I am often asked which cruise line and destination are my favorites; 16 years ago I took my first cruise aboard Holland America to the Pacific Northwest. The crew was the happiest people on earth and within a few days they knew my name and pronounced it correctly; quite the feat, with a name like Tarita! I loved the entertainment and the food was endless!! Someone told me that there are two types of people; the ones that become cruise addicts, and the ones that after a few days, want to walk the plank!
I became the one that became a cruise addict, as I unpacked once and visited many places.
Having a disability was never a concern in the early stages of MS; however, 18 years later it is foremost in my decision making. Every cruise that I have taken has been accessible; however, some received a better grade than others’. Holland America, RCCL and Celebrity provided exceptional facilities for us ‘disabled’. I pay very close attention to many things; being a Travel Agent, it was my job to learn the dynamics of cruise lines & destinations.
Alaska is a favorite of mine and I have been a few times! Enjoying fresh, hot steaming pea soup on the deck as I watched the glaciers as they were caving was an amazing experience! The wildlife and discussions with the park ranger was a great quality that set Holland America apart. They are among the very few cruise lines that can visit Glacier Bay National Park’ this is a ‘must see’ destination for those who love nature.
Europe is a romantic destination and Gondola trips in Venice are something that us romance lover’s dream of; however, having MS rendered me with balance issues. I had horrific thoughts of spending time in the water! I was amazed when I formed a relationship with a fabulous accessible service provider, who could assist you in a wheelchair to board the boat! Europe was becoming an accessible romantic destination; and my cruise with RCCL was all that I dreamed of! I have become spoiled and love having a balcony cabin onboard; enjoying a cup of tea in the morning on my verandah was lovely. I have learned in my years in this wonderful industry that one needs to smell a destination, taste a destination to truly envelope themselves; which was not difficult in Paris(the smell of the bakeries still makes my mouth water!)
We all love the feel of sand, the smell of the ocean and a visit to the Mexican Riviera aboard Holland America is a seamless trip; however, there are ports that require a tender* (small boats that take you ashore) Holland America has a wonderful mechanism that lowers you into the tender, and provided that the tides cooperate, is a great system! There is always a helping hand with HAL (Holland America), and as strange as it may sound; it is comforting to feel that they ‘have your back’.
I have visited many cruise ships and each cruise line has its own personality and we will find the best match for your needs. I smile as I learn something new every day in the accessible world of travel that I am enjoying.
It is difficult to choose a favorite cruise line; we each have specific needs and desires based on our age etc. The only thing that I can say with 100% certainty is that travel is inclusive-not exclusive.’
Having a disability was never a concern in the early stages of MS; however, 18 years later it is foremost in my decision making. Every cruise that I have taken has been accessible; however, some received a better grade than others’. Holland America, RCCL and Celebrity provided exceptional facilities for us ‘difabled’. I pay very close attention to many things; being a Travel Agent, it was my job to learn the dynamics of cruise lines & destinations. So, where to?
Tarita’s insights are wonderful! I love reading her travel stories as she gives the disabled a glimpse at something many of us have given up ever enjoying again.
Bon voyage Tarita!! Please continue to write about your experiences. :)
I’m looking for a short trip with my son with physical and intellectual disabilities to try cruising out. We’re in SoCal. Any recommendations?
There are definitely options for you and your son, and LA is a great starting point for many cruises. How long of a trip would you say is best for you two?
I guess for the first time trying it, 3 days would be great? Don’t know the typical short cruise time frames.
I’ve been traveling so sorry for the delay. For at first time cruise, leaving from Los Angeles, why not do cruise to Catalina Island? This would be a short one. Otherwise, I know there are cruises to Mexico that are only a few days too, like LA to Ensenada.