Water travel – Ferry

Water travel – Ferry

Our members say they would feel confident travelling by ferry with the right support. Whilst there may be unexpected issues that come up, the following information should help you prepare for your trip.

Where do you want to go?

Planning your ferry trip

Think about:

• The environment.
• The climate.
• The journey.

You may need to check with your healthcare professional that is safe for you to travel, especially if you have a new diagnosis or are awaiting surgery.

Booking your ferry trip

• You can use specialist travel agents with expert knowledge if you need to. When booking directly, fully explain what you need, to ensure your safety and comfort and ask for assistance if needed.
• Ferries can be booked over the phone, at a travel agent or online with a range of different companies. Your ferry trip may also be part of a larger journey, so you will need to plan this too.
• Many ferry companies have videos online to show you how they arrange boarding and disembarking. Watching these may help you to feel more confident about ferry travel.
• Check to see if the ferry company has accessible travel guidance on their website or a specific person / team who can help you when you are booking.
• If you need personal care, you will need to think about your medication, medical aids or equipment at the time of booking.
• Check when you book that you will be able to access all the facilities you need onboard the ferry.
• You may need to display your blue badge in the windscreen of your vehicle when driving onto the ferry.
• You may be able to board earlier than other cars.
• You may need to park in a specific part of the ferry to be able to access the lift to the deck.

What are your personal and care needs?

• Think about the medication you will need during your trip so that you can order extra ahead of time. You should take extra medication with you in case of delays / changes to travel plans. Take a copy of your prescription and a GP letter if you use any restricted medications.
• Try to have some medication and essential personal care items (like catheters, leg bags, wipes and gloves) in hand luggage so that you can get to these when you need them during your trip.

Take a copy of your Essential Care Passport, if appropriate:

EMERGENCY CARE PASSPORT

What are your mobility equipment needs?

> Consider your equipment needs for getting on / off the ferry.

> Talk to the ferry company when you are booking to ask if you can access all the facilities you need, once you are on the ferry. Check that the equipment you need can be taken on and used on the ferry.

Did you know there are specialist companies who can provide you with equipment for your trip?

During the journey

If you are travelling alone, it will be important that you let staff know of any needs in case of emergency.

Getting to the destination

• Talk to the staff at the ferry company when booking to ask about accessibility at the destination and whether you need any assistance or alternative transport.
• Research local accessible taxi companies at the destination if you will need to use these services. If you need support for your journey once you reach the destination, it is helpful to ask for this when booking the journey.