea, and exploring the best of the Canary Islands & Portugal.

Canary Islands Cruise, April 2025

Discover seven exotic ports on this care-supported cruise aboard P&O's Britannia. Includes Funchal and Las Palmas.

Canary Islands and Portugal Cruise 2025 - 13 nights

Explore six exotic ports on this 13 night cruise around the Canary Islands, Spain & Portugal.

Canary Islands Cruise, Autumn 2025

Discover the best of the Canary Islands, cruising to 5 beautiful ports including Lisbon & Tenerife.

Canary Islands, Portugal, & Spain Cruise, November 2025

Set sail on a remarkable 14-night voyage in 2025 aboard the Iona.

Canary Islands & Lisbon Cruise, 2025

Embark on a 14-night inclusive adventure with our unique Canary Islands and Portugal cruise holiday.

Portugal, Canary Islands, & Spain Cruise, December 2025

Discover the beauty of Portugal and the Canary Islands sailing aboard the world-class Iona cruise ship.

Canary Islands Christmas Cruise, 2025

Embark on a 12-night Canary Islands and Portugal cruise from Southampton on P&O’s Ventura.

Canary Islands Christmas & New Year Cruise, 2025

For those looking for a little winter sun over the festive period, treat yourself to this 14 night accessible cruise.

Norway & Northern Lights Cruise, March 2026

Prepare for the spectacular as you board the Aurora ready to voyage to breathtaking scenery like no other.

Portugal & Canary Islands Cruise, Winter Sun 2026

Embark on a unique 14-night adventure through the Canary Islands and Portugal aboard the luxurious P&O cruise ship Iona.

Portugal, Canary Islands, & Spain with Celebrity Cruises, September 2025

Discover the best of the Canary Islands and Portugal while enjoying all the luxuries of the world class Celebrity Apex ship.

Norwegian Fjords & Arctic Circle Cruise with Celebrity Cruises, June 2025

Set sail on the Celebrity Apex to experience the best of the Norwegian Fjords & the Arctic Circle.

Norwegian Fjords & Bruges with Celebrity Cruises, May 2025

Sail through unforgettable fjord landscapes and discover waterfront towns bursting with culture, plus the historic city of Bruges. All aboard the Apex!

Spain & Portugal with Celebrity Cruises, July 2025

Feast your eyes and your senses with our latest accessible cruise to Spain and Portugal aboard the Celebrity Apex.

Accessible Cruises for Disabled People

Do you offer cruises for disabled people.

At Limitless Travel, we're proud providers of disabled friendly holidays across the UK and to destinations abroad . We’re overjoyed to now also offer luxury accessible cruises for disabled adults that are fully accessible. We currently travel to the following destinations in conjunction with P&O Cruises:

Norwegian Fjords

Portugal & Spain

Mediterranean & Iberia

We're also hoping to further expand our range of destinations in the near future.

Travelling and staying aboard P&O's world-renowned vessels, you'll have the opportunity to explore some of Europe's top holiday hotspots and enjoy all the world-class facilities associated with these fantastic ships.

As with all Limitless Travel tours, all of our disabled cruises have been vetted beforehand to ensure they're wheelchair accessible and disabled friendly. While some of our itineraries feature destinations that can only be reached by small tenders that may not cater for disabled travellers, we aim to highlight every one of those instances in the relevant holiday guide.

How accessible are the cruise ships on your cruises for disabled people?

On our current cruises, you'll travel aboard P&O's Iona, Aurora and Arvia cruise ships. All three vessels are disabled friendly and feature fully accessible cabins and facilities throughout. However, wheelchair accessible cabins are limited, particularly on the Iona, so booking early is always a good idea.

If you would like to find out more detailed information about the accessibility on any of these ships, we recommend phoning 0800 711 7232 and speaking to a Limitless advisor. They'll be able to answer any and all of the questions you have. Alternatively, you can find ship-specific information for the Iona , Aurora and Arvia by following the links.

What facilities are available on your accessible cruises?

