Shore excursions to historical sites and museums are common. Wheelchair bound travelers can also experience Alaska's vast backcountry on a narrated bus tour inside Denali National Park. Senior cruisers want a memorable experience with cultural enrichment, sophisticated dining, a bit of low-impact adventure and bucket list destinations. Travelness is reader-supported: When you buy through our links we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. A visit to the Alaska SeaLife Center, Alaska's prime marine wildlife rehabilitation facility, is a perfect complement to a day cruise. P&O Cruises' homeport is Southampton, so there are year-round departures from here, as well as a comprehensive fly-cruise programme. The Best Wheelchair Accessible Cruises and Disabled Cruises to Consider. Trying to find accommodation that meets accessibility needs, let alone the suitability of the surrounding area, can be long and tiring, particularly when so many holiday venue owners aren't equipped to deal with even the simplest of needs that a Disabled holidaymaker may have - cruises for . For hard-of-hearing passengers, visual alarms can be requested in cabins, while most entertainment areas have hearing loop systems installed. Vikings new expedition ships have a protected slip that allows passengers to board small Zodiac vessels inside, as opposed to doing so while exposed to outdoor elements. Most cruises depart from U.K. ports, although fly-cruises are also offered. The river cruise ships in particular lean toward the luxury end of the spectrum, with drinks, Wi-Fi, transfers, excursions and gratuities included in the fare. On Alaska cruises to Glacier Bay National Park, enjoy privileged park access and talks from rangers and Huna Tlingit guides. Spa Holidays, Package Tours, City Breaks, Cultural Holidays. Accessible staterooms are conveniently located near elevators. In order to use some future cruise credits (before they expire) we booked the 14-Day Great Alaskan Explorer, Noordam Neptune Suite 7088. Many can also accommodate limited mobility issues with advanced notice. Our partners who list cruise pricing on Cruise Critic are required to provide prices for cruise only or cruise packages, per person, double occupancy, and are based on specific cabin types and sailing dates, and may not be available for all cabin types/sailings. Youll find accessible seating in most of the ships lounges and theaters, making it easier for seniors with disabilities to enjoy the journey. Fares for the riverboats include a one-night pre-cruise hotel stay, with luggage concierge and transfers, while all sailings offer at least one shore excursions in every port; complimentary evening cocktails and wine and beer at lunch and dinner; soft drinks, juice, water and snacks. Several of the city's favorite cultural sites and outdoor areas are fully accessible. Royal Caribbean offers a variety of options for seniors who want to see some of the Last Frontiers most beautiful scenery. Now that you know all about our cruises for seniors with disabilities, browse our cruise itineraries and book your next trip online, or call one of our vacation specialists today at 1-800-852-8086. Alaska cruises are popular for travelers of all ages, especially senior cruisers and multigenerational families. And for AARP members, it offers a 5 percent discount on any cruise booked at least nine months in advance. Indulge on decadent food prepared by top chefs Experience impeccable service and pampering Enjoy overnight stays in ports around the world The same applies to destinations like Greenland and Iceland, South America, and the South Pacific. Today, travelers come in search of other riches - to experience yesteryear along Skagway's charming boardwalk lined with buildings that . Youll to spend more time in each destination than with other cruise lines. See Alaska small ship cruises The Caribbean is another popular cruise destination for senior travelers. You can travel 30 miles on the Natural History Bus Tour, 62 miles on the Tundra Wilderness. Which Royal Caribbean Suite Should I Book? Celebrity ships are updated and stylish, with spacious accommodations and a variety of dining options, such as the Grand pernay Restaurant. The line also has gentlemen hosts to act as dancing and dining companions for single ladies. On the rivers, Tauck guides will even give passengers euros for lunch. Regent Seven Seas dining options are top notch and plentiful, with all dining options included in the fare. Michelle. Viking Cruises to Alaska provide opulent cruising to some of the worlds most picturesque places. The Alaska line is considered their crown jewel. These include Prince William Sound Flightseeing from Anchorage (requires getting in and out of a small plane), Turnagain Arm Tour (requires stepping in and out of a van, limited