Cruise Travel and Special Needs
| |
|
10 Things to Know (and Do) About Special Needs and Cruising
Susan Dunn, MA,
When you think about it, when any of us go on a cruise we would all have some special needs to take into account. Whether you have young children, older family members or friends or special medication, there are things that you would need to check out prior to the cruise. Here is a great article relating to cruise travel and special needs.
I speak on cruises and have found them almost amazingly accommodating to special needs. From disabilities, to medical needs, to family reunion celebrations or weddings...in many cases, you need only to ask. Here are some things to consider beforehand.
Don't be like the gentleman traveling with his 8-year-old son, who only discovered on the 3rd day out there was a daytime play program for children! Ask!
1. Check out your health insurance.
Some policies cover international travel; some do not. If your policy doesn't cover travel abroad, check with the cruise line. Most lines offer an auxiliary policy to cover your needs for a nominal price. Check to see if your policy covers air evacuation, which is extremely expensive, unless you relish emergency surgery in, say, Belize.
2. If you have medical problems, or problems with seasickness, book on one of the larger ships -- 1,000 or more passengers.
The bigger ships (generally measured by number of guests) have better health facilities and services, and also better stabilizers so do better in rough weather. I spoke on a cruise in the middle of Isabel, and know this to be true!
3. Ships with more than 100 passengers normally have a doctor and nurse.
Though some have only a nurse. Be aware that medical personnel on ships charge a fee for the services.
4. If you have medical problems, be sure and discuss them with your personal physician.
Some conditions require a note from a physician.
5. Be sure and bring all medications you need with you, with an extra supply in case your travel plans are delayed.
Ship infirmaries carry some medications, but of course not all. Most ship infirmaries are only equipped to handle minor emergencies. Find out where the infirmary is and how to get to it, as well as the location of other important things such as restrooms and lifts.
6. Service animals can be accommodated but you should contact the Dept. of Agriculture of your ports of call to determine the policy of each destination.
They regulate entry of dogs, which will also be subject to inspection, and may be denied disembarkation at certain ports.
7. Understand that not all conditions can be accommodated on onshore excursions and investigate ahead of time so as to avoid disappointment.
Some ports and cruise lines require tendering. The ship anchors away from the dock, and passengers are taken ashore ("tendered") in small boats. They may not be able to accommodate wheelchairs.
8. If you are pregnant, consult with the individual cruise line for their policies.
Most strictly prohibit travel after the 6th month. At times a physician's medical statement or waiver of liability or both are required. Once aboard, make sure you have a lifejacket that fits. Understand that most doctors are reluctant to give medication to pregnant women, so consult your personal physician before you go, for such things as seasickness.
9. Most cruise lines restrict infant travel.
Disney, for instance, doesn't allow babies under 12 weeks of age, while Princess requires they be six months or older.
10. Many cruise ships are well-equipped for other special needs. Be sure and check ahead of time.
Electric wheelchairs can be accommodated with recharging facility. TTY kits (text telephone, bed shaker, smoke alarm, door knocker and phone amplifier). You can usually bring oxygen tanks for personal use. Medically-related dining requests can often be accommodated. Some have hydraulic lifts for hot tubs. Hydraulic lift transfers may also be available.
Along with availability of these special services, check on any additional charges.
Don't be like the gentleman traveling with his 8-year-old son, who only discovered on the 3rd day out there was a daytime play program for children! Ask!
1. Check out your health insurance.
Some policies cover international travel; some do not. If your policy doesn't cover travel abroad, check with the cruise line. Most lines offer an auxiliary policy to cover your needs for a nominal price. Check to see if your policy covers air evacuation, which is extremely expensive, unless you relish emergency surgery in, say, Belize.
2. If you have medical problems, or problems with seasickness, book on one of the larger ships -- 1,000 or more passengers.
The bigger ships (generally measured by number of guests) have better health facilities and services, and also better stabilizers so do better in rough weather. I spoke on a cruise in the middle of Isabel, and know this to be true!
3. Ships with more than 100 passengers normally have a doctor and nurse.
Though some have only a nurse. Be aware that medical personnel on ships charge a fee for the services.
4. If you have medical problems, be sure and discuss them with your personal physician.
Some conditions require a note from a physician.
5. Be sure and bring all medications you need with you, with an extra supply in case your travel plans are delayed.
Ship infirmaries carry some medications, but of course not all. Most ship infirmaries are only equipped to handle minor emergencies. Find out where the infirmary is and how to get to it, as well as the location of other important things such as restrooms and lifts.
6. Service animals can be accommodated but you should contact the Dept. of Agriculture of your ports of call to determine the policy of each destination.
They regulate entry of dogs, which will also be subject to inspection, and may be denied disembarkation at certain ports.
7. Understand that not all conditions can be accommodated on onshore excursions and investigate ahead of time so as to avoid disappointment.
Some ports and cruise lines require tendering. The ship anchors away from the dock, and passengers are taken ashore ("tendered") in small boats. They may not be able to accommodate wheelchairs.
