raindropsalways

To my knowledge, all the European countries will allow “helper” free if you show your placard (HC parking permit). Both Ruth and I carried our placards and they only charged us for one entry fee. On one occasion, we were with my cousin and his wife at Kronborg. Commonly referred to as “Hamlet's Castle” (Kronborg is a castle and stronghold in the town of Helsingør, Denmark. Immortalized as Elsinore in William Shakespeare's play Hamlet). My cousin is also disabled and I think the clerk was ready to just give up and let us all in. We ended up with two free and two paid.

Buckingham Palace either let us both in free or charged only one entry. There were a couple places in London that did let us both in free and I do not remember who did. London Tower only charged us for one. That I remember because the clerks said they had never seen two disabled traveling together.

I have not been to that particular Out Door Museum, but have been to a couple others. One charged for one person and the other let us both in free. You may find that some of the areas are not accessible. Regardless, it is definitely worth a visit.

If you are going to spend anytime in Copenhagen, check out the Copenhagen Card. On one trip we got it and it saved a bundle of money. When we went to the airport, there was a few hours on our card so I gave it to airport helper that assisted me for a tip and he was thrilled. https://copenhagencard.com/.

Have a wonderful trip,

Betty

For those of you who have concerns about what others think, please do not worry. Your health is more important than their thoughts. I can walk, that is not an issue, however walking is a form of exertion which creates a serious problem breathing. Thus I use a mobility scooter. Actually, I started out with a two-wheel child's electric scooter with a seat. Loved that little scooter. Got me everyplace. But after my by-pass operation, I got more practical and got a standard small mobility scooter.

The lady I traveled with also required a mobility scooter, and yes we spent many nights in standard cabins. Fortunately, she also carried a small home made step so she could get in and out of the bathroom. And yes, I did help her off the floor a few times. She also had a potentially serious accident in an HC bathroom when her hand / arm slipped between the grab bar and the wall. That time I had to call for help.

Other than sleeping and bathing, we did not spend much time in our cabin. Ruth passed away a few years ago and I dearly miss her. I've been fortunate enough to travel with some other ladies, thus still cruising.

In more recent times, Princess provided a nightly charging for all scooters in standard cabins. They would take the scooter at night and return it in the morning. Since I would require mine in the event of an emergency, I just parked it in the closet and charged it myself. For our up-coming cruise, it will be parked in the closet. I do not know if the nightly charging is a standard practice on Princess. Years ago, on a couple of Celebrity's small ships they had a designated area to park scooters.

Personally, I think it is wonderful that those that can get more enjoyment out of traveling with a mobility scooter is great. However, they should not deprive others that do not have an option. That is the main reason I push enforcing restrictions on the use of the cabins for the disabled. Also, if all cruise lines could offer a charging station to leave the scooters at would relieve much of the problem. Like most of you, I've heard every excuse imaginable for booking HC cabins. Rather than condone the issue, I will leave or change the subject entirely.

At one day and age, I would have agreed with a letter from one's doctor. However, if you do a search on the internet , chances are that you will find a letter that you can purchase. The reason I suggest the placard is due to the fact it is a “legal” document that is more apt to be real, not a product of lies or forged info. Actually, I do travel with a blanket letter regarding my disability and my needs. I mainly use it for airlines (scooter and free medical suitcase). However, that letter, along with a complete list of my prescriptions, was a blessing when I was in an accident. The ship's doctor, doctors in two hospitals and a nursing home thanked me and complimented me for having it. I have the letter up-dated every year, thus it is current. I have not ever had to pay for my letter, however I have heard that many doctors do charge for one.

Since I became handicap, I've had to fill out a form for every cruise I've been on. The form does require that we advise the ship of our special needs. To my recollection, as well as the common needs, they all allow areas for specific needs. Out of the three different forms I recently submitted, one cruise line did write back and asked for more specific info regarding one problem. Do not remember if it was NCL, Carnival or Princess. Regardless it was enlightening.

For any of you that travel to Europe, the placard will usually get your “helper” into the sights free. This is because they do not offer any type of assistance to the disabled. Ruth and I both carried our placards and they only charged one entry which we split. And yes, we did help each other.

