cruise ship type 1 diabetes

Guests With Disabilities

• Diabetes, Dialysis & Oxygen

FACILITIES AND SERVICES FOR GUESTS WITH DISABILITIES

At Carnival, we're dedicated to offering a fun and memorable cruise experience to all our guests. Our team of trained crew members provides attentive service and our ships have a variety of accessible features to ensure our guests with disabilities have a relaxing and enjoyable cruise. We are working on additional modifications to our ships and services to further enhance the guest experience. Look for updates to this page periodically for more details.

While we provide attentive service, we do not provide one-on-one personal care assistance, and all guests must be able to provide such care for themselves (e.g., performing personal tasks such as eating, dressing, toileting, bathing, and getting around the ship). Once on board, our crew will not provide any assistance with such personal tasks.

General Access

We've made substantial modifications to our ships, to help make them easier to navigate. Our ships feature accessible elevators at each elevator bank, equipped with both tactile controls within reach of guests who use wheelchairs and audible signals for guests who are blind or have limited vision.

Accessible routes are available throughout most areas of the ship and signs are posted to assist you in locating these pathways. Accessible tables are available in the dining venues of each ship. In addition to the main dining rooms, each ship offers a variety of accessible dining options within Lido Deck casual dining areas and other restaurant venues. 24-hour room service is also available for all our guests. Pool lifts are available on Carnival Celebration, Carnival Firenze, Carnival Freedom, Carnival Horizon, Carnival Jubilee, Carnival Miracle, Carnival Panorama, Carnival Paradise, Carnival Pride, Carnival Radiance, Carnival Sunrise, Carnival Venezia, Carnival Vista, and Mardi Gras, all of which have a 300 pound weight limit.

For each ship, diagrams of accessible routes, accessible staterooms*, and accessible public restrooms are available below. Use our accessible PDF deck plans to locate accessible rooms, while the interactive deck plans allow you to easily get more details about a particular room, including dimensions, when you search by room number.

* Carnival Celebration, Carnival Jubilee, Mardi Gras – Not all staterooms can accommodate scooters. If you are traveling with a scooter on one of these ships, please review your ship’s PDF accessible deck plan and confirm the stateroom you have selected accommodates your needs.

If you need general information about accessibility before you cruise, or have an ADA complaint, please call our Guest Access team at 1-800-438-6744 ext.70025, or 1800 072 670 ext. 70025 if calling from Australia. You can also email us at [email protected] . All post-cruise ADA concerns will be responded to within 30 days. Carnival's designated ADA Responsibility Officer is Clarisa Stollenwerck, Vice President, Guest Operations.

ACCESSIBLE STATEROOMS

Our ships have specially designed staterooms for guests using wheelchairs, or those who have mobility limitations and could benefit from the features of an accessible stateroom. We request our guests to acknowledge the need for the accessible stateroom by completing this Mobility Questionnaire , or one will be sent to you once the reservation has been secured and you have notified Carnival that you, or the person you are securing the stateroom for, requires the accessibility features of the stateroom.

If an accessible stateroom is booked by a guest who does not need the accessibility features in the stateroom, they may at any time be moved to a non-accessible stateroom in order to accommodate a guest with a disability.

We have four classifications of staterooms:

Fully Accessible Cabins (FAC) : These staterooms are designed for use by guests with highly limited mobility or no mobility, who require the regular use of a wheelchair, scooter or other similar assistive devices. FAC contain accessible elements including turning space, accessible routes throughout the stateroom and an accessible bathroom. Additionally, the bathrooms contain grab bars and shower seats.

Fully Accessible Cabins – Single Side Approach (FAC-SSA) : These staterooms are designed for use by guests with highly limited or no mobility, who require the regular use of a wheelchair, scooter or other similar assistive devices. FAC–SSA are a type of FAC that provide an accessible route and clear floor space on only one side of the bed, in staterooms configured to provide only one bed. In a stateroom configured to provide two beds, the clear floor space will be between the beds, with one side of each bed getting an accessible route. Additionally, these staterooms have an accessible bathroom that contains grab bars and shower seats.

Ambulatory Accessible Cabins (AAC) † : These staterooms are designed for use by guests with mobility limitations, who do not require the regular use of a wheelchair, scooter, or other similar assistive devices. For example, AAC are ideal for guests who only use an assistive device (like a cane or a walker) for traversing longer distances, and who may benefit from certain accessible features like grab bars, to assist with balance. Please keep in mind this type of stateroom has a step going into the bathroom and balcony (if applicable).

Standard Cabins † : These staterooms have an entry doorway measuring approximately 22" (55.9 cm), an 8" (20.3 cm) lip into the cabin bathroom, a 4" (10.2 cm) lip into the shower stall and a 7" (17.8 cm) lip to the balcony (if applicable). If an accessible stateroom is booked by a guest who does not need the accessibility features in the stateroom, they may at any time be moved to a non-accessible stateroom in order to accommodate a guest with a disability.

As with all Carnival reservations, staterooms within each category are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Therefore, it is advisable to reserve the appropriate stateroom in advance. If an accessible stateroom is booked by a guest who does not need the accessibility features in the stateroom, they may at any time be moved to a non-accessible stateroom in order to accommodate a guest with a disability.

† Carnival Celebration ® , Carnival Jubilee ™ , Mardi Gras ® – Not all staterooms can accommodate scooters. If you are traveling with a scooter on one of these ships, please review your ship’s PDF accessible deck plan and confirm the stateroom you have selected accommodates your needs.

PERSONAL MOBILITY DEVICES (WHEELCHAIRS/SCOOTERS/SEGWAYS)

We strongly encourage guests to inform us if they are traveling with wheelchairs/scooters at the time of booking, or as soon as the need is known, to ensure they have a stateroom that best accommodates their needs.

Due to safety considerations, mobility devices cannot be stored in corridors or public areas. In order to purchase a standard stateroom † , mobility devices must be able to fit through its 22" (55.9 cm) wide entry doorway, and must fold and collapse so when stored, allows for safe exit from the stateroom. Guests who bring scooters that are larger than 21" (53.34 cm) wide, or travel with multiple scooters in the same stateroom, must purchase a fully accessible stateroom with a wider doorway (32”, 81.3 cm), or rent a smaller scooter appropriately suited for their stateroom. Guests may be required to have their scooters sized at the time of check-in to ensure it fits in the stateroom. Scooters that do not fit in the stateroom will not be allowed on board. Should a guest be unable to make alternate arrangements to rent a smaller scooter or travel without it, he/she will be denied boarding and no compensation will be provided.

If bringing a scooter, please bring one that can collapse or fold so that it may be stored in the closet or underneath the vanity area. Once on board, guests may contact their room steward for assistance.

Only mobility devices operated with gel, dry cell, absorbed glass mat, or lithium-ion batteries will be allowed on board. Batteries must be charged in the guest's stateroom and for this reason, we recommend guests travel with a scooter that has removable batteries.

Guests must drive at a safe speed to ensure their own safety and the safety of others on board. Raised door thresholds are present throughout the ship, which need to be traversed with care. Careful attention must be paid when backing in and out of elevators as they are often in close proximity to the staircase and may be narrow and difficult to navigate.

Mobility devices cannot be left unattended in any venue area unless the guest is temporarily away attending an event and, the device is parked in an area that allows all guests safe exit from the venue. When in public areas, guests must maintain their device clear of any exits or fire doors and ensure it does not obstruct any fire or safety equipment.

Guests bringing a Segway must store it in their stateroom for use at ports of call only.

RENTAL SERVICES

AIRPORT TRANSFERS

North America Departures: For transportation from the airport to the cruise port, a hydraulic lift transfer is available for guests with mobility limitations. This service must be requested in advance. Hydraulic lifts have a maximum weight limit of 500 pounds (226 kg), including wheelchair/scooter and guest. Standard airport transfer charges apply; there is no additional cost for the lift. If you require this service, please let us know no later than 14 days prior to sailing. After booking your cruise, you can reserve your hydraulic lift transfer online, by accessing the Manage My Cruise page or by calling the Guest Services Contact Center at 1-800-438-6744 ext. 70025 or 1800-072-670 ext. 70025 if calling from Australia.

• Barcelona: +34 606-289-559
• Lisbon (Portugal): +351 917 630 855
• London (Dover): +44 798-988-1258
• Rome (Civitavecchia): +39 064-202-0498

WHEELCHAIR ASSISTANCE

Each terminal has a limited supply of wheelchairs used to transport guests on and off the ship, so we are unable to loan you our wheelchairs for the duration of the cruise. If you need wheelchair assistance for boarding the ship, please contact one of our representatives once you arrive at the cruise terminal. Assistance will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis. For assistance with debarkation, instructions on where to meet will be provided the last evening of your cruise.

Please note, all wheelchairs have a maximum guest weight limit of 325 pounds. For safety reasons, we are unable to provide wheelchair assistance to those who exceed the maximum weight limit and we reserve the right to deny assistance if the weight presents operational or safety concerns.

GOING ASHORE

Carnival is committed to accommodating its guests with disabilities so they can fully, yet safely, enjoy the ports of call. Guests wishing to disembark the vessel on their mobility device must be able to safely navigate the angle of the gangway while the ship is docked in port.

At certain ports of call, water shuttles are required to transport guests between the ship and shore. Whether guests with mobility limitations can board a water shuttle is subject to numerous factors, including weather and tidal conditions, which may affect the transfer from one moving vessel to another. Also, facilities in ports vary and, therefore, certain water shuttles may not be accessible to individuals using wheelchairs, scooters and other mobility devices. While the sea and wind conditions may be acceptable to safely board the water shuttle, fluctuations in the weather may make re-boarding to return to the ship dangerous. The final determination of whether any guest may board a water shuttle is made by the captain. Safety restrictions prohibit crew from carrying individuals on or off water shuttles.

