The National Autistic Society estimates that more than 700,000 people in the UK have Autism, which is more than 1 in 100. For many Autistic individuals going to unfamiliar places can be quite daunting and things such as big crowds, loud noises and limited food choices can be extremely anxiety inducing. However, this should not hinder their ability to explore new countries and spend valuable time with loved ones. These experiences are crucial for their social and emotional development, not to mention, no one should feel limited in what they can do because of Autism. Each autistic individual has such a wonderfully unique personality that our only job should be helping them let that shine, especially while they explore the world. One organisation that has the same outlook is Autism on the Seas.
Autism on the Seas
Autism on the Seas is an international organisation that works closely with cruise lines to accommodate adults and families living with children who have a variety of different disabilities, such as Autism, Tourette Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy and many more. They offer Staff Assisted Cruises that include help with typical cruise services as well as providing specialised activities/sessions that allow guests to use onboard facilities but in a more accessible manner. All of the staff are trained professionals including teachers and therapists and have thorough background checks before assisting anyone. Autism on the Seas works with many well known cruise brands to ensure they are accommodating for guests who would feel the benefit of these specific measures. Here are some of the cruises they work with and the things they do to help these holidays feel seamless and unforgettable for everyone involved.
Celebrity Cruises
The first of our autism friendly cruises is Celebrity Cruises. Celebrity Cruises offers autism-friendly interactive initiatives for families including sensory friendly films, toys and dietary menu options to name a few. These sensory friendly films are presented with low lighting and volume and guests are encouraged to move around freely if they need to during the film. They also have a ‘Toy Lending Programme’ where they can provide sensory friendly toys with both entertainment and educational value upon request. Activities are catered to all abilities and can be modified where possible. Celebrity Cruises also provides a Cruising Social Story, both in a written and visual format, to help individuals familiarise themselves with social interactions, situations and concepts that they might encounter while on a cruise.
Royal Caribbean
Another one of the cruises we found that cater for people with Autism is Royal Caribbean. Royal Caribbean provides a variety of autism-friendly products and services to help those travelling with autism or families with autistic children. These include priority check-in, boarding and departure, respite sessions and sensory friendly toys. Another great service they supply is their on-demand exclusive content on ‘The Autism Channel’. This is a television service showing information and resources that have both educational and entertainment value for passengers or professionals on board. You can see a daily look inside the lives of families with children who are autistic and see real life people who may be able to relate to your life.
Disney Cruise Line
Disney Cruise Line is known for their family friendly atmosphere and magical moments on board and they continue to create this magic for passengers with autism too. Their ‘My Disney Cruise Adventure Booklet’ is available for guests to download prior to their trip. This booklet provides information on what to expect on the cruise and also includes fun activities for children to do before and during the cruise. They also have ‘Family Movie Fun Time’ at the Buena Vista Theatre where families can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere watching some of their Disney favourites.
Ask our team
These are just a few of the things these cruise lines do to help autistic individuals make the most of their cruise holiday and they also cater for other individuals who are neurodiverse or have a disability. Individuals with autism should be able to feel comfortable, safe and most importantly have fun while they are travelling on a cruise and it is great to see so many cruise lines helping to create these unforgettable experiences.
If you are thinking of booking your first cruise holiday or have questions about autism friendly cruises, call our helpful cruise experts.
FAQ
Q: Are these the only cruise lines with autism-friendly initiatives?
A: No, there are many other cruise lines with autism-friendly initiatives. From some of our staffs’ personal experiences, MSC were extremely helpful and inclusive.
Q: Should I tell the cruise line prior to the holiday about my child’s needs?
A: You should definitely inform them, the earlier they know, the better they can assist you and your child.
Q: Is wearing a sunflower lanyard helpful?
A: Absolutely! Sunflower lanyards are not only easy for staff and other people to spot but they are universally understood so staff are more likely to reach out to you and see if you need assistance if you haven’t told them prior.
Q: Do any cruises have an area where my child can calm down if they are feeling overwhelmed?
A: Each cruise line has different autism initiatives so this question would be best answered by the cruise line you are thinking of going on and you can also ask for the expert advice of our staff to help you find out.
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