Independence of the Seas is an amazing ship. There is so much to see and do and it’s very accessible for wheelchair users. I think it would take a fortnight before you knew your way around.
My 17-year-old daughter Tegan and her 18-year-old boyfriend Tom accompanied me on the visit. They loved it. Tom said he would be in the gym all day. Tegan said she would not want to get off the ship to do any excursions as there is so much to do on board.
Both of them were keen on the idea of the cabin above Ben & Jerry’s – occupants get free ice cream for the whole cruise, as the Ben & Jerry model cows obstruct its view over the Royal Promenade.
The activities programme caters for every age group and the choice of food will satisfy even the fussiest eater.
We managed to have a look at one of the accessible cabins. It had a big wow factor and made me think about cancelling my 25th wedding anniversary cruise in November on Ventura. I will make sure I tell disabled travellers about the disabled cabin facilities.
It’s important that disabled agents like me are allowed to see accessible cabins on cruise visits, as these are the rooms our customers would book. I’m sure some able-bodied agents would also be interested – one even stopped me to say how pleased she was that I was there to point out accessibility problems.
I was a bit disappointed that the spa pool, like that of so many other ships, was not accessible. I understand there are hoists on a lot of ships, but they are only for the main pools.
Spa and hydro pools are usually warmer than swimming pools and are perfect for the less mobile, especially those like myself who suffer with rheumatoid arthritis. For most disabled people who cannot do rock climbing, ice skating or bungee jumping, swimming is an activity that we can do.
I understand that a pool hoist could look ugly in comparison to ornate features and surroundings of a spa/hydro pool, but if a little more thought was put into place at the planning stage, then perhaps a hoist could be designed to make it blend in with the surroundings. It would make such a difference because more disabled people would book, bringing with them their able-bodied family and friends.
There are also spa pools on some ships, not mentioning names, that wheelchair users cannot get close to as they have steps on both sides. I was told they couldn’t fit wheelchair ramps next to the pool due to lack of room, but wheelchairs are narrower than steps, so I’m not sure of the logic there.
By Tracy McFall, business proprietor, franchise for Accessible Travel and Leisure, Bristol South
