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Scottish Sun
3 days ago
- Scottish Sun
I went on an accessible group cruise around Europe – here's what you can expect
STEP-FREE FORWARD I went on an accessible group cruise around Europe – here's what you can expect Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) I'VE spent over two decades travelling the world solo as a wheelchair user. I'm used to doing everything myself – researching access, booking transport, managing my care needs, and staying in control. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 5 Plain sailing for Carrie-Ann on the deck Credit: Carrie-Ann Lightley 5 The group stop off to explore Marbella Credit: Carrie-Ann Lightley 5 The Arvia in the port of La Coruna Credit: Supplied That control has often been the difference between a joyful trip and one that leaves me completely wiped out. So when I joined a supported group cruise organised by accessible travel specialists Limitless Travel, I wasn't just wheeling aboard a ship. I was wheeling far outside my comfort zone. The ship, P&O's Arvia, was set to sail from Southampton to Spain and France over two weeks. Limitless Travel provided door-to-door adapted transport, accessible excursions and a full support team. This was a world away from the independent travel I'm used to. But something unexpected happened. I started to let go — and in doing so, I found a kind of freedom I didn't know I needed. My worries that I'd feel patronised or boxed in faded from the moment I arrived at the terminal. Staff knew who I was and what support I might need. Confidence is contagious Instead of scanning for lifts or figuring out how to reach my cabin, I was free to just arrive. It sounds simple, but for disabled travellers, that kind of ease is rare. That evening, as the sun set, I realised I hadn't checked the itinerary all day — for the first time ever. Martin Lewis warns about strict passport rule that could see you board your flight - only to get sent home on arrival The group included people with a mix of disabilities and experiences, supported by a brilliant care team. There was no pressure to stick together, but always the option to join in. I shared meals, port outings and singalongs, and still had time to recharge alone. One afternoon, I laughed so hard watching guests play on a playground that my cheeks hurt. Another evening, I swapped stories with a fellow guest over cocktails while our wheelchairs shared legroom under the table. And one of the most touching moments was seeing a fellow guest, Avril, get up and dance for the first time in 20 years. There was no pressure to stick together, but always the option to join in She said it felt like getting a piece of herself back. I knew exactly what she meant. Support was always there, never intrusive. Whether it was helping someone down a gangway or a high kerb, or discreetly checking on comfort at dinner, the team handled it all with quiet skill. Plus, my accessible room was as sharp and glam as the standard ones, unlike some I've used in the past which feel more like hospital wards. There was a roll-in shower, plenty of space, and small but important details that made it feel welcoming, not clinical. And then came the shore days. Limitless Travel offered a 'potter around the port' service so we could explore together without following a strict itinerary. In Toulon we browsed a market for fresh pastries and fruit. In A Coruña we sipped sangria in a sunny square. 5 Carrie having a dance with passengers Credit: Carrie-Ann Lightley 5 Carrie tucking in at the Beach House restaurant Credit: Carrie-Ann Lightley In Málaga, my husband and I left the group and took a P&O excursion to Marbella on an accessible coach. Some days I craved company; others I wanted space. There was no pressure either way, just the freedom to do what felt right. I live with complex PTSD as well as a physical disability, and travel often brings anxiety. In the past I've had meltdowns in airport lounges, restaurants and on ferries. I'm always planning for the worst. But on this trip, something shifted. I didn't need to bark instructions or brace for chaos. Instead of scanning exits, I was scanning cocktail menus. One afternoon, I used the ship's pool hoist — something I'd never dared to try before. With support, it felt safe. Later, other guests said they gave it a go because they saw me do it. That moment stuck with me. Confidence is contagious. I watched sunrises, sunsets and a strawberry moon. I danced and didn't care who saw. I laughed. I rested. I belonged. And not once did I feel like a burden. This isn't a sales pitch. Supported group travel won't suit everyone. But if, like me, you've clung to independence because it felt safer than trusting strangers, then this kind of trip might just change your mind. It did mine. I thought I was giving up control. What I gained was something far better: The freedom to travel without fear.
