Handicap must PAY for priority boarding???

[Raring to go]

My mother uses a walker. When we went out of New Orleans they escorted her inside as soon as they saw her. I stood in line, and met her inside. As soon as we came off the elevator upstairs, someone came over and escorted us to the priority boarding line. I certainly didn't expect it, but I did't turn it down. The same thing happened on our October cruise out of Galveston (and I had purchased purchased FTTF). We still used FTTF to access the cabin early.

 

 

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[Thechesapeakecruiser]

My husband used a walker on our last cruise, and we would have been very content to wait in line; however, as soon as we were in sight of a person at the check-in desk, she motioned for us to come ahead of everyone. We were so impressed. Upon debarkation the cruise and port personnel were also very solicitous of his needs.

 

This was in Charleston.

 

Kathy

 

The same thing happened to us. My wife and I sailed on the Glory out of Norfolk in May of 2014. She was walking with a cane (pre-knee replacement). We hadn't even though about handicapped access, but when one of the departure lounge workers saw her limping a little bit with the cane, they took our party of 6 to the head of the line and let us on well before our boarding group.

[CrusinCyndi]

In Baltimore, the wheelchairs don't have to take the ramp. The go in the "employee" entrance & take the elevator up instead.

 

Same thing happens in Charleston...it was a very nice experience to have happen to us

[Sarah@Sea]

I think they will help you all they can at regular boarding time. You want priority, its gonna cost you.....and me....and everyone else.

 

And I think during regular boarding they might take wheelchair ahead of others waiting at that time, sometimes it's so staff helping can get back to help others. But again it's regular assistance during regular boarding not priority boarding.

 

Also if handicap need boarded first, who's to say all are going to be at port at the same time?

 

I have to say on RCL out of Canaveral I was surprised the porter could only push my Mom so far into the line, then I had to push her and manage our carry-on until we got all checked in, only then did an RCL employee wheel her...and I have my own medical issues, not that I need a wheelchair but what if we both did? I will be better prepared the next time I cruise with Mom...oh and we rented a scooter but it's left in room so still had to get from terminal to cabin to get scooter.

[Sarah@Sea]

Since I live in a house with a spouse using walking aids, I can answer this, but you might not like the answer. Being handicapped is unfortunate, but does not mean one should get special treatment. Plus, most of the special treatment is only perceived as special. Example. If you do arrive at the port early, you will get on early. However, you still need to walk from your seat up the ramp, and on the ship. Going in front of the line, does not change this process. It also does not help the process. The walk is still the same. So jumping to the front of the line, does not change the process. It also does not make it easier. Once on the ship, you still need to walk the ship. What happens then? Same issue happens at a mall. I always find it amusing how some complain of the lack of handicap parking spaces, but yet, are going to a mall where they are walking around. The space offers very little help for anyone that walks. Same thing at Disney. Handicap spaces at the beginning of each roll, but yet you are going to Disney and will be out all day. There is no entitlement for being handicap, especially, when there is no real benefit achieved.

 

You will have access to elevators etc if needed. However line jumping is not on the list. Sorry

 

Yes, that's right we handicap are suppose to stay at home and do nothing. How do you know if the handicap is WALKING around the mall? Verses getting a wheelchair out of the back of the vehicle and using it? Or just needing to go to the store nearest that entrance? And Disney also has rental scooters and wheelchairs, or the fact that yes I'm going to be walking around Disney I need my energy for THAT and I'll be stopping at a lot of benches during the day, is it so bad I need to park near the gate?

 

I'll gladly trade my handicap decal and my "entitlement" to not have to live everyday inside this disabled body. Thank you!

[Mysticks1]

I am with the others that don't understand why you would think you would get priority boarding without paying for it like everyone else either by getting a suite or purchasing FTTF. I do agree that they should provide a wheelchair if needed and help with that but I don't think the disability that you mentioned should prevent you from waiting in the lines.

