Ports and Tenders

How the ship arrives in port decides how easily you get ashore. Here is what to know before you choose an itinerary.

Docked Ports

In a docked port the ship ties up alongside a pier, and guests walk or roll down a gangway onto the quay. This is by far the easiest arrangement for wheelchair and scooter users. Even so, the gangway angle changes with the tide and with which deck the gangway is attached to, so a slope that is easy in the morning can be steep by afternoon. Crew members are usually on hand to help, and the ship may move the gangway to a different deck to reduce the angle.

Some large ports have long piers or a terminal some distance from the town. Ask whether there is an accessible shuttle, and whether taxis at that port include wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

Choosing an Itinerary

When you compare cruises, look at each port and ask the cruise line or your advisor whether the ship docks or tenders there. A seven-night sailing with six docked ports is a very different trip for a wheelchair user from one with three tender stops. Ports can change from one sailing to the next, so ask again before you travel.

Accessible Shore Excursions

• Excursion descriptions usually include an activity level. Look for tours marked as suitable for guests with limited mobility or wheelchair users.
• Ask whether the vehicle has a lift or ramp, or whether you will need to climb steps and fold your chair.
• Check the terrain: cobblestones, steep old towns and sand can be hard going even on a short walking tour.
• Private, accessible tours booked through specialist local operators can be a good alternative to group tours.
• Always build in plenty of time to return before the all-aboard time.

Planning shore days in detail? Our sister site Shore Activities covers port tours worldwide, and our river companion site Accessible River Cruises covers riverbank docking.