In the event you are unable to go ashore, our shipboard team will have activities and entertainment for you to enjoy.

Ports Requiring Water Shuttles

* Limited availability of accessible water shuttles

** No accessible water shuttles available

*** Water shuttles sometimes required; varies by sailing. Based on local availability, accessible water shuttles may not be available.

If you require additional information or need assistance to ensure you have the best accommodations for your needs, please call our Guest Access team at 1-800-438-6744 ext.70025 or 1800 072 670 ext. 70025 if calling from Australia. You can also email us at [email protected] . All post-cruise ADA concerns will be responded to within 30 days. Carnival's designated ADA Responsibility Officer is Clarisa Stollenwerck, Vice President, Guest Operations.

Carnival makes available to all guests who require them a visual-tactile, cabin alert system that notifies room occupants of a door knock, a telephone call, the alarm clock, or a smoke-detection event. A TTY (teletypewriter) is also available to communicate with Guest Services, 24 hours a day.

A safety briefing video with open captions is televised in all staterooms throughout the cruise. Carnival-created TV content has closed captions. Additionally, when available through our service provider, closed captions are offered for certain in-stateroom TV programs and movies. Should you require closed captioning for our outdoor movies, please contact our Guest Services team once on board. Other important information can be found in the Fun Times (our daily newsletter).

Assistive listening headsets are available to amplify the sounds of live, onboard performances in our main show room. You may request them at Guest Services once on board.

Deaf or hard of hearing guests who use sign language as their primary means of communication may request a sign language interpreter. Sign language interpreters can be requested, on a shared basis, for cruises departing from and returning to a U.S port for the purpose of interpreting our main production shows, port and shopping presentations, and other major organized activities.

Please inform the Guest Access Department at the time of booking, or at your earliest possible convenience, if you need a sign language interpreter. A form will be sent to you, which must be completed and returned to us for the request to be processed. We will always make reasonable efforts to obtain a sign language interpreter at the time of the request. Since interpreters are subject to availability, a 60-day notice is strongly encouraged whenever possible. We are unable to take requests for a specific interpreter.

If you need general information about accessibility before you cruise, or have an ADA complaint, please call our Guest Access team at 1-800-438-6744 ext.70025 or 1800 072 670 ext. 70025 if calling from Australia. You can also email us at [email protected] . All post-cruise ADA concerns will be responded to within 30 days. Carnival's designated ADA Responsibility Officer is Clarisa Stollenwerck, Vice President, Guest Operations.

Braille signage, indicating stateroom numbers and public room names, is available on board our ships. The only Braille format document available, absent advance request, is our in-cabin 'Good to Know' Information Sheet.

Large print format is available for our daily newsletter (the Carnival Fun Times), dining room menus, and shore excursion information. We ask that you request large-print items prior to sailing, so we can have them ready for you upon arrival. Please send your request to [email protected] or you may call our Guest Access team at 1-800-438-6744 ext. 70025 or 1800 072 670 ext. 70025 if calling from Australia. We also provide an audible format of our Carnival Fun Times. Additional requests for large print information or alternate formats may be made at the Guest Services desk, once on board; however, there may be a delay if not requested prior to sailing.

Dining rooms menus can be provided in an electronic PDF file, readable via screen-reading software. Our dining team will also be happy to review the menu with you in detail. You can also access information directly on your phone via the Carnival HubApp.

Specific computers in the internet café are equipped with screen-reader software.

If you need assistance with the safety briefing or require an orientation of the ship’s layout, please contact Guest Services once on board. While we provide attentive service, we do not provide sighted guide services throughout your cruise.

Service dogs are welcome on board. For specific details and requirements, please click on the Service Dogs tab.

If you need general information about accessibility before you cruise, or have an ADA complaint, please call our Guest Access team at 1-800-438-6744 ext. 70025 or 1800 072 670 ext. 70025 if calling from Australia. You can also email us at [email protected] . All post-cruise ADA concerns will be responded to within 30 days. Carnival's designated ADA Responsibility Officer is Clarisa Stollenwerck, Vice President, Guest Operations.

Carnival works with parents or guardians to include children within the designated age ranges in the available youth programs. Each child's needs are assessed, on a case-by-case basis, to determine how she or he can be accommodated and integrated in the program to have a fully and equally enjoyable experience. Youth Programs rules and regulations still apply to all children, in terms of age policy, illness, hours of operation and acceptable conduct (unruly behavior) while in the program.

In order to participate in Carnival Youth Program activities, the parent/guardian will need to register their child for the program. When registering the child, the staff will work with the parents to determine what special assistance will help aid the Youth Staff in how to best serve the child while participating in the activities. Parents/guardians may choose to have their child move down one age group as an accommodation. No child who is 18 years or older can participate in Youth Programs. Carnival does not provide one-on-one attention, but the parent or assigned helper may stay and participate in the activities with the child.

Staff members are not to change diapers of children who are older than 5 years old and/or exceeding the diaper weight requirement due to the diaper changing table procedure and safety of child. Due to safety concerns, staff, and crew, cannot lift or carry guests.

Medical care consent is required to participate in youth programs. In the event your child requires regular medication while attending a Youth Programs activity, a parent/guardian must return to administer that medication. The Youth Staff will not administer any medication and/or needles to child participating in a Youth Programs activity, with the exception of epi-pens. Only epi-pens, self-using inhalers, self-administered diabetic testing equipment, self-administered insulin and glucose tablets are permitted in Youth Programs.

Supervised lunch with Youth Staff is scheduled for children ages 2-11, during port days only. Supervised dinner with Youth Staff is scheduled nightly (except embarkation night) for children ages 2-11. Since the Youth Staff is not able to provide one-on-one assistance, children will need to be able to feed themselves. In the event a child needs to be fed, the adult responsible for the child may remain with him/her during dinner or bring the child to activities following the dinner service. Special diets cannot be accommodated for meals served in Youth Programs. Kid’s menus are subject to change based on availability.

Carnival is the first cruise line to be certified “sensory inclusive” by KultureCity ® , a leading nonprofit for individuals with sensory and invisible disabilities (such as Autism, ADHD, Down Syndrome, PTSD, etc.). If a child with a sensory or cognitive need is cruising, you can meet with Guest Services to discuss any special accommodations. Youth Staff have different resources on hand to help soothe, calm and entertain children participating in our Youth Programs, such as weighted vests, conversation cards, sensory games and other aids.

“WE DEDICATE THIS TO ABSOLUTELY EVERYONE.”

KULTURECITY AWARDED CARNIVAL

THE 2022 HUMAN HIGHLIGHT AWARD

FIND OUT MORE

Carnival is the first cruise line to be certified "sensory inclusive" by KultureCity , a leading nonprofit dedicated to accessibility and inclusion for individuals with sensory and invisible disabilities.

All of Carnival’s guest-facing crew have been trained to understand and help guests with sensory/cognitive needs. The Guest Services and Youth Staff are ready to assist adults, youth and children with sensory-related questions or issues relating to conditions such as Autism, ADHD, Down Syndrome, PTSD, etc. KultureCity Sensory Bags can be checked out for the duration of the cruise (on a complimentary and first-come, first-served basis) by visiting Guest Services or one of our Youth programs. Each bag contains items to help calm, relax and manage sensory overload, and include comfortable noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, a visual feeling thermometer, and a KultureCity VIP lanyard, to help the staff easily identify a guest.

These measures have been proven to be helpful to guests in a variety of venues including stadiums, arenas, amusement parks, and now Carnival ships!

Informational videos designed to create greater awareness among all guests, and featuring actor Christopher Gorham, a member of the KultureCity board of directors, are playing in our in-stateroom televisions.

If a guest with a sensory or cognitive need is cruising, the family should meet with Guest Services once they are on board to discuss any special accommodations, including a private safety briefing.

Youth staff has different resources on-hand to help soothe, calm and entertain children participating in our youth programs: such as weighted vests, conversation cards, sensory games, and other aids.

Carnival Cruise Line and KultureCity share a heartfelt commitment to acceptance and inclusivity. Working together, all guests can be the truest versions of themselves onboard a Carnival cruise ship.

MEDICAL CARE

In the event a guest requires medical attention while on board, our ships have medical facilities and staff to assist 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  In case of a serious medical emergency, where more comprehensive facilities are required, guests are referred to shoreside medical facilities. Our Medical Center cannot supply or refill prescriptions.

We strongly encourage guests to carry a copy of their medical records (e.g., a list of medical conditions, allergies, names, and medication dosages as well as the name and contact information of their physician).

For guests who are traveling with injectable medication and need a Sharps disposal container, please contact the Medical Center or the onboard Housekeeping staff. Some ships have staterooms equipped with mini-bars designed to maintain the temperature of beverages. Mini-bars are not to be used to store medications that have specific temperature requirements. Portable medi-coolers are available in limited quantities, and on a first-come, first-served basis with a refundable rental deposit required. If a cooler is not available, our Medical Center can assist guests with refrigeration needs (accessible during operating hours of the Medical Center only) or you may bring your own personal-size cooler for this purpose. Ships equipped with mini-bars are:

There are significant risks associated with undergoing dialysis during a cruise. Guests should be aware that our ships do not have kidney specialists or dialysis equipment and supplies available on board and our medical staff are not trained to perform dialysis.

We highly recommend that guests have been stable on their home dialysis treatments for a period of at least 12 months prior to sailing.