1 hour ago, Mtreese30 said:

I'd like to add that I have recently been assigned a cabin for the "guarantee balcony" stateroom that I had booked months ago for the Independence of the Seas - 11/21/19 sailing.  I have been assigned an Accessible stateroom!!?  Neither myself or my husband are in need of this kind of stateroom.  I don't know why Royal Caribbean would assign this room unless to us unless there aren't any other available balcony cabins and RC doesn't want to upgrade us.  I'm apologizing in advance in the event someone is in need of this cabin is unable to book due to availability!   

Thank you for your awareness. We sincerely appreciate it. However, neither you nor Royal Caribbean did anything wrong. After a certain point before the sail date, if the HC cabins have not been booked by a disabled, they go into general inventory, thus available for bookings for all. This protects the ships from having to sail with an empty cabin.

How brave are you? I cannot offer any info regarding a ship's tour, however Oslo is fairly easy to do on your own.

We scooted from the ship to the main metro station and took the metro to Frogner Park station. After visiting the park, we headed back toward town on our own to the Palace. There was a nasty hill getting up to the Palace, so we took it easy going up. The Palace grounds were beautiful, however I do not know if the Palace is open to the public or not. Anyway, we continued east to the other side of town to visit the “Mini” bottle museum. Unfortunately it was closed that day. From that point, we headed south to Akershus Fortress... another hill to climb. Visited the various sights up there and then took the path down the hill to the ship. That was before we had the heavy duty batteries and we carried a spare set. However, ever since I switched to the 15AH, I can get a lot more mileage and no longer carry a spare set. I believe most of the suppliers now offer the 12 V, 15 AH in the conventional gel cell batteries now.

The Scandinavian countries offer accessible public transportation. Denmark did not allow scooters on the buses, regardless their trains are accessible and used for city transportation.

Your ship is small enough that there is a good chance you will dock at Langelinie in Copenhagen. From Langelinie, you can scoot right into town on your own. Of course, if the ship docks at Oceankaj you would probably need transportation out of the port. I do not believe the metro is completed in that area. However, the train just outside the port does offer transportation into town. Hope you are use to cobblestones. You might want to try lunch at Torvehallerne in Copenhagen. Specifically, “fish and chips”. I've enjoyed fish and chips in London a couple times, regardless, Torvehallerne has them beat.

Be sure to take your parking placard with you. Most the sights in Europe and Great Britain will let your “helper” in free at the various sights.

Please verify any “accessible” ship's tour you book. Many times they are just transporting your device and you may be expected to get on and off the bus on your own.

Have a wonderful cruise,

Betty

Yes, I am fully aware of booking early. Ruth and I traveled together over ten years and 40 cruises and yes we booked many cruises when the bookings opened or occasionally we would find a deal we could not resist. Fortunately, if the price dropped before final payment and we brought it to our TA's attention, she would get the better price for us. If we booked a special deal we might end up in a standard cabin, which did happen a few times.. If you think it is tight with a scooter in a standard cabin, try two scooters in a standard cabin. Ruth passed away two days before we were to start one of our five cruise marathons. Yes, we created our own b-2-b on multiple cruises.

My up-coming cruises, Cathy had already booked and I joined her. Fortunately, she was able to switch to an HC cabin on one cruise, but the other one we will be in a standard cabin. Cathy and I have cruised together and she is aware of the challenges. However, for the cruise we booked together, it is not until 2021 and we booked it some months ago through my TA. And yes, we have an HC cabin. Also, when a sale popped up, we got the discount.

And yes, I agree it would be great if there were more accessible cabins on the ships. However, I believe it is on a percentage basis as demanded by ADA. However, if the able bodied did not book them, it would give a few more of us an opportunity to take more cruises in comfort. So in stead of fighting among ourselves, lets do what we can to eliminate the problem.

I believe there have been some statistics regarding the increased numbers of disabled, get the ADA to increase the required number of accessible cabins. May not solve the problem, but sure might help. The space and special accommodations cost the cruise lines money. They will not voluntarily change.

