May 24, 2022 – The credo of AIDA Cruises is: A cruise with AIDA should be possible for every guest. Based on this motivation, the cruise company has for many years adjusted to the special needs of people with individual and health impairments.
With the baptism of AIDAcosma Through Kristina Vogel, AIDA Cruises has set a strong example for inclusion and diversity. With two Olympic gold medals and eleven world championship titles in 2018, the exceptional athlete was the most successful track cyclist in the world. Shortly after her double world title she suffered a tragic accident. Since then she has been paraplegic. With her willpower, her optimism and her contagious energy, she is a role model for countless people. An expert council has been set up under her patronage, which will in future advise the cruise company from the point of view of the most diverse guest and interest groups.
Expert Council “Accessible Travel”. Photo: AIDA Cruises
From May 16 to 20, 2022, the newly founded expert council went on board AIDAperla to start an initial exchange of experiences. The group of experts includes people with restricted mobility, vision or hearing. They were all able to convince themselves of the barrier-free offers on an AIDA cruise and give valuable input for the further development of this topic. Ideas for future joint projects emerged from numerous workshops and practical experience of what was on board – from culinary delights to wellness and entertainment. Captain Michael Schmidt and General Manager Kai Botschek took a lot of time to listen to the participants of the expert council and to take up suggestions. In regular meetings, cooperation will be specified in future and catalogs of measures will be developed.
In order to prepare a barrier-free trip in the best possible way before booking, specially trained AIDA employees are available for personal travel advice by telephone or e-mail for guests with individual disabilities.
Almost all public areas of the AIDA ships, such as bars, restaurants, elevators, outer decks, public toilets and cabins are barrier-free and equipped with orientation signs in profile and Braille. A barrier-free meeting on the first day of travel ensures the right orientation on board. AIDA's excursion program also specifically identifies excursions that are suitable for guests with restricted mobility.
Further information about a barrier-free AIDA cruise is available online or from the barrier-free team in the AIDA customer center.
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