The overwhelming majority of the excursions included on our cruises are fully accessible and disabled friendly. We even offer a 'potter-around-the-port' service exclusively to Limitless travellers to help you make the most of your time onshore.

However, there are a small number of locations where tenders are used to reach the port from the ship. In some instances, these won't be suitable for disabled travellers. Wherever this is the case, we've highlighted it in the relevant holiday guide.

Do you provide care on your disabled cruises?

We offer a variety of holiday care packages on each and every one of our cruises for disabled adults. From emotional support to one-to-one care, our qualified and experienced carers are on hand to take care of you on your holiday.

All Limitless travellers receive group support as standard. However, we can also build you a bespoke care package that's tailored to your needs should you require it. For us, the most important thing is that Limitless travellers feel safe, secure and confident to travel. As a result, we'll go out of our way to make sure you get the right level of support on our wheelchair accessible cruises.

The best way to find out more about our care packages is to give a Limitless advisor a ring on 0800 711 7232. Alternatively, you can take a look at our dedicated care packages page for a comprehensive overview.

How do I book wheelchair accessible cruises for disabled adults?

Accessible cruises for disabled people are easy to book with Limitless Travel. Simply call or email one of our specialist travel advisors on 0800 711 7232. They'll be happy to tell you more about our cruise destinations, the ships you'll travel on and our care and support packages.

All you need to do is give us a call, let us know of any special assistance or mobility equipment you might need and then you can relax and start looking forward to your holiday!

If you’d prefer a disabled holiday on dry land, we also offer a fantastic array of popular holiday destinations in the UK, Europe and further afield. Whether you want to discover fairytale Edinburgh , get a feel for flamenco in Andalucía or sun yourself in a Caribbean paradise , we've got a holiday for you. Limitless is committed to ensuring only the best wheelchair-accessible cabins are offered to our disabled guests.

By working with only the best cruise lines, we can help you have the best holiday possible!

How can I request special accommodations for my specific disability or medical condition?

All Limitless travellers receive group support as standard. However, we can also build you a bespoke care package that's tailored to your needs should you require it.

Once you’ve booked and consulted with Limitless, and let us know the accommodations you need to have a truly spectacular holiday, we’ll quickly pass this information along to the cruise company, P&O, and make sure everything you need is on-board.

Limitless and P&O have a close relationship due to their incredible care and attentiveness to disabled passengers on-board their ships.

Do you offer adapted cabins on your cruise holidays?

Yes, the cruise lines we work with offer adapted cabins specifically designed for guests with mobility issues or disabilities.

These cabins are equipped with wider doorways, roll-in showers, grab bars, and other accessibility features to ensure a comfortable and safe stay. It's advisable to book these cabins in advance due to limited availability.

If you have specific requirements or need further information, please contact the Limitless team.

We're committed to ensuring all our guests have an enjoyable and hassle-free holiday experience.

Do cruise ships have accessible features for disabled passengers?

Absolutely! Cruise ships are equipped with a variety of accessible features to ensure that passengers with disabilities can have a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

These accessible features include specially designed cabins with wider doorways and grab bars in the bathrooms, making them more user-friendly. The ships are also designed with ramps and elevators to facilitate easy movement around the vessel.

Additionally, many cruise lines provide assistance at ports and during excursions to accommodate all passengers.

Entertainment and dining areas are wheelchair accessible, with staff available to offer any needed assistance. So, passengers with disabilities can expect a well-accommodated and enjoyable cruise experience.

Are service dogs allowed on cruise ships?

Service dogs are allowed on cruise ships as long as they are fully registered (not emotional support dogs) and the cruise provider has been notified before booking.

Get More Information

Phone Number

Your Postcode

Additional Notes

IMPORTANT: Want to get more information about Limitless holidays? Because of new regulations, we can only contact you if you consent to it. So, can we contact you about our holidays? If yes, please tick the box.

Planning A Cruise For People With Disabilities

P lanning A Trip For People With Disabilities Can Be Daunting. A Bit Scary Even Going Into The Unknown! Here's How I Planned My First Cruise With A Wheelchair On Carnival Cruise Lines.

