TRAVELSCOOT on board

Do any of the river boat companies allow a small fold-able travel scoot on board to be used not on the boat, but in ports?

Viking probably will, but you must ask the companies directly. One of the issues is how you get it off the ship. Who will carry it? How will you deal with going up to the sun deck carrying it across a ship docked beside and then down to the dock level? Where will it be stowed on the ship - an issue for smaller ships? Pre-arrangement is a must.

Be aware that most streets are rough cobble/paving stones. ADA access does not apply in Europe.

If you search the forum for the word "scooter," you'll find lots of threads on this subject.

Mama,

I've only sailed on Uniworld, but here's what their Know Before You Go booklet says:

"Your includedexcursions generally require an extensive amount of walking, as well as thenavigation of numerous steps and cobblestone streets. On shore excursions, guestswith physical limitations will find access to sites generally restricted. Foryour safety and enjoyment, we recommend that all guests be in good physicalcondition.

In addition, riverships, while spacious and elegant, are not in compliance with the Americanswith Disabilities Act, and some do not have elevators. Uniworld, at its solediscretion, reserves the right to refuse passage or to require a currentpassenger to end his or her trip if the passenger’s state of health or physicalcondition may affect his or her own health, safety and enjoyment, or that ofother passengers.

The use of mobility devices such as wheelchairs, walkers,scooters, etc. is not

recommended for travel in Europe and such devices cannotbe readily obtained in the

region."

Roz

CroisiEurope last year on the Seine one chap had a scooter. The crew carried it on and off the ship and even up stairs across deck into Viking ship and through Viking to land. Upon returning to ship he just left it at land side of gangway and members of crew carried it onboard and put on charge in reception area. As CroisiEurope do not include excursions he was able to get around ports easily on his own.

Viking specifically does not allow motorized scooters or chairs.