Edited February 14, 2014 by Mysticks1

[BeachChik]

Very well said. I could not have said it better. Whether in a wheelchair, mobility scooter, walker, crutches or sick and cannot take being overheated, the Carnival staff will bring you to the Handicap Check in. On our last 5 cruises my wife, (who is on a Mobility Scooter due to Pre-Surgery and Post Surgery complications of Hip Replacement) were escorted to the Handicap Line (which was also the FTTF line) and nobody was there checking in, so we got served immediately. Then we were escorted to the Platinum boarding/FTTF people and boarded well before most of them. To answer the OP question, just show up at the terminal and you will be taken care of very well. You people who say "why should they go before anyone else" should walk in my shoes (taking care of my wife) or ride in my Wife's wheelchair or mobility scooter before they write negative comments about this subject. The same could be said about you being Rude to the Handicapped while on the cruise. I could write a book on it with just 42 days of cruising in the past 5 years. Enough Said. Flame me if you please....

 

"Walk a mile in your shoes"... You assume that because people don't agree with you or disagree with disabled boarding early that they don't understand or haven't experienced either being disabled themselves or having a family member that is disabled.

 

You should never assume.

Edited February 14, 2014 by BeachChik

[The4Cruisers]

Another option for the handicapped cruisers would be to arrive at the port between 1 & 3 PM. This will allow the crowds to check in and board the ship beforehand so you'll be able to check in and get right onboard without any hassles.

 

Bonus - You can even pull into the handicap parking spots right up close to the door too!

[Love Cruising With My Hon]

"Walk a mile in your shoes"... You assume that because people don't agree with you or disagree with disabled boarding early that they don't understand or haven't experienced either being disabled themselves or having a family member that is disabled.

 

You should never assume.

 

Never said Assumed. What is wrong with you folks? Carnival treats the handicapped along with non-handicapped people with respect. The OP asked a simple question and most answered that they will be taken care of without paying extra.

[firemanbobswife]

The same could be said about you being Rude to the Handicapped while on the cruise.

 

 

Hang on just a minute there, buddy. Are you saying that those of us that don't agree with you are rude to HC people?! Let me tell you something. You have no idea who you're talking to. I go out of my way to help them whether they are in a wheelchair, using a walker, cane, scooter, or what have you. Maybe it's my caring nature. Maybe that's why I became a nurse.

 

In January I even helped out this adorable older couple that spoke mostly Spanish that couldn't find the dining room on the first night. I myself was running late, however, I personally escorted them to the forward Dining Room after figuring out what they needed by going WAY back to my HS Spanish classes and communicating the best I could. She had a walker.

 

I can't tell you how many times I have held elevators for people in scooters, or pushed people up the gangway when it was too steep that their husband/wife couldn't do it. Not to mention how many other times that I have almost had my toes smashed by people in scooters whipping by acting like they are part of the Daytona 500. Some of those people are more rude than I could ever think of being. Maybe they are mad at the world because they aren't able to move around like they used to, or they are bitter at the situation they find themselves in. Who knows. But before you go making statements that able bodied people are rude to the mobility challenged, you better take a step back. People tend to mirror the emotions of those around them.

[elliair]

For those that do think it's "unfair", what if the shoe was on the other foot

 

If the shoe were on the other foot, I wouldn't expect to go before everyone else. I would wait my turn. I wouldn't want people looking at me and saying to themselves "I bet she isn't handicapped." Because I have thought those thoughts when I see the whole family tagging behind the wheel chair just to get on early. I've even seen the person in the wheel chair dancing. I believe waiting your turns stops abuse of the system.

[Disconnections]

Since I live in a house with a spouse using walking aids, I can answer this, but you might not like the answer. Being handicapped is unfortunate, but does not mean one should get special treatment. Plus, most of the special treatment is only perceived as special. Example. If you do arrive at the port early, you will get on early. However, you still need to walk from your seat up the ramp, and on the ship. Going in front of the line, does not change this process. It also does not help the process. The walk is still the same. So jumping to the front of the line, does not change the process. It also does not make it easier. Once on the ship, you still need to walk the ship. What happens then? Same issue happens at a mall. I always find it amusing how some complain of the lack of handicap parking spaces, but yet, are going to a mall where they are walking around. The space offers very little help for anyone that walks. Same thing at Disney. Handicap spaces at the beginning of each roll, but yet you are going to Disney and will be out all day. There is no entitlement for being handicap, especially, when there is no real benefit achieved.

 

You will have access to elevators etc if needed. However line jumping is not on the list. Sorry

 

Disney doesn't have handicap parking spots in their guest parking lots at any of their theme parks. They used to, but slowly removed them five years ago starting with Animal Kingdom. They are now called medical parking spots and any guest requesting medical parking is free to park there, with or without a handicap parking placard. They still have handicap spaces in their cast parking lots at Hollywood Studios, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, Magic Kingdom West Clock for MK Costuming/MK Cast Parking/Cast Connection and Disney University. Downtown Disney is the only guest lot that still offers handicap parking. All valet at Disney, with the exception of Downtown Disney, offers complimentary valet for handicap guests.

