Whether you want to relax or embark on thrilling adventures, get ready for an unforgettable voyage. Cruises offer plenty of ways to make memories on unique excursions, from scenic island tours and catamaran rides to wildlife encounters. With one convenient place to stay and all your food included, cruises are ideal for solo journeys, couple getaways and family vacations.
Embrace the freedom of traveling to multiple islands and booking once-in-a-lifetime activities — from Cozumel and San Juan to St. Thomas, the Grand Turk and St. Maarten, the Caribbean offers many picturesque places to visit. Many ports of call are becoming more accessible, which offers an easier and more enjoyable experience for mobility aid users.
Explore the top five accessible ports of call for cruising the Caribbean. Our guide shares a strategy to choose “infrastructure-first” ports that help you overcome logistical challenges such as steep gangways, tender boats and cobblestoned streets. Choose the right mobility device, learn some navigation tips and pack the right essentials.
What Makes a Cruise Port Accessible?
When cruising the Caribbean, these traits make a port of call accessible:
Ship-to-shore connections: Ships that dock directly at a pier are often accessible for mobility equipment.
Terrain and infrastructure: Accessible ports often have flat boardwalks, curb cuts and attractions near the pier.
Accessible shore excursions: Cruises will showcase activities you can book — check the descriptions or ask questions to verify which options accommodate mobility devices.
Distance factors: Ports of call with stable ramps for boarding and disembarking can accommodate powered mobility scooters, which offer superior capabilities for traveling long distances and conserving energy compared to manual wheelchairs.
5 Most Accessible Caribbean Cruise Ports
The West Indies and their surrounding islands are a popular destination due to their warm weather, beautiful beaches and accessibility. There are dozens of cruise lines, including the Royal Caribbean, the Norwegian Cruise Line and P&O Cruises. Different lines cater to different preferences — you can select large ships with endless activities or smaller, more intimate cruises with luxury experiences.
When planning your next trip, choose from our list of the top five accessible ports. The right location will help you have peace of mind, participate in excursions and embrace the wanderlust of traveling. Discover accessible cruises that meet your preferences.
1. Cozumel, Mexico
Enjoy flat terrain and beach access in Cozumel, Mexico. Main cruise piers, such as Punta Langosta, Puerta Maya and the International Pier, have paved terrains with connected shopping plazas. Some accessible activities include:
Going to the beach: Lounge at accessible beach clubs, like Chankanaab Park, which offer wheelchair access to the beach and have ramp access to the water.
Seeing ancient Mayan ruins: Go on a guided history tour with step-free paths at the Mayan Experience Center or El Cedral.
Shopping for souvenirs: Ride mobility devices directly from the ship into duty-free shopping areas.
2. San Juan, Puerto Rico
Experience the historic charm of San Juan, Puerto Rico. This vacation spot offers accessible activities:
Experience artisan markets, try local food and hear live music: Visit the Paseo de la Princesa, a wide and flat promenade that's fully accessible to mobility devices.
Explore a Spanish fort with a lighthouse: Embrace the views of Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a historic fort that has accessible paved paths along the lower levels and entry plaza.
Relax at the beach: Enjoy spending time at Playa Escambron, a beach that's accessible via paved walkways that lead to the water, shower areas and Old San Juan's historic district.
3. St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
Shop for souvenirs and enjoy postcard-worthy views with St. Thomas's accessible travel options. Havensight and Crown Bay feature flat and ramped areas to explore, with popular attractions:
Treat yourself at the mall: Buy duty-free jewelry and souvenirs at Havensight Mall, a flat-surface shopping area that's easy to navigate and conveniently located near cruise ports.
Take in breathtaking scenery: Book an accessible tour to see Mountain Top, a famous area that offers panoramic views of Magen's Bay, one of the world's most beautiful beaches.
Visit a popular scenic lookout: Take a mobility-device-friendly taxi to the top of Paradise Point, which offers stunning views of Charlotte Amalie Harbor and provides access to a restaurant and shops via ramps.
4. Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos
Escape to the Grand Turk oasis, an island that makes up the British Overseas Territory of the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI). Grand Turk prioritizes accessibility with its flat terrain and mobile-device-friendly tram tours. Try some bucket-list activities, such as:
Booking a tram tour: Ride on a tram that features ramps for easy access — you can enjoy a narrated tour of historical sites, like the salt ponds, lighthouse and prison.
Lounging on the island: Access a flat path that's easy to navigate by SunRay Beach, which offers views of turquoise waters and cabana rental options for you to enjoy.
Unwinding at Margaritaville: Ride your rental scooter just a couple of hundred feet away from the ship to find food, drinks and a massive pool with a seamless entry path.
5. St. Maarten
Visit the “Culinary Capital of the Caribbean.” This peaceful border seamlessly blends Dutch and French cultures, offering a fusion of international flavors and fine dining options. Choose from over 300 restaurants to make your day memorable and exciting. Add these mobile-device-friendly attractions in St. Maarten to your itinerary:
Wander through the main beach and town area: Ride a scooter-friendly water taxi that brings you to Harbor Point Village, a duty-free shopping area with local jewelry and souvenirs.
Dine and shop with waterfront views: Visit Philipsburg Boardwalk, an extensive and wide concrete boardwalk that's accessible for scooters and extends along the Great Bay beach.
See the tourist sights along Front Street: Tour a “Star Wars” movie memorabilia museum, sample the island's signature rum at the Guavaberry Emporium or admire the historic Philipsburg Courthouse.
Packing Checklist for Port Days
Ready to make the most of your vacation? When preparing for your adventure, consider packing the following:
A lightweight poncho or rain jacket in case it rains
A hat, sunglasses and sunscreen for sun protection
Travel documentation, like your ID card or passport
A portable charger for your phone or rental mobility equipment
A “go-bag” that fits securely on the back of your rental scooter or wheelchair
A seat cushion to make your scooter rides as comfortable as possible for hours
Enhance Your Cruise With a Mobility Rental
Your dream trip awaits. Enjoy navigating ports of call easily with mobility scooter rentals or wheelchair rentals from Scootaround. Our cruise rental service delivers rental equipment directly to your stateroom or terminal, offering a seamless experience. Browse our rental options for your upcoming sailing adventure, and ensure an accessible vacation for everyone in your group.
Book our gear to enjoy the islands without limits today.
