Overview:

The largest island in the BVI chain, Tortola offers cruisers powdery white beaches, lush green mountains and a yacht-filled harbor. Tortola and most of the BVI are mountainous islands, and, though a tropical green when seen from afar, the climate and vegetation are much drier than many Caribbean isles.

Because of the dry climate, there is a lack of runoff and the clarity of the water is higher than other islands in the Caribbean. All that to say, Tortola is a popular destination for snorkelers and divers! The protected bays of the island make it a perfect stop for those who wish to participate in boating excursions, swimming or the most popular past time, yachting! The BVI’s are amazingly safe and crime-free and the people of Tortola are friendly and known for their warmth and hospitality.

The capital of the BVI is Road Town, Tortola’s only ‘town.’ Road Town surrounds the harbor like an amphitheater, its buildings stretching up into the hillsides in search of land.

Where you’ll dock:

Your ship will dock in the heart of Road Town. Restaurants and shopping are within easy walking distance. Safari cabs and mini vans are typical modes of taxi transport. Since Road Town is central to the island of Tortola, one-way fares to any point on the island typically run no more than $10.00 per person.

Ferry transport is the main form of transportation between Tortola and the other islands in the British Virgins. Ferry service from the several companies serving the islands is frequent, dependable and affordable, maxing out at $25.00 per adult round trip. There are three regions in Tortola where you can catch a ferry: Road Town (central), Soper’s Hole (West End) and Beef Island (East End).

What to do:

–Stroll  through Road Town for eating and shopping. Wickham’s Cay and Main Street near the ferry dock is the center of an authentic Caribbean town with an attractive area of shops (some old West Indian style with red tin roofs) and restaurants amid various other establishments.

–Cane Garden Bay is the most popular beach in Tortola, located on her north shore. There are several restaurants and bars, like Myett’s Garden and Grille, as well as water activities available. Or just relax and enjoy the beach.

Due to its popularity, Cane Garden can tend to get crowded. If you’re looking for a bit more solitude, scope out these other popular beaches nearby: Long Bay, Josiah’s Bay Beach, Brewer’s Bay Beach, and Apple Bay Beach.

–There is plenty to do for the adventure traveler. Go for a sail, dive or hike. There are plenty of sailing excursions available for a full or half day. The many reefs off the coast of Tortola make her an excellent diving spot. Tortola’s national park, Sage Mountain, is full of well marked hiking trails, with wonderful scenery and views of the ocean.

Cruises to Tortola:

Tortola is featured on many 7-8 night Eastern or Southern Caribbean cruises, with cruise lines including Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line, and Celebrity Cruises.

Call a Cruise Guide today at 800.243.1959 or email us at service@cruisenow.com for more information or cruise itineraries including Tortola!

Flickr Photo Credit:

meggie.mcarthur

mike2099

Tell us your favorite thing about Tortola below!

If you are like me, when I take the kiddos on a vacation I want to make sure they have a great time because honestly, then they won’t be bugging me (tee hee).

Although all of the cruise lines have fun and interactive children’s programs onboard, there are three that are going above and beyond and make my top 3 cruise lines for the kids.

1. Well I am sure you guessed it, my first selection is Disney Cruise Line. There is really not much to say, Disney does everything well and their cruises are no different. I guess you just can’t go wrong with the character meet and greets, the Disney shows at night, and all the activities going on. Not only do they have a great kids area on their new ships, the Disney Dream and the Disney Fantasy, they have a water coaster! The pools are tons-o-fun and the deck parties are suitable for all ages. Here is a hint–they also have amazing Adult Only areas on the ship, so while the kids are having a blast in the kids program enjoy some kids-free time. It is a win-win for everyone!
2. Royal Caribbean would be my next choice. On the new Oasis and Allure of the Seas they have so much to do you can’t possibly fit it all in. The surf simulating, zip lining, rock climbing wall, miniature golf, merry-go-round(yes on the cruise ship), and awesome aqua shows will make sure your kids will always be entertained. Also check out the “How to Train Your Dragon” ice show on the Allure of the Seas. The costumes are ridiculous (in a good way) and everyone can enjoy the show.
3. Norwegian Cruise Line. On specific sailings on the Norwegian Jewel you can have a slimey time with Nickelodeon onboard. Your kids can mingle with SpongeBob, Dora, or several other characters. Be a part of slime time or if you are like me, just watch from a safe distance. Freestyle Dining is perfect for traveling with children and Nickelodeon to entertain, this is sure to make the whole family happy.