The Irish Sun
3 days ago
- The Irish Sun
I went on an accessible group cruise around Europe – here's what you can expect
I'VE spent over two decades travelling the world solo as a wheelchair user. I'm used to doing everything myself – researching access, booking transport, managing my care needs, and staying in control. Advertisement 5 Plain sailing for Carrie-Ann on the deck Credit: Carrie-Ann Lightley 5 The group stop off to explore Marbella Credit: Carrie-Ann Lightley 5 The Arvia in the port of La Coruna Credit: Supplied That control has often been the difference between a joyful trip and one that leaves me completely wiped out. So when I joined a supported group cruise organised by accessible travel specialists Limitless Travel, I wasn't just wheeling aboard a ship. I was wheeling far outside my comfort zone. The ship, P&O's Arvia, was set to sail from Southampton to Spain and France over two weeks. Advertisement Read More on Travel Limitless Travel provided door-to-door adapted transport, accessible excursions and a full support team. This was a world away from the independent travel I'm used to. But something unexpected happened. I started to let go — and in doing so, I found a kind of freedom I didn't know I needed. My worries that I'd feel patronised or boxed in faded from the moment I arrived at the terminal. Staff knew who I was and what support I might need. Advertisement Most read in News Travel Exclusive Confidence is contagious Instead of scanning for lifts or figuring out how to reach my cabin, I was free to just arrive. It sounds simple, but for disabled travellers, that kind of ease is rare. That evening, as the sun set, I realised I hadn't checked the itinerary all day — for the first time ever. Martin Lewis warns about strict passport rule that could see you board your flight - only to get sent home on arrival The group included people with a mix of disabilities and experiences, supported by a brilliant care team. There was no pressure to stick together, but always the option to join in. Advertisement I shared meals, port outings and singalongs, and still had time to recharge alone. One afternoon, I laughed so hard watching guests play on a playground that my cheeks hurt. Another evening, I swapped stories with a fellow guest over cocktails while our wheelchairs shared legroom under the table. And one of the most touching moments was seeing a fellow guest, Avril, get up and dance for the first time in 20 years. Advertisement There was no pressure to stick together, but always the option to join in She said it felt like getting a piece of herself back. I knew exactly what she meant. Support was always there, never intrusive. Whether it was helping someone down a gangway or a high kerb, or discreetly checking on comfort at dinner, the team handled it all with quiet skill. Plus, my accessible room was as sharp and glam as the standard ones, unlike some I've used in the past which feel more like hospital wards. There was a roll-in shower, plenty of space, and small but important details that made it feel welcoming, not clinical. Advertisement And then came the shore days. Limitless Travel offered a 'potter around the port' service so we could explore together without following a strict itinerary. In Toulon we browsed a market for fresh pastries and fruit. In A Coruña we sipped sangria in a sunny square. 5 Carrie having a dance with passengers Credit: Carrie-Ann Lightley 5 Carrie tucking in at the Beach House restaurant Credit: Carrie-Ann Lightley Advertisement In Málaga, my husband and I left the group and took a P&O excursion to Marbella on an accessible coach. Some days I craved company; others I wanted space. There was no pressure either way, just the freedom to do what felt right. I live with complex PTSD as well as a physical disability, and travel often brings anxiety. In the past I've had meltdowns in airport lounges, restaurants and on ferries. I'm always planning for the worst. But on this trip, something shifted. I didn't need to bark instructions or brace for chaos. Instead of scanning exits, I was scanning cocktail menus. Advertisement One afternoon, I used the ship's pool hoist — something I'd never dared to try before. With support, it felt safe. Later, other guests said they gave it a go because they saw me do it. That moment stuck with me. Confidence is contagious. I watched sunrises, sunsets and a strawberry moon. I danced and didn't care who saw. I laughed. I rested. I belonged. And not once did I feel like a burden. Advertisement This isn't a sales pitch. Supported group travel won't suit everyone. But if, like me, you've clung to independence because it felt safer than trusting strangers, then this kind of trip might just change your mind. It did mine. I thought I was giving up control. What I gained was something far better: The freedom to travel without fear. GO: ACCESSIBLE CRUISE GETTING /SAILING THERE: A seven-night sailing on board P&O Cruises' Ventura with Limitless Travel costs from £2,699pp, based on two people sharing an accessible cabin. Cruise departs from Southampton on September 26 and calls at La Corua, Gijon and Santander in Spain as well as Cherbourg in France. Price includes group support and holiday assistance from Limitless care team, care plans tailored to travellers' specific needs, four accessible port visits, door-to-door accessible transfers from travellers' home to Southampton, check-in and boarding support, a tour manager on board the ship and a personal travel adviser throughout the trip. See