Edited February 14, 2014 by Disconnections

[poison7fl]

Have you been on a flight lately? EVERYONE has a wheelchair or is disabled at boarding.... but watch the when it's time to disembark... The abuse on Carnival would be just as MASSIVE...

 

No, Handicap should not get priority boarding. Yes, they should get help or a wheelchair, but priority.... no.

Edited February 14, 2014 by poison7fl

[FireEater]

My wife has used a scooter on our last 4 cruises. Each time, not only her, but all in the group was escorted to the front of line and we waited for the next available agent to check us in. Never paid a dime more. Since she has to take the scooter, we also get free parking.

 

So I would say yes it does still happen for free on any cruise line we have traveled on.

 

Last cruise was on RCC last weekend.

[misguidedangel]

If I were you I would call back and ask for special needs and let them know if your situation. They generally board disabled, people with mobility issues (wheelchairs, walkers, scooters), and Priority at the same time. They do this cuz the want boarding to go fast, so the first group if it takes a few minutes longer, no worries.....

 

Every cruise I have gone on there are people with mobility issues and wheelchair and they go on with the first group after weddings...He can be boarded with a wheelchair, so ask about that...

[Sarah@Sea]

Have you been on a flight lately? EVERYONE has a wheelchair or is disabled at boarding.... but watch the when it's time to disembark... The abuse on Carnival would be just as MASSIVE...

 

No, Handicap should not get priority boarding. Yes, they should get help or a wheelchair, but priority.... no.

 

Yes I fly often and while wheelchair passengers are placed on first, they also have to wait and be taken off the plane last. Families with small children are also allowed to board early. On that note, pregnant/family parking is also often offered at malls.

 

My concern with some replies here is they did not simply say, no you do not get priority boarding unless you pay, it was the extra comments about how handicap people have some expectation of entitlement or "special" treatment.

 

My guess/hope there was just some confusion in with whom she spoke to, since they seem to have only offered the options to get early boarding and did not seem address the available wheelchair accommodations.

[FireEater]

My suggestion is to show up as planned without paying for FTTF and see how well mannered and nice the workers are at getting you thru security and thru check in.

 

We have always been treated superbly at the Tampa, ft. Lauderdale, and Port Canaveral ports.

 

We do not expect the bump to the front, but it has happened and we are thankful for that.

Edited February 14, 2014 by FireEater

[Sarah@Sea]

My suggestion is to show up as planned without paying for FTTF and see how well mannered and nice the workers are at getting you thru security and thru check in.

 

We have always been treated superbly at the Tampa, ft. Lauderdale, and Port Canaveral ports.

 

I have seen and read that is what typically occurs, great suggestion.

Since FTTF is limited might not even be an option on their sailing.

[Almost Packed]

I wonder, do all the handicap people cut in lines at the buffet too? or are they somehow able to wait in line then...only cannot wait in a chair for their turn to board on embarkation day?

 

No, I will not tread lightly. This entitlement era we live in is crazy.

 

You are going on a cruise in the Caribbean ....for goodness sakes...it get's hot. You are in Miami...it gets hot.

 

The excuses people have for their entitlements amaze me.

 

What happened to the "treat me like everyone else because I am"? I always heard that. I don't want to be treated any different, I'm just like you. I suppose that means only until I can benefit from not being just like you.

 

It just irritates me. Sorry. I'm not a rude hateful person. I just hate people using excuses and hiding behind them.

 

For what it's worth (not much I know) I was once told i'd never walk again unassisted-at 21 years old after a car accident. I never once expected to cut in line of ANYONE.

 

I will be the first one to get up and offer my seat to an elderly person or someone with a greater need. I have raised my children to do the same. That is fair. Demanding or expecting preferential treatment, no, I don't agree with.

[riclop]

My husband has only weight bearing on one leg and uses a walker. I called Carnival and they said unless we upgrade to a Suite we must pay $49.95 for some priority boarding package. What is wrong with this picture?? Has anyone else experienced this issue? What ever happened to accommodating the handicap?

Disability boards early, dont worry.

