Raquel Molina
April 20, 2024
Using a mobility scooter on a cruise can be a wonderful option for SWANs (Seniors With Accessibility Needs) who want freedom and flexibility onboard but are limited by mobility issues. However, as more and more cruisers are utilizing scooters onboard, issues regarding scooter etiquette and safety have arisen. In an effort to keep the cruising experience enjoyable for both scooter users and pedestrians, here are five tips to keep in mind while onboard.
#1 – Elevators
Elevators on cruise ships can be crowded and the wait can be long, especially during the embarkation and debarkation process. Keep in mind that people in mobility scooters do not have the option of taking the stairs so the courteous thing is to let the scooter enter first and then fill the elevator with pedestrians. Also, if you are using a scooter and are not in a rush, it might be helpful for you to wait until the crowd lessens before using the elevator. If you are physically able to take the stairs, that option might be quicker for you and free up more room on the elevators for the mobile impaired. My mom and I usually wait to debark on port days until most people have already gotten off board so we don’t have to deal with crowded elevators or long lines.
#2 – Parking
When parking a mobility scooter, it is important to be aware of your surroundings. Be careful to not block the corridors (which are often very narrow), or park in front of doorways. Most cruise lines do not allow you to park your scooter outside of your cabin. If you will be using a mobility scooter onboard, be sure to book a cabin that will safely fit your scooter inside. When dining in the main dining room or restaurants, ask the maitre’d or head waiter where the scooter should be parked. Often, they will park the scooter for you after escorting you to your table. Parking at the buffet can be a little trickier as space is more cramped but you do have options. Ask staff which tables are designated for the mobility impaired. These tables will be better suited to accommodate your mobility scooter. Another option is to ask staff for the best location to park your scooter in the buffet area. Keep in mind that staff will be more than happy to get your buffet items and bring them to your table if you need assistance in that way.
#3 – Speed
Some mobility scooters are able to get up to a pretty high speed but it’s best to keep it at a slower pace while onboard the cruise ship. Remember that your scooter is technically a vehicle and therefore you should yield to pedestrians, especially at intersections. Always be mindful of obstacles and potential hazards and look both ways before making turns. Another thing to be aware of is steep inclines. My mom was almost jolted from her scooter when she went up an incline too fast. These steeper inclines are usually found in doorways leading to the outside deck areas.
#4 – Crowds and Courtesy
With people cruising now more than ever, it is very likely that your next cruise will be fully booked. For passengers using scooters this can mean navigating through crowded areas all around the ship. One area of the ship that is notoriously cramped and crowded is the casino. If possible, you might prefer to park your scooter just outside of the casino and use a cane while inside. Aisles may be congested so don’t be afraid to communicate to your fellow cruisers who may be caught up with their own fun that they are simply unaware of how they can be helpful. Usually, if you signal your intentions or politely ask others to move, you will find that they are eager to comply.
#5 -Agony of De-feet
One of the most common “accidents” involving scooters is the rolling over of a passenger’s foot. This often happens when scooters are entering or exiting the elevator. The best way to avoid this is to allow plenty of space between your scooter and your fellow passengers. Also, keep in mind that most scooters don’t have a brake mechanism so allow time for your scooter to stop once you release the accelerator.
Your Accessible Cruising Specialist 