Carnival Cruises - Planning A Trip For People With Disabilities

I've always wanted to take a cruise. Going to exotic and tropical places is on just about everyone's bucket list, right? But how do you go about planning a trip like that while you've got this wheelchair firmly attached to you? After my accident in '95 that left me with a spinal cord injury , I pretty much assumed those exotic and tropical places were a dream and out of my reach.

Let's face it, sometimes just planning a trip to the mall can be an ordeal. I see all these beautiful photos people take and really yearn to be there. So, why not me too! I'm pretty stubborn and figure out how to get and go where I need to, why not put that into places I want to go as well, right?

I checked into different destinations and decided planning a trip on a cruise would be the way to go for my first time venturing out. I'm not going to lie, I am a bit nervous to see how this all plays out and exactly what activities I'll be able to participate in.

I'll keep you updated on that as I travel with my disabled self. But here's how and why I went about planning a trip on the Carnival Cruise Sunshine.

A Cruise - The Vacation With No Hidden Expenses

Disability aside, cost is always a factor no matter who you are and what you can do physically when planning a trip. When you book a cruise, you know right up front exactly how much you will spend. When you're looking at destination options online at Carnival.com, you'll see the price you pay and everything included.

All food, drinks ( soda and alcohol have an additional fee ) and on-board activities are all paid for. You can add additional port excursions, late night babysitting and things like spa services if you choose as well. I did learn planning a trip on a cruise that gratuities however are not included.

You can tack it on though to the price at the time of booking and get it paid up front, ( which is how my trip was planned ) Or, you can have it billed to your room with any other services you may choose once you depart.

Just keep that in mind with your vacation budget. But, all that awesome food though!

Explore More Places In 1 Awesome Trip

Rather than be limited to just 1 cool destination, you really get to explore a lot of places at one time! When I was looking at the different ports of call while planning a trip, I kept in mind though that some may or may not have excursions I could participate in with my wheelchair.

It may sound amazing to climb ancient Mayan temples or go backpacking into ancient ruins, let's be honest; not really going to happen. The trip I picked is an 8 day Eastern Caribbean Cruise. I'll be making stops in St. Maarten, St Kitts, San Juan Puerto Rico, and Grand Turk. All of which have an easy debarking process and places to see, eat and wander around easily with my wheelchair.

I checked out the additional excursions like swimming with the dolphins and such and decided while planning a trip like this for the first time, I'd feel better safe than sorry taking a pass on those and just exploring these destinations. Get a lay of the land so to speak and maybe next time take a dip with those dolphins.

The option is always there and you're able to make that call based on your own comfort level. I'm most excited about St. Kitts! Just saying ' Hey, I'm in the West Indies, look at me ya'll ' is pretty exciting, no??

Handicap Accessible Staterooms

We all know planning a trip close to home can be nerve wrecking when you're rolling with the chair under your butt. Can I get in the bathroom? Will my chair even fit through the door?? Having talked with a reservation agent, my bathroom fears where laid to rest.

Also, Carnival has made substantial modifications to enhance their ships to make getting around and traveling with a disability so much easier. The ships have accessible elevators at each elevator bank with tactile controls within reach for those of us who use wheelchairs as well as audible signals for guest who are blind or with low vision.

And! I could have even brought Harris my service dog along. I decided against traveling with him this time as I'm not sure on what laws govern service animals once I'm at each port of call. Something to check out while I'm there.

Again, better safe than sorry but it is an option for those disabled travelers with service animals.

Activities For Kids All Included

Ethan's 9th birthday just happens to be the day our ship leaves Orlando. He is beyond excited. I mean literally, beyond! We've already registered him for Camp Carnival which is like a day camp on the open seas. They split it up into three different age groups so it's appropriate fun for all kids, all ages.

You can drop the kiddos off and they get to do fun, scheduled activities while you go get a massage, soak in a hot-tub or maybe even just nap by the pool. Again, it's all included, no extra charge. They can stay for an hour or so or they can stay all day. He's also looking forward to checking out Seuss at Sea.