Considerations prior to cruising

Guests requiring peritoneal or hemodialysis, travel on our ships at their own risk. Guests traveling while on dialysis should consult with their nephrologist and provide them a copy of our risk acknowledgement letter prior to making any travel arrangements.

The ship does not carry a nephrologist onboard and timely availability of this specialty may be severely limited during the port visits. Any necessary medical care required by a specialist nephrologist will not be available while the ship is at sea.

Ships do not have back-up battery support for dialysis related equipment. In the event of a power outage on board, dialysis equipment requiring electricity may not be functional.

The risks to the guest who misses a scheduled dialysis treatment are very serious. The guest assumes additional risks when a ship is unable to make a scheduled port of call for operational reasons.

Among the many recognized risks dialysis patients may experience include pericarditis, cardiac tamponade, congestive heart failure, anemia, hemorrhage and death. Risks associated with peritoneal dialysis include infection, obstruction of the catheter, hemoperitoneum and metabolic complications. Recognized risks associated with hemodialysis include low blood pressure, bleeding, infection, clotting of the vascular access, and seizures.

Guests should be aware that charges apply for treatment in the ship’s medical center, which must be paid before disembarkation. An itemized bill will be provided which can be submitted to the guest’s travel or health insurance. Typically, standard trip travel interruption insurance does not cover medical costs.

We strongly suggest that guests contact their own health insurance to determine their benefits for medical providers outside of the United States, as well as available air-ambulance and repatriation benefits. Travelers are advised to purchase travel health insurance with defined out-of-country treatment and repatriation benefits, even if this coverage might be redundant.

Arrangements

Guests are expected to make all arrangements regarding dialysis, whether self-administered on board or at a shore side facility, and therefore take full responsibility for their arrangements, equipment and supplies.

For security reasons, the Guest Access Department must be advised of the type of supplies the guest is taking to the ship, the quantities of each, and the name of the medical/vendor supply company the guest will be using to transport supplies, no later than two weeks prior to sailing, in order for the ship’s security access systems to be updated. If a guest will be bringing their own supplies, it is important that they be hand-carried. Guests should not pack these supplies with their checked-in luggage.

The electrical outlets on all the ships are compatible with U.S. household standards: 110 volts/60 cycles, while our Australia-based ships offer one 230 volt/50 cycle powerpoint per cabin. If there are specific requirements for machinery (such as water intake), these must be communicated to the Guest Access Department as soon as possible. Medical waste receptacles can be provided for disposal of bio-hazardous waste.

Prior to the ship sailing, the guest must verify that all supplies and equipment are on board the ship and any equipment is fully functional in the stateroom. Failure to do so will prevent the guest from sailing. In the case of certain medical complications that cannot be treated onboard, you may be required to be disembarked to a medical facility ashore. The patient will be responsible for all medical expenses both on board and ashore.

If, after considering this information, a guest plans to sail with us while undergoing dialysis, they must send a fit to sail clearance letter from their nephrologist and a signed risk acknowledgement letter by e-mail to [email protected] . Failure to submit this form, along with the fit to sail letter from their nephrologist, 5 weeks prior to sailing will result in full cancellation with penalties.

The Medical Center is equipped with oxygen for emergency use ONLY. If you require the use of oxygen during your cruise, you must arrange for an adequate supply to be delivered to the ship on your sailing date. Please contact Guest Services once on board for proper storage of your oxygen. Guests are responsible for the pickup and delivery of their own oxygen. Please have your medical supply company contact us, otherwise port clearance may not be granted.

If you choose to bring your own personal supply of oxygen, you must hand carry it with you. Packing oxygen cylinders and/or tanks in your checked luggage is strictly prohibited, as is putting them through security x-ray machines. Please hand-carry your oxygen machines (BiPAP, CPAP, Concentrator, Nebulizer, etc.) and not place them in your checked luggage.

* Guests who use oxygen or depend on hemodialysis are welcome to cruise if sailing on itineraries of 15 nights or less.

Carnival can provide our guests with meals suited to the following special dietary needs: vegetarian, low-cholesterol, low-fat, low-carbohydrate, low-sugar, and gluten-free. Our chefs will make every effort to fulfill your requests, and will gladly prepare freshly-made options that meet your dietary needs. Once on board, we ask you speak with the headwaiter or dining room host in advance, so they can assist in planning your daily meals in the dining room. This will allow us the necessary time to prepare foods, as requested, in a timely manner.

Gluten-free pizza dough, pasta, bread for deli sandwiches, and hamburgers buns, as well as cake are available upon request. Plus, our frozen desserts and yogurt are gluten-free. All items are freshly prepared and may take a little longer than regular menu items. Gluten-free alcoholic beverages are available for your enjoyment on our U.S.-based ships.

Guests who require a different dining time than they chose when booking can change once on board the ship. Guests will be accommodated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Food Allergies

Our ships* are equipped with Menu Mate™ food ingredient program fleetwide to accommodate guests with food allergies. Easily operated on touch-screen tablets at food venues, the Menu Mate food ingredient program is powered by award-winning CertiStar software to mitigate the risks of allergic reactions. The new program is the first of its kind among major cruise lines. Our staff will ask guests about food allergies and enter any restrictions into the program. The software will then sort through all available options and display which items are allergen-free, which options can be modified to exclude the specified allergen and which selections should be avoided. If preferred, guests can also use the Menu Mate designated tablet themselves to enter in their own allergy/dietary information and then order from the options curated to meet their needs. Guests will also be able to find a Menu Mate tablet on display near the Lido buffet stations as well.

* Currently not available on Carnival Luminosa ® and Carnival Splendor ®

Other Dietary Needs

Although we do not have dietitians on board, we can offer assistance with simple requests such as the method of preparation of menu items. Diet requirements need to be arranged with the head waiter on the first night of the cruise. If dining in the Lido Restaurant, the guest should discuss requirements with senior dining staff.

If you need general information about accessibility before you cruise, or have an ADA complaint, please call our Guest Access team at 1-800-438-6744 ext. 70025 , or 1800 072 670 ext. 70025 if calling from Australia. You can also email us at [email protected] . All post-cruise ADA concerns will be responded to within 30 days. Carnival's designated ADA Responsibility Officer is Clarisa Stollenwerck, Vice President, Guest Operations.

The only dogs Carnival permits aboard our ships are working service dogs, which are legally defined and individually trained to meet disability-related needs by performing tasks like guiding a blind person, alerting a deaf person, pulling wheelchairs, alerting and protecting a person who is having a seizure, or performing other special tasks. Working service dogs are not pets.

Pets, or service dogs in training, are not allowed aboard. Emotional support dogs, which are not recognized by the US Department of Justice, are also not permitted on Carnival ships.

If you are traveling with a working service dog that meets the requirements described above, please review the following policies and procedures:

• Carnival is not responsible for limitations imposed on working service dogs by entities or shore excursion providers in foreign ports of call.
• Note that many of the ports you may visit will only accept annual rabies vaccinations and do not recognize three-year rabies vaccination.
• Mexican ports require service dogs to have received an ecto-parasite and endo-parasite treatment no more than 15 days prior to arrival to port and this information should be included in the dog’s health certificate. If you have any questions, please consult with your veterinarian.
• If your itinerary includes a visit to Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands requires service dogs to travel with the necessary documentation (including an import license) regardless of whether or not the service dog will disembark in Grand Turk. Grand Turk also has breed restrictions as per their Dogs Control Ordinance 2014. No import license shall be issued for the restricted breeds. Any restricted breed service dog, or any service dog without all the proper documentation, will not be able to board the ship at embarkation.
• You must hand-carry (not packed in your baggage) all required documents, along with your working service dog’s current vaccination records. You will be asked to submit these records once aboard.

So that we may provide you with the additional information you will need in order to sail with your working service dog, please email our Guest Access Department at [email protected] , or call 1-800-438-6744 ext. 70025 or 1800 072 670 ext. 70025 if calling from Australia.

Facilities, services and accessibility across ports of call vary significantly and accessibility may not be available for shore excursions or in certain ports of call due to limited infrastructure and other factors. We want our guests with mobility limitations to be able to enjoy their time ashore, and where possible, we will do our best to secure accessible tours, but options may be limited or non-existent altogether. Facilities, services and transportation equipment outside the United States may not be required to be ADA compliant. Carnival is not responsible for accessibility in foreign ports of call or for restrictions imposed by shore excursion providers that are not owned by Carnival. Additionally, numerous factors including weather, tidal conditions, and other safety concerns can impact the ability for an accessible tour to be safely operated. In the event an accessible tour is deemed unsafe to operate in full or for an individual guest, a full refund for the tour will be extended.  

Detailed information is provided in the shore excursions section of carnival.com and carnival.com .au indicating the approximate amount of physical activity anticipated for the excursion, as well as which tours are wheelchair accessible. Carnival has a wide variety of onboard activities during every port stop, should guests decide not to disembark.

ACTIVITY LEVEL FOR SHORE EXCURSIONS

Guests can select the shore excursions best suited to their abilities, and we have added descriptions that provide a general idea of the level of activity to expect on each tour:

• Easy – May include relaxing or walking short distances over relatively level terrain. Comfortable shoes may be recommended.
• Moderate – May involve varying amounts of activity (long walks, rough terrain, basic water play). May not be recommended for guests with physical limitations. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are recommended.
• Difficult – Involves physical exertion for an extended period of time; can involve swimming and/or rough, uneven or steep terrain.
• Extreme – Involves intense physical exertion for an extended period of time.