Let's all have a wonderful cruise,

Betty

Jim,

I believe you may truly be handicap, but since it is a “nasty” word you will not admit it. I suggested the placard because it is only issued to people that cannot walk specific distance without possible harm or death. Handrails are a form or aids. I can also walk, I just lack the ability to breath.... with or without hand rails, thus I use a scooter and yes, I have HC plates on my van and my placard in my purse. And I do walk without places or distances I feel safe doing. Being stuck with a mobile device is no fun.

To my knowledge, none of us have any desire to prevent someone who truly needs the accommodations in a HC cabin. Regardless, there are many who abuse the system, thus those of us that need it are deprived. Personally, I do not want to know why a person may need the accommodations, however we need some was to prevent those who do not need said accommodations from depriving those who do require the accommodations. Preferably a legal non-intrusive way. Could you be so kind to share some constructive ideas.

Thanks,

Betty

The route into town and the sidewalks in town are not the best in the world, however it is only about 1 ½ miles into the center of town from the ship. On one trip, as we were headed to Blackbeard's Castle, the police stopped us and told us it was not safe due to crime rate. So we just wandered around town. We have made the trip a number of times.

Have a wonderful cruise,

Betty

42 minutes ago, molly1riv said:

Thanks for the information Betty. Not sure which parade you’re referring to, the only one we ever watch is the Rose Parade.

 

I think my age is showing. Back in the 40s, someplace in the Riverside area there was an annual parade mainly of Arabian horses with riders appropriately dressed. We had stables in the Los Angeles area and my dad attended or participated in most parades. Yes, I have also attended a Rose Parade.

Athens is fairly accessible. When they hosted the Special Olympics, they up-graded many things. I do not know if the elevator for the Acropolis is working or not. It has been a few years since we were there. We took a taxi form the cruise ship into town and visited a number of sights. Then we took the metro back to the harbor. There was a ramp in the first metro car however, we made a running leap into another car before we knew about the ramp and the people assisted us. .

If there are specific places you wish to see, I'd suggest writing (email) to them and ask about accessibility. There has been numerous modifications through out Europe. Over the years I have written to various city Visitors or Tourist offices of a city and they have been very helpful.

Have a wonderful trip,

Betty

2 hours ago, cunnorl said:

 I understand  this post is 2 years old but I cant find anything newer. Is the shuttle from the port of Zeebruges  accessible to someone in a wheelchair?  Thanks for any information.

My memory is not good enough to answer your question. We took the ship's shuttle bus to Blankenberge to catch the train, however I do not remember if it was wheelchair accessible or if they could just transport our scooters. We were planning on taking the tram because it had two wheelchair spaces. The train was very accessible. You could contact the ship's service for the handicap and ask if their shuttle bus is wheelchair accessible. If you require a lift or ramp, please make that clear to them. Also, it appears that they may have a shuttle directly into Bruges now.

I know the trolley was accessible, however there is a distance between it and the terminal. Also, there has been some changes since I was there.

It appears that you may have a few options, https://zeebrugge.net/en/cruise-terminal.php#map I did not notice any “contact” info the cruise terminal, however here is the port's email address: mbz@zeebruggeport.be. I have found the Ports to be very helpful.

Here is another link that looks promising: https://zeebrugge.net/en/cruise-terminal.php

When you get into Bruges, visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood. We had to ring a door below below and they sent an elevator down to us. Here is there email address if you wish any further info: info@holyblood.com

And, if you are traveling with someone, please take your parking placard. Many of the sights in Europe will let your “helper” in free if you have the placard. Sometimes they ask and other times they just let the person with you in free.

If you could get a round trip shuttle direct into Bruges, it would save you hassle and time.

Ruth and I traveled before there was much of anything accessible, thus I sent an abundance of emails. Fortunately, people were very good at responding. If they could not help, most offered suggestions.

Have a wonderful cruise.

Betty

For both Barcelona and Rome, I looked at Google maps and found hotels near where I wanted to go, places I wanted to see or location near public transportation (buses or metro systems). Then I would write to the hotels and ask about accessibility. Seems like in more recent times, most have accessible accommodations. If you just click on the hotel name on the map, it will normally provide link to that hotel.

Barcelona has excellent public transportation and was able to use both buses and metro to see the sights and get to the ship. It the ship is docked at the main terminals, there is a shuttle bus at the port entrance to get you over the bridge and to the ship.

