If you've been hesitant about cruising because of mobility concerns, here's some good news: taking a cruise with a mobility scooter is easier than you think! Whether you already own one or are considering renting, scooters are increasingly common on cruise ships, allowing you to enjoy the entire experience without the physical strain of long walks or standing.
Here are 13 tips to help you become a cruise ship scooter expert and ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey:
1. Anyone Can Use a Scooter
- You don't need to be officially disabled to bring a scooter onboard. Whether you're recovering from surgery, have an injury, or know you'll be too tired at the end of the day, a scooter can help you navigate the ship comfortably. This can be exceptionally helpful for people who cannot walk long distances since cruise ships are rather expansive.
2. Bring Your Own or Rent
- If you already have a mobility scooter, you can bring it with you and use it right from the port. If you do not own a cruise ship approved mobility scooter yet, we have complied a list of our favorites. If you prefer renting, book a scooter well in advance to have it ready in your stateroom when you board. Work with a travel agent to arrange for rentals through certified accessible travel providers.
3. Don't Forget the Power Cord
- Make sure you pack the power cord, keys, and extra batteries if you're bringing your own scooter. If you have multiple excursions planned we do suggest bringing at least one extra battery for your convenience. Without these, your scooter might not work once the charge runs low.
4. Scooters Are Easy to Drive
- Don’t worry about navigating your scooter. They're easy to operate, with intuitive controls for forward and reverse. Most scooters have a simple lever system—just let go to stop. It is important to still select a mobility scooter that is suitable for travel since you will need to navigate the ship and bigger isn't always better while cruising.
5. Assistance Getting On and Off the Ship
- Cruise line crew are typically available to assist you with getting on and off the ship, especially at ports with steep gangways. Most scooters can be disassembled into smaller parts or even folded for easy transport if needed. Also consider the heaviest piece or total scooter weight before traveling if you will have to lift it.
6. Tender Ports
- At tender ports where small boats are used to transport passengers, scooters may not be allowed (check with your cruise line). However, wheelchairs are generally permitted. Always check ahead if you're concerned about accessibility.
7. Check Excursion Accessibility
- When booking shore excursions, make sure the tour can accommodate your mobility scooter or power wheelchair. Many providers will indicate if transportation and activities are scooter-friendly, so you can plan accordingly. We recommend doing this at least 10 business days prior to your scheduled excursion.
8. Elevators Are Your Friend
- Elevators on the ship are key to getting around. If traveling alone, you may need to go straight into the elevator, as the doors close quickly. If you're with a companion, they can help hold the door for you. Always check the elevator dimensions in comparison to your mobility device. This will ensure your mobility scooter or power wheelchair will fit.
9. Accessible Staterooms
- While you don’t need an accessible stateroom for most scooters, these rooms offer extra space and features, like roll-in showers. If you’re using a larger scooter (over 350 lbs.), this may be necessary, but for smaller scooters, regular staterooms work just fine. The Golden Technologies Buzzaround CarryOn is designed specifically to fit inside a standard state room.
10. Charge Your Scooter at Night
- Be sure to plug in your scooter every night to ensure it's fully charged and ready for the next day's adventures. Be sure that when exiting the ship to bring your charger cord along incase you need to find a place to charge off-board. It also doesn't hurt to bring an extra battery if you have multiple excursions planned over the course of a few days.
11. Bring a Power Strip
- Staterooms often have very limited outlets. A small power strip is a great way to ensure you can charge both your scooter and any other devices you bring along like your phone and laptop.
12. Avoid the Crowded Top Decks on Sea Days
- On sea days, the upper decks near pools and lounges can get crowded. These areas become narrower as more passengers gather, so consider using alternative, less crowded decks for smoother travel. This should assist in keeping your stress levels down during sea travel.
13. Help is All Around You
- Don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed. Cruising is a time for relaxation, and most fellow passengers are happy to lend a hand. Whether it's holding the elevator door or offering assistance on the gangway, kindness is abundant on board. The cruise line staff is also always ready to lend a helping hand if needed.
Accessibility features can vary from one cruise line to another, and it's crucial for travelers to contact their chosen cruise line for detailed information about the process of bringing mobility scooters onboard and their specific accommodations. Royal Caribbean, for example, goes above and beyond in offering accessibility for its guests. In addition to the wider doors (32 inches) in staterooms and bathrooms to fit mobility scooters and wheelchairs, their commitment to accessibility includes several helpful amenities like Whirlpool and pool lifts, low slot machines in the casino, and lowered desks at guest relations. These accommodations make it easier for guests with mobility challenges to navigate the ship and enjoy their vacation.
For those planning a cruise, it's always a good idea to confirm with the cruise line directly about any specific needs, from scooter policies to any additional support services available on board. This ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey for all guests. Cruising with a mobility scooter is a great way to explore the open seas without worrying about walking long distances. Plan ahead, use these tips, and get ready to enjoy the freedom and flexibility that comes with cruising while using a mobility device. Safe travels and have fun!