Consideration for handicapped passengers is necessary and appropriate, consideration for nonhandicapped passengers is also necessary.

During debarkation and shore excursions utilizing tender boats, handicapped personnel with family members (if they choose to accompany the handicapped person(s)) should be attended to "after" the non-handicapped passengers have deboarded the ship/boat. This particular cruise had an average age of 61 years of age. Wheelchairs, walkers, scooters and walking canes were in an abundance. Scooters were left parked at times in the cabin hallways, next to slot machines, and pool areas creating a traffic hazard should an evacuation be necessary. A handicapped scooter would not pass through the width of a typical cabin doorway.

Is not they're a limited number of handicapped cabins on a ship? Anyone who utilizes a "handicapped" placard on their personal vehicle should be considered handicapped on a cruise ship and treated appropriately. Read more