Welcome to the sparkling world of accommodations and accessibility aboard the Royal Caribbean Voyager of the Seas! In this second part of our four-part blog series, we will dive into the enchantment of staterooms, the accessibility features onboard for guests with visual, hearing, and mobility impairments, and the fantastic autism-friendly program available for families. So, let’s uncover the magic that awaits!
Embarking on a journey to unveil the magic of staterooms and accessibility features on the Royal Caribbean Voyager of the Seas, our second installment in this four-part blog series delves into the enchanting world of accommodations, designed with a focus on guests with visual, hearing, and mobility impairments. Additionally, we’ll explore the fantastic autism-friendly program tailored for families. Join us as we unveil the extraordinary experiences that await on this incredible voyage!
Before we immerse ourselves in accessibility, let’s share thoughts on an accessible balcony stateroom. With a love for ocean views, the experience of witnessing sunrises and sunsets is unparalleled. Navigating with a wheelchair due to Cerebral Palsy added a layer of complexity, but accessible staterooms eliminated doorsills and lips, ensuring seamless entry. The bathroom featured a ramped threshold, grab bars, a fold-down bench, and lowered amenities, enhancing convenience. Despite a few challenges, the Voyager of the Seas’ commitment to stateroom accessibility remains commendable, with ongoing updates to enrich the experience.
Accessibility extends beyond mobility, covering visual, hearing, dietary, autism and Down Syndrome needs. Here’s a brief overview:
- Portable hearing room kits with visual and tactile alerts
- TTY (Teletypewriter) for in-stateroom communication
- Amplified telephones and Assistive Listening Systems in key areas
- Sign language interpreters and closed-captioning TVs in staterooms
- Welcome for service dogs with dedicated relief areas
- Braille/tactile signage, elevator buttons, and deck numbers
- Large-print menus, Cruise Compass, and qualified readers
- Orientation tours for enhanced orientation
As a certified Autism Travel Specialist, the blog transcends bullet points to share Royal Caribbean’s comprehensive autism-friendly initiative. The program creates a supportive environment, from sensory-friendly films and toys to tailored dietary options and Adventure Ocean staff training. Low-lit, low-volume films encourage freedom of movement, while toy lending offers inclusive experiences. A Cruising Social Story helps families prepare note: that certain activities require a minimum of five children.
The exploration extends beyond staterooms to public areas, ensuring accessibility at every turn. From restroom buttons to accessible stalls, handwashing stations, and pool lifts, the ship is designed with inclusivity in mind. Challenges, such as the narrow chapel stairs, are met with solutions like stairlifts, emphasizing the commitment to the passenger’s experience. It’s important to note that the adults-only area, “The Solarium,” doesn’t have a chairlift to access the pool or whirlpools.
Planning for an accessible cabin or necessary accommodations is crucial to your cruise experience. To secure the best options, promptly inform Royal Caribbean or your travel agent (like me) during the booking process. Accessible staterooms are in high demand and tend to fill quickly, drawing from my experience. Once your accommodation needs are communicated, you will receive a special needs form from the cruise line or travel agent. This form is pivotal in ensuring that your specific requirements are met seamlessly during your cruise. Completing and submitting the form promptly upon receipt is imperative to guarantee a smooth process. Be mindful of the deadlines for special requests, as timely submission enhances the likelihood of securing the desired accommodations. Waiting can lead to limited availability of accessible staterooms or, in some cases, unavailability of the items you may require. Prioritize your inclusive experience by taking this proactive step in the booking process.
We want to hear from you! If you have any questions about accessibility on cruise ships or if you’d like to share your thoughts and experiences, feel free to comment below. Your insights could help fellow travelers plan their dream vacations with confidence. Bon voyage!