A special experience as the fantastical world of Dr. Seuss comes to life. There's an on-board character parade, interactive story time, arts & crafts activities, and even a character themed breakfast.

The Carnival Sunshine is literally packed with pools, water slides and just about every outdoor activity you can imagine. He's spent hours looking through pictures of the ship and making plans on which spots to hit. His biggest problem? What to do first!

So, five days and counting and we're off! Planning a trip like this for the first time did have me a bit nervous with my safe, comfy bubble being so far away. But, the Carnival reps do put your mind at ease and were able to answer all my questions about traveling with a disability.

I'll keep you posted on my travels and let you know how and what I'm able to do and see. I'm really excited. I've heard from more than one person though that once you take your first cruise, you just can't stop. Here's looking at many more in my future!

Do you love to travel? Check out our TRAVEL Index for more ideas! You can also subscribe to our email newsletter !

Follow The Rebel Chick on MSN, Pinterest , Instagram , Facebook and Twitter and never miss a new post!

The post Carnival Cruises - Planning A Trip For People With Disabilities appeared first on The Rebel Chick .

Planning A Cruise For People With Disabilities

Special Offers
Travel Advisors My Account

Committed to Accessibility

American Cruise Lines strives to provide an experience that is welcoming to everyone on our ships and our website.

Our ships are equipped with accessible rooms as well as an elevator for ease of movement between decks. Most lounges, sun decks and dining salons are also accessible by wheelchairs and other walking aid devices. American Cruise Lines wants all guests to feel comfortable on ship as well on shore excursions. If you have any questions or would like to discuss special accommodations or travel needs please call us at 800-460-4518 .

American Cruise Lines is making a continuous effort to make this website accessible using Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) for compliance as suggested by the U.S. Department of Justice for website accessibility. We use WCAG for compliance, as published by Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI), because they are determined by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), the consortium that determines development standards for the Internet, worldwide. There is no definitive test nor certification of conformance to Level AA of WCAG, but we are using a variety of methods for assessing accessibility. We strive to make every page accessible to users but cannot guarantee that every page is Level AA compliant.

If you find that there is a part of this website that you are having difficulty accessing, please contact us or call 800-460-4518 .

Processing…

Request A Free Cruise Guide Modal

Begin planning your U.S. cruise adventure with American Cruise Lines today. From the coast of Maine, to the mighty Mississippi and Pacific Northwest, our Free Cruise Guide provides detailed information about all of our more than 50 U.S. itinerary options.

Cruising + Cruise Lines Overview

Why take a cruise? Cruising on various cruise lines is one of the most popular means of travel for those who use a wheelchair or have some other limited mobility. The allure of having a guaranteed accessible space to return to after a day of exploring is the main draw, but not all cruises are created equal. When it comes to booking an accessible cruise it is all in the details, so be sure to ask questions. This is why it is important when planning a cruise to Be Your Own Advocate! You know what you want and need better than anyone, so speak up. It’s your money, so you call the shots.

The two most important questions to get answered are about your room and the ports of call. Some cruise lines charge more for ADA rooms because they strategically place these rooms in a more expensive category while others do not. Be sure the room you are booking has the bathroom setup that you need, whether it be a bathtub or roll-in shower. You should be reasonably comfortable! Not every port of call is wheelchair accessible, especially those that do not have to follow the ADA Law or similar. It’s nice when a cruise boat can pull right up to a port but this is not always the case. In these situations, a tender boat is needed to transport guests on a ship to the port. Some tender boats will not allow power wheelchairs or scooters as they need to be manually lifted. Passengers who use manual wheelchairs may also encounter inconveniences or discomfort in this procedure, some may not be bothered at all. Whatever your situation is, find out about access at each port of call. Relaxing while you cruise is nice but you are also paying for the ability to get off the boat and explore the surroundings.

