Wheelchair Cruising – studying the Hawaiian Islands

Cruising is a popular vacation choice for wheelchair users and slow walkers, but some cruise destinations is just more accessible than others. Take Hawaii for example. For starters, it is located in the U.S., so shore tour operators are bound by U.S. access laws. Granted, not all shore excursions are available for wheelchair users; But you will find more accessible transportation options in Hawaii than you will in the Caribbean or Mexico.

Of course it is obvious that as an island state, Hawaii is perfectly suited for cruising. Maybe that's why Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has two NCL America ships stationed there Pride of Aloha and Pride of America.

Pride of Aloha first came into use as the Norwegian Sky in 1999 but was renovated and moved in 2004. It is equipped with six available inside staterooms located near the elevators on deck 8 and 9 The larger Pride of America was launched in 2005 and includes 22 wheelchair-accessible staterooms in various configurations. The available staterooms on both ships feature wide doors, level thresholds and bathrooms with a roll-in shower, a fold-down shower seat, a hand-held shower head, grab bars in the shower and around the toilet and a roll-under sink.

Because these vessels are registered in the U.S., they are not obliged to invite foreign ports (such as Ensenada on Fanning Island) as they cruise the Hawaiian islands. This results in a true all-Hawaii itinerary, with more time on land, including overnight stops at two islands. This is especially good news for wheelchair users and slow walkers, because with more time in port, there is no reason to rush. Passengers can relax and take things in their own pace and still have plenty of time to see the sights.

Both ships sail seven days Hawaii Cruise from Honolulu, and as far as shore excursions go, there are at least one accessible NCL shore excursions in each port. And thanks to NCL's 2004 acquisition of Polynesian Adventure Tours, all available shore excursions feature lift-equipped transportation.

If you want to set on your own, Hilo Hattie has free access shopping shuttles at all ports and wheelchair Getaways customized rental vans available on Maui. Big Island and Oahu addition, the major car rental agencies provide vehicles with hand controls with 48-hour notice.

Here is a port-by-port review of some accessible sightseeing suggestions.

Nawiliwili, Kauai
Waimea Canyon is a must while Kauai. The most accessible place to see the gap is at Waimea Canyon Lookout. Although there are stairs to the top of the lookout, there is also a cement path with many switchbacks, just to the right of the staircase. The path is 38-inches wide, so you need to pay attention to oncoming traffic, but the top you will be rewarded with a fantastic view over the gulf.

Kona, Hawaii
Kona is the only tender port on the route. According to NCL's official policy, wheelchair users use a manual wheelchair to bid, so it's a good port for electric wheelchair users to be on board and enjoy the ship. Those who do venture in the country will find plenty of shops and restaurants around the port, which most have a flat line.

Hilo, Hawaii
Volcanoes National Park is a must-see while in Hilo, and you can do this on your own or on an NCL shore excursions. Your first stop the park must be Kilauea Visitors Center, which includes a series of interpretive exhibits. The Volcano Art Center, located behind the visitor center is also a visit worth.

For a spectacular view, take the earthquake Trail to the left of the hotel. This wide paved trail was a road vehicle until a November 1983 eruption closed the road. At the end of the trail, you will find a few tables together with a fantastic view of the crater.

Kahului, Maui
A good way to really see the island is from the air, and Sunshine Helicopters offers a range of accessible flightseeing tours. Wheelchair users are transferred to a portable lift to board the helicopter, and then transferred to the helicopter seat for the ride. Other Maui attractions that offer good access for wheelchair users include the Maui Ocean Center, Maui Tropical Plantation and Sugar Cane Train.

And if you prefer to have some fun in the water, check out Lahaina Divers or Ron Bass's Kayak Adventures. Lahaina Divers operates a series of dives in their wheelchair friendly Dominion while Ron offers kayak instruction for wheelchair users. Either option provides a fun day on a beautiful island.

About the Author

Candy Harrington covers accessible travel and is the author of 101 Accessible Vacations; Travel Ideas for Wheelers and Slow Walkers. Visit
Accessible Vacations
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Barrier Free Travels
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