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Hi Viggie, I wouldn't bring a manual wheelchair because you can borrow one from the ship in most cases. You probably need to confirm that with the cruise line, but we have always been able to request a wheelchair for an excursion. As an alternative, you can bring a manual W/C and rent a scooter for use on the ship. We've seen it done both ways. The latter option is great if you have difficulty transporting the scooter via the airlines. Best of luck to you, and safe travels!

Hi Nora86, My wife uses a moterized wheelchair on cruises and since it folds we can usually arrange an excursion either through the cruise line or on our own. She uses a Eagle HD which weighs around 50 pounds and folds to the size of a medium to large suitcase. It is approved for airline travel and she has used it all over the world. There are similar folding power wheelchairs out there and they all have their advantages and disadvantages. One of the reasons we chose a folding wheelchair is because we can take it on excursions and even put it in the back of a taxi which is difficult to do with most scooters. We have discussed the relative merits of scooter vs W/C with many mobility impaired cruisers over the years and we feel that we have the best fit for us. That said, what works for us may not work for you. Some folks bring ar rent a scooter for use on the ship and borrow a manual wheelchair from the ship at no cost for excursions etc. Another thing to consider is a gell or air cushion for the W/C to make it more comfortable. Either way you'll have to workout what works best for you. BTW, I have noticed recently that on some "Accessible excursions" they state that folding W/Cs are acceptable but not scooters. Good luck and safe travels, Patrick and Joan 20220411_112305.heic

Hello LadyMac72, My wife and I are avid cruisers and my wife Joanie has been using a moterized wheelchair for a number of years now. I can offer a few suggestions for you and a cautionary not or two as well. First, the bad news, be careful when booking excursions through the cruise line as the are often not accessible for scooter or wheelchair users. More than once we have booked an excursions that was described as accessible only to be refused inclusion at the dockside. The problem is that the people running the tours have the right to refuse access to those with mobility issues. There is little recourse. Secondly, even if you find a "Accessible excursion" there is very often little or no accommodation for wheelchair/scooter users in the ports. Unfortunately many locations have no infrastructure for accessibility; ie, no ramps, curbs with no curb ramps, no elevators, no way to cross streets. Even gaining access to restaurants and restrooms is often difficult or impossible. Traveling with someone who requires a W/C or scooter dosen't just limit your ability to visit many ports. In some cases it makes it makes it nearly impossible. Now, the good news. There are a companies out there who specialize in making arrangements for those with mobility issues and can tailor your experience to your needs and abilities. Even things that, until recently, were simply impossible to consider for those like my wife. For example, Joanie and I visited Machu Picchu, Peru last month with the assistance of a company that make the impossible possible. The bottom line is that you have to do your research and plan ahead. Read about the accessibility of the ports before your arrival. If necessary make arrangements with locals who can assist you with your planning. Remember that mobility issues may make traveling more difficult but in many cases still possible. Good luck and safe travels.