7-Night Disney Cruise to Alaska

The Disney Wonder from the Club Lounge at the Pan Pacific Vancouver

Pan Pacific Vancouver

This was the absolute best way to kick off our cruise. Its central location and the fact that cruisers can take an elevator from the hotel to the cruise terminal make this a great pick for anyone sailing out of Vancouver.

It is important that travelers with accessibility needs book as soon as their dates are available there is only one wheelchair-accessible room on property. It features a roll in shower and other accommodations for those who need them. It is a club-level room, which means guests can access the lounge. Here you will find snacks, drinks, and views of seaplanes taking off from the water. It’s a higher rate, but the added convenience can be worth it for travelers who want easy access to snacks and drinks for the duration of their stay.

Photo op before boarding

Cruise on the Disney Wonder

When we arrived to check in to our cruise, we were told that our room had been flooded the previous night and would be unavailable for us to use, so we would be moved. At first, they offered to move us to a room in the same category, but there were no accessible rooms left. The only room left was a one bedroom concierge suite. I was in shock, and I knew this trip would be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Since this was my first cruise, I was a little hesitant because I had heard that the buffet is very crowded on embarkation day. I was relieved to find out that one of the dining rooms was open for a sit-down lunch each day.

One thing I really appreciated about this cruise was the crew in the dining rooms. I need help cutting food. I was so pleased to see the crew cut up my food once they saw my companion do it for me on the first night. It was a small touch that really did make a difference.

Our first day onboard was a sea day. I really enjoyed getting to explore the ship. I discovered on my first day there were not accessible restrooms on every deck of the ship. It is important to know that these restrooms are family restrooms. I found myself often waiting for families with children to use these restrooms. Several times, I just went back to my stateroom when I needed the restroom.

Welcome to Alaska! From the Canadian border

Excursions

The excursions in Alaska were, of course, incredible. I found that accessibility does depend on the traveler’s ability to transfer.

For example, I did a flightseeing tour in Juneau. They made a ramp available for me to get to the plane, but I had to get up the steps. Depending on the tour provider, staff may be willing to help. I was also able to find a wheelchair-accessible taxi with a ramp included.

In Skagway, I took a private car tour into the Yukon. This is where I saw the amazing wildlife that Alaska has to offer. As long as you are able to transfer into the vehicle, these tours are not difficult to find.

The plane in the water before takeoff

• I highly recommend the up-charge restaurant onboard, Palo. The food is fantastic, and the service matches.

• Watch videos that are available on YouTube on every accessible room category to help you select the one best for you.

• I found that it is best to book excursions directly with suppliers, so that you can communicate your accessible needs and confirm them in writing.

• Ask about embarkation and disembarkation support in advance, since it needs to be arranged ahead of time.

• Check the itinerary for tender ports (small boats to shore). Many cruise lines do not allow passengers with limited mobility to tender, so some stops may be inaccessible.

• Confirm accessible shore excursions in advance, and don’t assume every port with a pier will have them.

• If you travel with medical equipment, request distilled water in advance and confirm outlet compatibility for anything that needs refrigeration or backup power.

• Bring a written summary of your needs to keep with you onboard, in case communication breaks down.

• Have a list of key contacts saved in your phone (you, airline, tour operators, hotel, plus nearby pharmacies or hospitals).

• Keep in mind, not all areas of the ship will be fully accessible, even though public.

• On DCL, the accessible rooms in the Aft (back) of the ship have bigger balconies with beautiful views.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Cruises page.