We strongly recommend accessible shore excursions be pre-arranged prior to your cruise. However, if you need assistance once on board, please visit our Shore Excursions Desk and specify your accommodations needed. Accessible tours are available in certain destinations only, and our shore excursion staff can provide you with suggestions. Motor coaches and other forms of transportation may require you to climb 2 to 3 steps. Most, but not all motor coaches, can accommodate collapsible wheelchairs. Where available, we require a minimum of 24-hour notice for accessible transportation to be arranged. Vehicles, ramps and lifts may vary depending upon the port and availability. For safety reasons, staff is not able to lift guests into or out of vehicles. Specific dietary requirements cannot be guaranteed on shore excursions.

Shore excursion providers operating within the U.S. and its territories are responsible for providing effective communication. Tours operating in foreign ports may not provide auxiliary aids and services, depending on local law and availability. In non-U.S. ports where guided narrated tours are available but the operator does not provide an interpreter, and the interpreter provided by Carnival Cruise Line elects to participate in the excursion, we will make every attempt to secure a complimentary tour ticket for the interpreter. However, if we are unable to do so, you may purchase the tour for the interpreter or forgo interpreter’s services. Please notify us in advance so we can coordinate the necessary accommodation.

Carnival is not responsible for limitations imposed on working service dogs by independent entities or shore excursion providers in foreign ports of call.

If you have additional questions specifically regarding an accessible tour that is offered, you may email our shore excursion team at [email protected] .

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Who can I contact for accessibility related concerns or questions?

We strongly suggest you communicate any needs to our team before you cruise so that we can do our best to meet any accommodations. If you need general information about accessibility, please call our Guest Access team at 1-800-438-6744 ext.70025, 1800 072 670 ext. 70025 if calling from Australia, or email us at [email protected] .

Once on board, you can request to speak to the Guest Services Manager.

• Royal Caribbean International

Recent Diabetes Diagnosis-cruise travel tips?

By Gatordad815 , May 15, 2022 in Royal Caribbean International

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Gatordad815

Hi all! Our family of four enjoys cruise vacations and young daughter was very recently diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. She also has Celiac disease, so we are already accustomed to closely managing her meals, and Royal Caribbean has been excellent at accommodating gluten free meals, but this adds a whole new dimension to our planning.

Can anyone give advice/tips on managing diabetes on a cruise? I already know to contact special needs and to have extra supplies just in case, but what else should we know to help manage on a cruise?

I’m specifically curious to learn how people reliably calculate carbs to keep insulin dosing correct? I’m assuming we will be guesstimating using an app, but is there any more reliable way to get accurate carb information from the kitchen?   

Can anyone comment of Adventure Ocean? I’m assuming we will just check her blood glucose when we drop her off to be sure it’s not going low, but is there anything else we should know? Any tips on shore excursions/exploring ports? 

Any other tips/advice? Thanks in advance for any input-this is still pretty new and daunting to us!

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Hello fellow Gator Dad.  We have both Celiac and DM1 in the family as well although not in the same child.  First I would recommend checking in with either her Endocrinologist or Diabetic Nurse for any advice.  My advice will be general and not specific to RC as most of our cruises have been on other lines, but thus far I haven't found much in the way of differences between the lines in this regard.  Also please remember that any advice I give is not specific to your daughter as I can only give our experience.  In other words this is NOT specific medical advice.  Any advice is somewhat dependent on what technology you are using to manage her DM (i.e. shots vs pump, finger sticks vs CGM) and the age/independence of the child.  A cruise is definitely a situation where a pump and CGM come in very handy.  If she is not using a CGM, I would recommend that you contact her Endocrine and insist on starting one.  They are a complete game changer.  One downside is that you need to purchase the internet package for at least two devices if you want to monitor the CGM while separated.  You'll also need a way to communicate which can be something like iMessage or WhatsApp if using the internet package on two phones or the cruise line specific texting.  Note that I have found the cruise line texting apps to be very hit or miss in how well they function and don't trust them.  We use iMessage which works fine as long as all phones are Apple and you have the internet package on both.  I like iMessage because I can see if message was delivered and read.  My understanding is the WhatsApp is a good alternative if not all phones are Apple, but I have never used it.  Also consider different types of pumps.  We use Omnipod which is nice because they can be kept on even in pools, waterslides, and the ocean.  One thing to consider though is the adhesive for pumps/pods and GGMs.  They tend to not work as well after exposure to sweat, chlorine water, salt water, and being more active.  Backup adhesive/overlays can be very helpful.

My primary advice is that you have to adjust expectations for the time on the cruise.  It will be VERY challenging to start.  Especially with a recent diagnosis.  Our first goal is to avoid low blood sugar.  This can be very challenging as a child may be much more active than usual on a cruise.  Reducing your basal shot or pump basal rate can be helpful, but that is going to be very specific to the child.  Secondary goal is to prevent highs, but my tolerance of highs is adjusted up a good bit during the time on the cruise.  You will not be perfect.  There is no way around this.  Do the best you can.  Prevent lows and major highs.  Do your best not to let DM ruin her (and your) vacation.  Having set reasonable expectations for both her and you can make this more manageable.  Remember that it will get easier.  CGM goes a long way here as the alternative is a lot of finger sticks.  It is very important that she stay hydrated.  Have hydration plans for ports and shore excursions.

Our diabetic child tends to eat the same things repeatedly.  I have been doing this long enough that I don't necessarily need to carb count because they don't stray far from the usual.  Adjustments using a pump are also helpful if I miss on estimated insulin needs.  The cruise lines don't generally have carb counts available unfortunately.  You are welcome to ask, but don't be surprised if you don't get an answer.  Use apps to estimate.  Consider goals above regarding lows and highs when dosing.  This will require trial and error unfortunately.  It is hard to give specifics here.

Our child never really took to Kids Clubs.  I think that was partially due to diabetes.  The staff want to be helpful but are very limited in what they can do.  If you are lucky, one of the staff members has experience with DM1.  This is an area where the independence and age of your child make a big difference.  The ability to monitor blood sugar and communicate can also make a big difference.  I don't have much else to add as our child hasn't spent much time in the Kids Clubs.

When packing, have backups for your backups.  That's for everything.  Insulin, pump supplies, CGM supplies, glucose monitor, test strips, preferred sugar/glucose source for lows, etc.  Whatever it is, assume that you can not easily replace if lost or broken.  Try to keep insulin cold without freezing if at all possible.  You will leave insulin in a hotel or stateroom refrigerator at least once.  You will end up with a good sized bag just for DM supplies.  Give yourself extra time to get through security at both airports and ports.  Technically DM technology should not go through x-ray machines although some will tell you that no damage is caused.  We still avoid the x-ray machine and request that child not go through the scanner when wearing DM tech.

TL;DR. Try not to get overwhelmed.  It does get better although it will remain a challenge.  Avoid lows.  Learn from mistakes.  Triple pack everything.  Give yourself extra time for everything.  If not using a CGM, insist on starting one.  Remember you are on vacation.

leaveitallbehind

It may be difficult to get the carb information you are looking for from the ship - a lot of meals and variables at play with carb related ingredients.  However, it certainly can't hurt to ask special services - or the maitre d - to see if any of that information can be provided.  You can also ask to see if there is any low carb meals that can be offered as a dietary request. 

Failing all that, a nutritionist associated with her recent diagnosis can certainly provide a guide to carbs that can give you at least a general overview as to foods to include v what to avoid so that you can better manage selections and help you balance carb and protein intake. They will also provide target ranges of carb intake with each meal and snacks. I would talk with them in detail prior to the cruise for their input.

It actually can be relatively easy to calculate a rough carb and protein total just by understanding the different food types and and consumed quantities associated with total carbs absorbed.  It does take some time and familiarity with what is good v bad to get used to, but it eventually will become a lifestyle-type of program.  Once armed with this information, on board, buffet offerings may be an option in assisting with this if not easily done through special needs and the MDR. 

Diabetes is a complex and tricky illness to manage, but it certainly, over time and with experience, can be successfully accomplished.  Type 1 is certainly different than Type2, and IMO is more complex to navigate.  But I'm certain that you will be able to learn to deal successfully with this and be able to cruise with confidence.

BirdTravels

I am diabetic and it is impossible to get a accurate carb count. Get into a routine of carb lite foods. You can request diabetic foods, but for me, that more trouble than it’s worth. Order the standard dinner and keep the mashed potatoes for yourself (leaving the yummy protein and veg on the plate). And remember that NSA food are not always carb lite. They are lighter, but contain sugars from the natural ingredients. 

DW has Hashimoto's/Hypothyroid disease and can't eat anything with gluten or soy. The WJ has always been her best option for her diet, because they have a wide variety of gluten free/soy free options available. On Harmony (at least) she has been able to get the chef to make her Thai rice noodles and they will walk around the entire venue with her to point out everything that meets her dietary requirements. Not sure if any of this helps your daughter, but at least there are options available other than rolling the dice in the MDR.

Hello, another fellow Gator. DH has T1D. He was fairly late onset so it hasn't been that long since he was a newby. The CGM is a good idea but those can be inaccurate on occasion. Is your daughter still in the "honeymoon" phase where insulin will be sporadically produced by the pancreas? I recommend manual testing more often then normal to supplement the CGM.

Counting carbs can be difficult, especially while you are not familiar with her reactions. Sometimes high protein that takes longer to digest can require more insulin than anticipated. For DH, black coffee sets off his blood sugar as well (fairly common). Don't know if anything with caffeine would do that but something to look out for. I agree she should generally try to avoid carbs.