walking), and the Chinitna Bay National Park Bear Viewing Flight from Anchorage (requires getting in and out of a plane, limited walking on slightly uneven terrain). FREE live planning advice, book now or learn more about our Alaska cruise vacations. Cabins with sunrooms and windows that lower for fresh air, as opposed to balconies, mean that senior cruisers can stay cozy, even in chilly conditions. For more information about our upcoming Christian cruises, call us today at 1-888-771-8717 or email us at info@livingpassages.com. 1. Wheelchair accessible toilets are on Deck 10, by the Avon restaurants, and Deck 7, by the Neptune Lounge. Accompanied by a knowledgeable Tour Director, every detail is taken care of as you explore this magnificent land. Columbus, the flagship has six wheelchair-adapted cabins. The cruise was actually 9/25 to 10/2/2022 round trip from Seattle. These Tauck guides also perform multiple duties onboard, giving daily briefings, attending shore excursions and handling the lagniappe extras. Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour This tour is wheelchair accessible and scooters are allowed onboard as the main deck area is all one level. Took friends on a 12 day of Alaska to show them the advantages of ocean cruising and show off Alaska. Tauck also offers chartered expedition sailings to bucket-list destinations like the Arctic and Antarctica. The line targets well-traveled adults 50 years of age and older who are interested in history, art, science, local culture and cuisine. Our goal is to give the best life experience to our consumers by promoting independence and inclusion through travel. The quaint, historic village of Talkeetna is the base of activity for North America's tallest peak, Denali (formerly McKinley). > Accessible Cruises Can they easily take a shower? Related: 6 ways to get a deal on a cruise. While most people tend to budget one or two days in Seward on their first Alaska, Best 20 Things To Do in Juneau (Must-Live Experiences), 15 Most Stunning Glaciers in Alaska That Will Take Your Breath Away, Itinerary: Vancouver, Inside Passage, Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay, College Fjord, Whittier, Anchorage, Denali (rail). Chinitna Bay National Park Bear Viewing Flight, Traveling with Limited Mobility in Alaska. Explore Glacier Bay, Alaska Alaska Up Close Deepen your connection to this incredible land with our exclusive Alaska cruise programming. Flightseeing and driving tours are an excellent option for travelers who have some mobility. A partnership with BBC Earth on some voyages brings extra enrichment on board. Passengers can tour the pilot house with the captain while onboard. Disney thinks of everything on this fun-for-everyone cruise. A cruise is also a great way for seniors to journey through scenic swathes of Germany, Austria, and Hungary, courtesy of iconic European waterways such as the Danube and the Rhine.. "River cruises allow you to have a more intimate experience and see more places," the AARP's Gillen points out, referring to itineraries that string together . From theme parks to national parks, Alaska to Hawaii, cruises and international destinations . Seabourn Cruise Line cruises the world from Australia and New Zealand, Asia, India, Africa, Antarctica, Alaska, and the Caribbean, to the Arctic, Northern Europe, and more. CRUISE DEALS FOR SENIORS. Why American Queen Voyages Is Great for Seniors: While some cruises can be hectic, river cruises in the U.S. are generally more leisurely affairs, with a focus on relaxing and soft sightseeing. Top marks to P&O for having a clearly explained section on its website for cruisers with special needs, right down to sections on door widths on each ship and ports where the gangway might be too steep for a less mobile person to go ashore. As the states largest, Alaska is known for its natural beauty. For those with a disability, cruises offer a hassle-free and relaxing way to enjoy a far-flung holiday. View our itinerary pages for more exclusive 2023 offers, including family and solo traveler savings. Royal Caribbean's Freedom Class and Oasis Class ships feature some of the most up to date amenities at sea, including those for disabled people. Oriana, an older ship, only has eight, all on F Deck, with a window but no balcony. The Myth of Europe in Accessible Travel Often when considering an accessible vacation, travelers can make the mistake of thinking "western world" equals comfort and ease for wheelchairs, walkers, and senior travelers. Large print menus are also available in all dining venues. Your underneath the Spinnaker Lounge which goes on until 11PM and the maintainable work goes in until 12.30 AM, but thats not the, We lucked out with this cruise. Seward, a small port town on the Kenai Peninsula, is the gateway to the stunning