Take a voyage on the calmer side of life with a river cruise.
It’s easy to see why river cruising has become such a popular holiday choice. This relaxed approach to adventure will have you meandering past magical castles, exploring historical cities, and enjoying the beautiful scenery our riversides have to offer.
Because of this, river cruises are extremely popular in the over 50s. Veterans of life looking to take a step back and simply enjoy the view.
But difficulties with mobility can put a stop to the adventure.
Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be that way. Many river cruise operators have improved their ship, cabin, and excursion offerings to ensure every passenger is included in the fun.
So don’t let limited mobility hold you back.
Discover how to plan the river cruise of a lifetime, no matter what your accessibility needs are.
Making cruising easier
Making your cruising experience easier starts with you.
Limited mobility doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the experiences available, but it does mean you may have to consider alternative solutions for your comfort and safety.
So, when considering your next river cruise, remember the following:
Ask the right questions
Finding the information for accessible cruising solutions isn’t always easy online.
The best option available is to get in touch with the operator directly. They’ll be able to walk you through what’s available and what life on board will be like for you.
You’ll want to find out:
Cabin Size and Configuration
Accessible Bathrooms
Elevators
Gangways
Dining Options
Excursions
But we all know calling operators can be time-consuming and difficult. And so, the team at AG River Cruises will be more than happy to gather all this information for you and make the necessary arrangements on your behalf. Give us a call, and we’ll find out all you need to know.
Plan the trip around your needs, not the other way around
With so many exciting cities and ports just waiting for you to explore, it can be tempting to book now and think about logistics later.
When you have limited mobility, whether that means you use a wheelchair, walking stick, or scooter, you need to plan the trip around your abilities.
It’s all about you.
Choose excursions and cities that are easier to navigate, steering clear of cobbled streets and miles of steps. There’s still plenty to enjoy, so that you won’t be missing out. But keeping this in mind will make your trip more enjoyable.
Advocate for yourself
Last but certainly not least, advocate for yourself.
Unfortunately, our modern world isn’t nearly as easy for those with limited mobility to navigate as it should be.
This means you have to put yourself first when it comes to planning and booking your river cruise adventures. So, use your voice and advocate for your needs.
Which river cruise operators offer limited mobility accessibility?
Now you know what questions you need to ask, let’s dive deeper into what cruise operators can offer you.
Here’s a rundown of the cruise lines that offer accessibility features and what you can expect.
CroisiEurope
Every single one of CroisiEurope’s premium-rated ships has accessible cabins that feature wide doors and excellent equipment for passengers with limited mobility. With elevators that go to every level except the sun deck, passengers should travel with someone who can assist them when the crew can’t.
CroisiEurope encourages passengers with limited mobility to get in touch before booking. This way, they can recommend the best ship and room for your specific needs.
Emerald Waterways
The vessels Emerald Sky andEmerald Star have a wheelchair-accessible cabin. These rooms are right next to reception to ensure easy access, while elevators can get you to every level apart from the sun deck. While only collapsible wheelchairs are allowed onboard, they do offer excursions accessible to those with mobility limitations. Emerald Waterways recommends passengers with additional mobility needs travel with someone who can lend a helping hand.
Scenic
One of the few liners that offer specifically limited mobility suites. These rooms are located right near the reception desk for ease, and all feature wheelchair-accessible doors, a bathtub with grab handles, and a wheel-in shower with stool and rail. Like most other cruise operators, there are elevators that serve all levels apart from the sun deck.
Scenic offers extra excursions that are designed to be accessible for as many guests as possible.
Who is the most accessible cruise operator?
While each of these standard operators offers accessible options, there’s only one cruise liner that goes the extra mile – and that’s Fly Accessible Travel Netherlands Cruises.
They have a fully wheelchair-accessible ship set over 4 levels called the MS Viola that set sail in May 2019. This offering means that everyone can experience the luxury of a river cruise, no matter their mobility needs.
On the Viola, passengers can enjoy a cruise along the rivers of Germany and the Netherlands, enjoying the views from their favourite place on board, thanks to full accessibility no matter where you go.
On a full-board basis, each cabin comes equipped with 2 electric high-low beds and access to 1 large fully adapted bathroom available per 2 cabins.
Wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and walking aids are allowed aboard and available to use throughout the trip. And if you need a little extra help, there’s additional equipment loaded on the ship, including electric hoists and shower chairs.
Once off the ship and ready to explore, Fly Accessible has local tour guides who know the best routes around town for those with limited mobility. That means you get to enjoy the same beautiful scenery and magical locations that everyone else does.
Get ready for adventure
Finding the perfect river cruise when you have limited mobility isn’t always easy.
By advocating for yourself, asking the right questions, and knowing which cruise operators have the best reputation for accessibility, you can climb on board and enjoy a relaxing cruise like everyone else.
But remember, you don’t have to do it alone.
For more help crafting your perfect river cruise, use our handy cruise search tool or get in touch on 01892 578979.