Cruise lines want your cruise experience to be a wonderful and enjoyable for everyone and most U.S.-flagged ships offer quality services to meet your special needs.

Most of the major cruise lines now have a variety of accessible features. Cruising is for everyone and all the new ships have been built to meet standards set by the Americans with Disabilities Act, so there is easy access, including wide elevators. There are usually specific cabins purposely designed for cruisers with special needs, with extra wide doorways, large bathrooms for easily turn arounds and roll-in showers, as well as grab bars.

There are now many ramps throughout the ships for those with special needs. Some may be temporary, which can easily be installed if the cruise line is notified in advance. And it is important to confirm everything with the cruise line at time of booking and not once onboard. Please keep in mind that not all cruise lines are the same, and some are superior for those cruise passengers with special needs.

Carnival Cruise Lines has been recognized for its "Guest Access Services" department and one of its many features is the wheelchair lift transfer feature. This must be requested at least one week prior to sailing. Many ships also have suites with refrigerators for insulin storage.

Another major cruise line, Royal Caribbean International, recently went through a multi-million-dollar access project to upgrade and add features. Some of these include boarding and disembarking assistance; transfers with a specialized van with life (offered by Royal Caribbean); scooter access; hydraulic lifts for pools and a Jaccuzi; accessible guest relations desks and Blackjack tables.

Additionally, the cruise line's ships were designed with spacious corridors to accommodate 180° turns for wheelchairs and most decks are accessible through automatic doors. All public rooms feature entrances with gradual inclines. There are also staterooms ranging from 159-square-feet to 298-square-feet, offering a five-foot turning radius in sleeping areas, bathrooms and sitting areas for easier maneuverability.

It is always a good idea that you check with one of our cruise specialists prior to sailing to find out exactly what your ship features for your special needs. There are several important questions to ask. Do the cabin bathrooms have ramps? Do the balcony suites/cabins have ramps out to the verandah? Can outside decks be reached without assistance? Can you request a dining table that is easily accessible? Are elevators wide enough for your wheelchair and are where are they located? Do the elevators' buttons easily reached?

If you need dialysis or oxygen, you also need-to contact the cruise line well in advance of the cruise. The same applies if you are traveling with a guide/service dog. There are also several shore and land excursions that are available for wheelchair transportation. There are also refrigerators in several cabins for insulin storage.

Whatever your needs, the cruise line will work with you so your cruise is a happy experience.