In Rome we found a hotel near the train station since we used the trains to and from the port and used the Ho Ho buses to see the sights.

It has been years since I've been in your area. Do they still have the parade with all the Arabian horses?

Have a wonderful cruise, Betty

Unfortunately, my memory is not as good as it once was and due to computer problems, I dumped all my old trips. Regardless, I do remember a few things. I did check your itinerary and noticed that you will be sailing in and out of Rome.

I would suggest that you spend a few days or at least a couple days in Rome before the cruise. Their ho ho bus has space for one mobility device. You could basically see all of Rome in two or three days. From Rome it is an easy train ride to Civitavecchia (departure port). It was just a short distance from the train station to the shuttle buses to ship. If I recall correctly, Royal Caribbean docks close enough that one can scoot to the ship. With four of you, a private transfer might be less expensive. For two of us, the train was the most economical.

Ruth and I traveled to most of the places before “accessible vehicles” were in, thus we based our plans on anything that could transport our scooters. In Ephesus I found a source that would transport our scooters so we visited a local museum and mountain village. I had visited the Ephesus Archaeological Museum when I was still playing able bodied and it really was not something for mobility scooters. However I do believe that it is very possible modifications may have been made making it accessible. Definitely worth checking out.

Athens if fairly accessible. Ruth and I took a taxi into town and the metro back to the port. We both had been to the Acropolis, thus did not venture up there. I do not know if the elevator is working or not. They built the elevator the year they hosted the Special Olympics. Accessing the metro was a running leap due to the gap. However we were informed that there was a ramp in the first car. People are wonderful everywhere, others on the metro helped us getting in and out.

Naples is fairly accessible. Depending on what you want to see in town, you should be able to either scoot to and from or use public transportation. I've never had and desire to see Pompei, thus no idea of what would be involved.

I think Messina is the port we got rained on; more like a continuous cloud burst that would not stop. We were using the local ho ho bus and gave up and went back to the ship... two mighty wet gals regardless of the fact we both had excellent rain gear.

On an overall basis, we found transportation that could transport our scooters. At the time of our visits, “accessible” vehicles really did not exist. However, from what I have seen in more recent times, any company with an accessible vehicle is rather pricey. We both used the small travel scooters, thus they would fit in car trunks or in a van without too much effort. Yes, we gave driver a couple extra dollars for handling our scooters and still do. My experience has been that most tour companies with the “accessible” vehicles charge an out-rages price. If you can get in and out of a vehicle on your own, I'd suggest just asking if source can transport your scooter. Also, most shuttle buses now offer limited space for mobility devices or at least a few in their fleet that can.

If you are flying out the same day you disembark, there was not any train service directly from Civitavecchia to the Rome airport. We had a very late departure, thus took the train to a small community south of Rome with many sights. Visited all the sights and took the evening train to the airport.

If you decide to book any trains in Italy, please use Trenitalia. https://www.trenitalia.com/en.html. If you are already there, just purchase them at the station. Do not use Rail Europe or any of the American companies. There mark-up beyond real.

Have a wonderful cruise,

Betty

I believe you may have a misunderstood the parking permit. The placard (Badge) is what a person hangs in the window regardless who is driving. It is what a handicap person uses to make his or her trip easier by using a space designated for the handicap. I have the HC plates on my van and keep my placard in my purse so when I am with someone else, the vehicle I'm in can park in the designated parking spaces. Just something a tad bit easier for us.

To my knowledge, all cruise lines offer some form of recognition based on the number of days a person has cruised on their line.

Bloodgem – You are 100% right. There is not any basic HC cabin that will take care of everyone. However, at lease one cruise line has addressed some aspects. They have equipment that can be put in cabins for the death and blind. Also, more and more cruise lines are creating a designated area for mobility devices outside of their cabins. However the extent of services may vary.

It seems like most cruisers have favorite lines for what ever reason. Thus it would be logical that the disabled would start selecting lines that best service their specific needs. Of course, those individuals might have to give up their special diner, cocktails, entertainment or something else. In other words, determine which is more important, their life/health or that special dinner, extra cocktail or show. I have not noticed anyone openly selecting a cruise line that best provides for their specific medical needs. Regardless, I'm sure most of us have determined that some cruises seem to make things more pleasant for us. I definitely prefer one cruise line for their accommodations, however it happens to be a bit more expensive than my budget normally allows. Fortunately, I can occasionally find a deal, thus enjoy one of their cruises in comfort.