8. If you are pregnant, consult with the individual cruise line for their policies.
Most strictly prohibit travel after the 6th month. At times a physician's medical statement or waiver of liability or both are required. Once aboard, make sure you have a lifejacket that fits. Understand that most doctors are reluctant to give medication to pregnant women, so consult your personal physician before you go, for such things as seasickness.
9. Most cruise lines restrict infant travel.
Disney, for instance, doesn't allow babies under 12 weeks of age, while Princess requires they be six months or older.
10. Many cruise ships are well-equipped for other special needs. Be sure and check ahead of time.
Electric wheelchairs can be accommodated with recharging facility. TTY kits (text telephone, bed shaker, smoke alarm, door knocker and phone amplifier). You can usually bring oxygen tanks for personal use. Medically-related dining requests can often be accommodated. Some have hydraulic lifts for hot tubs. Hydraulic lift transfers may also be available.
Along with availability of these special services, check on any additional charges.
©Susan Dunn, MA, Personal Life Coach, www.susandunn.cc . Susan is the author of "Secrets to Getting to Speak on a Cruise" available at www.webstrategies.cc/acruise.html and speaks regularly for cruise lines on topics of self-help and personal development. Mailto:sdunn@susandunn.cc
Latest News
How Far In Advance Should I Book Europe Flights?
When tracking airfare prices for a particular destination, deciding when to actually book can be difficult. Experts from two major travel agencies share their booking tips for spring and summer Europe flights.
When tracking airfare prices for a particular destination, deciding when to actually book can be difficult. Experts from two major travel agencies share their booking tips for spring and summer Europe flights.
Column: NCAA Really Stuck It To Stanford (AP Via Yahoo! News)
Column: NCAA really stuck it to Stanford (AP via Yahoo! News) For all the complaints about who they invite and how they seed them, what the NCAA selection committee really needs is a better travel agent. Or maybe just an intern who knows how to use the Internet.
Column: NCAA really stuck it to Stanford (AP via Yahoo! News) For all the complaints about who they invite and how they seed them, what the NCAA selection committee really needs is a better travel agent. Or maybe just an intern who knows how to use the Internet.
Tips For Stress-Free Flying (CBS News)
As part of The Early Show 's weeklong travel series with Real Simple magazine, editor Kris Connell talked with co-anchor Julie Chen about the magazine's tips for stress-free air travel.
As part of The Early Show 's weeklong travel series with Real Simple magazine, editor Kris Connell talked with co-anchor Julie Chen about the magazine's tips for stress-free air travel.
New 'rules' For Air Travelers
Do we need new rules to protect travelers and establish new "rights" for air passengers? Ed Perkins isn't so sure.
Do we need new rules to protect travelers and establish new "rights" for air passengers? Ed Perkins isn't so sure.
Tips For Grandparent-grandkid Travel (MSNBC)
TODAY Travel Editor Peter Greenberg offers advice, so everyone can have a great experience.
TODAY Travel Editor Peter Greenberg offers advice, so everyone can have a great experience.
Packing Wisely
What's the best way to pack for a family vacation? Here are tips for making the most of luggage space when traveling with kids.
What's the best way to pack for a family vacation? Here are tips for making the most of luggage space when traveling with kids.
Scooter Vacations Offers Travel Professionals 20 Percent Commission For Orlando Mobility Scooter Rentals (PR.com)
Scooter Vacations Offers Travel Professionals 20 Percent Commission for Orlando Mobility Scooter Rentals (PR.com) Company s spring promotion enables new Reservation Partners including travel agents, tour operators, hotels, resorts and car rental agencies to earn nearly $50 per week per Electronic Convenience Vehicle (ECV) [PR.com - [...]
Scooter Vacations Offers Travel Professionals 20 Percent Commission for Orlando Mobility Scooter Rentals (PR.com) Company s spring promotion enables new Reservation Partners including travel agents, tour operators, hotels, resorts and car rental agencies to earn nearly $50 per week per Electronic Convenience Vehicle (ECV) [PR.com - [...]
O?Hare Passes Atlanta As Busiest Airport
O’Hare Passes Atlanta As Busiest AirportChicago’s O’Hare International Surpasses Atlanta As Busiest Airport in Terms of Air Traffic Message From the Suitcase.
O’Hare Passes Atlanta As Busiest AirportChicago’s O’Hare International Surpasses Atlanta As Busiest Airport in Terms of Air Traffic Message From the Suitcase.
Underpriced And On-the-rise European Destinations
The slow upward creep of airfares over the last decade has made summer travel to Europe pricier. But there are still plenty of places offering a winning combination of good value, beautiful surroundings, and interesting reasons to visit.
The slow upward creep of airfares over the last decade has made summer travel to Europe pricier. But there are still plenty of places offering a winning combination of good value, beautiful surroundings, and interesting reasons to visit.
Choosing Israel, Not The Hamptons
Choosing Israel, Not the Hamptons From downtown Tel Aviv to the heart of Jerusalem, foreigners ? especially Americans ? searching for second homes are redefining Israel?s high-end real estate market.
Choosing Israel, Not the Hamptons From downtown Tel Aviv to the heart of Jerusalem, foreigners ? especially Americans ? searching for second homes are redefining Israel?s high-end real estate market.
