I recently had the chance to sail with MSC cruise lines. It was a wonderful experience, and I learned a lot about the brand, the ships, and what I need to do for my next sailing. I have become a huge fan of cruising over the years. For me, it’s a great way to explore different places while living with a mobility struggle. Cruising also allows me to enjoy fun activities in a safe environment that allows me free range to move.
With MSC it was the first time I had sailed with them on such a large ship. There was a lot to see, do, and learned. I took it all in and with the knowledge I gained; I wanted to share it with you so you could enjoy the beautiful shops that MSC has to offer.
Booking an MSC Crusie
Item 1
Find a travel agent that understands you and your family. I tell you this not just because I’m a travel agent but because before becoming one I used one for every trip I took. My travel agent took the stress out of planning and always made sure I had the things I needed like accessible rooms and scooters to get around with. Your travel agent is your go-to person. They will do all the heavy lifting like finding the best discounts and making sure everything is paid on time and they can help to make sure things are wheelchair accessible.
Item 2
Book all excursions, drink packages, and spa treatments in advance. Booking these in advance not only helps with the budget but it’s a great time to make choices that fit your family and needs. MSC offers so many options for excursions and more that there is something for everyone. Also, note that booking in advance for an excursion will allow you to determine if you are capable of doing the excursion and it allows for the excursion team to make sure you have the necessary items to enjoy it such as transportation that is accessible.
Item 3
I was very impressed with how well the ship was accessible to everyone however with many places and ships there are some places that are not 100% accessible. For, MSC the Broadway theater is not 100% handicap accessible. To make your way down to the middle and front seating, you must go downstairs without railings for help. Along, with the theater the water park is not 100% accessible. You can reach the water park area via a ramp but the slides require you to climb stairs as do most water slides.
Item 4
Go enjoy the private island of Ocean Cay. This island is pure paradise. The best part is they have trams that will take you to some parts of the island so getting around is easy. There are some places that you will need to walk to but with cement paths walking is easy. Yes, it’s hot and yes you will get tired but trust me when I say the walk and the beauty of this island is worth it. For me, I found a nice shady area to sit and enjoy the views while also enjoying a great book.
Item 5
This is a tip I discovered after boarding the ship. MSC ships are huge. There is a lot of walking involved. My biggest tip is to rent yourself a wheelchair or an ECV. Yes, you can get an ECV for cruising. They are not just for theme parks. Having a wheelchair or ECV to help when you get tired makes enjoying the ship so much nicer. Walk when you can and when you are tired use your wheelchair to ECV.
Have you ever sailed with MSC? What are some tips you can share about making your time on board less stressful dn more fun?
I am an independent travel agent with Academy Travel a Diamond agency. I am proud to be part of such a wonderful team of agents. I would love to be your agent for future trips. If you would like to get a no-obligation quote for one or more trips CLICK HERE!! Not sure if you are ready to travel how about joining my email list for all the latest happenings CLICK HERE!!
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