I’m writing this article poolside, aboard Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines’ Enchantment of the Seas. I’m escorting a group of 39 deaf passengers; however, outside of our group I’ve also seen a blind cane user, at least half a dozen manual chair users, two people in power chairs and one vent user. We have quite an eclectic group of abilities on board this ship! In fact, this ship represents a cross section of the population at large.

There’s a wide range of disabilities within our general population; and people with disabilities come from all walks of life, and have different interests, preferences and personalities. And when it comes to planning a cruise vacation, these differences and preferences warrant careful consideration. Remember, there’s no “one cruise fits all” for anybody. I often receive e-mails which simply request “information on cruises for people with disabilities”. As a travel agent, that’s frustrating because I need more “personal” information in order to recommend a specific ship or destination. The bottom line is, there’s not one “perfect” cruise ship which answers all the needs of all people.

As with all types of travel, cruise travel requires a good deal of advance planning. I may be biased, but I strongly suggest that you work with a travel agent who’s knowledgeable about “disability travel.” A knowledgeable travel agent will save you time, and act as your cruise-line advocate. It’s important for your travel agent to see you as a person, before addressing your disability needs, so let’s start with the basics. As simple as it sounds, you need to tell your travel agent when and where you want to cruise. Your travel agent also needs to know the number and the ages of all passengers (for special rates), and your budget for the cruise.

Next, your travel agent needs to know about your disability; including any limitations or special needs. It’s important for you to be honest with yourself and your agent. If your agent seems inattentive or doesn’t ask specific disability related questions, this could indicate a lack of experience with disability issues. An experienced agent knows how to address personal issues, and is comfortable discussing these delicate subjects. Be clear about the adaptive features and equipment you need. In some cases, equipment can be rented and delivered to the ship.

It’s also important to remember, that there can be “access inconsistencies” even on the most “accessible” ships. For example, Holland America’s newest ship has a stair climber (for embarkation) and wonderfully accessible public rooms; however their lower category “accessible” cabins are not appropriate for most wheelchair-users. Neither you or your travel agent should be willing to accept that blanket “it’s accessible” answer. Always dig for access details!

If you are a slow-walker and only use a wheelchair or scooter for distance, let your travel agent know how far you can walk. Sometimes slow-walkers find larger non-accessible cabins better suited to their needs. Depending upon the availability and pricing of the accessible cabins, this could mean the difference between going on the cruise or staying home. Additionally, slow-walkers who can climb a few steps can participate in many “non-accessible” shore excursions.

Let your travel agent know if have a service dog. Many cruise lines accept them, but not all cruise lines treat dogs equally. Many foreign countries (yes, some islands are foreign countries!) have animal quarantine restrictions. All countries outside the US, (plus Hawaii) require a recent health certificate for dogs. Bermuda will allow your dog entry, but you must have an animal permit as well as a health certificate.

For some people, the ship is the destination; but for others the ship is a convenient and comfortable means to visit multiple destinations. If the latter is true, be aware that Alaska and Hawaii cruises offer the most accessible ports (because of the ADA). However, there may only be one accessible tour vehicle per port, and if it’s not available, your touring plans will change. A few foreign ports have at least some curb cuts and ramps; however the ramp I saw yesterday in Cozumel was incredibly steep. In other words, you’ll find some access in foreign ports, but not what you see at home. In some ports the best option (if you can perform a lateral transfer) is a taxi tour. In fact, it’s the only accessible touring option in many ports. Know before your go. Be well versed about port access, if shore excursions are important to you.

Connie George is the owner of Connie George Travel Associates. She can be contacted at (888)532-0989 or at connie@cgta.com.