Family Reunion
Family reunions are an opportunity to teach the kids about family and heritage. Get tips for getting the kids involved in the family history before you head off to the family reunion.
Family reunions are an opportunity to teach the kids about family and heritage. Get tips for getting the kids involved in the family history before you head off to the family reunion.
Seven Ways To See Europe On A Student's Budget
Five weeks to do 10 countries, and on a student's budget? If you head to Europe with an open mind and a penchant for train travel, it's more than possible. In fact, it should be a graduation requirement.
Five weeks to do 10 countries, and on a student's budget? If you head to Europe with an open mind and a penchant for train travel, it's more than possible. In fact, it should be a graduation requirement.
Vintage Sonoma Uncorked For Weekend Travelers
Often when people think of wine, they think of expensive taste. However, after you voted for me go to California wine country, I learned that an escape can have high value without pretense or the price.
Often when people think of wine, they think of expensive taste. However, after you voted for me go to California wine country, I learned that an escape can have high value without pretense or the price.
Desperately Seeking Batad
If you're a lifelong city-slicker headed bush in search of the Eighth Wonder of the World, there are three things you really should have: a map, a clue and a reasonable level of sobriety. Oops.
If you're a lifelong city-slicker headed bush in search of the Eighth Wonder of the World, there are three things you really should have: a map, a clue and a reasonable level of sobriety. Oops.
Frequent Flyer Booking: American Gets It Right
American Airlines' new website design is the biggest improvement in online frequent flyer booking I've seen in quite a while. Although it doesn't answer all of the questions you might have, it takes much of the guesswork and hassle out of finding and booking frequent flyer seats.
American Airlines' new website design is the biggest improvement in online frequent flyer booking I've seen in quite a while. Although it doesn't answer all of the questions you might have, it takes much of the guesswork and hassle out of finding and booking frequent flyer seats.
Where Can I Find Cheap First-class Flights To Europe?
First-class fares to Europe can be astronomical, but a couple of smaller carriers offer relief. Two new all-premium-class airlines recently started flying between the East Coast and London, with fares starting at less than $2,000 round-trip.
First-class fares to Europe can be astronomical, but a couple of smaller carriers offer relief. Two new all-premium-class airlines recently started flying between the East Coast and London, with fares starting at less than $2,000 round-trip.
O?Hare Passes Atlanta As Busiest Airport
O’Hare Passes Atlanta As Busiest AirportChicago’s O’Hare International Surpasses Atlanta As Busiest Airport in Terms of Air Traffic A chic night’s sleep in Milan Italy’s fashion and design capital has three new boutique hotels — and though each caters to a different budget, all of them more than meet the city’s stringent style codes. The Ultimate [...]
O’Hare Passes Atlanta As Busiest AirportChicago’s O’Hare International Surpasses Atlanta As Busiest Airport in Terms of Air Traffic A chic night’s sleep in Milan Italy’s fashion and design capital has three new boutique hotels — and though each caters to a different budget, all of them more than meet the city’s stringent style codes. The Ultimate [...]
Related Resources
Cruise Travel And Special Needs Related Articles
Tips For Disney World First-Timers
So youve finally decided to head to Walt Disney World. With so much to see and do, its important to come prepared. Here are some excellent tips to make your trip one that will be remembered for a lifetime....
Up, Up and Away - Ten Steps To Simplify Travel Packing
Travel is a fact of life, whether for business or for pleasure. Here are three steps to make your packing and unpacking much simpler and less time-consuming. 1. Make a list of all the products you use...
Car Rental is Not Just About Price!
Before you go leaping for the cheapest car rental rate you can find, be sure to ask your car rental company a few questions about their service and what the price includes. I often search the Internet...
Money Saving Travel Tips
Have you seen the T.V. commercial where they show that one passenger paid only a few hundred for his plane ticket while the person sitting next to him paid over a thousand? This is only one example of...
Family Vacation and Realistic Expectations
Its that time of year again: Time for the family vacation. Its a good time to rethink some things like perfectionism, expectations, and the meaning of the word “vacation.” First of all, we call it a...
Honeymoon Hot Destinations
Ahh, the honeymoon, whether it be a trip to Vegas or a quiet beach hideaway it will always be remembered as one of the best and most important vacations youve ever gone on. Heres the Wedding Wonderful...
Contemplating Taking a Cruise? Here are Some Myths and Facts.
A cruise has been proven to be good for your health, announces the captain on the RCI at the end of the cruise. I am nodding my happy and relaxed head in agreement. Many of us who take cruises think thats...
Discover The Biggest Travel Secret In The World Today - And Book A Free Flight!
It sounds like a dream doesnt it? Hopping onto a plane and taking a flight to the destination of your choice. Imagine collecting your flight tickets to New York, London, Goa - or wherever takes your...
Walt Disney World in Just 3 Days
So your headed to Walt Disney World, but you only have time for a long weekend. Although its certainly not the ideal way to see "The Happiest Place on Earth", it definitely can be done, especially if...
Traveling with Babies & Toddlers
You may be surprised at how often babies will sleep to & from the destination. Be sure to have their favorite stuffed animal ready & blanket for the trip (also a pacifier & bottle if the child is young...