The extra supplies are definitely a must but the ship should have extras as well as this is very common (to include T2D who are insulin dependent). You may want to limit excursions that will take you far from the ship until you know your daughter's reactions. Always have candy or glucose tabs with you. DH gets cold sweats/clammy when he is getting low. 

Hopefully this hasn't discouraged you. DH manages it well and we've had great trips!

Please speak with your daughter's MD about whether a land based vacation may be more suitable for a newly diagnosed type 1 diabetic. Medical care onboard is being stretched very thin by Covid.

Sorry to hear that @Gatordad815 .  I have no diabetic problems, but I try to follow a low-glycemic diet.  I lost over 60lbs and that included cruising.  I often lost weight when cruising because I have choices.  I can pick and choose good proteins and low-glycemic vegetables at the buffet and in the MDR.  I think the biggest challenge you may face is your daughter not understanding why she can't eat all the "pretty" food.  I hope you have a good cruise!

Thanks to all for the helpful insight! It’s reassuring to read the perspectives of others who have managed this. I’m feeling like we are getting the hang of this, but definitely want to learn everything I possibly can to be sure we are managing this as best we can. Thanks again.

Itchy&Scratchy

16 hours ago, Gatordad815 said: Thanks to all for the helpful insight! It’s reassuring to read the perspectives of others who have managed this. I’m feeling like we are getting the hang of this, but definitely want to learn everything I possibly can to be sure we are managing this as best we can. Thanks again.

imho, you need to learn to manage it at home first, and then apply the same techniques on the cruise.

My dad has non-insulin dependent T2 so it doesn't apply in this situation, but a friend of ours has a very well managed T1 since she is in her late 70s. She eats regular food in moderation and sticks to no sugar added desserts. She cruises A LOT. Once you and your DD get a hang of the situation, you will be fine as well.

A friend of our's DD is college aged now, but she was dx in childhood. It was very difficult to manage until they finally got a pump for her.

lakemurraykid

I was so happy when I saw this thread.  I am on the Allure in October and am Type 2.  Food really gets the best of me and I admit it.  I get so confused on the carbs.  I know I can't have potatoes, rice or white bread.  I was on a cruise this past November on another cruise line and when I made my reservation I noted that I was diabetic.  I was told to talk with the maîtres'd and I did.  But when I went to the DR, I had to tell the server.  She then went and talked with the chef and he had no clue.  After about 45 minutes I got dinner.  This happened twice.  After that I went to the buffet for everything.  The selections were considerably greater and I was able to pick what I knew I could eat.  I ate all of my meals at the buffet from there on.  I haven't told RCCL yet about my situation, and I wonder if it will be handled any better than my last cruise.  I'm not on insulin but do have to take two different meds daily.  If you have any suggestions, I would love to hear them.

@lakemurraykid  Although I am not diabetic, I try to eat a low-glycemic diet for general health reasons and I have done this for over 20 years now.  The trick to weight loss on a low-G diet is to put your body into ketosis, which is where your blood sugar drops so low, it must begin to burn stored fat.  I don't believe that is what a diabetic person should do unless directed by a doctor, but it is for otherwise healthy people trying to lose weight.  You might want to grab a copy of the book Sugar Busters, which explains a lot about body chemistry and why low-G diets work for weight loss and can make living with diabetes easier.  

I would suggest getting familiar with the glycemic index of foods and avoid anything over 60 (for ketosis, you generally must avoid anything over 50).  Dairy and meats (without sauces or gravies) and most vegetables are fine.  Just remember not to eat "pig food", which is potatoes, corn and carrots.  Bread and pasta is generally no-go except for very small portions of true whole grain breads or pasta  (not "made with whole grain wheat" but "100% whole grain wheat").  Don't worry about fats.  Generally speaking, consumed fat not only won't make you fat, it can actually lower blood sugar levels.  Besides that, most low-fat version of normally fatty foods will use corn syrup and other high-glycemic ingredients as a substitute. 

Besides the self-control challenges, eating out can be difficult because you won't usually have access to the true ingredient list.  What I do is order meats without the sauces.  No pasta, bread, potatoes or rice.  I choose sides like green vegetables, peas, etc. that prepared without sauces or topping, except butter or oil.  You are right - the buffet works better because you can select exactly what you want and see the food before choosing it.  

Having said that, I do get cravings for sweets, bread, etc.  When I do, I select a sugar-free dessert option, but if it comes with a cake or crust, I don't eat that as it will made from refines wheat.  Sugar-free ice cream is a good choice if available.  Puddings are not good as they contain a lot of starch (high-G).  For bread cravings, I will choose the grainiest looking piece and eat very little.  I have  found that some Italian restaurants do offer a whole-grain pasta option.  I think I found this once on a cruise ship.  Oh, and beer is the worst high-G "food" you can consume.  It's 105 on the index!  

I am T2 and gluten free.  Rccl is a very good line for food issues. One issue I had was that the no sugar added desserts often spiked me. I ended up with a uti after several nights (vicious cycle).  I will say medical was excellent for that. I will know next time to pass on those.  

I am T1 so have dealt with this for a good long while. The best you can do is find something a bit similar to what you're eating in an app and go with that. Some portion sizes are a good bit smaller than what they might be in a land based restaurant. As some others have said the best you can do is try to minimize long crazy highs while not getting very low. 

Stock up the room with lots and lots of snacks. When something is going on you don't have time to wait for room service. Always keep fast acting glucose both with her and yourself. I have had many experiences after walking all over creation that I suddenly find myself <50. That being said account also for the extra activity. 

Get a glucagon emergency kit and take it with you anywhere off ship you all might go. Also bring flying if your flying and keep it really accessible. 

Lots and lots of supplies and alternative means of delivering insulin if there is a pump involved (a cracked pump and swimming at CocoCay do not mix). Also put most of this stuff in the carry on. You don't want to risk the one suitcase that they lose is the one with all of it in it. 

Have not had anything less than a great experience with onboard medical. 

On 5/15/2022 at 5:33 AM, Gatordad815 said: Hi all! Our family of four enjoys cruise vacations and young daughter was very recently diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes

On 5/15/2022 at 5:33 AM, Gatordad815 said: Can anyone give advice/tips on managing diabetes on a cruise?

My wife was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes about 30 years ago at the age of 23.  I know it can seem overwhelming with a new diagnosis however with a good medical team and support group it is completely manageable.  Travel can be challenging.  My best advise to you is trust your daughters medical team.  A good PMD, nutritionist and endocrinologist is a must. They can guide you with the day to day, as well as get you ready for travel.  My wife has always been active and we've travelled a lot and I'm sure your daughter will have the same experience as well.  My best advice to you and you'll learn this, don't let this get in the way of experiencing life and travel.  You just have to take extra precautions and planning.

Some things that have worked for us not for just travel but for everyday life is an insulin pump combined with a continuous glucose monitor.  She has found more consistent blood sugar levels with the pump than when she was injecting insulin.  She has also been using the newer insulin nasal spray as well.  The continuous glucose monitor (CGM) is great, not only for her not having to poke her finger for a blood sample, but for myself to see her glucose level in real time and get alerts when it drops or rises too high.  WiFi on the ship is needed for myself to see it, her CGM can work via bluetooth to her iPhone.  It sounds like you have concerns when you guys are separated on the ship, the CGM is a great tool for that. The CGM and pump are both water resistant although the CGM loses it's ability to connect via bluetooth when in the water.   @death_star  had some great advice as well.  I always carry Glucagon which now comes in a nasal spray for emergency use, and stocking up on snacks in your cabin is a must.

When flying just give yourself additional time at the airport.  You will be carrying more supplies than most passengers and TSA can be tricky.  It really depends on the agent.  Some times with all of my wife's supplies, snacks, meds, devices and juice boxes they send her to a secondary search and look at everything, sometimes she says she's T1 and they wave her through.  Very unpredictable.  Embarkation has never been an issue.  My wife has made a few connections with fellow T1 cruisers on this board, I'd encourage you to seek the advice of other T1 travelers, they usually have great advice.  If there's a way to direct message me, feel free she'd love to talk to you or your daughter if you're interested as she's done before.

Happy traveling! 

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ProbablyRachel

Cruising with Type 1 Diabetes

Vacation Blood Sugar Stats:

• 7-Day Average: 158 (Did not include first 3 days of trip)
• 14-Day Average: 138 (Includes all travel but also some pre-trip checks)

I was nervous about taking a cruise for the first time since being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes and depending heavily on my medical devices. I consulted some forums and scoured the blogosphere for advice.

I quickly got over the traveling by airplane with diabetes and will be taking my first solo flight for work next month. In the past I have depended heavily on Brad to catch my carry on bags through security, so I’m on my own for this unless I end up at security at the same time as my colleague.

What worried me the most about this cruise was the food. There’s a lot of food and no nutrition information. With traveling to and from and the 7-night cruise, I ended up SWAG -ing  every single carbohydrate count for  nine days. 

Guessing the carbs in my food was pretty tough, as well as figuring out timing. It was reasonably easy to figure out the fruit, especially since I could pick up a whole banana or kiwi or a standard cup of melon and breakfast wasn’t bad because I could do bacon and eggs and often opted for an English muffin over the sugar-laden muffins, waffles or whatever. Salad was also always a safe option at lunch and for an appetizer, but who wants to subsist on salad? I eventually figured out the bread for the paninis and guess and check proved helpful for the legendary roast beef at Park Cafe.

Portion sizes for served meals were incredibly reasonable, but desserts abounded. There was always a sugar-free dessert option and a sugar-free ice cream but I pick three bites of chocolate something any day over a sugar-free fruit tart with light whipped cream that still has carbs. If I’m going to bolus for it, I want to enjoy it.

