Agents will have to notify cruise lines of passengers with special requirements following the extension next month of European disabled passenger rights legislation to the cruise sector.
The extension of the rules brings cruise customers embarking within the EU in line with existing legislation covering air and train travel.
Ace, the agent training arm of the Passenger Shipping Association, has issued advice to agents ahead of the new rules coming into force on December 18.
It has also produced an Ace TV video featuring legal advice, will host a live webinar at the end of November and create a training module for members in the Ace Academy.
Ace director Andy Harmer said: “Cruise lines are well used to carrying disabled passengers, but this new legislation is about agents making sure they get the right information to them.
“It’s formalising procedures that are fairly well known and happen most of the time to make sure customers are protected, and agents and operators follow the right procedures.”
Ace said before confirming a booking agents will now have to ask customers a number of questions, and relay the answers to the tour operator.
These include if the passenger needs a specially adapted cabin, assistance in an emergency evacuation, whether they will be bringing any medical equipment on board or if they require a wheelchair.
Customers could be refused boarding if this information is not passed on. Cruise lines are entitled to refuse a booking but the customer must be informed of the reason within five working days.