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  • On Feb 4, 2024
    Ed from VA Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    My wife and I have heard that accessibility is sometimes difficult in ports. Since we've never cruised, my wife is wheelchair bound, what is the best way to get help planning one that will allow us to have great accessibility in all ports?

    Hello there Ed, and welcome aboard planDisney!

    When it comes to Accessibility on board or ashore, this is something near and dear to my heart especially as someone who grew up cruising at an early age; my father uses a mobility aid and also used a wheelchair the last time the family was together on a Disney vacation so I'm happy to provide you with a few First-Timer tips to choosing a cruise itinerary with mobility or accessibility needs in mind:

    • Throughout my years living and working at sea, I've observed that not every Port of Call across all of Disney Cruise Line's destinations are quite as accessible as the others; this is especially the case for more diverse locales, older port cities in Europe and especially any location that requires a Tendering operation. (This is where smaller boats transfer guests from ship to shore and require guests to step down or transfer from wheelchairs in order to board.)
    • To avoid this, what I personally recommend is prioritizing cruise itineraries to destinations that have a greater variety of Accessible Port Adventures that are tailored to fit the unique needs of the guests on these experiences. You'll find that certain parts of the world where Disney Cruise Line sails have fewer options like in the Bahamas while others seem to excel in providing several to choose from like Alaska. Another important thing to take note of is that Disney Cruise Line reminds guests that "Regulations and guidelines of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) do not apply outside of the United States", which could be a key reason why destinations like Alaska tend to appeal to senior sailors with so much to view along the journey from your balcony - without even needing to leave the ship!
    • When it comes to your experience on board, Disney Cruise Line offers a limited amount of Special Services for guests with mobility needs and I highly recommend reviewing and selecting what may be available to you on your voyage. (It's important to note that when it comes to assistance getting on or off the ship, this may only be offered to you on Embarkation/Debarkation days and in my experience Crew Members were sometimes - but not always - available to assist on gangways on Port Days.) Even on Disney Castaway Cay, you may find sand wheelchairs available on a first-come, first-served basis but they can be incredibly hot after spending some time under the sun and often difficult to push along parts of the beach that aren't completely flat; thankfully the trams and the rest of the island provides a very accessible experience throughout!
    For first-time cruisers and especially those who may have specific needs that could definitely affect your overall cruise experience, I recommend using a travel professional with experience working with guests who have mobility needs whenever you look into planning any Disney adventures. I hope this helps Ed, come back again to planDisney for any other tips or advice before you embark on your first ocean adventure together!

    Wishing you both a warm welcome to the world of cruising!
    Prince
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Meet the Panelist: Prince, Ontario

Hello, Bonjour, Aloha and Ahoy there! As a performer and world explorer who's been to all of the Disney theme parks around the globe, I'm always happy to provide my best adventuring advice and knowledge to navigate your way to all of the greatest snacks, attractions and entertainment on land and at sea. Find me featured on the planDisney Podcast and on the Disney Parks Blog, discussing Disney Eats at festivals and beyond, holiday events at Walt Disney World Resort and planning my Disney Fairy Tale Wedding! Learn More About Prince

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