These are my top three choices when cruising with my boys. I hope you have as much fun as we do sailing the seas!

Don’t Miss:

• Adults Night Out! Specialty Dining Onboard Disney Cruise Line
• Water Fun–Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy
• Watch Out Disney, Here Comes DreamWorks!
• Smaller Savvy Sailors

• a number of experiences or achievements that a person hopes to have or accomplish during their lifetime

We recently asked our Facebook Fans if an Alaskan Cruise was on their ‘bucket list’, and the response was a resounding, YES!

It is hard to find words that can accurately describe Alaska’s natural beauty. If we had to choose: majestic, stunning, divine all come to mind.

Seeing the wonder that is Alaska by cruise is a one in a lifetime experience. Go whale-watching, dog-sled, kayak, hike or simply sit on deck and view glaciers, and stroll through the quaint towns of Ketchikan, Skagway or Juneau.

We’ve discussed our Tips for Taking an Alaskan Cruise, and one of them was to take advantage of early season specials, such as this great deal we found below!

Cross an adventure to Alaska off your bucket-list with our last minute Alaskan cruise deal!

June 8^th, 2012  7 Night Southbound Alaskan Cruise

• Pricing starting at just $499pp // the best pricing you’ll see this summer!

• View Hubbard Glacier – and visit Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway and a great new cruise port, Icy Strait

• Receive $50 onboard credit per stateroom exclusively with CruiseNow.com

• Don’t forget:: 10% off your Shore Excursions when you book with CruiseNow.com!

• Sail aboard the newly refurbished Celebrity Millennium! A premium-class ship, she exited dry-dock ‘Solsticized’ on May 12^th, 2012. Updated with the most popular features of their Solstice-class the Millennium received re-styled and upgraded staterooms, public spaces, lounges, restaurants, technology, and more.

Call our cruise guides today to get started! Take advantage of our FREE services and resources—CruiseNow.com never charges ANY service or administrative fees.

Our Cruise Guides: 800.243.1959 OR sales@cruisenow.com

This is their trade, skill, career…they know the ins and outs. Let them do the work for you! Your time is valuable. And did I mention that all of this is FREE?

Or click here to get started online!

Unlike traditional dining arrangements, where you receive either the early or late seating and are assigned to a particular table for the duration of the cruise, with Freestyle Dining there are no fixed seating times, assigned tables, or set dining companions. You can dine when, where, and with whom you like.

Because you will not have the same wait staff each night, gratuities are usually automatically charged to your shipboard account, to be distributed to the appropriate crew members.  Although the concept of Freestyle Dining allows for a less formal atmosphere, many people still enjoy getting dressed up for the formal nights, even on a freestyle cruise.

**TIP: There is very rarely a wait time for seating, however, the dining rooms fill quickly at popular dining hours (6-7:30pm). You are able to make daily reservations for the Main Dining Room to ensure you have no wait. This is a great option if you are dining with a larger party.

Many of their newer ships also offer specialty restaurants. The specialty restaurants are those dining venues that require advance reservations along with a service charge.

Here are some FAQ’s about the specialty restaurants:

Are jacket and tie required for dining?

No, you can keep those at home. The dining venues, including the specialty restaurants, are resort casual.  All that means is you can be a little more casual than wearing a jacket and tie, but want to be little more formal than t-shirt and shorts.  Wearing khaki pants and a collared shirt, or a skirt or sundress are the norm.  No jeans, t-shirts or shorts are allowed in the main dining room or specialty restaurants.