In addition to the traditional cruise ships, there is a wheelchair friendly private yacht available for rent that sails all over the Mediterranean but is not for those that are penny-pinching. The price is reasonable for what you get and wheelchairtraveling.com provides a 15% discount—so how about planning a group party vacation? Another uniquely accessible ship is the Sea Wolf. It is not as glamorous as the yacht but still very impressive with many adapted features and equipment that allow you to have an adventure of a lifetime in the Glacier Bay and British Columbia waters.

When thinking of planning a cruise, most of us picture one of those ginormous white boats parked at a dock. So what cruise is best for you? There are a number of factors to consider. One of course is what you want to see. Different cruises show you different parts of the world. Most commonly, people want to go on a cruise for warmer weather. From the United States, the most popular cruises are to Mexico or the Caribbean but over in Europe, the Mediterranean is what’s hot. Personally, the top of my list is a cruise to the beautiful wilderness of Alaska to get close to the glaciers and wildlife.

Besides the linked articles already included, there are a few others on cruises written by other wheelchair travelers on wheelchairtraveling.com and perhaps you may be interested in reading one or more. Please feel free to comment. Above is a continuously growing list of wheelchair accessible cruises and if you like to add your cruise story to the travel community please send us an email .

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

I am paralyzed on my left due to stroke. I have a standard manual wheelchair and a hemi walker. I am, with my husband, going to be in San Franc.,Sonora, and either Berkeley or Oakland, Calif. this summer. We can’t find handicap – acceesible hotel or motel rooms with a shower stall but no bathtub. You can imagine my other needs regarding shower seat, hand held shower head, bed height, getting to the bathroom in my wheelchair and transferring to the toilet seat, being on the first floor. AREN’T THERE ANY AGENCIES OR SAVVY TRAVEL AGENTS WHO CAN FIND THE … Read more »

Send us an email and tell us what you want and we’ll match you up with an agent and/or tour company.

Please help – We’re looking for any cruise ships (besides RCCL) that offer handicapped accessible rooms with a connecting room for a caregiver. There must be an operable door in between if help is needed during the night.

Hi Victoria,

Have you looked into Disney Cruise Lines? In some of the accessible rooms I have stayed in, there are rooms that connect to another non accessible cabin. Even if you aren’t traveling with kids, it’s a great cruise line to go with, plenty of adult only sections.

Looking for wheelchair friendly cruises to South America with ports available for wheelchair user who doesn’t walk.

