Fred.Olsen Mini Cruises in Mini Cruises

Description

If you're tempted by the thought of a short cruising break, or looking for an opportunity to try a cruise for the first time, then what better way to test the water than on board one of Fred Olsens mini cruises.

Setting off from the UK, on a mini cruise you will have the same friendly, attentive service, dining options and entertainment that are found on the longer cruise holidays. Spend a few nights aboard one of our delightful cruise ships, and take the opportunity to rest and relax whilst also discovering fine cities closer to home.

We are able to offer cruises on board Fred Olsen Cruise Line. Fred.Olsen welcome disabled passengers, dependent on the use of wheelchairs for mobility, to all their ships. They do request though that they are always accompanied by an able-bodied companion. There are a limited number of wheelchair accessible cabins so early booking is recommended. From the sun-drenched beaches of the Caribbean to the character of the Canaries, the tranquillity of the Med to the amazing scenery of the Norwegian Fjords, or the history of the Baltic to memorable journeys around the world; we know that we will find a cruise destination to suit you and your needs.

More information about disabled cruises

To discuss you’re Fred.Olsen Holiday and tell us about your medical condition or disability and the adaptations and assistance you need call 0161 260 2218now.

Facilities

Cabin information

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines warmly welcomes any Guests, dependent on the use of wheelchairs for mobility, to all of their vessels. They do however request that disabled passengers are always accompanied by an able-bodied companion. A limited number of cabins on each ship have been modified to facilitate more comfortable occupation for such guests. Fred Olsen respectfully require wheelchair users to bring their own wheelchair.

Please Note - Fred Olsen cabins have been modified based on original specifications as opposed to purpose built, and consequently may still pose difficulties to those guests fully reliant upon a wheelchair.

For example, bathrooms on Black Watch have a small ‘ ridge’ to negotiate in the shower area which retains the shower water. This can hinder the manoeuvrability of a wheelchair. On Braemar it is not recommend the adapted cabins to any wheelchair bound guest, owing to the very limited turning circle within the cabin, restricting easy access to the ramped bathroom entrance.

For all adapted cabins there are no handrails in the main cabin area, only in the shower/WC. A rail is provided to assist with use of the WC and a fixed seat is provided in the shower. In effect the entire floor of your bathroom acts as the shower tray. Your dedicated Cabin Stewardess will naturally clean and dry the floor as required. Bed and toilet heights are relatively low, however, an additional mattress and/or raised toilet seat can be requested. All cabins have a telephone link with both the ship’s Reception and Medical Centre.

Guests are welcome to bring or privately hire additional equipment, such as hoists if required. However we have to get approval from Fred Olsen on the delivery/collection and safe use of such equipment which is entirely the responsibility of the individual.

Fred Olsen believe the Boudicca is the most wheelchair friendly vessel in our fleet owing to the very generous cabin dimensions and layout.

Fred.Olsen ships with modified cabins:

• MS Braemar: Permits 4 wheelchairs and has 4 cabins modified or wheelchair use.
• MS Black Watch: Permits 6 wheelchairs and has 4 cabins modified for wheelchair use.
• MS Boudicca: Permits 6 wheelchairs and has 4 cabins modified for wheelchair use.
• MS Balmoral: Permits 12 wheelchairs and has 9 cabins modified for wheelchair use.

Other Guests who prefer to use a wheelchair to assist them in covering significant distances ashore will therefore be restricted from using their wheelchair when the vessel is at sea. Additionally, the number of wheelchairs we can accept for use ashore only, is also capacity controlled.

Motorised wheelchairs/scooters will only be accepted on Black Watch, Boudicca, Braemar and Balmoral when occupying an adapted cabin. On health and safety grounds, chairs weighing in excess of 25kg cannot be carried ashore at any ports of call, other than the start/end point of the cruise, unless they can be easily dismantled.

Excursions

Fred.Olsen cannot guarantee that assistance by qualified persons will be available at ports of call and unless able to board a vehicle unassisted it will not be possible for wheelchair users to participate in organised shore tours.Owing to the nature of ship to shore tender services, which are utilised at certain ports when at anchor, we regret that it will not be possible to convey any Guests ashore who require more than minimal assistance to board the tender. Safety of our Guests is always of paramount importance.

Fly/cruises - it is important for wheelchair users to advise us immediately as to whether they are unable to climb aircraft steps, so that we can ensure suitable airport assistance is available.

Deaf and visually impaired Guests

It is strongly recommend guests are accompanied by an able-bodied companion to assist them both on board and ashore.

Whereas infra-red hearing loops are fitted on all vessels, with headsets available from Reception, for use in the main ‘Show Lounge’, please note that this headset system is not suitable for people who wear permanently inserted hearing devices; and none of the cabins feature any additional emergency equipment such as flashing lights or ‘bed shakers’ that can be used in the event of an emergency. In the event of an emergency our specifically trained and assigned crew will come directly to your cabin. However, please let us have advance notice of any serious hearing impairment.

Information last updated: 07/02/2014 12:52:17