[Elaine5715]

I wonder, do all the handicap people cut in lines at the buffet too? or are they somehow able to wait in line then...only cannot wait in a chair for their turn to board on embarkation day?

 

No, I will not tread lightly. This entitlement era we live in is crazy.

 

You are going on a cruise in the Caribbean ....for goodness sakes...it get's hot. You are in Miami...it gets hot.

 

The excuses people have for their entitlements amaze me.

 

What happened to the "treat me like everyone else because I am"? I always heard that. I don't want to be treated any different, I'm just like you. I suppose that means only until I can benefit from not being just like you.

 

It just irritates me. Sorry. I'm not a rude hateful person. I just hate people using excuses and hiding behind them.

 

For what it's worth (not much I know) I was once told i'd never walk again unassisted-at 21 years old after a car accident. I never once expected to cut in line of ANYONE.

 

I will be the first one to get up and offer my seat to an elderly person or someone with a greater need. I have raised my children to do the same. That is fair. Demanding or expecting preferential treatment, no, I don't agree with.

 

Well said. Inclusion is the ideal for PEOPLE with a disability. That means sharing the same experience, no separate rooms, lines, entrances, schools, work, buses, or lives.

Options like marked parking spots and larger bathroom stalls is to allow access. Where this concept that disability should mean free is tied to the belief that someone with disability is an object of pity and deserving only of charity.

[h_blond2]

Well said. Inclusion is the ideal for PEOPLE with a disability. That means sharing the same experience, no separate rooms, lines, entrances, schools, work, buses, or lives.

Options like marked parking spots and larger bathroom stalls is to allow access. Where this concept that disability should mean free is tied to the belief that someone with disability is an object of pity and deserving only of charity.

Absolutely agree! I believe that people should get what they need in order to get by in the world, but that does not include special treatment. I have a disabled student in my class (severe cleft palate and a hard time walking) and I do accomodate him so he can succeed. I do not, however, give him special treatment. He knows that I expect the same of him as every other student. Absolutely no pity from me! He is perfectly capable of doing his work and I expect him to do so!

 

I have absolutely no problem with handicapped people getting the help they need to enjoy a cruise, but to expect special treatment just because you are disabled/handicapped is absurd.

[SadieN]

Disney doesn't have handicap parking spots in their guest parking lots at any of their theme parks. They used to, but slowly removed them five years ago starting with Animal Kingdom. They are now called medical parking spots and any guest requesting medical parking is free to park there, with or without a handicap parking placard. They still have handicap spaces in their cast parking lots at Hollywood Studios, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, Magic Kingdom West Clock for MK Costuming/MK Cast Parking/Cast Connection and Disney University. Downtown Disney is the only guest lot that still offers handicap parking. All valet at Disney, with the exception of Downtown Disney, offers complimentary valet for handicap guests.

 

At Disneyland the disabled now stay in line with the regular folk. Turns out many were abusing the system, even hiring a handicapped person for the use of the line. OTOH the single rider line is very quick.

 

Disneyland has HC parking in the Character Parking Lot. Big clumps of them near each elavator.

[Disconnections]

At Disneyland the disabled now stay in line with the regular folk. Turns out many were abusing the system, even hiring a handicapped person for the use of the line. OTOH the single rider line is very quick.

 

Disneyland has HC parking in the Character Parking Lot. Big clumps of them near each elavator.

 

They don't have handicap parking at Walt Disney World in Florida, with the exception of Downtown Disney. It is medical parking. Disability Access Service Cards are still very easy to abuse, if one really wishes to study which attractions are using different colored pens. Technically, if they choose to utilize this service, they aren't waiting in the line unless the disabled guest chooses to experience another attraction while waiting for their return time.

Edited February 14, 2014 by Disconnections

[JustCruiseMe]

I think handicapped needs to go first before ANYONE! If and when you ever have a issue with standing for long periods of time you will understand. If they need to wait their turn fine, give them a number, let them sit and then when their time is called stop everyone in line make them clear the way then let them board. It's ridiculous for anyone to begrudge a handicapped person priority boarding. That's heartless at the very least it's respectful for the handicapped person, like holding the door for them getting on the elevator or holding open a door so they can walk in. Geesh the "me me memememememe" "I'm just as important as anyone else, blah blah blah" is underwhelming to me. Be thankful you aren't handicapped because one day most of you/us will be.