Are Marella Cruise excursions suitable for less-mobile passengers and wheelchair users?

Unless you’re able to manage the steps on and off a bus unassisted, it’s not normally possible to participate in general shore excursions. If you can take the steps, but need to take a wheelchair or a scooter, these must be collapsible. And, you’ll need to travel with a companion or a personal assistant who can help you lift and store a wheelchair or scooter on and off the bus, as the drivers, guides and our team are unable to assist with this. Please bear in mind that on some excursions, minibuses or other methods of transport such as tuk tuk’s, land trains or boats are used. In these cases, it may not always be possible to take a wheelchair or a scooter. Alternatively, we have a selection of accessible shore excursions available in some ports of call which use specialised vehicles equipped with either a ramp or a lift, subject to availability. For more information please call our dedicated team on 0800 145 6920.

It's worth noting that it may not always be possible for passengers with a mobility aid to disembark the ship. It depends upon conditions generally outside of Marella Cruises' control, such as sea level, weather conditions, distance from the port, and other circumstances.

Excursions are available to book prior to departure on the Marella Cruise Control website. To help you choose the shore excursions most suitable for you, we’ve sorted them into the following five categories:

• CHALLENGING  Involves intensive activity and rugged terrain. A very high level of fitness and stamina are essential for this demanding experience. Built for adventure-seekers.
• ENERGETIC  Features sustained activity, steeper paths and more demanding terrain. A high level of fitness is needed to keep up with the pace. Ideal for those who love a challenge.
• ACTIVE  includes a considerable amount of walking, either over long distances, over difficult terrain, or up and down numerous steps
• MODERATE  Includes uphill walking, steps and uneven ground. A reasonable level of fitness will help you enjoy the experience comfortably at a steady pace.
• EASY  Relaxed and gentle pacing with minimal walking and standing, generally on flat terrain. Perfect for those looking for an easy-going experience, or at your own pace.

We also include useful hints and tips in the Good To Know section, which often tell you if there is a lot of walking involved, or if the excursion is not accessible for wheelchair users.