The dessert cases in the cafes and snacks had a sugar-free option (gluten free available upon request, they don’t stick those all in the same case for a good reason). I was pleasantly surprised with the flavor, texture and effect on my blood sugar for the sugar-free cookies (chocolate chip, peanut and peanut butter). They had sugar-free mousse in the case and I tried the vanilla, two bites in I set my fork down. Not great. So I bypassed the other flavors, there was strawberry and I think peach or something that was orange.

Sugar-free chocolate chip

The Low-Highs

The first few days of vacation I experienced a fair amount of lows. I would be fine then I would crash suddenly… into the 30s and 40s. That wasn’t fun and often resulted in over treating. Conversely, I would spike very high… yet crash again quickly after eating. So I had to figure it out better or vacation would be a nightmare. I reset my Dexcom parameters, changing the low alarm from 70 to 80 and the high alarm from 160 to 190. This really helped.

When Dexcom buzzed low at 80, we made our way somewhere for a snack and I could eat before going dramatically low. When it buzzed at 190, I rechecked in a few minutes and went from there.

While waiting in the Baltimore airport for the final leg of our flight, the lady sitting across from me in the terminal said, “Can I ask you a question about your Dexcom?” and pointed to my leg. The surprise must have showed on my face when I said sure, because she said, “I wear one too, but only on my stomach. Do you find that wearing it on your leg is still accurate?”

“Yes,” I said. “They say it’s only approved to wear on your stomach, but I haven’t had any luck with accuracy there. My leg and my butt are actually the most accurate places I’ve worn it.” Our chat was very brief because she and the two friends she was traveling with agreed to be bumped to a later flight, that actually ended up leaving earlier than the original flight we were supposed to be on together, that was delayed.

I lost faith in the ship’s medical facility when the nurse asked what the thing on my leg was and I showed her my Dexcom and OmniPod, letting her know that it was an insulin pump. She asked when I was diagnosed and I answered two years ago. Her following comments about how I’m not overweight and don’t look diabetic made us realize that she thought I had type 2. (We weren’t in the medical center for me. And don’t worry everything ended up being okay.)

D-gear heavy on the left side (pod on arm)

The crew members were very polite when they asked about my tech. The sports staff handling the zip line didn’t give me any trouble, but they did want to know what was on my leg and if it could fall off. They were okay with my explanation that it was a medical device and was actually implanted in my leg.

I got some questions when going back to the ship in Mexico about what my pod was, I said “insulin.” He asked if it came open, I said that no, it was sealed. Their concern is with smuggling drugs. The pod had more insulin in it when I got off the ship than when I went back on! I also got myself an extra wanding leaving Jamaica. But no issues. I did notice that the US is so much more organized with travel security as well.

Now that I’ve changed my Dexcom sensor, I have a nice, bright white oval on my leg… which I suppose is proof that I  did  get a tan, but even tan Rachel is really white!

Accommodations

Prior to leaving on our cruise I filled out a special needs form with my reservation number and requested accommodations in the form of a medical fridge for our room and a sharps container. I received a confirmation with advice to carry a prescription for the sharps, etc. with me when I travel to the port.  *well duh*

When we arrived in our room, there wasn’t a sharps container and there wasn’t a medical fridge. I wasn’t thrilled but the room fridge was actually cold, so I stashed my insulin in there. Later when we talked with our stateroom attendant I told him that I had filled out the forms and needed a sharps container. When we returned to our room that evening this was on the bathroom counter:

It was small but for only two pod changes that week, it would do. I can imagine that someone on MDI could fill that up pretty quickly. I didn’t bother with the medical fridge, but I was disappointed that I went to the trouble of filling out the paperwork in advance and the accommodations hadn’t been made. We had left port by the time I got that request in, so if they had needed to requisition those supplies, I’d have been out of luck.

No one really looked twice when I tested my blood sugar, but I tried to do it discretely and I put my used strips in a bag that I closed at the end of the week and threw in the trash instead of having strips loose in the room’s trash can and possibly making a mess when the can was emptied.

It’s been strange adjusting to life back on solid ground this week because I hadn’t been on a ship since before diabetes. I’m much more in tune with my body from being cognizant of highs and lows, so sometimes the equilibrium adjustments feel like low blood sugar!

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7 thoughts on “ cruising with type 1 diabetes ”.

Pingback: Cruising with Type 1 Diabetes | ProbablyRachel - T-1 Enlightenment

Thanks for that, Rachel. I’m 56 and just been diagnosed with insulin dependant diabetes. Big surprise all round but as my Dad had rheumatoid arthritis (also cause by an over eager autoimmune system) not unbelievable. We’re off on a 2 week cruise over Christmas and so I need to hit the ground running. I’m on the wrong side of 50 to be going back to school but I’m determined to get this under control. I see from your blog and many others like it that it’s going to be trial and error all the way. Nothing like jumping in at the deep end!

Hi Chris! I’m so glad that you found this post helpful! I’m happy to share my experiences as I just returned from another cruise.

I will be going on my first cruise since being diagnosed with diabetes. And I am very nervous about this. I tend to get dehydrated when I travel and end up in the hospital. This was helpful.

Pingback: Back from Vacation {Cruise Photos} | ProbablyRachel

Are there refrigerators in the rooms or generally do I need to make request one for my son? Thank you

Usually they have fridges in the room for mini bars that are sufficient. You could always check with special needs.

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The Boat Galley

making boat life better

🎧How I Cruise with Diabetes

Published on November 2, 2018 ; last updated on December 13, 2023 by Carolyn Shearlock

A diagnosis of diabetes doesn’t mean that you can’t still go cruising and have adventures. Here’s how I’m doing it. A guide to cruising with diabetes.

Links (Amazon links are affiliate links; The Boat Galley earns on qualifying purchases) :

Reversing Type 2 Diabetes – YouTube

Dr. Bernstein’s Diabetes Solution  (Amazon)

Type 2 Diabetes Straight Talk  (Facebook group; you have to request membership)

Type1Grit  (Facebook group; must request membership) for Type 1 diabetics

diaVerge Diabetes Management & Lisa LaNasa  (coaching)

Blood pressure cuff  (Amazon)

How to Get Medications While Cruising

Dario Meter and test strips

Engel Portable Refrigerator/Freezer  – 40 qt. marine version (Amazon)

Magma Newport 2 Infrared Grill  (Amazon)

Hi-Lyte Electrolyte Replacement (Amazon)

Prefer to read? Take a look at  Diabetes on a Boat

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Home > Knowledge & support > Living with type 1 diabetes > Everyday life > Travelling

Travelling with type 1 diabetes

In this section, preparing to travel, work out what supplies you need.

Take some time to work out how much insulin, test strips, glucagon, glucose tablets, lancets, needles and set change equipment you need. When you’re packing, take three times as much medical equipment as you expect to use.

If you use an insulin pump, take insulin pens and insulin cartridges in case your pump fails, along with manufacturers’ helpline numbers for any countries you’re visiting.

Make sure you pack emergency supplies for the journey and for days out once you start your holiday.

Keeping insulin cool

Buy some medically approved cooling packs to keep insulin cool in hot weather while you’re out and about. Make sure they’re medically approved, otherwise you may not be able to take them through airport security .

Tips on packing

Divide supplies between bags just in case you lose one.

If you’re flying, don’t put any of your insulin in your checked-in luggage as it can freeze in the hold. Instead, keep it with you in your hand luggage.

Get information about where you’re going

Make sure you check the government website for information about where you’re travelling to.

It’s a good idea to check where the nearest pharmacy or hospital is so that you can get there quickly in an emergency.

Make sure you’ve got the documents you need

You will need to take a doctor’s letter with you to prove that you have type 1 diabetes and need to carry medical supplies. Your GP or Diabetes Healthcare Team can provide you with this.

Take a medical prescription with you in case you need to get supplies while you’re away, and a diabetes identity card or bracelet.

Print off a Medical Device Awareness Card to show airport security that you are carrying type 1 diabetes tech. If you don’t have a printer, you can email Rachel Crawford at [email protected] to arrange to have one sent to you. Get more information about taking tech through airport security.

Many airports provide a hidden disability lanyard for people travelling with type 1. Find out more about how to get one .

Prepare for varying insulin doses

You may find you need to vary insulin doses for very active holidays or places where the weather is hot or cold, which may affect your blood glucose levels.

If you’re doing activities like swimming for extended periods, test your blood glucose level regularly. In the evening and night, your blood glucose level could drop after periods of activity, so beware of night-time lows.

Learn more about managing your glucose levels around exercise and physical activity .

Insulin absorption is more rapid in a hot climate so watch out for after-meal lows, followed by a spike. If you’re on a pump, use the dual or square wave function.

Planning is key

Travelling with diabetes checklist.

Download the Diabetic Travelers Network’s checklist to help you plan for travel and make sure you take everything you need.

Travelling by plane

Do you need a doctor’s letter to take diabetes supplies on a plane.

You will need to take a doctor’s letter with you to prove that you have type 1 diabetes and need to carry medical supplies, especially when you go through airport security. Your GP or Diabetes Healthcare Team can provide you with this. This letter will also allow you an extra bag to carry diabetes supplies.

Can you take insulin on a plane?

Yes, but only as hand luggage (though you will need to put it in a separate plastic bag to go through security). Temperatures in the hold can drop to freezing which will affect the effectiveness of insulin.

Can you take insulin pens on a plane?

Yes. Keep your insulin pens in your hand luggage so you have easy access to them.

Can you take blood glucose meters on a plane?