For those sailing 3+ nights, there will be at least one formal night. This, again, does not require you to wear a tuxedo, but it does give you the opportunity to get dolled up.  On the formal evening there is a professional photographer taking pictures so you can show off to your friends back home!

“I understand there is a service charge for the specialty restaurants, but do I have pay for the meal as well?”

The service charge does cover the entire meal, you can order whatever you would like on the menu. However, there are some that are ala carte so you would pay per item along with a cover charge.

To give you an idea of what is offered, here are the restaurants onboard NCL’s newest ship of innovation, Norwegian Epic. Many of these are available on their other ships.

No Cover Charge:

Manhattan:  Great location on the back of the ship with panoramic views. Reminiscent of an elegant supper club complete with music, dancing and entertainment.

Taste:  The atrium restaurant serving traditional and contemporary cuisine

Courtyard Grill:   Casual, outdoor area of the Epic Grill, open for breakfast and lunch

Atrium Cafe’:  Casual Cafe

Garden Cafe:   Buffet, action station casual restaurant

O’Sheehan’s Bar and Grill:   Pub-style Fast Food, 24 hours

Spice H20 Grill:   Serving Latin and Asian-influenced cuisine in the adults-only complex

Studio Lounge:   Snacks and light fare

Cover charge:

Cagney’s Steakhouse:   The line’s signature American steakhouse –$25pp

Cirque Dreams Dinner Show:   Two shows nightly including a three-course meal, $15 for general seating/$20 per person for preferred seating

La Cucina:   Tuscan-style eatery serving regional Italian specialties–$10pp.

Le Bistro:  Elegant bistro serving classic French cuisine with an American flair–$20pp

Moderno  Churrascaria:   Expansive salad bar and choice of a variety of meats served by tableside passadors–$20pp

Shanghai’s: Chinese restaurant serving a delicious mix of Chinese dishes and noodle bar specialties–$15pp

Shanghai’s Noodle Bar: a la carte pricing

Teppanayki:  The largest signature Japanese experiential restaurant at sea — $25pp

Wasabi: Expansive sushi and sake bar — Ala Carte

Pizza Delivery: Available 24 hours around the ship–$5 per pizza

One thing is for sure, you will NOT go hungry on a Freestyle Cruise!!

originally posted 3/18/11

You might like:

• Norwegian Cruise Line’s Fun-Filled Options for Cruising with Children
• 5 Reasons Cruising on Norwegian Cruise Line Today is Better Than Yesterday
• Rockin’ 7 Night Caribbean Cruise Deal Onboard the NCL Sun

If you are considering a river cruise, a Uniworld Boutique River Cruise is definitely a product you should consider.

For nearly four decades, vacationers have enjoyed Uniworld river cruise vacations to the world’s greatest destinations—Europe, Russia, Ukraine & the Black Sea, China, and Egypt. Uniworld has made major investments in its ships and its people, with the ultimate goal of these investments—a first-class European river cruise boutique, hotel-style experience.Uniworld’s decades of superior nautical experience, coupled with CruiseNow.com’s ability to find you unbeatable Uniworld river cruise deals, has created a new dimension in river cruising.

You can explore 13 of the world’s most breathtaking and amazing rivers. They offer over 500 departures with 40 different itineraries. These itineraries port in 20 different countries throughout Europe, Russia, Egypt, China, Vietnam, and Cambodia. Not only do you have a wonderful array of choices on your destination they have several awards under their belt. Uniworld was awarded Best River Cruise Line by several different authorities in the cruise industry with honors including:

• Condé Nast Traveler’s “Gold List,” their Readers’ Choice Awards for “Top Small-Ship Line,” and “Top 80 Cruise Ships in the World,” with River Baroness and River Duchess ranked #1 and #2 respectively
• Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Award for “Top River Cruises”
• Zagat Cruise Lines Survey for “Top Cabins” and “Top Dining” in the cruise industry

You will be sailing in comfort and style among any of their 14 ships. With an average passenger capacity of 130 guests you will receive the personal attention you desire.