.

Yes, I also wear glasses, less apt to run over anyone with my scooter if I see what is in front of me. And just to make things complete, I'll try to remember to put in my hearing aids. Oh, I have to get batteries for the hearing aids. And no, I am not joking. Regardless, all the broken down parts are the original.

Betty

SeaBurd - Why on earth would you assume that those of us on small mobility scooters do not need the other aspects of an accessible cabin? Unfortunately, it seems that the many fail to understand that most of us on mobility scooters are there due to serious medical issues, not necessarily a problem with the legs or inability to walk. If I could breath when I walk and my heart would simmer down on the drum beats, I would not need a mobility scooter to start with. Plus a few other issues require most of the things in the HC cabins. However, in the past 15 years there has been minor improvements and due to the quality of air on the cruise ships, I no longer have to tote a POC along. Regardless, I still have to limit activities, which are becoming less and less every year. In my case, and I would also assume others, the physical exertion prevents me from breathing normal and grasping for air becomes a challenge.

On the realistic side, just how many people do you think enjoy being stuck on a scooter the majority of the day. It is no fun. True, there are some that are using scooters to assist, not necessarily a medical requirement. I do not know if those individuals are booking standard cabins or HC cabins. Regardless, I have a tendency to believe that they are booking the HC cabins on the assumption that is what they should book. Also, if they are experiencing difficulties walking, it seems the grab bars would be very essential.

A logic question. When a person is operating a motor vehicle they have to abide all the local laws and the vehicle has to be on compliance with the local laws of that country. Why wouldn't a ship sailing in that country's waters be compelled to abide by that country's laws? That just does not make any sense.

Gut2407. Please do not even try one of the small mobility scooters. Even down to the 130 – 140 lbs, the small scooters will tip very easily. I can guarantee you that I would not be able to pick you up.

Betty

Thanks you for the address. That will be a great help.

You have a very valid point about the small scooters. However, many of the people that use small mobility scooters is because of another more serious medical condition. In my case, my legs work, my lungs is the problem, plus a few other contributing issues. I never leave home without inhalers and nitro. And yes, BP is also a serious issue for me, along with breathing. I also travel with proper equipment to check my BP.

Ruth had Charcot-Marie-Tooth. All her physical movements were limited. We struggled more than once getting her up off the floor.

Both our scooters were the small ones for our own convenience. And yes, we sailed in many standard cabins because no accessible available. Not only is the doorway small, the cabin is small and where do you park a scooter? Two scooters in some accessible cabins can even be tight; very tight. Even the shower is cramped with a shower stool in a standard cabin. The riser does not make much of an impact on overall space. We made it work. Fortunately, neither of us spent much time in the cabin. We wanted to see the world, the cabin a place to sleep and bathe.

For my up-coming cruises, I submitted my forms for Carnival and Princess in June and both required signature, not my doctor's signature and it only covers my needs. There is nothing on the form that indicates what is physically wrong with me. For my NCL cruise in 2021, I also submitted my form for my needs in July, once again, signature is required and I only had to indicate my needs. On the bottom of all the forms, it indicates signature required. Nothing even suggest doctor's signature. Basically the exact same forms I've been submitting for over ten years.

I do not remember where I read about the ADA applying to all ships sailing from U.S. ports. The only comments I heard about NCL's ship is the fact that they have to pay the US minimum wages. Take notice sometime of the various European lines that offer transatlantic cruises; excluding Cunard. Most of those ships do not dock in the US. Yes, there are a few ships in those lines that do dock at US ports occasionally.

Really doubt that it would matter if a doctor fills it out as long as he or she did not include your illness.... the “personal” information. The letter I travel with from my doctor is for my safety As I stated in another post, I carry a letter signed by my doctor at all times. It is basically for my own protection and has served me well. I had an emergency and was not exactly coherent at the time. That letter covered the major issues and aided all the doctors I saw along the way.

