Nov 2024 HAL cruise on Nieuw Statendam

[Govols9506]

Hello. My name is Jay and I'm deaf. I'm going on a 14 day cruise from Athens to Rome Nov 2-16 2024.. I'm currently talking with HAL about them getting an ASL interpreter for me for the cruise. They initially said they would not provide ASL interpreter for the cruise but if I provided my own, they would provide the terp a free cabin.. the following is an excerpt from HAL's email to me regarding the terp.. ("Upon receipt of documentation showing that the interpreter is certified in American Sign Language (or the equivalent for guests that are not United States citizens), Holland America Line will provide the interpreter with a minimum category inside stateroom. The cost of the interpreter’s cruise fare, Required Cruise Fees and Expenses, Government Taxes and Fees applicable to the stateroom and Crew Appreciation will be waived. However, shore excursions, pre-cruise packages, post-cruise packages and other optional programs or services are the responsibility of the guest or interpreter.  Similarly, air or other transportation arrangements to/from the ship at embarkation and disembarkation are the responsibility of the guest or the interpreter..").. any help would be appreciated!

Edited July 21 by Govols9506

[FOPMan]

HAL is providing a cabin at no charge. You are responsible for paying the interpreter any wages/salary (and, presumably arranging any. necessary work permit or visa), paying the interpreter's travel costs to and from the ship, and the costs of any excursions, spa services, photo services, casino, drinks that are provided at a fee, specialty restaurants, etc.

[Govols9506]

Yes I know about this.. thank you. 

[Govols9506]

Update: I'm trying to find guidance to getting HAL to provide an ASL interpreter for this cruise.. 

[shadow 123]

12 minutes ago, Govols9506 said:

Update: I'm trying to find guidance to getting HAL to provide an ASL interpreter for this cruise.. 

They are providing the accommodations you are providing the interpreter.

[FOPMan]

HAL is relatively consistent in providing supports for individuals with disabilities regarding accessibility accommodations for excursions. Buses used for excursions purchased through HAL in most ports outside the US are not wheelchair accessible. Most other excursions are not wheelchair accessible for one reason or another.

 

I am not aware of a European law that requires the provision of an interpreter.

 

HAL's ships have loops or technology to assist individuals in some environments on each ship. See https://www.hollandamerica.com/en/us/faq/accessibility/what-options-are-available-for-guests-who-are-deaf-or-hard-of-hearing.

 

Are there speech to text tools that you can use when an interpreter is not available?

 

 

[kokopelli-az]

Here is an interesting (although not recent) post about this subject. 

 

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2378032-asl-interpreters-on-cruises-ie-disappointed-with-holland-america/

 

[Govols9506]

Already saw the post about the ASL terps on the HAL cruise.. thank you though for bringing it up.. hopefully someone has a currently relevant direct contact for the company.

Edited July 21 by Govols9506

[FOPMan]

I think HAL's position is pretty clear from the email you referenced and the contents of the website. HAL does not provide 1:1 assistance to accommodate other disabilities, save for a temporary steadying hand as one goes up or down a gangway and assistance carrying a tray or beverage in the Lido.