Yes. Keep it in your hand luggage in case you need to check your levels whilst you’re in the air.

Can you take an insulin pump on a plane?

The reduction in atmospheric pressure on planes can sometimes cause them to deliver insulin by accident. This can be caused by air pressure, dissolved and/or visible bubbles or the plunger moving.

The following steps are recommended for insulin pump users going on flights:

• The cartridge should only contain 1.5ml of insulin
• Disconnect the pump before take-off
• After take-off, once the plane is at cruising altitude, take the cartridge out of the pump and remove any air bubbles before reconnecting (it’s recommended that you don’t disconnect your insulin pump for longer than an hour, but check with the manufacturer or your Diabetes Healthcare Team).
• After the aeroplane lands, disconnect the pump and prime the line with two units. Then reconnect the pump
• If there’s a flight emergency involving cabin decompression, disconnect the insulin pump

Can you take a continuous glucose monitor or a flash glucose monitor on a plane?

You can use continuous glucose monitors (CGM) or flash glucose monitors on a plane and connect them to the handset or your phone using Bluetooth. They will still work if your phone is on airplane mode.

Airport security

You can take some items, like insulin pens, safely through airport security. Other equipment – like insulin pumps – may be damaged by x-rays and scanners. Find out more about taking type 1 tech through airport security .

Food and travel

When you’re travelling, make sure you take snacks with you – don’t rely on having to find somewhere in case you need to eat quickly or treat a hypo.

Aeroplane food

Contact your airline before you travel to tell them you have type 1 diabetes so that they can accommodate you. You can also ask to be served your food first.

Long train and car journeys

If you’re going on a long train or car journey, make sure you have plenty of snacks with you in case you’re not able to stop when you need to.

If you’re buying food on the train, wait for it to arrive so that you can judge how much insulin you need.

Managing insulin across time zones

If the time zone change is less than four hours, you don’t need to change how you would normally take your insulin. Talk to your Diabetes Healthcare Team before you leave for your trip to get their advice on how to manage your diabetes across time zones.

You can find information about how to manage changes in times zones (going east to west and west to east) in the Diabetes Travel Network’s Guide to Traveling with Diabetes .

Type 1 diabetes and travel insurance

Travel insurance is available for people with type 1, although it may be slightly more expensive. You can usually find insurance to cover things like medical expenses and loss of insulin and devices (find out more about insuring type 1 technology ).

When buying insurance, you will need to give details about how your type 1 has impacted you, for example, if you’ve had any hospital stays within a certain period of time.

The Global Health Insurance Card

If you’re travelling in European countries (apart from Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland) carrying a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) will entitle you to low cost or free medical care. Formally known as a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), you can find out more on the government website .

Long-term travel

If you’re travelling over a period of weeks or months, you can still follow the guidance on this page. Ask your Diabetes Healthcare Team to prescribe enough supplies to cover the length of your trip (up to six months).

It may seem like a lot to pack in your suitcase, but it will prevent you having to spend time looking for places to get supplies when you’re away.

Insulin is available almost everywhere, but it’s a good idea to check if your insulin is available in the country you’re travelling to. You can do this by checking the manufacturer’s website. Sometimes brand names are different in each country, so make sure you know what yours is before you go.

If you need to get your supplies abroad, you can use your travel insurance .

Download the Diabetic Travelers Networks® ’ Guide to Travelling With Diabetes ‘ for information and tips on travelling with type 1.

This content was created in partnership with Julie Kiefer from the Diabetic Travelers Network®.

Shared stories

“You deserve to go on holiday, to have fun, to feel understood” – travelling the world with type 1 diabetes

“I have travelled to 28 countries and navigated through 3 different health care systems with type 1. It is through planning, and some trial and error, that I discovered what works and what doesn’t and gained the knowledge and experience to travel freely with type 1.”

You may also be interested in

Airport security and diabetes technology

Get information about how to get through airport security as smoothly as possible.

Type 1 technology

Learn about what technology is available to manage type 1 and how to access it.

Visiting or moving to the UK with type 1 diabetes

If you’re moving to the UK, discover information and guidance on navigating a new health system.

Explore more lifestyle topics

Food and nutrition.

If you have type 1 there are a few things you will need to be aware of when you eat and drink, but that needn’t stop you enjoying delicious and nutritious food.

Find information about different types of jobs, how to manage your type 1 at work and the laws in place to protect you from discrimination.

Whether you’re walking the dog, ballet dancing or training for a marathon, learn how to manage your glucose levels and insulin intake for exercising.

You can still drive if you have type 1 diabetes, but there are some extra steps you need to take to be legal and safe on the road.

Different types of alcohol can affect your blood glucose in different ways. Get tips and advice to stay safe with alcohol.

Recreational drugs

Drugs can impact how you manage your type 1 and stay safe. Learn about the effects of drugs on type 1.

Smoking and vaping

When you have type 1 diabetes, smoking can make it harder to manage your blood glucose levels and increase your risk of complications.

Visiting or moving to the UK

If you’re moving to the UK, understanding a new health system as well as everything else that comes with moving to a new country is a challenge.

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Diabetes Australia

Cruising the waves with diabetes

Thinking of a cruise but worried about how to look after your diabetes while on the high seas? Registered Nurse, Credentialled Diabetes Educator, and recent passenger Constance Russell shares her top tips and tricks for managing diabetes while enjoying your holiday.

Why are we flocking back to big ship sailing like pelicans to Lake Eyre? As a recent passenger myself, I chatted with travellers of various backgrounds and living with different types of diabetes to find out what their favourite aspects of cruising were. Runner up was the number of activities on offer to suit every personality, preference and budget. But the top answer was, without hesitation, the abundant, 24-hour, delicious, all you can eat, buffet and food options!

It is quite possible to gain a kilogram per day while on your holiday. The food is a never-ending showcase with over a dozen dining options from oysters and caviar to nachos and burgers. Menus change every day. The buffets entice us with unknown salt, saturated fat, and sugar content, and yes, you can go back as many times as you like. People were holding their bellies, moaning from overindulging in the chef’s delights.

Food: What to consider

As with every other day in your diabetes management journey, what you eat is your choice; however, you may consider:

• Choosing light meals along with full fare
• Having sauces on the side
• Making sure you include plenty of vegetables on your plate
• Eating mindfully so you don’t need seconds from the dessert counter.
• For more advice on eating away from home, click here .

Did someone say, “bottoms up?” All you need to do is look sideways at the very talented bar staff on the Lido Deck and you will soon be grasping a tulip glass, full of an icy pink creation complete with outlandish garnish and compulsory umbrella. And while there is no random breathtesting on the way back to your cabin, please remember to enjoy alcohol safely . There are plenty of mocktails and non-alcoholic drinks available, and don’t forget to stay hydrated by drinking lots of water.

I like to move it… move it

Why not try some of the blood glucose-lowering physical activities? There is no shortage of super fun ways to move your body . Try a dance classes, aerobics class, gym workout, shuffleboard, quoits, the walking /jogging track, tai chi, yoga, ping pong, putt-putt, or even simply climbing the stairs between decks rather than using the lift.

Having said that, being more active on the cruise than you are at home may lead to low blood glucose levels and hypoglycaemia . I recommend you take your own hypo treatments from home and keep them with you.

Relax a little

If the thought of grooving in your nine-inch heels all night or joining the sunrise yoga class isn’t floating your boat, there are many other more chilled activities that might appeal. And a little relaxation can benefit your glucose levels. How about a board game in the library, reading and snoozing by the pool (don’t forget the sunscreen), trivia, face painting, clown skills class, live jazz, or a photo shoot to take the memories home?

Pack and prepare

Organising any holiday as a person living with diabetes requires some extra planning . But especially for cruising… check out the type, size and number of bags your cruise line suggests. Then look up any guidelines or special activities your ship will be hosting. Do you need to dress formally for dinner? A wrap for over bathers in non-pool areas? A costume for themed events? I also recommend bring several options for footwear including sensible shoes as the swell can test your balance.

Is cruising COVID-safe?

There is no easy answer to this question; however, I will share my experience. There are areas where face masks are recommended – in elevators, theatres, restaurants (unless eating or drinking), and common, indoor areas where social distancing is not possible. I noted many signs, voice-overs, and hand hygiene stations as well as staff handing out masks at entry points to theatres and dining venues. The furniture in many areas has also been moved for social distancing. That being said, care needs to be taken much as you would at a busy shopping centre.

Feeling a little green?

The cost of seeking medical treatment varies between cruise lines. A general practitioner (GP) visit will be upwards of US$100 and increases if it’s out of hours or in your cabin. Please get travel and health insurance advice.

Whether you’re sailing around our Aussie coastline or travelling to palm-fringed islands further afield, cruising is back after being sorely missed by many.

All aboard!

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Travel Tip: Traveling with Diabetes

November 14th is World Diabetes Day so we thought it was the perfect opportunity to talk about traveling with diabetes. We know that traveling with medical supplies can be a nerve-wracking experience, especially when your medication includes needles and other sensitive equipment. So here are some tips to help make your trip as smooth as possible.

Notify the Officers

When you arrive at the checkpoint, let our officers know about your medical device and any other equipment prior to screening. If you have an insulin pump, glucose monitor or other medical device attached to your body, inform the officers where it is located before the screening process begins. Although not required, you can provide them with a TSA notification card prior to screening to discreetly describe the medical condition.

If you have questions or concerns at any time during the screening process, please ask to speak to a supervisor.