Kenai Fjords National Park. All scheduled rest stops are also wheelchair accessible. And Princess' Midnight Sun Express railcars offer wheelchair. EF Go Ahead Tours, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, offers small group tours with 14 to 38 guests. You must provide 72 hours advance notice if you are traveling with a group of 10 or more passengers with disability. In addition, average cruise prices are updated nightly. American Queen Voyages, formerly American Queen Steamboat Company, now includes coastal ships formerly sailing under the brand of Victory Cruise Lines. If you're looking at a well-known Alaskan city that's safe, head to Juneau. There are only four wheelchair adapted cabins, all on Deck 7, all Terrace Balcony category. 1. What's interesting is that although this cruise line offers luxury service, they are listed in the class of small ships. California. Trips, Inc. provides all-inclusive vacation packages for travelers 18 and older with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Enjoy Freestyle cruising with Norwegian Cruise Line. Renting a mobility scooter with Scootaround is easy. We and our partners share information on your use of this website to help improve your experience. When youre on a cruise to Alaska, the scenery is everything. With renowned naturalist guides, our goal is to provide life-enhancing travel experiences while supporting environmental and wildlife conservation. These tours run wheelchair accessible buses when requested in advance. And if you're 65 or older you can travel at half fares during off-season months. Learn More >, Alaska Tour & Travel 805 964 7344. If you require the regular use of a wheelchair during the cruise, you would need to bring your own or rent one from a service provider. On a cruisetour visit Denali National Park, Fairbanks, Anchorage & more. And, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. The Silver Shore Concierge can make arrangements for individually curated tours as well as Mid-Cruise Land Adventures tours that are arranged between ports of call so cruisers can meet the ship at the next destination. Related: What to Know About HAL's Private Island, Half Moon Cay. 1-808-690-9990. This was our first post-pandemic cruiseso, there I will be making some comparisons - especially because (in September 2019) we took a HAL Triple Denali land/sea trip, which ended with a 7 Day (southbound) cruise in the same suite (7088) on, We chose this cruise for access to glaciers and we're not disappointed in this regard. email. All of Silversea's ships (except expedition vessels) accommodate wheelchairs and scooters. Treat yourself to a magnificent trip aboard this ship, which has a guest-to-staff ratio of 684 to 400, guaranteeing that you are pampered to your hearts content. Related: What Is Silversea's S.A.L.T. Once your equipment has been ordered, we deliver your cruise mobility scooter rental directly to your ship, cabin, port, hotel or residence. American Cruise Lines sails two types of riverboats -- traditional and modern -- as well as coastal cruise ships. Save up to 15% Drinks Packages Save up to 20% Internet Packages Save up to 40% Specialty Dining There may be local culinary experiences like a lobster bake while on American Cruise Lines coastal New England cruise, or a Cajun cooking demonstration on Mississippi River cruises. Why Cunard Is Great for Seniors: Cunards Queen Mary 2 is built for leisurely sea days, with a full array of lectures, films and onboard activities, as well as one of the largest libraries at sea. Enjoy a flightseeing trip over a glacier in Juneau or have a crab feast in Ketchikan. When you sail with Oceania, you can expect to have an elite experience on a smart, stylish ship. In 2019, Saga Pearl II will retire and be replaced by a new flagship, the 55,900-ton Spirit of Discovery, carrying 999 guests in luxurious, modern style, with a second new ship on order, Spirit of Adventure. Be among the first to know about special offers, exclusive sailings, and much more. Many cruise ships are specifically designed to accommodate cruises for seniors with disabilities. Customers can arrange cruise mobility rentals 24/7 by booking online or calling 1-888-441-7575. New ships boast S.A.L.T., a culinary adventure program that delves into local cuisines. Imagine an alpine frontier, where jagged peaks descend to cool, clear waters. All dining, bar, and lounge venues offer wheelchair seating, as do our onboard theaters. The line does warn, however, that its wheelchair accessible cabins are adapted from the original specification, rather than purpose-built, so depending on your needs, ask very specific questions when you book. Theyre particularly known for their cruises to Alaska, so you know youre in good hands here in fact, theyve won awards for their Alaskan