There is one staff member to every three guests, so you know the service will be amazing.

All staff is English-speaking and professionally trained. My favorite attention to detail is the Meet and Greet transfers on arrival and departure days. Now that is service.

All of the staterooms include upgraded toiletries, towels, and several significant little touches, like marble bathrooms. All suites include additional exclusive services and amenities.

Another great reason to sail Uniworld is the inclusive part of the product.

• All shore excursions are included (wow! that can save you $1000′s) and award winning as well.
• There are several complimentary lectures onboard.
• Airport transfers on arrival and departure days, so no concern on how you will get to your ship.
• All meals onboard are included and have the finest ingredients, most often brought onboard from local farmer’s markets. Talk about fresh cuisine!
• Complimentary European wines, draft beer, and soft drinks available during dinner. Also bottled water is included in your stateroom and a 24 hour specialty coffee and tea bar. I can’t tell you how wonderful I think it is to have specialty coffee included.

As you can see Uniworld is in a class of their own. With several different itineraries and most things included, you should experience a boutique river cruise vacation!

They are currently offering value-packed savings, take a look!

You might enjoy:

• Top 10 Romantic Cruise Destinations
• Exotic Cruise Destinations
• Rollin’…Rollin’…Rollin’ On the River with River Cruising!
• Traveling to Barcelona

People often get confused over the meaning of a guarantee, or GTY, stateroom.

I thought I would take a moment to clarify exactly what that cabin category means.

• No matter what cruise line you decide on,  if you book a guarantee stateroom it means the same thing to each.  You are guaranteed to have that type of cabin or better at no extra cost to you. For example, you book an ocean view guarantee, you are guaranteed an ocean view or better (‘better’ typically means a better location on the ship, not higher cabin type, like a balcony).

• It is similar to reserving a hotel room as you will not have a specific cabin assignment upon booking.  The cruise-line will assign your stateroom based on random assignment. Both you and the agent you book with will not have any control over what cabin you are assigned, unfortunately.

• Typically the cruise line will assign the cabin and then resale this lower guaranteed rate, as it allows them to fill the ship and  put passengers where they have the most availability.  That being said, there doesn’t seem to be any rhyme or reason to the way they assign these guaranteed staterooms. Some say that they take past guests into consideration, and maybe they do, but the bottom line is only book this lower rate if you don’t have a preference for where your cabin is located.

There are pros and cons for choosing to book a guaranteed stateroom–

Pros: The cost of a guarantee is almost always less than if you choose a cabin assignment. If cost is very important to you than this may be the way to go. The chance for a free upgrade is also a nice bonus.

Cons: Your cabin can be assigned anywhere on the ship, we nor the cruise line can promise or request that you are mid-ship, or that you will be next door or even on the same deck as friends and family.  If you know that you only want or need to be mid-ship or if you need cabins that are side by side, than this is not an option for you.

You might enjoy:

• How to Choose the Perfect Cabin
• When is the Best Time to Cruise to the Caribbean?
• Cruise Tips: What to Pack for Your Cruise
• Tips for Taking an Alaskan Cruise

It was something that I have not had since childhood, trout.  As I watched her carve the fish, it  reminded me of a sight I had seen many times, my dad preparing trout that we had just caught.

We didn’t have much money growing up,  but we always went away for family vacations.  It was really important to my parents that we created special family memories with what little we had.

I’m not sure what they personally sacrificed at the time so we could afford to do these things, but after watching them sacrifice over a lifetime for us, I know they did without something so we could create these amazing memories.

But it was never really about the fishing, it was about being together as a family and doing something fun outside of the home.

I can still picture standing there next to the lake, fishing pole in hand, surrounded by our connected little family unit.  Most of the other details have escaped me now, but that doesn’t really matter.