Pin It on Pinterest

COMMENTS

Cruises out of Vancouver
Cruise Critic makes it simple to research & compare deals for cruises from Vancouver. Read reviews, compare deals and find your next cruise from Vancouver with Cruise Critic.
Cruise Deals Available
Best Deals Guaranteed on Cruise Vacations. Our Staff Members Are All Seasoned Travel Professionals.
Top Ships for Cruisers With Disabilities
Carnival Horizon. MSC Seaside. 1. Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas. Symphony of the Seas (Photo: Royal Caribbean International) For disabled passengers, bigger may really be better. Royal ...
Best cruise lines for wheelchair and scooter users
It can be reached at 866-592-7225 or by sending an email to [email protected]. Featured image by (Photo by icholakov/Getty Images) From wider corridors and grab bars to accessible theaters and restaurants, these are the cruise lines that cater to wheelchair users and passengers with limited mobility.
Wheelchair Users
Carnival carries distilled water which can be purchased either pre-cruise if you are sailing from a US port, or once on board. For pre-purchase, please contact our Fun Shops department at 1-800-522-7648 ext. 70039, Monday-Sunday from 9:00am-9:00pm ET. For purchase on board, please contact Room Service.
Accessible Cruises & Rooms
Otherwise, guests requiring physician assisted dialysis may make arrangements by contacting Dialysis at Sea at 1-800-544-7604. Dialysis at Sea specializes in the treatment of hemo-dialysis care while onboard on select Royal Caribbean sailings along with trained doctors and nurses and provides dialysis equipment and supplies.
10 EPIC Wheelchair Accessible Cruises + Disabled Cruises to Consider
The Best Wheelchair Accessible Cruises and Disabled Cruises to Consider. 1: Alaskan Cruise with Holland America. Alaska is a great destination for disabled cruises because you can see so much from the ship itself and enjoy the destination without having to disembark sometimes.
Mobile Disabilities
Fax: 204-478-1172. E-mail: [email protected]. Special Needs at Sea. Phone: 800-513-4515. Local: 954-585-0575. Fax: 800-513-4516. E-mail: [email protected]. You may bring and use wheelchairs, mobility scooters and other assistive devices onboard our ships. Due to safety reasons, Segways may not be used onboard.
Services for Guests with Disabilities
All Disney Cruise Line ships offer accessible staterooms and suites equipped with the following features: Room Features. 32" (minimum) doorways; ... restaurants and shops—are wheelchair accessible. Accessible public restrooms are also available. Wheelchair-accessible staterooms feature a 32-inch entrance door and a wider path of travel inside ...
Accessible Staterooms
Accessible staterooms range from 159 square feet to 298 square feet, offer a five-foot turning radius in sleeping areas, bathrooms and sitting areas for easy maneuverability. Accessible staterooms are held for people with disabilities until all other non-accessible staterooms in that category are reserved.
Best Cruise Lines for Disabled Passengers: A Complete Guide
1. Royal Caribbean. Royal Caribbean International stands out as a premier choice for passengers with disabilities. Committed to ensuring every guest has an unparalleled experience, the cruise line has integrated various features that cater to those with limited mobility, hearing, and developmental disabilities.
How wheelchair-accessible are cruise ships?
Rest assured, you can enjoy a cruise in a wheelchair. All of the cruise lines have accessible public areas, with large corridors, automatic doors, and special seating. They also offer wheelchair-accessible staterooms with wide doorways, ramped entrances, roll-in showers with a seat, grab bars in the bathroom, a hand-held shower head, and a ...
The Complete Guide to Cruising With a Disability
Accessible cabins onboard cruise ships are significantly larger than most standard rooms, and filled with features to make getting around easier. For instance, while most cabin doorways are around 23″ wide, accessible rooms have doors that are 32″ wide. The cruise lines have designed these cabins to be accessible, even in a small space.
Accessible Cruises & Ships
Holland America Line is committed to providing safe, easy, and accessible accommodations for all persons with disabilities, to the extent that is feasible. Holland America Line is dedicated to offering the finest cruising experience to our guests, including those with disabilities. Our ships provide a quality of service and a variety of accessible features to make your voyage a relaxing and ...
Celebrity Cruises Accessible Staterooms
For more information, contact our Access Department at (866) 592-7225 (voice), fax (954) 628-9622, send an e-mail to [email protected], or have your local travel agent or international representative contact us. Celebrity Virtual Tours were created by Nuvo360 , the leader in 3D Matterport Capture, 3D Modeling, and Digital Twin services.
Accessible Cruising
Scootaround. Phone: (toll-free) 888-441-7575 or 204-982-0657. Fax: 204-478-1172. www.scootaround.com. Amenities and Services include: Embarkation day meeting with staff member who will see to your accessibility needs during the cruise.
Wheelchair Accessible Cruise Lines
Wheelchair Accessible Cruise Lines. A cruise is the perfect vacation to see the world, and for anyone who is physically challenged or disabled there is no more comfortable or convenient way to travel. The cruise lines place a high priority on providing the appropriate assistance you need. Many cruise ships use the latest technology to offer a ...
Accessible Cruises for Disabled Passengers
Additionally, many cruise lines provide assistance at ports and during excursions to accommodate all passengers. Entertainment and dining areas are wheelchair accessible, with staff available to offer any needed assistance. So, passengers with disabilities can expect a well-accommodated and enjoyable cruise experience.
Planning A Cruise For People With Disabilities
Here's How I Planned My First Cruise With A Wheelchair On Carnival Cruise Lines. Carnival Cruises - Planning A Trip For People With Disabilities. ... Handicap Accessible Staterooms.
Accessibility
Most lounges, sun decks and dining salons are also accessible by wheelchairs and other walking aid devices. American Cruise Lines wants all guests to feel comfortable on ship as well on shore excursions. If you have any questions or would like to discuss special accommodations or travel needs please call us at 800-460-4518.
Overview: Accessible Cruising + Cruise Lines
Cruising on various cruise lines is one of the most popular means of travel for those who use a wheelchair or have some other limited mobility. The allure of having a guaranteed accessible space to return to after a day of exploring is the main draw, but not all cruises are created equal. When it comes to booking an accessible cruise it is all ...

