Solo Embarkation with Scooter and Carry-Ons

[TnTom]

I am a solo cruiser, and I will be boarding the NCL Getaway at Port Canaveral next Saturday. I recently had my right knee replaced, and will soon follow suit with the left knee. At the time I booked the cruise, I was much more mobile, but I recently realized the only way I could manage the trip was with a scooter. I have an amazing travel agent, and she immediately got me set up with an accessible cabin, and I have reserved my scooter- which will be picked up at the terminal entrance.

 

I do not travel light. I have a couple of medical devices that (together) fill a standard carry-on bag. I used to check that bag, but I learned the hard way that a "Fragile" or "Medical Equipment" tag doesn't help avoid damage to that equipment. After an expensive replacement, I now don't like to let it out of my possession. Additionally, I have a small laptop bag with documents and essentials.

 

I have flown a few times this year, requiring wheelchair assistance to/from my gates. I have learned that some wheelchairs come equipped with a rack under the seat which can hold the carry-on, and I can hold the smaller one in my lap. In other cases, I have had to hold the carry-on so that it rolls beside the wheelchair or rides on the foot rests.

 

My question/concern here is about the scooter and how to manage the bags at embarkation/disembarkation. Is there any kind of rack or shelf on the scooter where a carry-on can be accommodated? Any suggestions or observations for me will be greatly appreciated.

[FOPMan]

No, there is no luggage rack on a scooter. There is often a small (4”x 6”x10” metal or plastic basket attached at the front of the steering yoke.

 

Depending on your flexibility and size, you might put a small bag between your legs and the seat post. Be careful that it doesn’t fall off or have a strap that can get caught in the wheels.

 

I am unsure of what assistance you might expect or be able to secure from whatever vehicle is taking you to the cruise terminal onto the ship and vice-versa.

[GoHuskies!]

As a really quick answer to allay your fears, there are people at all cruise centers who will willingly help you from the front of the terminal clear up and into your cabin. Some are people who will help you to the ship and others (could be the same person) clear into your room.  So don't be afraid of this.

I'm sure there are people on this thread who can explain this more fully and better than I, so please chime in to reassure TnTom, everyone.

[TnTom]

11 hours ago, GoHuskies! said:

As a really quick answer to allay your fears, there are people at all cruise centers who will willingly help you from the front of the terminal clear up and into your cabin. Some are people who will help you to the ship and others (could be the same person) clear into your room.  So don't be afraid of this.

I'm sure there are people on this thread who can explain this more fully and better than I, so please chime in to reassure TnTom, everyone.

Thank you for the reassurance! In the back of my mind, I have been thinking I will go ahead and check the carry-on and tip the porter very well- asking if the bag can be marked "Fragile" or somehow specified to handle with care. I am less concerned about mishandling by the porters than I am by airport handlers. I do still have a vivid memory, however, of the end of my NCL Dawn cruise in Tampa... an entire cart of luggage got rolled into Tampa Bay. It was not a pretty sight!

Edited August 15, 2022 by TnTom

[VirginiaIsForCruisers]

I travel by myself most of the time. I don't know if this would work for you, but I have a large carabiner that allows me to drag a suitcase behind my powerchair like this:

 

I also use this product to securely attach my cane to my chair in case I have to walk a little.

 

[Schoifmom]

DH has helped out with luggage while on his scooter before.  His smaller item (in his case, a cpap and a small backpack) go under his legs and he drives the scooter with one hand while pulling/guiding the suitcase with the other.  Not ideal, but it can be done, if necessary.

[TnTom]

On 8/15/2022 at 12:02 PM, VirginiaIsForCruisers said:

I travel by myself most of the time. I don't know if this would work for you, but I have a large carabiner that allows me to drag a suitcase behind my powerchair

That is so innovative!

 

Thank y'all for the input. I do feel better about the embarkation process, now.

[DRS/NC]

I've cruised w/Princess for years; they offer wheelchair escort from the curb (car drop-off) thru embarkation. 

 

I've rented a scooter for my last 5-6 cruises; the scooter is delivered to my cabin. 

 

I often travel solo, so I'm dealing w/my carry-on, a medical device & (often) my rollator (for use w/tenders).

 

My best tip:  don't be afraid to ask for HELP.  I usually end up w/2 ship's stewards helping me to my cabin -- one pushing the wheelchair & one pushing my rollator w/my carry-ons on it.  Don't hesitate to ask.  They'd much rather help than pick you up when you fall trying to DIY.  ENJOY!