The Sun
3 days ago
- The Sun
I went on an accessible group cruise around Europe – here's what you can expect
I'VE spent over two decades travelling the world solo as a wheelchair user. I'm used to doing everything myself – researching access, booking transport, managing my care needs, and staying in control. 5 5 That control has often been the difference between a joyful trip and one that leaves me completely wiped out. So when I joined a supported group cruise organised by accessible travel specialists Limitless Travel, I wasn't just wheeling aboard a ship. I was wheeling far outside my comfort zone. The ship, P&O's Arvia, was set to sail from Southampton to Spain and France over two weeks. Limitless Travel provided door-to-door adapted transport, accessible excursions and a full support team. This was a world away from the independent travel I'm used to. But something unexpected happened. I started to let go — and in doing so, I found a kind of freedom I didn't know I needed. My worries that I'd feel patronised or boxed in faded from the moment I arrived at the terminal. Staff knew who I was and what support I might need. Confidence is contagious Instead of scanning for lifts or figuring out how to reach my cabin, I was free to just arrive. It sounds simple, but for disabled travellers, that kind of ease is rare. That evening, as the sun set, I realised I hadn't checked the itinerary all day — for the first time ever. Martin Lewis warns about strict passport rule that could see you board your flight - only to get sent home on arrival The group included people with a mix of disabilities and experiences, supported by a brilliant care team. There was no pressure to stick together, but always the option to join in. I shared meals, port outings and singalongs, and still had time to recharge alone. One afternoon, I laughed so hard watching guests play on a playground that my cheeks hurt. Another evening, I swapped stories with a fellow guest over cocktails while our wheelchairs shared legroom under the table. And one of the most touching moments was seeing a fellow guest, Avril, get up and dance for the first time in 20 years. There was no pressure to stick together, but always the option to join in She said it felt like getting a piece of herself back. I knew exactly what she meant. Support was always there, never intrusive. Whether it was helping someone down a gangway or a high kerb, or discreetly checking on comfort at dinner, the team handled it all with quiet skill. Plus, my accessible room was as sharp and glam as the standard ones, unlike some I've used in the past which feel more like hospital wards. There was a roll-in shower, plenty of space, and small but important details that made it feel welcoming, not clinical. And then came the shore days. Limitless Travel offered a 'potter around the port' service so we could explore together without following a strict itinerary. In Toulon we browsed a market for fresh pastries and fruit. In A Coruña we sipped sangria in a sunny square. 5 5 In Málaga, my husband and I left the group and took a P&O excursion to Marbella on an accessible coach. Some days I craved company; others I wanted space. There was no pressure either way, just the freedom to do what felt right. I live with complex PTSD as well as a physical disability, and travel often brings anxiety. In the past I've had meltdowns in airport lounges, restaurants and on ferries. I'm always planning for the worst. But on this trip, something shifted. I didn't need to bark instructions or brace for chaos. Instead of scanning exits, I was scanning cocktail menus. One afternoon, I used the ship's pool hoist — something I'd never dared to try before. With support, it felt safe. Later, other guests said they gave it a go because they saw me do it. That moment stuck with me. Confidence is contagious. I watched sunrises, sunsets and a strawberry moon. I danced and didn't care who saw. I laughed. I rested. I belonged. And not once did I feel like a burden. This isn't a sales pitch. Supported group travel won't suit everyone. But if, like me, you've clung to independence because it felt safer than trusting strangers, then this kind of trip might just change your mind. It did mine. I thought I was giving up control. What I gained was something far better: The freedom to travel without fear.
