Cruising for Everyone: A Journey Beyond Young Horizons
Cruising isn’t just for the young and spry; it’s an adventure accessible to all, irrespective of age or mobility constraints. Cruise ships offer experiences that can be tailored to various preferences and needs, ensuring that everyone, including seniors and individuals using mobility devices such as wheelchairs or scooters, can embark on a memorable journey. Regardless of age or physical capability, everyone deserves a well-earned vacation brimming with relaxation, enjoyment, and unforgettable moments.
Take Ken Klingenberg, for example, a 72-year-old retired paramedic from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Having cruised for the past 23 years, Ken’s passion for sailing has only intensified. He first won a cruise in 1987 during a sales contest, but it wasn’t until 2001 that he and his wife set sail on their next voyage. Since then, Ken has made a remarkable 41 sailings on various cruise lines, predominantly on Royal Caribbean, with 33 voyages under his belt. Ken, who uses a mobility scooter, passionately declares cruising as an incredible form of accessible travel: “You get to this beautiful hotel on the water, and let the crew take you to different places while they feed and entertain you the entire time.” He even describes cruising as a “godsend” for people facing mobility challenges.
Facing Accessibility Challenges
Despite the increasing accessibility of cruise ships, there remain obstacles, particularly for travelers using scooters. Ken has faced situations where fellow passengers rudely rushed elevators or blocked pathways. Ships often feature narrow doorways or lack proper ramp access to various amenities, making navigation challenging. Additionally, overly enthusiastic crew members and other guests sometimes intervene without permission, grabbing his scooter or attempting to assist too eagerly. These experiences have equipped Ken with valuable insights and tips to enhance the cruising journey for seniors and those with mobility devices.
The Right Cruise Line Makes All the Difference
Choosing the appropriate cruise line can significantly affect the overall experience, particularly for those with mobility requirements. Not every cruise line caters effectively to passengers using wheelchairs or scooters. Ken praises Royal Caribbean for their commitment to accessibility, stating, “One of the reasons I love cruising with Royal Caribbean is their commitment to those of us with mobility devices.” His best experiences have been aboard Royal Caribbean ships, which are designed with ample ramps and other accommodations, like chair lifts at the Aqua Theater and private elevators on various decks.
While accessing pools can be tricky, many Royal Caribbean locations have at least one chair lift available. “The real challenge is finding someone to operate them,” he adds. With attentive crew members managing lifts and elevators, Ken finds he can usually navigate about 99% of Royal Caribbean ships without issue.
Travel Agents: An Invaluable Resource
Ken emphasizes the importance of utilizing travel agents, especially those familiar with accessible travel. The right travel insurance can safeguard costly equipment and cover unexpected expenses resulting from travel delays. Moreover, professional travel agents can alleviate much of the stress involved in planning a cruise and often provide their expertise without extra fees. Those with specific accessibility needs should seek out agents experienced in inclusive travel. Ken partners with travel advisors from eCruisenet.com, who have become increasingly knowledgeable about accessible travel options over time.
Choosing the Right Cabin
The size of your mobility device directly influences the type of cabin you should book. Smaller scooters might fit comfortably through standard stateroom doorways, but larger models necessitate the broader entrances available in accessible cabins. Standard cabin doorways are typically 23 inches wide, while accessible rooms feature wider doors, measuring at least 32 inches wide. Ken opted for a folding scooter, allowing him to occupy standard cabins without impinging on those who truly require accessible accommodations. “I made a conscious decision to find a scooter that would help me to that end,” he explains. He observes that accessible cabins are scarce across cruise ships; for instance, the new Icon of the Seas has only 50 accessible cabins out of 2,805 staterooms.
Opting for Longer Cruises
Ken believes the best way to truly enjoy a cruise experience is by opting for longer sailings, ideally between 5 to 7 nights. “The ship is the destination,” he asserts. By selecting a longer cruise, passengers can thoroughly explore the myriad activities and dining options available. With so many onboard activities that cater to varied interests, from trivia games to stunning theatrical performances and live dance lessons, there truly is something for everyone, regardless of ability level. Ken cautions, “You don’t need to do everything the ship has to offer, but there’s no reason to go hungry!”
Driving vs. Flying: The Convenience Factor
Ken notes that driving to a cruise port, rather than flying, can ease the overall travel experience. When he resided in Pittsburgh, he preferred driving to ports in Bayonne or Baltimore. This approach eliminated concerns regarding baggage weight limits and ensured that he could transport his scooter and necessary items without hassle. Unlike airlines, which often mishandle wheelchairs and scooters, driving provides peace of mind regarding the safety of such essential equipment.
Excursions: Finding Accessible Options
Exploring new destinations is one of the joys of cruising. While finding accommodating excursions can be challenging, planning ahead can enhance your experience. Ken highlights that most cruise ships have ramps that allow for easy disembarkation into local tourist areas—often bustling with shops and eateries. Major cruise lines also frequently offer guided tours tailored to seniors, such as shorter walking tours to explore local attractions. For instance, during one cruise, Ken relished a tour of the White Pass Railroad in Alaska, and he often opts for relaxing cabana rentals at destinations like Labadee and Perfect Day at CocoCay. Ultimately, Ken treasures the moments spent watching others enjoy their adventures.