Cruises are not the only place this attitude appears.

https://www.yahoo.com/news/kristen-walbieser-wheelchair-stands-up-disney-world-115843330.html

And in regards to disabled abusing the system.  The numbers there are not in the masses.  It is very rare, regardless it should not happen.  Regardless, the point I'm attempting is the fact that it is not the major problem plus they would not have to do it if the major problem was stopped.

2 hours ago, lenquixote66 said:

I am disabled. I actually have 5 different medical problems any of which qualify me for needing an accessible cabin . I cannot cruise in a regular cabin.

In my opinion it should be mandatory for the cruise line to require a letter signed by a medical doctor stating that the person is disabled and the nature of the disability.

 

Unfortunately many people who have elite status on cruise lines are given accessible cabins.This was told to me by an employee of a cruise line.

I agree with you, however, that was declared a “no no” by the handicap many years ago. Their logic was that such a letter included “personal” information that was none of the ship's business. And as I understand, those individual won their quest to prevent such a letter. In my personal opinion, I think they were crazy. The more people that know my problems, the safer I am. I travel with a letter indicating my problems and my needs and my doctor up-dates it every year, thus kept current along with a complete list of my prescriptions.

In my particular case, I did have an accident on a cruise where I broke my hip and was sent to Grenada General Hospital. The doctor on the ship, the doctor at Grenada Hospital, the doctor at Broward Hospital (Fort Lauderdale) and the doctor at the nursing home in Minneapolis all thanked and complimented me on my documentation. Also, I do always have travel insurance. NOTE: There is a private hospital on Grenada that the ships normally send cruisers to. However, one of the ship's tours was involved in an accident and all those injured cruisers ended up filling that hospital.

In addition, the problems they are having with support animals has proven that various doctors will falsify letters, whereas, the majority of doctors will not falsify government documents. That is the reason I suggested using the HC parking permit. At present, I think there is just too many that would preferred there was no way to prove handicap.

For economic purposes, the cruise lines will probably continue to provide the minimum number of cabins possible as long as possible. As long as they keep filling the ships, there is no need to add the additional cost and decrease the number of cabins by increasing the size of a few. Yes, it is very disheartening, but it is business and the profits is what the cruise lines are looking at..

Actually, it sounds like a few that posted on this thread are more interested in preventing the ship from being able to verify need. Regardless, I'm doing what I think will help. As a random individual, I doubt that I will accomplish anything, but at least I've tried. Regardless, I am still open to feasible suggestions that are aimed at stopping the non-disabled. The few disabled that abuse the system are not the problem.

I'm not sure as to the time element, however at a specific number of days before the cruise departure date, any cabins for the disabled not booked are released into general bookings. I really doubt that the cruise lines would violate the rules by giving to the elite before that date.

2 hours ago, Buckimion said:

Reminds me of the biddy who wanted to berate me as I was LEAVING a handicapped space. She only stopped when I swung my legs out for her and showed her my prosthetics. Then she still had the nerve to sniff that she had it worse. (Without being specific.)

 

Yes, I can move with extreme difficulty, but I don't even want to think about falling down.

I think it is pretty much a disaster when any of us fall. Please do your best to avoid falling. Yes, I know that we do not always have control of things regardless of how hard we try. However, please take care.

I'm beginning to think you are one of the able bodied individuals attempting to prevent anyone from coming up with an option that would make it difficult for the able bodied to book the accessible cabins. You totally ignore the word “or” depending on what excuse you want to use.

As I stated, I will do what I think will help and I hope others will also do what they think will help.

We all know that the cabins are used by able bodied. Yes there are a few disabled that abuse the system, however when the able bodied are restricted there would no longer be the need for the disabled to book multiple cruises in hopes of getting one.

I wish each and every disabled person is able to book the cabin of their dreams.  As long as I can get the shower stool , I'll be able to cruise.  A riser for the toilet would also help, regardless, I can struggle through without one if need be.  A few more bruises on the bathroom floor are not going to be a major issue.

To all those sailing on the high seas in the future, have a wonderful cruise. 

Betty

What it boils down to is the apparent fact that the disabled do not want to provide proof they are disabled. Too many in the U.S. think it is something disgraceful.

The passes for our local mobility service are in two categories, temporary and permanent and even the permanent have to be renewed after so many years. In other words, it is controlled by a government operation. And yes, we pay for the service. A very modest amount per ride, however I would assume it covers all operational cost.