Forbes
01-05-2025
- Forbes
Avoid These 10 Rookie Mistakes On Your First Cruise
Norway is a popular destination for first-time cruisers. David Nikel Booking your first cruise can be exciting, as cruise lines continue to expand their offerings with bigger ships, broader itineraries, and new experiences at sea. But for passengers new to cruising, this variety can also be overwhelming. It is easy to fall into common traps that can impact your enjoyment, and your budget. Here are ten of the most common mistakes first-time cruisers make, along with practical tips to help you avoid them. Not all cruise lines are created equal. Some focus on family-friendly activities, while others cater to older travelers or those looking for a more refined experience. Choosing based solely on price or itinerary is a mistake many first-timers make. Research each cruise line's typical clientele, entertainment style, dining options, and atmosphere. For example, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line offer large resort-style ships with extensive onboard entertainment like water slides and shows, while Cunard and Holland America lean toward traditional cruising with a quieter, more formal feel. Even within the same cruise line, ships can vary significantly in size, style, and onboard atmosphere. For instance, P&O Cruises operates both Arvia and Iona, which are large, family-friendly megaships, but the line also owns Aurora, a smaller, adults-only ship offering a much more traditional cruising experience. While it is possible to arrive in your embarkation city the morning of your cruise, it is a significant risk. Delayed or canceled flights, missed connections, and even traffic can result in a stressful day, or even a missed departure. Unless you live close to the port, plan to arrive at least one day in advance. This is especially important when international travel is involved. Cruise Blog's Elizabeth Wright said that starting your vacation with peace of mind is worth the cost of one night in a hotel: "Instead of relying on luck and hoping my flight departs on time, I prefer to fly out the night before. This way, I can have a relaxing embarkation morning that isn't plagued with anxiety over whether I'll make the ship." Packing too much is a common mistake among first-time cruisers. Cabins typically offer limited storage, and many newcomers overpack, assuming they will need multiple outfits per day. "Most cruising these days is casual, and you really only need a few outfits to rotate through a voyage," explained The Points Guy's Gene Sloan, who added that in the worst-case scenarios, it's always possible to do laundry on board. However, there are key items you should not forget. Bring a carry-on with essential items for embarkation day, such as medications, swimwear, and a change of clothes. It can take several hours for your checked luggage to arrive at your cabin. Also, check your cruise line's rules in advance. Items like travel irons, kettles, and surge-protected power strips are usually prohibited. Most major cruise lines now offer mobile apps that are essential tools once onboard. These apps allow you to check the daily schedule, make dining reservations, book activities, view your onboard account, and sometimes even unlock your cabin door. Download and log into the app before you arrive at the port. Internet access may be limited at sea, but most apps function through the ship's internal network,without needing to buy an expensive internet package. Beverage packages are heavily promoted by all cruise lines and can appear to offer good value. However, they are not always the best financial choice. The cost of these packages varies by cruise line and itinerary. In many cases, you would need to consume a high number of alcoholic beverages per day to break even. Consider your usual drinking habits, how many days you will spend at sea (on which you'll likely consume more), and what beverages are already included in your fare. Some packages also include non-alcoholic drinks, specialty coffees, and bottled water, which may improve the value for some travelers. Buffet restaurants are convenient, but relying on them exclusively means missing out on elevated dining experiences. Most cruise lines offer main dining rooms with table service, multi-course menus, and often higher-quality food. These are included in your fare and can provide a more relaxing and enjoyable mealtime experience. In some cases, you are not even limited to one starter or main course. Don't forget that main dining rooms are typically open for breakfast too, and usually lunch on sea days. This environment is often a much calmer way to start your day than the bustle of the breakfast buffet. Cruise lines offer a wide range of shore excursions, but they are often priced at a premium. While they can be convenient, especially in complex or remote destinations, not every port requires a guided tour. Research your destinations in advance. In some cases, attractions are within walking distance or easily reached by public transportation, taxi, or a local sightseeing bus. You may be able to plan your own day ashore for a fraction of the cost. While many cruise experiences are included in your fare, extras can add up quickly. This includes specialty dining, drinks, spa treatments, Wi-Fi access, laundry services, and gratuities. Most cruise lines allow you to track your spending through the app or your cabin television. Check your account regularly to avoid surprises at the end of your trip and to catch any billing errors early. Cruise lines often run special offers on spa treatments, fitness classes, and specialty dining. However, these are often on port days when many passengers are ashore. If there is a premium experience you are interested in, check for promotions either on embarkation day or during quieter times. Booking a massage or dinner on a port day can save money and provide a more peaceful experience. With so much going on, from shows and trivia games to water slides and wine tastings, it is easy to overschedule yourself. Many first-time cruisers make the mistake of trying to attend every event and eat in every venue, only to burn out midway through the trip. The golden rule is to pace yourself. If a particular port does not interest you, consider staying on board to enjoy the ship while it is quieter. Taking a slower approach allows you to appreciate the cruise experience rather than rushing through it. Cruising can be a relaxing and enjoyable way to travel, but only if you plan accordingly. By avoiding these common mistakes, you will be better prepared to enjoy your time at sea and make the most of your first cruise.
