Your Accessible Cruising Specialist

When booking a cruise cabin (or hotel room), be sure to request an accessible room. These rooms are often more spacious and have widened doorways to make using wheelchairs and scooters easier to maneuver. If you don’t see an accessible room advertised on their website, call their customer service number for your request.
Most cruises will allow you to reserve a scooter (or wheelchair) for use during your cruise. This is a great option for those who do not travel with their scooter. The scooter will be delivered directly to your cabin and you simply leave it there at the end of your cruise. I have used Scootaround for several cruises with my mom.
When booking excursions, be sure to pay attention to the difficulty level. Most excursions will detail the level of difficulty and whether it is wheelchair/scooter accessible or not. Also, be sure to check if the transportation to the excursion can accommodate your accessibility needs. My mom and I had to back out of an excursion in Brugge because even though we were told that the bus could accommodate a scooter, her scooter would not fit in the designated space. So give them the dimensions, folding capability and any other important detail about your mobility device so that you won’t run into any unfortunate surprises.
Buffets can be full-service for those with mobility issues. When my mom and I first started cruising, we did not realize that the cruise staff would bring buffet items to your table if you are unable. We would juggle plates, utensils, drinks until we were informed that staff was there to help.
If you travel with a cpap machine, let the cruise line know ahead of time that you will need distilled water and they can provide it for you. Some cruise lines will also set your cpap machine up for you in your cabin.
Research destinations with mobility in mind. My mom and I had the best time in Amsterdam but it could have been a lot better if I would have known how treacherous the cobblestone streets would be on her wheelchair. Some places will be better suited for a scooter while others will be easier to manage with a wheelchair. Knowing which device to use at each destination time will make getting around easier.
Be flexible. When mom and I had to forego the Brugge tour, we were disappointed but didn’t let that stop us from having a nice time. We explored the area in Zebrugge and had a lovely time shopping and walking along the pier. It’s a good idea to have a backup plan for when life throws a little kink your way.
Purchase travel insurance. Travel insurance is usually a good idea for anyone’s vacation plan but especially so for seniors and/or travelers with health concerns. Most cruise lines offer some sort of vacation protection plan but you are not limited to using their plan. Feel free to research the best coverage for your specific vacation and rest easier knowing that your trip is protected.
Talk to your doctor. I always make sure that my mom visits her doctor before we embark on any cruise to make sure that she is healthy enough to travel. We also check to make sure that we have enough medication to last well beyond the trip. It is a good idea to pack a little first aid kit with the emergency supplies of your choice. I also pack cold medicine, Neosporin and Benadryl.
Book early. Accessible staterooms and excursions are highly desirable and likely to sell out. To be sure you get the room and excursions of your choice, make your reservations as far ahead as you can.

Posted bygeriduty March 26, 2023Posted inUncategorized Leave a commenton Cruising Tips for Seniors With Accessibility Needs