cruises! The lovely ship feature accessible staterooms and can accommodate passengers with vision and hearing impairments as well as mobility concerns. Because the ship is a new build, accessible cabins will be custom-designed, rather than adapted. Scooters up to 56cm wide will only be allowed in cabins suitable for non-collapsible wheelchairs and scooters, while larger scooters will only be allowed in fully adapted cabins. Chair hoists are available at the pools on Ventura, Aurora, Azura and Britannia. This website is a participant in the Amazon Associates affiliate program. Even a year or more in advance is great, especially for cruises to Alaska. P&O City Breaks - UK & Mini Cruises UK Full board City Breaks, Countryside Cruise liner Princess Cruises Diamond Princess Cruise Reviews for Cruises for the Disabled to Alaska, Norwegian Cruise Line Norwegian Sun Cruise Reviews for Cruises for the Disabled to Alaska, Princess Cruises Regal Princess Cruise Reviews for Cruises for the Disabled to Alaska, Disney Cruise Line Disney Magic Cruise Reviews for Cruises for the Disabled to Alaska, Royal Caribbean International Mariner of the Seas Cruise Reviews for Cruises for the Disabled to Alaska. Your time on the ship can be spent dining at many included restaurants or relaxing in your stateroom, which is decked out in Carnival Comfort Collection linens. Your dining options include flavors from all over the world at restaurants like Manfredis Italian and the Chefs Table. Explore the rugged Inside Passage and breathtaking Gulf of Alaska, and marvel at spectacular marine life and dazzling glaciers from the vantage of a magnificent Princess cruise ship. Visitors with physical limitations can discover the town's rich history aboard an authentic sternwheeler on a fully narrated three-hour river cruise. Because seating needs to be reconfigured, travelers should notify the Park Connection at least 48 hours in advance if wheelchair accessibility is required. For visually impaired passengers, assistance at check in, embarkation and disembarkation can be provided. 1. Silversea Alaska cruises allow active seniors to enjoy hiking, kayaking, and Zodiac tours with the onboard expedition team included in the fare. Oh, and like everyone else, seniors want cruise deals. Passengers requiring a wheelchair for excursions but not for use onboard can ask for the chair to be stored. Royal Caribbean. These cruises offer a variety of activities and amenities that are perfect for those who are looking to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Alaska. Oxygen cylinders are allowed on board. Call us at 1-888-441-7575 or book online. THE 25 BEST Cruises for the Disabled to Alaska (with Prices) on Cruise Critic Cruises for the Disabled to Alaska We found you 192 cruise s Filter Sort: Popularity Cruisers' Choice Norwegian. Cruise travellers with disabilities have concerns that other cruisers might never consider. 800-208-0200 or 907-245-0200. Youll be impressed and amazed by whats aboard these ultra-luxurious ships. Before you book your cruise, you can review the ships deck plans to see where theyre located and select one thats nearest to the public areas youre most interested in. Seniors who like the arts and the finer things in life may enjoy a cruise to Alaska on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship. Whether youre admiring the green hills of Ireland, getting up close to koalas and kangaroos down under in Australia, seeing the magnificent mountains and glaciers of Alaska, exploring the temples of busy Hong Kong, or unwinding on the white-sand beaches of a sunny Caribbean Island, youll sail to your destination on one of our luxury ships with fully-equipped and thoughtfully designed accessible features for seniors with disabilities. You will be cared for off the ship just as well as you are on the ship since Royal Caribbean tours are guided by a local Adventure Specialists. On board, you'll find beautifully appointed accessible staterooms and public spaces on our easy-to-navigate cruise ships. The Endicott Arm scenic cruising was a fabulous day. 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. Travel with Alan had a killer deal on a 21 day Panama trip. These cruises are only available on Holland Americas mid-sized ships, which are the ideal size for getting close to Alaskas natural beauty. NOTE: Azamara paused cruises to Alaska due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but they should offer Alaskan destinations again soon! 10+ Cruises Age 70s Sail Date: October 2022 Cabin Type: Mini-Suite Helpful Terrific itinerary and amazing service on NCL Jewel Review for Norwegian Jewel to Alaska SookeBC 10+ Cruises Age. Equipment like commodes, raised toilet seats and shower stools can be supplied if you request it at the time of booking. Ship was in good