Poesia Ship- MSC Cruise Line

Lessons I Learned :

While enjoying my Alaska cruise, I traveled all over the ship using my wheelchair. Overall, it was an incredible experience, but I also discovered a few things that mobility travelers may want to keep in mind.As I moved from one part of the ship to another, there were several places where different flooring materials met. Each transition created a BIG bump that my wheelchair had to cross. After going over these bumps many times, the constant jarring eventually loosened the battery cables on my wheelchair. One day my wheelchair suddenly stopped working. Thankfully, I was able to reconnect the battery cables, and the ship’s maintenance team quickly stepped in to help. They were professional, kind, and made sure I was back on my way as soon as possible. I also noticed the transition between the ship and the pier when going ashore. Depending on the port and the tide, there can be a small/big gap or lip between the ship and the gangway. At times I needed assistance getting my wheelchair across. Sometimes crew members were immediately available; other times there was a short wait, or they did not help at all. These experiences didn’t stop me from enjoying my vacation. Instead, they taught me how important accessibility details can be and strengthened my desire to help other travelers prepare for their own journeys. I share this story not to criticize, but to help others travel with confidence and to encourage conversations about making travel more accessible for everyone.

Allow extra time for disembarking and especially embarking back from each different port.
Always communicate with crew members if you need help.
Know how to check your wheelchair battery connections or travel with basic tools if appropriate. 
Confirm excursion accessibility details before you book.
Planning ahead can make travel smoother, safer, and much more enjoyable for everyone.