Access Tourism NZ TOURISM FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES, SENIORS, AND AGEING BOOMERS IN NEW ZEALAND AND WORLDWIDE

Cruise NZ

More and more cruise ships are visiting New Zealand, and the passengers on board tend to be in the older age groups, and some have disabilities.  Tourism Business magazine (Spring, 2007) reported that 70% of New Zealand and 75% of overseas cruise passengers visiting New Zealand ports are 45 years of age or older.  2008 figures from the International Cruise Council Australasia reaveal an 11% growth rate of cruising by New Zealanders alone (Travel Memo 16 May 2008).  

The Shipping News reports that travellers with special needs see the benefits of taking a cruise because many ships now have accessible features for people with physical, sight, and hearing disabilities.  The lines are not only satisfying these travellers, but  ageing Baby Boomers also appreciate the modifications.

Special Needs Group reports that Royal Caribbean International’s (RCI) much anticipated next generation cruise ship, the Oasis of the Seas is ready for passengers. Rising sixteen decks high, she is the largest vessel afloat—and among the most accessible.  Of the 46 accessible staterooms on the Oasis of the Seas, 33 have balconies; eight with Central Park or Boardwalk views. Since most persons with disabilities travel with others, RCI designed half of the accessible staterooms on the Oasis of the Seas to accommodate more than two people. The ample number of family suites and adjoining staterooms facilitates multi-generational travel, a growing cruise trend. Twenty-two percent of all accessible staterooms connect to an adjacent non-accessible stateroom.  All 24 dining venues can accommodate guests in wheelchairs. The ship’s ease of accessibility is inviting news for travelers with limited mobility, and even those passengers who may not use wheelchairs or scooters at home, including slow walkers, may want easy access - the Oasis of the Seas measures 1,184 feet from bow to stern. State-of-the art, advanced technologies for people who are deaf and hard of hearing are available in staterooms and public rooms. If you are traveling with oxygen, the Oasis of the Seas welcomes all types onboard. “Our goal is to allow persons with disabilities to enjoy a complete vacation experience,” according to RCI spokespersons.

Craig Harris, chairman of Cruise New Zealand, says that port call bookings in New Zealand indicate a 15% increase in passenger numbers in future years.  “This will put pressure on infrastructure and tourists services at many destinations, which are already facing a number of challenges.”  Given the rise in cruisers, the ageing of cruise tourists who will experience more disability as they age, the increasing provision of access on ships resulting in more cruisers that are also PwDs, New Zealand must ensure that full access is provided for PwDs in any developments or redevelopments of cruise ship terminals.