I remember the moment and that meant everything to me.  These cherished memories are not something I could ever repay to my parents, although I have tried.  I think my best repayment will be in creating a legacy of family memories for my son like my folks did for us.

One of the most important lessons I learned from my upbringing, is that time together as a family is important no matter what it is you are doing and that spending time together on vacation (whatever type of vacation it is) is necessary and will be treasured.

Maybe that is why I gravitated towards travel for my career. In addition to working for some of the largest sellers of cruise travel in the country, I have also spent some time on the supplier side having worked for Eastern Airlines (until their last day) and Royal Caribbean International.

It was at Royal Caribbean where I began my attempt to “pay back” my parents for these cherished memories that only happened because of their insistence that  we vacation together.  Our first cruise together was amazing, seven nights to the Mediterranean on the Splendour of the Seas!  It all started in my favorite city Barcelona.

From there we visited an quaint hilltop village in France, Le Castellet where we bought delicious wine from their local vineyard.  Other stops included Sardinia and in what became one of the favorite days of my life, Naples, Italy. Now Naples is just where the ship parked for the day.  The tour is what made it memorable.

First we stopped in a cameo factory where we watched as an artist created a magnificent pendant.  Then we were off to Pompeii where we learned how the images of the survivors were preserved, as well as the inner workings of the intricate and impressive water supply using aqueducts built in the limestone, which according to our Italian tour guide Aldo is the reason the water was not poisonous.  We also saw what Aldo called the first pizzeria in the world and explained the history of the Margherita pizza.  Did you know it was made to honor Queen Margherita and that the tomatoes, mozzarella cheese and basil were chosen because they are the color of the Italian flag? At least according to Aldo.  One thing I love about local tour guides is that whatever they tell you, they tell you with confidence so whether it is true or not, you believe it!

From there our tour took us to Sorrento where we had lunch at an amazing restaurant called Il Mulino’s, which roughly translates to “awesome food”.  The pizza, pasta and chicken were amazing.  Simple ingredients, fantastic flavor.  From there, walked around Sorrento which I think is one of the most spectacularly breathtaking places on earth.  But wait, there’s more.

We now took a hydrofoil (which is a really cool boat that skims along the top of the water, kind of like an ice skate on ice) to the Isle of Capri.

All of this in a day. Can you believe it?

It’s no wonder this was one of my best days ever.  Incredibly, I remember the details of this like it was yesterday but it was around 15 years ago.  That’s what is great about family vacations, they inspire lifetime memories. Whether it is a visit to the Blue Grotto in Capri or skipping rocks with your dad at Strawberry Reservoir in Utah fishing for trout, these memories are one of the best things in life.

I can’t wait for the memories to come with my wife and especially for my son.  I just hope they mean as much to him as mine do to me.

BUT, and a big BUT, if you haven’t tried Celebrity Cruises they are an amazing product and you would be sadly missing out. And here is why:

1. Personalized service. Don’t be surprised if you are greeted by name on a Celebrity ship. With one staff member for every two passengers you will get outstanding service. If they hear you mention a favorite dessert the chances are pretty high that after your next dinner that very desert will be sent out to you without asking. Celebrity is all about the service.
2. Butler Service in All Suites. That is right, relax and enjoy assistance packing and unpacking. Enjoy a full breakfast, lunch, and dinner in your suite. If you request it, your butler will make sure it happens, from shoeshine service to afternoon tea. Your wish is their command.
3. Luggage Valet. This carefree service takes the hassle out of travel. The last evening on board you will receive your airline boarding passes, luggage tags, and baggage claim checks. Simply place the checked bags outside your door and Celebrity takes care of the rest. From the ship to the airport to your final destination airport. Your luggage is taken care of. This is super convenient if you want to spend a couple hours in the city prior to your flight departure.
4. Celebrity Life Activities. These programs have truly changed onboard activities. Some of these awesome classes are Star Chef Cooking Competition, Mixology 101, Molecular Mixology from the Liquid Chef, Wine Appreciation, The Art of Food and Wine Pairing, Hot Glass Show, Rosetta Stone Language Lessons, and many more. You will definitely leave with a boatload (chuckle) of knowledge.
5. Celebrity Spa and Fitness. On every Celebrity ship you will find an incredible spa with state of the art treatments and up-to-date fitness center. No reason to gain weight on these ships! Kick that myth’s butt.
6. Casino. With all of the major games being offered this is definitely an opportunity to try your luck.
7. Entertainment. Every night you will have a chance to see award winning shows performed. There is also Dancing, Live Music, DJ’s, Interactive Theme Parties, and much more. You will be entertained until your ready to fall into your comfy-cozy bed.

