Autism Of the Seas!!

Another first for Royal Caribbean, today as the brand new Anthem of the Sea goes on sale. We have all been talking about the first virtual cabins, Bumpers cars and North star pod. However another big achievement of this fantastic ship and RCCL  is  they are  first cruise line to receive certification from Autism on the Seas. Highlighting them for assisting with reasonable accommodations for inclusion and participation by guests with autism and developmental disabilities.

As of the 20th Feb 2014, RCCL have been awarded Bronze Level certification for “Autism Friendly” ships. This will mean that their fleet will be ready to accommodate guests with autism and other developmental disabilities enabling them equal access onboard services and amenities. Some of these services will include having access to sensory related toys and cruise social story, autism friendly modification to youth activities (where appropriate), autism friendly movies, priority boarding,  dietary offerings (including gluten free and dairy free), and several modifications to services for groups of guests with disabilities. They are now looking to take this further by the end of 2014 they are expected to have reached the Silver Level.

Autism on the Seas™ (AotS), the leading travel organization catering to passengers with autism and other developmental disabilities. Mike Sobbell, founder and president of Autism on the Seas has said  “We are very proud to bring Royal Caribbean on as our first “Autism Friendly” Cruise Line Certified partner.  Royal Caribbean’s involvement and initiative to accommodate this community is to be commended, and will open the door towards filling the gap for special needs families seeking a vacation designed for their wide range of unique requirements.”

RCCL have been working with “Autism on the seas” for the past 7 years to improve their quality of holidays and options to these families, so this is not a award they have just been handed. There has been a lot of work and effort been put into making these changes, which will hopefully make these holidays  so much more beneficial to families wanting to cruise in the future.

I myself have two very close friends who have lovely boys with autism and over the years I have watched them grow, struggle and thrive through childhood, and I know the differences these changes would make to these and other families would be brilliant. The peace of mind knowing that their children will have the facilities and care on board allowing them all to relax and enjoy their holiday is priceless.

So well done Royal Caribbean on this very worthy achievement!

What do you think? Do you have children with autism or other learning difficulties and think these changes are long over due? Would you now choose RCCL over other cruise companies because of these changes?

If you would like to know more about these facilities and “autism friendly” cruises, please call my direct line on 0800 408 6160 or email me directly at [email protected]