In addition, the new format for our state driver's license also includes info that we are disabled. However I do not know if all states incorporate that information.

And yes, if there are two people laying on the ground with injuries, I will help the one whose injuries are apt to result in death before the other person. If you feel that is wrong, I'm sorry, that is how I feel. And in the state I live in, the form for disabled parking specifically indicates that walking beyond a specific distance could result in injury or death.

And yes, there will always be those that book multiple cabins, and yes when they release the ones they do not want usually go into general bookings. However if you have a TA that specializes in booking the disabled, they know enough to ask about cabins that may have gone to general bookings. Even though I had a specific cabin number, it can be checked by anyone if they just ask by cabin numbers. In stead of asking for a particular category, ask about the availability of the cabins by number in the category seeking. Further more, this is a minor issue. The able bodied should not be booking the cabins designated for the disabled. So instead of making life more difficult for the disabled, how about making it more difficult for the able bodied to book the cabins.

At this point, I'll do my thing hoping I can help the disabled. I hope the rest of you do what ever you think will eliminate the problem.

SeaBurd - Thank you for understanding.  My disability is also related to the heart plus lungs.  Short showers are fine, but it takes me a while to get all the spots, thus that shower stool is definitely in need as well as the grab bars.

Do you really think the cruise companies could get away with charging everyone a non-refundable deposit. And there is absolutely no way they could charge a specific group a non-refundable deposit. That would be discrimination. Absolute No, No.

Guess I must have misunderstood whatever your logic may be. The able bodied would still be able to book them. That would not help anyone. If they are going to lie about their needs, a little thing like nonrefundable deposit would not stop them from booking. Yes, it would deter the disabled that book multiple cruises in an effort to have which ever one the decide on would probably change their ways, but they are not the major problem. If the able bodied would not abuse the system to start with, the disabled that feel they are forced to book multiple to be assured of getting one probably would not have to.

We all know that many of the cabins are booked by the able bodied strictly for the extra space plus there are those that feel they are disabled due to some limited abilities.

I do not have any idea as to why you have to book nonrefundable deposits. My cousin in Denmark never mentioned anything about nonrefundable deposit for her cruises. And my disabled cousin there wrote to one of the River cruise lines and told them what they had to do to make the cruises available to the disabled. However, his concern was just accessing the boats. As far as I know, there is not any nonrefundable deposits for any cruises in the U.S..

Yes, I do believe that some disabilities take presidence over others. I believe those classified as disabled by a doctor are the ones that have life threatening issues, thus they take priority over inconveniences. That is the reason I recommend that those who are experiencing hardships talk to their doctor and fully discuss their situation. If they are truly disabled, their doctor will encourage them to get the disabled status. As far as the placard, there is absolutely no reason to carry it on a cruise. As I indicated, I would send a “copy” of mine to the cruise line. Ruth and I always carried ours because we included so many land trips where we would use it. Never even considered showing it to anyone on the cruise. All the info is handled when one books the cabin, not after boarding the ship. With one exception. If the cruise line determines that a non disabled is in an accessible cabin, they may move them into a standard cabin of the same category and give that accessible cabin to a disabled person. It does not happen often, but it has happened. Also, anyone that is thinking up excuses not to approach the cruise lines about proof sort of causes others to wonder about that person's needs. Someplace in all my ranting, I openly asked for suggestions on how to control the problem. If you have some feasible suggestions, please share. I believe all of us are hoping to resolve the problems. Attacking each other is not the answer. If you have a solution, please share it. If anyone does not wish to contribute anything toward resolving the problem, that is entirely up to them. Regardless, they should not be so ready to put down anyone that is willing to make an effort to resolve the problem.

5 hours ago, gadaboutgal said:

Does anyone reasonably think the cruise lines care enough to do this.  They really have enough "regular" type cruisers and are not in need of money from handicapped persons.  They do not provide the minimum HDC cabins that they do out of concern or the goodness of their hearts.  It's a business and the extra space needed is a drain on their allocatable space.  And that would also be true for any "scooter parking lots."  Just not going to happen!

