handicapped pax

[pogostick]

We are sailing on the Maasdam out of Norfolk, Va. on 11-30-04. One friend going with us is confined to a wheelchair. She has a handicapped room, but we were wondering if any other handicapped passengers on the Maasdam or other ship have any words of advice for us. Any information you are willing to share would be helpful.

[mhshapiro]

Most of the cruises we have been on (including our one previous HAL cruise on Rotterdam VI) included at least a few passengers in wheelchairs. This did not seem to pose many problems that I noticed, except perhaps that a few of the tours were not recommended for passengers in wheelchairs.

[Krazy Kruizers]

The crew members are also able to help passengers in wheel chairs at tender ports.

Ask your TA to request a table near the entrance of the dining room - easier than trying to negotiate a wheel chair in lanes between tables.

Getting around the ship is not a problem. So many doors open automatically.

Just remember that when using the elevators, back the wheel chair in - person facing out. That way when you get to the deck you want, you only have to wheel the person straight out - elevators are small.

[Cinder]

I cruised the Maasdam out of Norfolk last winter with my disabled Mother, and had no problems at all on the ship. I would suggest requesting a large, round table for your dinner seating, as it is easier to maneuver the wheelchair up to the table.
Cruising is one of the best vacations for someone in a wheelchair. My Mom would stay in the cabin in port sometimes while I left the ship, and she could order room service, etc, without assistance.
Also, the staff on HAL are very kind. We were always wisked right in to our cabin when we checked in.

[CanSail]

Pogostick,
Post your request on the Disable Cruise Travel section as well, you will receive some wonderful information from readers and fellow wheelchair cruisers.
Hope you enjoy your cruise.

Happy Sailing To All