9 Best Ships for Cruisers with Disabilities

On This Page

1. Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas

2. Holland America's Koningsdam

3. Celebrity Reflection

4. Princess Cruises' Regal Princess

5. Norwegian Bliss

6. Disney Fantasy

7. Regent's Seven Seas Explorer

8. Carnival Horizon

9. MSC Seaside

The best cruise lines for wheelchair users and passengers with limited mobility

Holland America

Royal Caribbean

Guests With Disabilities

FACILITIES AND SERVICES FOR GUESTS WITH DISABILITIES

General Access

ACCESSIBLE STATEROOMS

PERSONAL MOBILITY DEVICES (WHEELCHAIRS/SCOOTERS/SEGWAYS)

RENTAL SERVICES

AIRPORT TRANSFERS

WHEELCHAIR ASSISTANCE

GOING ASHORE

Ports Requiring Water Shuttles

“WE DEDICATE THIS TO ABSOLUTELY EVERYONE.”

MEDICAL CARE

Considerations prior to cruising

Arrangements

Food Allergies

Other Dietary Needs

ACTIVITY LEVEL FOR SHORE EXCURSIONS

Hello everyone! You're welcome here.

Contact us if you have any questions or concerns.

Do you have accessible routes on your ships?

Do you have accessible staterooms on your ships?

How do I know if I'm reserving the correct type of accessible cabin (FAC, FAC-SSA, or AAC)?

How can I be sure to receive an accessible stateroom?

What assistance do you provide guests with mobility limitations getting on and off the ship?

Do you rent wheelchairs or scooters for use on board?

Do you provide accessible transfers from the airport to the cruise port?

What are the requirements for bringing a personal mobility device on board?

Where can I store my personal mobility device?

What if my personal mobility device does not fit through my stateroom door?

Do you provide wheelchair push assistance onboard?

Are personal mobility devices allowed to go ashore in ports of call?

Are the ports of call accessible for those with mobility limitations?

Are accessible shore excursions available?

Are service dogs allowed on board?

What are the requirements for traveling with a working service dog?

What happens if my service dog is not allowed to disembark at a port of call?

Do you provide Braille formatted material on board?

Do you provide alert systems for guests who are deaf or hard of hearing?

Do you have closed captions?

Do you offer assisted audio devices in the Main Lounge?

Do you accommodate food allergies?

Can I bring my own pre-packaged food or drinks in order to accommodate a food allergy or specific dietary need?

Can I bring a blender to make my own food to accommodate a food allergy or specific dietary need?

Do you offer gluten-free food and drink options?

Does Carnival provide one-on-one attention for children with disabilities?

What do you offer for individuals with sensory and invisible disabilities?

Do you offer oxygen for purchase?

Do you offer CPAP machine for rental?

Do you offer distilled water?

Do you offer extension cords?

Do you offer sharps disposal containers?

Do you offer storage for medication?

Who can I contact for accessibility related concerns or questions?

10 Wheelchair Accessible Cruises to Consider for Your Next Vacation

The Best Wheelchair Accessible Cruises and Disabled Cruises to Consider

Related Posts

Services for Guests with Disabilities

Request Special Services

Accessible Staterooms

Communication Staterooms on the Disney Wish and Disney Treasure

Wheelchairs and Other Personal Mobility Equipment

American Sign Language Interpreters

Children with Disabilities

Wireless Internet Access (Wi-Fi) and Medical Devices

Additional Accessibility Information

ACCESSIBLE STATEROOMS