Forbes
07-04-2025
- Forbes
Why This Cruise Ship Still Charms After 25 Years At Sea
The best feature of 'Aurora'? This wonderful tiered space at the back of the ship. David Nikel Step aboard P&O Cruises' Aurora and you'll quickly sense you're on a different kind of cruise ship. Launched in 2000 and now the smallest vessel in the fleet, this 1,874-passenger ship may not offer robotic bartenders or water slides, but it makes up for it with elegant design, tiered aft decks perfect for sailaways, and a calm, grown-up atmosphere you won't find on the newest megaships. A scheduled dry dock in April 2025 will bring refreshed interiors and modern touches, but the heart of Aurora—its spacious outdoor areas, distinctive design, and adults-only ambience—will remain unchanged. In fact, it's these very features that make the ship so well-suited to scenic itineraries like the Norwegian fjords, Mediterranean escapes, and winter sailings in search of the northern lights. Aurora offers something increasingly rare in the cruise world: space to breathe. Yet to call Aurora a small ship isn't entirely fair. When she first launched in 2000, her 76,000-ton size and capacity for around 1,874 guests placed her firmly in the 'large ship' category. But fast forward 25 years and the cruise industry has changed dramatically. The relatively small size of 'Aurora' means it can dock in Alta, Norway. P&O Cruises Today, ships like Arvia and Iona regularly carry more than 5,000 passengers each, complete with high-tech entertainment, vast atriums, and onboard attractions that rival theme parks. Against that backdrop, Aurora feels delightfully different. Once you've figured out some of the quirks such as how to reach the main dining rooms, you'll rarely need to consult a map to find your way around. It rarely takes more than a few minutes to get from one end of the ship to the other, and long lines are few and far between—even on busy sea days. There are a few compromises, of course. Cabins are more compact than those on today's newer ships, though they still offer ample storage. But with so much to enjoy elsewhere on board, it's easy to overlook a slightly snugger stateroom. For those who find the size and crowds of modern megaships overwhelming, Aurora offers a welcome return to a more relaxed, human-scale cruising experience. There's a clear design shift in today's cruise ships: more emphasis on interior space, less on connecting with the sea. On many newer vessels, it's possible to spend days on board without catching more than a glimpse of the ocean. Aurora, on the other hand, was built for looking outwards. There is a wraparound promenade deck on 'Aurora' popular with guests when the weather allows. David Nikel One of her standout features is the traditional wraparound promenade deck—an increasingly rare find in modern shipbuilding. It's not just a charming nod to classic ocean liners; it's a practical feature too. Three and a bit laps make up a mile, making it ideal for a morning stroll or logging some steps when the weather allows. Then there's the tiered aft, a beautifully designed cascade of open decks that creates the perfect setting for sailaways, sunset watching, or simply soaking up the view. Up top, the sports court and generous sundecks offer plenty of space to unwind, without the bustle of splash zones or family-focused attractions. You won't find water slides, climbing walls, or kids' clubs on Aurora—and that's exactly the point. As an adults-only ship, Aurora caters to a different kind of cruise experience, where the focus is on relaxation, enrichment-focused entertainment, and quiet moments with a sea view. That's not to say it's all peace and quiet. The pub—arguably the beating heart of any British cruise ship—is rarely still. Whether it's live music, a soccer game on the big screen, or a lively trivia contest, there's always something happening. Enrichment talks fill the theater on 'Aurora'. David Nikel For night owls, the Masquerade lounge transforms into the go-to late night venue, with everything from karaoke to silent discos keeping the dance floor busy into the early hours. With no need to cater to children, public spaces like lounges, bars, and sun decks tend to feel more spacious. Perhaps the only exception was the coffee shop, where tables were often full by mid-morning as guests awaited their caffeine fix. But as many soon discovered, the same barista-made coffee is available at all of the ship's bars—usually without the wait. Dry docks are essential for keeping ships running smoothly, from technical maintenance in the engine room to replacing worn-out fittings. But they're also a chance to give older vessels a fresh lease of life—and Aurora's upcoming dry dock in April 2025 will do just that. The ship will be out of service for just over two weeks while work is carried out in Rotterdam. Alongside the usual behind-the-scenes upkeep, many of Aurora's bars, restaurants, and public areas will receive updated décor, new furniture, and refreshed colour schemes. Cabins will be spruced up with new soft furnishings and mattresses, while poolside areas and sun decks are getting new furniture and finishes too. The aim isn't to reinvent Aurora, but to keep her feeling fresh for the years ahead—without losing the character that makes the traditional cruise ship so well loved.