You are 100% right. Thus our only slim chance of getting the accessible cabins in a reasonable booking time element would be something that could verify a person is disabled. As I previously stated, it is unlikely that a real doctor would sign a government form if not a true fact. If for any reason a doctor is not willing to submit the applicable forms for the HC parking, maybe that individual should re-evaluate his or her condition. All businesses are stuck with ADA requirements, thus it is not just the cruise lines. If all the businesses had to accommodate each and every one's hardships no body would be able to afford much of anything. The things that makes it possible for the disabled to travel are costly to the sources. They are not volunteer services.

Being disabled is not a nasty word or a lessor citizen. Also, just because someone is physically disabled, that does not mean there is anything wrong with their minds or that they are also mentally disabled. Unfortunately, those are aspects that prevent many truly disabled people from applying for anything suggesting they are disabled.

I truly think if the disabled stuck together and pushed for using the “parking permit” as proof, we would have a chance. Yes, someone somewhere would probably abuse it also. Regardless, there is less chance of forged parking permits than a letter from a doctor.

I have not yet found a “mailing” address for ADA. Regardless, I'm re-submitting my “special needs” forms for my up-coming cruises with a copy of my placard and will ask the respective departments to forward a copy of my letter to headquarters. I am current booked on Carnival, NCL, and Princess. I'm assuming that the letter to Princess will also end up in Carnival's hands. I am also looking at a Royal Caribbean cruise and if it materializes, I will do the same with them. When I can find a mailing address for ADA, I will also write to them. If anyone else is willing to send similar comments, it would probably help. Also, if anyone is aware of a mailing address (US mail or Email) for ADA, please share it. A form letter from multiple people would not offer as much of an impression as a distinct letter for each and every one.

Another consideration for the future would be one's driver's license.. However, I'm fairly positive that there are many that would feel a driver's license releases too much personal info. I am assuming that all states now incorporate some HC info on their driver's license. Even though Minnesota has incorporated codes for applicable info, I have not renewed my license since the changes have been made. From what I understand, our new license is now in conformance with a new federal ID format, thus all states should be similar. I do not think that the “Real ID necessarily includes HC info, however Minnesota's does. If all states do, it would be a perfect piece of identification. For those that feel it might be too personal, well you would have to decide which is more important, your life of the fact someone knows which state you live in.

For those of you that think paperwork is no big deal, I've got news for you. I had a life threatening situation on board a plane once. I showed them my paperwork signed by my doctor at the VA. However, they refused to honor it because it was on another airline's form. At that point, all I wanted to do was see my family before I died. Fortunately, I had access to enough inhalers that I survived. Regardless, after that experience, my doctor and I created a travel letter covering my condition and my needs and as a veteran, it is on VA (U.S. Government) letterhead. Every time an airline tells me it is not on their form, I simply ask them if they are not going to recognize the U.S. True, that is an advantage that many of you may not have. It has benefited me numerous times. One airline made a copy of both my letter and list of prescriptions and added a notation to my account. Thus I only have to show my ticket now.

For those of you that have limited abilities, but are not disabled, I do not have any answers. Other than a shower stool I am not aware of any regular portable items standard on cruise ships, At one time, I cruised on a ship that did offer toilet seat riser, but that may not be standard. Something like that would be a nuisance factor, regardless, a person could fairly easily travel with one. Life is life, nothing to be embarrassed about. Likewise, a little 2 inch step stool can be transported which would fit in most people's luggage. Grab bars... they probably went out with the stabilizers. Due to cost factors, the cruise lines are reluctant to include in standard rooms. Would a cane be doable for many of you... or have you even considered it? I used a cane for a couple years and it helped even though my problem is related to breathing.

I am open to suggestions on how to resolve the problem. I believe we all know the issues, we need to join together to resolve the problem. Those of you that do not consider yourselves handicap because of one issue should discuss the problem with your doctor. If that issue is life threatening or could cause you serious harm, you are disabled; admit it. You are not the first and I doubt that you will be the last to deny being disabled. I'm sure most of us have been there and done that.

Tomorrow I will devote myself to resubmitting my special needs forms to all three cruises. As well s my DD 214, I think my TA also has all my medical info on file. She can answer just about any questions regarding my disability. Non related to cruising, I was also to share some info regarding by-pass surgery that helped her son.