Oh the list could go on and on, but it is better if seen in person. I hope you give Celebrity a chance because it is definitely worth it.

Happy sailing!

Please Don’t Miss:

• Qsine–A Modern and Artistic Culinary Tour Around the World
• CruiseNow visits the Molecular Bar Onboard the Celebrity Eclipse
• Ship Shape Sailor
• Cooling Down on Celebrity Solstice Class

Carnival Cruise Line is offering an extended summer ‘tour’ that includes round trip cruise itineraries departing Boston, New York, and Norfolk for the summer of 2012.

Boston

Beginning her tour in Boston, Massachusetts, the Carnival Glory, a 2,974 passenger ship, will start the season with a 7 night cruise on June 3rd, 2012 to Portland, Maine; Saint John, New Brunswick; Halifax and Sydney, Nova Scotia before beginning a series of 4 – 5 night sailings to Canada/New England through the peak of summer: June 10^th, 2012  — July 26^th 2012.

The 4 night itinerary will port in St. John, New Brunswick and have 2 days at sea. The 5 night will make two stops, in St. John and Halifax, Nova Scotia.

New York

From Boston the Carnival Glory will travel to New York, New York and start a series of 4 – 5 night cruises August 1^st  — September 3^rd.  The 4 night itinerary will port in St. John, New Brunswick and have 2 days at sea. The 5 night will make two stops, in St. John and Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Beginning Sept. 8^th the Carnival Glory will switch things up and complete an 7  night “Fall Foliage” itinerary all the way through October 6^th.  Marvel at the beauty of the changing leaves in ports including Halifax, St. John, Portland, and Boston.

Norfolk

The Glory will end her summer tour in Norfolk, VA to offer a few 5 -  6 night cruises to the Bahamas in October. 5 nights from Norfolk will have give you two stops: Nassau and Freeport, Bahamas. 6 nights from Norfolk will whisk you away to Freeport and an overnight stay in Nassau, Bahamas.

Always a favorite the Glory will offer a rare 2 night cruise to nowhere. She will depart from Norfolk on Saturday, October 20th,  have one day at sea, and then return on Monday, the 22nd, and 8am.

This summer tour allows guests who cannot, or do not, want to pay for airfare a chance to experience a cruise vacation directly from the east coast.

East Coast convenience, Carnival value, and lifetime memories? Count me in!

More about the Carnival Glory:

The Carnival Glory is a marvel of innovative design, spectacular décor and lavishly decadent cuisine. From your initial encounter onboard, it will be love at first sight. You will look in awe upon the Old Glory Atrium, a feast for the eyes with a stunning array lights and glitz than can only truly be appreciated in person. But the first impression is only part of her glory as each public room is a celebration of different color themes. You’ll be dazzled on a stroll through the Kaleidoscope Boulevard on your way to the Kaleidoscope Bar and electrified by the giant white candles and the impressive video wall in the White Heat Dance Club. The Carnival Glory is so much more. Enjoy Carnival’s highly praised cuisine in one of nine restaurant choices from casual (the pizzeria, sushi bar, Red Sail and Creams Coffee House) to the elegant (Platinum & Gold dining rooms) and finally to the upscale (Emerald Room Supper Club which features gourmet delicacies Filet Mignon, Porterhouse steaks and Lobster in an intimate setting). It is all in a word, glorious.

