To distant shores: Silversea cruise company presented excursions for people with limited mobility

Cruise company Silversea announced the start of excursion programs for passengers with limited mobility. People with wheelchairs and elderly tourists will be able to visit specially designed excursions in cities on the routes of Silversea cruise liners. Currently, cruises to 9 destinations in the Caribbean and Central America are available for booking. In 2019, the company will add newly adapted excursions for holidaymakers in the Mediterranean.

Such excursions will allow travelers with access needs to become better acquainted with the history, culture and natural attractions of cities and countries as part of a cruise. For the transportation of passengers, the company uses specially equipped vehicles with lifts for wheelchairs, ramps. The program of excursions includes visits to attractions, adapted for people with wheelchairs and elderly travelers. In addition, groups are accompanied by trained guides.

Following is a sample of some of the tours currently available in the Caribbean and Central America.

Accessible Pitons & Waterfalls — Castries, St. Lucia

St. Lucia’s natural wonders and cultural riches are unlocked during this fun, full-day exploration of the island. Highlights include a visit to the charming fishing village of Anse La Raye, a special stop to witness and photograph the majestic Pitons, and access to a step-free garden path in Soufrière’s Diamond Botanical Gardens – from which guests can admire its signature attraction, the Diamond Waterfall.

Monkey Sanctuary & Iguana Hideout for Limited Mobility — Roatan Island, Honduras

This adventure is a fun way to experience fascinating Roatan wildlife and nature first-hand. Participants interact with playful primates at a local monkey sanctuary, browse crafts at a local flea market, pet-friendly iguanas at an iguana and marine wildlife park, and enjoy an inspiring scenic island drive.

Accessible St. Kitts — Basseterre, St. Kitts

The colorful, colonial charm and untouched natural beauty of St. Kitts can be easily appreciated during this accessibility-enhanced experience. Highlights include the chance to explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Brimstone Hill Fortress, a visit to the historic Romney Manor, and a special stop to marvel at spectacular ocean and island vistas from the Timothy Hill Scenic Outlook.

Accessible Mayan Experience & Scenic Drive — Cozumel, Mexico

Traveling deeper to discover authentic Mayan culture is the focus of this tour. A comfortable, guided drive around Cozumel stops at a cultural center for a taste of ancient Mayan life, ceremonies and foods, including tortillas and chocolate. Then, a visit to the ruins of El Cedral offers a fascinating insight into the island’s oldest community. A tequila tasting and free time to relax on an accessible beach provide further immersion into the charm of this tropical isle.

Accessible Grenada — St. George’s, Grenada

Grenada’s cultural and natural treasures are easily discovered on this enriching exploration of the Caribbean’s quintessential spice island. Participants savor the aromas of fresh nutmeg, cocoa and vanilla at a local spice market; visit a local nutmeg factory; learn about the origins of the spice trade at the historic Dougaldston Spice Estate; and complete their adventure with a panoramic drive through a tropical rainforest to experience the Grand Etang National Park.