The Mail Buoy Episode 23

In our feature show this week we talk about accessible cruising. While we have a lot of great tips and things to keep in mind, the bottom line is that if you have accessiblity issues talk to your travel agent (us) and let the work with you to put together a cruise that will be able to accomodate your needs.

In addition by letting your travel agent know just what your needs will be, they (read: us) can make sure that the cruise line is ready for you when you arrive from embarkation. That includes reserving an accesible cabin, providing you with assistance at the pier during embarkation, accomodating special meal requirements, and insuring that vehicles with ramps and lifts are available at ports of call.

We also give a quick list of the most accessible ships, however you need to remember that cruise ships (as well as foreign countries) aren’t bound by the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, which means that some ships are less accessbile than others. Over the last several years ADA complaint designs and buildings have become quite common, however once you get outside the US you’re likely to run into fewer ramps and other devices commonly used to make public areas more accessible.

Just a reminder, there won’t be a show for the week of October 30 or November 6. We’ll be onboard Vision of the Seas on a working vacation. Expect to see pictures and a review of the ship and itinerary when we return.

You can find the show in iTunes, or head over to the Cruise Planners site to download the show or play it right in your browser and don't forget to check out the Deal of The Week!