Be sure to pack your bathing suit. The Carnival Glory has four pools and a waterslide that will make you feel like a kid again, screaming all the way down, only to do it again. And since you are on vacation, treat yourself to a therapeutic massage in the amazing Spa Carnival. You’ve earned it.

If you require any type of special assistance or accommodations onboard, make sure you tell your travel agent when making your cruise reservation so they are able to notify the cruise line accordingly.

Cruise lines will provide complimentary wheelchair assistance for embarkation and disembarkation only. If you would like to have a wheelchair or scooter during the cruise, you are welcome to bring your own or rent one.

Cruise Ship Assist (a Care Vacation company) is a great place to go if you need any special equipment for your cruise, the cruise lines do not provide wheelchairs, or other assistive devices and technologies.

Nowadays, cruise ships are steadily becoming more accessible and quite easy to maneuver, whether in a wheelchair, scooter, or other device.

However, some of the smaller and older ships are a little more difficult as the accessibility to public areas is a bit limited (ramps are steep and few and far between). If you are traveling with a companion, this might not be an issue, but if traveling by yourself you may want to consider a newer, larger ship that is likely to have more accessible elevators, ramps and doorways.

Also, there are a limited number of accessible staterooms available on each ship, and they tend to fill quickly so it is best to speak with your cruise agent as far in advance as possible and reserve your cabin.

The first thing I do when helping a client with a mobility disability is locate the accessible cabins and determine which cabin category/type they fall under.  Not all ships offer handicap accessible staterooms in all categories. Some may only offer them in an oceanview and/or balcony. Once I determine which category they prefer I will make the request with the cruise line, most do not have the accessible cabins available to book online as the number of cabins is so limited.

Confirm with your cruise guide the specifications, but the wheelchair accessible staterooms tend to feature a wider door frame(around 30 inches) into the cabin and bathroom, no ‘lip’  into the bathroom, no ‘lip’ into the shower, a raised toilet with bars throughout the bathroom, and a shower chair.

The rooms themselves are much larger to allow for turnaround maneuverability. With that being said most of these cabins are only available for double occupancy.

The cruise line will have a comprehensive listing of areas that are NOT accessible onboard for you to reference before you sail.

One thing I pay close attention to when booking a passenger with mobility disabilities is the ports of call for the cruise they are interested in. If more than one port of call requires tender service to the port (when harbors are too shallow these smaller boats ferry passengers to share), I might suggest a different itinerary.

It might be too difficult for them to enjoy the port if they are having to spend too much time getting on and off the tender. Disembarking by tender is handled differently by each cruise line but most provide assistance carrying your (MANUAL) wheelchair onto the tender. If you are bound to a POWER chair, you will be unable to board the tender ship as the chair is too bulky, weights too much.

If you do require a wheelchair 100% of time, but need it after an abundance of walking (such as on a cruise ship), you are welcome to bring your own collapsible chair and get a standard cabin. The standard doorways are too narrow to roll in, you will need to collapse the chair to enter your cabin.  If you still require special amenities in the bathroom, such as, a raised toilet and/or shower chair, these items can be requested with the cruise lines at no additional cost.

Guests with other medical conditions are also accommodated onboard.

Several of my clients require oxygen, not uncommon.  Again, we just need to make the cruise line aware of this as policies and procedures for bringing the appropriate equipment onboard vary. For guests that require the use of dialysis, please contact us for more information on policies and procedures.

Also onboard the ships are Braille-coded elevator buttons, room numbers and restaurant menus.

Most cruise lines welcome children with disabilities in their youth programs onboard. Upon request, every efforts will be made to provide reasonable accommodations that will meet the needs of children with disabilities.

Don’t Miss:

• When is the Best Time to Cruise to the Caribbean?
• Tips for Taking an Alaskan Cruise
• The Truth About Hurricanes, Motion Sickness and Lifeboats
• 5 Reasons Specialty Dining is Worth Every Penny