shape, staff was excellent, food ok, entertainment ok with a couple of excellent people. For the hard-of-hearing, there's a hearing loop facility at Southampton cruise terminals and at the reception desks on each ship, as well as an 'infra-red' hearing support system in some of the show lounges. Ventura has 22; while the adults-only Arcadia has 18, including two massive forward-facing balcony cabins on D Deck. New Directions is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization providing high quality national, and international travel vacations and holiday programs for people with developmental disabilities. Born in south, she spent her childhood hopping around the U.S., even venturing as far away as Kodiak, Alaska. Off-boat excursions can also fill your days! If you need assistance getting to the boat, please contact us in advance. Food and entertainment onboard the ship reflect the areas where the ship is sailing, with guest entertainers and lecturers coming on board at various times during the cruise. Disabled visitors to Europe will encounter challenges during their travels, but nearly all can be avoided or overcome . An accessible stateroom can also be customized for guests with sight or hearing special needs. Rates are in GBP and valid for UK and Ireland residents only. Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas. Dara is a travel writer, political news junkie, and part-time actress. The Alaska Railroad provides wheelchair lifts at all stations. Is it possible to get off the ship in port or hear the evening show? On cruises for seniors with disabilities, you can travel around the world and visit multiple destinations all in one tripwhile only having to unpack once. Raised toilet seats and extra mattresses can be requested at the time of booking. Olsen's fleet of four classic, mid-sized ships could be the answer. See the original Klondike Trail of 1898 worn into the rocks, a permanent tribute to the thousands of souls who passed this way in search of fortune. Viking Cruises Viking Cruise Lines is a privately held company. Play games in the onboard casino at lowered tables and lowered slot machines. Accommodations and transfers are included in the package. It marks the entrance to Denali National Park and is host to most activities both outside and within the park. Although there are many stops for photo opportunities, less mobile guests on Denali Highway Jeep Excursions can still enjoy the sights from the jeep. When you book with one of our partners, please be sure to check their site for a full disclosure of all applicable fees as required by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Get up and go glacier-gazing . Advantages of booking early include having the choice of cabin grades, low deposits and much more. More information! The all-inclusive pricing covers all-suite accommodations, gourmet dining, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages and wines, onboard lectures, gratuities and -- on expedition cruises only -- excursions. Taxes, fees and port expenses not included. Holland America cruise line (HAL) has long been popular with seniors, both for the destinations where they travel and entertainment options onboard. All Summit Excursion trains are wheelchair accessible. There are rails to assist with use of the toilet and fixed seats in the showers. The line also has a fair number of bucket-list trips through the Panama Canal, South Pacific, Australia and Africa, as well as a World Cruise that is more affordable than most. Renting a wheelchair for your cruise couldn't be easier. Related: What It's Like Sailing the Great Lakes With Viking. Mechanical issues caused us to leave in the middle of the night causing us to miss Icy Strait Point, our whale watching port. Disabled Tours in Alaska Natural Habitat Adventures The official conservation travel partner of World Wildlife Fund, offering custom and small group tours to nature's greatest sites. Youll love that heated floor as your ship journeys from Vancouver up the inside passage, where you can take in an abundance of magnificent sites. Discover all the arctic allure and outdoor adventure of Alaska! All public spaces, dining venues, bars and casinos are also easy to navigate and accessible. Shore excursions on Tauck river cruises are thoughtful and interesting, and often go a step beyond what you might find on other lines. Program? Princess ($) Princess Cruise Lines is considered by many to be one of the best cruise lines for seniors offering many options and including things to do onboard and off, multiple restaurants and shows, and ships are easy to navigate with a wheelchair. Enjoy the perks of traveling on a cruise ship for guests with disabilities. 800-460-4518 call us; Free Brochure free brochure; Special Offers; Travel Advisors My Account; Logout; menu.