Should People with Disabilities Consider a Yacht Charter?

We pride ourselves in providing comprehensive, bespoke yacht charters to anyone with a passion for the high seas and the desire to experience a totally unique way to holiday. We believe that experiencing the sheer blissfulness of sailing to some of the world’s most idyllic locations, should be accessible to anyone, no matter what disability or handicap they may have. 

Although it’s certainly been a challenge in recent years to offer luxury yacht charters to people with disabilities, the yacht chartering world is ever-evolving. Nowadays there are wonderful yachts which are able to cater specifically to guests with special needs as well as  exceptionally trained crew who professionally and competently handle challenges which may come. 

Offering a comfortable and safe environment is at the forefront of our mission. Physical and psychological impairments are challenges many people face every day of their lives – and although some activities may be restricted by certain challenges, we’ll do our best to come up with a plan so that you and your loved ones in need may benefit from an unforgettable and once-in-a-lifetime experience aboard a luxury yacht charter.

Physical challenges

Moving about on a yacht requires agility, and our crews are quite competent in helping guests who may need special assistance with things like getting in and out of the tender, negotiating stairs, etc. A select number of our Superyachts have special equipment in place which allow for easy embarkation with gangways that are wide enough for a wheelchair as well as specially-built lifts which can transport the guests safely and comfortable on board the yacht.

These special-needs superyachts are wheelchair accessible and boast staircase lifts or ramps to facilitate on-board movement. With extra fittings like handrails, as well as larger ensuite bathrooms with oversized shower cubicles, our special yachts assist guests with special needs to not only maintain their independence but – especially important to us – access all areas of their luxury yacht. With special access-ways and lifts, all decks from the lower to the upper ones, are easy to reach, so everyone can take full advantage of their chartered yacht and be involved in everything from al-fresco meals to activities, swimming and any activity in which they wish to participate. This particular area of the yacht charter industry is being led by exceptional vessels like Mim, Victoria Del Mar, and Argyll, all of which have been built specifically to cater for guests with special physical needs. 

Emotional and cognitive special needs

We often have family charters with guests that may be physically able, but display some behavioral issues that require a crew with a high level of patience, understanding, and empathy. For example, children (or adults) with autism, Tourette’s syndrome, eating disabilities, or Asperger’s. This is where Ocean Getaways’ knowledge of the crews comes into play. We will listen to what your expectations are and then recommend a crew that is perfectly suited to creating a relaxing and enjoyable vacation for everyone.

So, if you’re dreaming of a yacht chartering vacation but are hesitating because you may require a few special services, simply don’t! Contact us – we are here to help!