Bahamas Vacation Starts with Accessible Cruise
Travel Consultants Can Advocate for Disabled Clients' Cruising Needs
Aug 28, 2009
U.S. citizens planning a vacation to the Bahamas needn't worry about mobility problems on cruise ships as long as they plan ahead. Passengers who use wheelchairs can expect spacious cabins, flat thresholds, roll-in showers, and many more amenities that will make the trip a pleasant sailing experience. A Supreme Court ruling has declared that all cruise ships traveling within U.S. waters, including those flying under foreign flags, must abide by ADA laws.
Why Take a Cruise Ship Instead of Flying to the Bahamas?
Anyone using a wheelchair that has ever had to deal with airline travel knows the frustrations that are involved, especially with chair transfers, tiny restrooms, boarding and disembarking the plane, and wheelchair storage regulations (batteries, disassembly, etc). Consider too, that most of the islands don't have large airports. The commuter aircraft used are boarded by stairways.
The MSNBC website posted the article, "How to Plan an Accessible Carribbean Vacation" (2005) submitted by Emily Kruckemyer. The author names Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Holland America and Crystal Cruise Lines as the foremost companies attentive to passengers with mobility limitations. Kruckemyer points out, "Royal Caribbean ... has hydraulic lifts for pools and Jacuzzis, and casinos with wheelchair-approachable tables and slot machines." And, "Access Coordinators for Royal Caribbean can assist in planning cruises and will recommend practical shore activities."
How to Plan an Accessible Bahamas Cruise
Above all else, seek out the services of a qualified travel agency. Qualified means the travel consultant has experience with wheelchair travel. He or she knows what questions to ask. He knows what's available in services and entertainment, and can often get good rates for customers. Most of all, he can work out a travel package that suits the client's needs, style, and personality. There is no fee for using a travel agency consultant, and having an advocate work out the trip details will save a lot of headaches later on.
A travel consultant will advise and guide the wheelchair cruiser on important information. While online travel consultants are convenient, it is much better to meet a consultant in person. Making direct contact ensures better attention to details. Here are a few tips to get started with the cruise travel plans:
- Know passport regulations for traveling to the Bahamas.
- Allow plenty of time for scheduling the trip so everyone will have time to prepare and make necessary special-needs arrangements.
- Make mobility and any other special needs – such as dietary restrictions – known well in advance to the travel agent, the cruise line, and anyone else involved with the trip. Communication is especially important for medical needs.
- Let the travel consultant know what likes (and dislikes) would make the trip "a perfect fit". Honeymoon couples may prefer a romantic cruise vacation package that has primarily adult-oriented entertainment. Families need a vacation package suitable for parents, teens, and/or younger children.
- Ask about rules and restrictions. Some cruise lines have pregnancy restrictions. Some lines do not permit babies under six months old on board. It's safe to say that all reputable cruise lines have dress codes; and the islands also have dress codes that are strictly enforced.
- Go over every detail of the trip, including any reasonable modifications to the cabin to ensure comfort and safety.
- Ask about handicapped transportation services provided in the Bahamas and manual wheelchair rentals.
- One should become familiar with the customs procedure if he hasn't done so already.
- The British influence is strong, so be attentive to local laws, especially if one plans to drive around the islands.
The website Connie George Travel Associates lists additional tips for the cruise ship wheelchair traveler in the article, "10 Tips for Booking an Accessible Cruise" (2009). Connie George adds: "Check the itinerary for "tender" ports. Tendering means the ship will anchor in a bay and use a boat to shuttle guests into the port. Success in tendering depends on the cruise line's policies on allowing and assisting guests who use wheelchairs to tender, the size and weight of your "wheels", and sea conditions."
There are Bahamas vacation packages to suit most every interest, whether one is looking for days filled with adventure, sightseeing tours, or just planning to relax and take it easy. Family vacation packages offer virtually unlimited choices of accessible cruise ship entertainment. On the islands, be sure to check out the beaches, the local shops, cultural landmarks, the restaurants, and stroll through the straw markets for unique souvenirs and great bargains.
There is plenty to do on board ship and on the islands. A wheelchair traveler wanting to cruise to the Bahamas is strongly urged to use the services of a qualified travel consultant to get the most from a tropical dream vacation.
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