Certain ship transfer operations (i.e. during tendering and at the gangways) may not be fully accessible to wheelchairs or scooters. When a ship is unable to dock, guests are taken ashore on smaller boats called tenders. Some guests with limited mobility may find it difficult to embark or disembark the ship at certain times while at dock or while tendering due to steep gangways and steps, particularly during low or high tide.
For persons not capable of walking on their own, the use of a wheelchair will be the primary mobility assistance aid for getting on and off the ship. In some situations, mobility assistance will involve carrying guests. Situations may occur in which mobility-impaired guests may not be able to go ashore at the time they desire or are unable to go ashore at all in certain ports. For the safety of all concerned, the Captain shall make the final determination regarding the carrying of mobility-impaired guests and their mobility assistance device (wheelchair, scooter, walker, etc.), taking into account all appropriate matters including, but not limited to, weather conditions, ship's location, weight of the guest, etc. The Captain will try to reasonably accommodate guest needs.
Guests must also be aware that certain third party transfer and shore excursion facilities may not be fully accessible to guests with disabilities. Although they endeavor to make sure those other companies providing transfers and shore excursions comply with legal requirements, Holland America cannot guarantee all of these companies are able to provide facilities that are accessible to persons with disabilities. For detailed, up-to-date information on accessibility issues involving shore excursions, Holland America strongly recommends visiting the Shore Excursion Office on board.
In limited situations (either on board or ashore), where an individual with a disability would be unable to satisfy certain specified safety and other criteria, even when provided with appropriate auxiliary aids and services, Holland America may find it necessary to ask the individual to make alternative travel arrangements. Guests who are unable to care for their basic needs (e.g. dressing, eating and attending safety drills) MUST have a capable traveling companion. It is essential that we be notified of any special medical, physical or other requirements you may have as soon as possible including whether you intend to bring a scooter with you.
Due to a limited number of wheelchairs on board, guests who require the use of a wheelchair should plan to bring their own rather than relying on the availability of Holland America's equipment. Wheelchairs and scooters must be stored inside the cabin. Holland America's wheelchairs are for onboard use only and are not allowed off the ship.
|
|
You are also welcome, however, to bring your own Oxygen and/or Oxygen equipment from your home. Please have your AlaskaCruises.com Cruise Specialist contact the Access & Compliance Department prior to sailing if you will require Oxygen while on your cruise.
If you require additional information on the ship's facilities or ability to accommodate your needs, or if you have any further questions, please contact your AlaskaCruises.com Cruise Specialist.
AlaskaCruises is located in Scottsdale, Arizona. You may book online or contact us directly. Our business hours and toll-free phone numbers from the following countries are listed below:
Please note that all prices on our website are in US dollars, and travel purchases must be completed with a major credit card.Unless you are considering one of our custom cruise itineraries, certain cruise lines prohibit US-based travel agencies from selling to non-US residents.
All passengers regardless of their home country, citizenship or country of residency are responsible for obtaining the proper documentation for travel. This includes passports and visas for any country they may visit during their trip.
Free Alaska Planning Guide