Screening Process

Passengers in standard lanes may be screened by advanced imaging technology, metal detector or a pat-down. If the standard lane does not have advanced imaging technology, or if you are eligible for expedited screening through TSA PreCheck ® , you may be screened by a walk-through metal detector. If you do not wish to go through screening by technology, inform the TSA officer and they will conduct a pat-down. Pat-downs are conducted by a TSA officer of the same gender, and you may request private screening at any time.

You will not be required to remove any medical devices attached to your body.

Medical Supplies

If you are traveling with medical equipment or supplies, they will need to undergo separate screening. The TSA officer will check the supplies and conduct any necessary testing. If your medical condition requires it, you are allowed to travel with a juice box or other liquid over 3.4oz., but be prepared for the liquid to receive additional screening.

In the event that your insulin pump or glucose monitor is attached to your body, the device is subject to additional screening, including visual inspection. You may be required to conduct a self pat-down of the actual device, followed by a test of your hands for any trace of explosives.

Still have questions? Visit our website for additional information.

If you have any additional questions or need assistance at the checkpoint, reach out to TSA Cares at 855-787-2227. Simply call 72 hours prior to your trip or visit our TSA Cares website . Knowing more about the process may help to relieve any stress and anxiety!

About This Blog

The purpose of this blog is to share the latest news and helpful information with the public. If you have questions about TSA or the information presented here, please contact our AskTSA customer care team on Twitter  or Facebook .

TSA is committed to protecting privacy and securing personal information. For details, see our website Privacy Policy .

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Can people with diabetes work on board cruise ships?

• Thread starter falcon69
• Start date 14 Apr 2007
• 14 Apr 2007

can people with diabetes work on cruise ships?  

Registered User

falcon69 said: can people with diabetes work on cruise ships? Click to expand...

The people at are very helpful. [broken link removed] is case study of someone with type1 who works on board a cruise ship.  

i've seen some articles that say Occupations with a blanket ban on recruiting people with insulin treated diabetes:- Armed forces Airline pilot Jobs requiring a Large Goods Vehicle (LGV), Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) licence or a minibus (D1) licence. If a person drives a C1 class vehicle for a living, and develops Type 1 diabetes or starts insulin treatment, they will have to be medically assessed on their fitness to drive. Further information www.diabetes.org.uk Police service Working offshore, eg on oilrigs or aboard cruise liners, regardless of the type of job the person is doing. Train driver There was a blanket ban on employing fire fighters with Type 1 diabetes. However, several individuals challenged the ruling and were allowed to continue active service, if they were already employed as fire fighters. This took a lot of hard work but proves change is possible. The ban on recruiting new fire fighters with Type 1 diabetes is also being challenged.  

Hi Falcon and welcome to AAM, You point out the regulatory situation as it pertains in the UK. Im assuming in the [broken link removed] above that it is an American since she measures her blood sugar in using the us units. Im not sure what juristiction's employment law extends to the operators of cruise ships. I dont imagine they recruit in Ireland so its hardly Irish law. It might not even be UK law. I dont know what the regulations are in other EU countries such as Poland and Latvia. aj thanks for the http://www.diabetes.org.uk/ link its also a very good resource  

• 15 Apr 2007

well I'm just doing some research for a friend who is from England, and she has been offered a job for a cruise company that is based in the Carribbean, she has type 1 has only been diagnosed with it for about 6 weeks, got sick with her diabetes in mid march as she refuses to use insulin thinking she can balance it with her diet , and she also had her appenix removed at the end of march. So I have my doubts whether she'll pass the medical, and i just really hope she doesnt lie about any of this just to get the job, or do you think the medical exam which, she has to take will uncover all of this anyway. I just dont want to see her getting really sick.  

If your friend is a newly diagnosed t1 diabetic then it is important that she gets the condition under control and builds up a good relationship with her GP and Diabetic Team. I imagine it will take her up 12 months to get to grips with the condition as there are many variables ( diet, insulin, exercize etc) to manage. The diabetes.co.uk site that you mentioned earlier is a good starting point where she can get more information. From the [broken link removed] page of diabetes.co.uk:  

yes i would have thought it would take sometime to get to grips with the conditon too, but she's ready to take this job any day now.  

falcon69 said: she has type 1 has only been diagnosed with it for about 6 weeks, got sick with her diabetes in mid march as she refuses to use insulin thinking she can balance it with her diet Click to expand...

Insulin acts like a key. It opens doors in the muscle cell walls, enabling sugar from your blood to get into the cell to produce energy. Click to expand...

well yeah i am worried about her getting sick, but its kinda hard to ruin someones dream of working on the carribbean for 6 months, so I was hoping that if she was a risk, that the medical exam would fail her cause of it, cause I'd rather a health profesional who conducts the exam tell her why she shouldnt go rather than me which could ruin our friendship if you know what I mean, but if they do pass her as medically fit I'm sure there would be no worries then right?  

falcon69 said: but if they do pass her as medically fit I'm sure there would be no worries then right? Click to expand...

falcon69 said: so I was hoping that if she was a risk, that the medical exam would fail her cause of it, cause I'd rather a health profesional who conducts the exam tell her why she shouldnt go Click to expand...

Frankly, I think it is verging on the irresponsible to even think about taking the job without discussing the medical condition with the employer. Having been in the Merchant Navy I can say that there are issues such as the problems caused in terms of delay (and costs more importantly), if there is a medical emergency which is beyond the capacity of the liner's medical personnel. Knowing the West Indies well, I can add that the onshore medical facilities are not guaranteed to be the best in certain areas. These liners frequently cross the Atlantic at the beginning and end of WI cruises, adding another complicating factor.  

pat127 said: Frankly, I think it is verging on the irresponsible to even think about taking the job without discussing the medical condition with the employer. Having been in the Merchant Navy I can say that there are issues such as the problems caused in terms of delay (and costs more importantly), if there is a medical emergency which is beyond the capacity of the liner's medical personnel. Knowing the West Indies well, I can add that the onshore medical facilities are not guaranteed to be the best in certain areas. These liners frequently cross the Atlantic at the beginning and end of WI cruises, adding another complicating factor. Click to expand...

20. Please don't discuss medical issues We do not provide medical advice on Askaboutmoney other than to provide links to support groups and medical forums. Posts offering medical advice will be deleted. This does not apply to availability and pricing of medical services, health insurance, tax relief for medical expenses. There are many other sites which are better equipped to deal with such issues. Click to expand...

sorry if my post started heading towards treatment of diabetes, my main aim was to try and find out if anyone knew that being diabetic would stop you from working on a cruise ship. I was also hoping for someone to know for a fact because they had tried and got knocked back. I understand your rules, but I never set out to break them. Apologies  

falcon69 said: sorry if my post started heading towards treatment of diabetes, my main aim was to try and find out if anyone knew that being diabetic would stop you from working on a cruise ship. I was also hoping for someone to know for a fact because they had tried and got knocked back. I understand your rules, but I never set out to break them. Apologies Click to expand...

munstergirl

• 16 Apr 2007

Your friend should ask the HR manager who hired her.... then she will know. Be Honest!!!! I have worked on plenty of cruise ships and personally don't know anyone with diabetics but there are between 500-1500 crew on each ship. Hundreds of ships that would be a lot of people to be in "perfect health" so I would guess yes.... Also there are syring bins onboard the ship for needles. I do know you have to be in PHYSICAL Health due to safety..... The medical for cruise ships is very thorough, with blood tests, urine tests, x-ray, drug test. Questionaires and it does say *Falsification is grounds for immediate termination* etc..... They will find out and it could cost her a lot of money.... having to fly home at her own expense from ship/medical centre... When you join a ship you are advised to bring enough prescription medicines for your contract (6 months). You said your friend plans to control it with food, you can't just pop to the shop when you feel like it. The cruise line supplies the food,depending on the line can vary from awful to ok.... gets very boring....(That was the worst thing to me about working at sea) UGH the food! I hope your friend gets this job, if not there are plenty of cruise lines and jobs keep coming up as people don't stay on ships forever...  

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Working on cruise ship

• Thread starter LauraU
• Start date Jun 22, 2022
• Jun 22, 2022

Hey guys and girls, I’m new to this page and was looking for some guidance/advice. I’ve been offered a job on a cruise ship to work as a nurse but have been told I need an ENG1 medical, I’ve been looking online and it’s looking very unlikely I’ll be able to get the job with type 1 diabetes which is devastating. I’ve been type 1 for 21 years with no complications. Has anyone had any experience or information on this? Thanks Laura  

Leadinglights

Well-known member.

LauraU said: Hey guys and girls, I’m new to this page and was looking for some guidance/advice. I’ve been offered a job on a cruise ship to work as a nurse but have been told I need an ENG1 medical, I’ve been looking online and it’s looking very unlikely I’ll be able to get the job with type 1 diabetes which is devastating. I’ve been type 1 for 21 years with no complications. Has anyone had any experience or information on this? Thanks Laura Click to expand...

everydayupsanddowns

Administrator.

• Jun 27, 2022

Welcome to the forum @LauraU I’ve moved your thread to the General board to get more attention. Hope you have managed to contact the Diabetes UK helpline and they were able to give you some pointers. Was there any specific reason why you thought an ENG1 was unlikely? It’s not something I am familiar with. There are some links to general employment information here: https://forum.diabetes.org.uk/boards/threads/employment-and-diabetes.99917/ Best of luck with your job offer!  

IrvineHimself

• Jun 28, 2022

The most important conditions that can affect fitness are: ...... diabetes treated with insulin (Type 1 or 2) ...... conditions that can cause sudden incapacity conditions that put you at increased risk of illness while in charge of a vessel (remote from assistance) ....... medication with side effects that reduce performance or alertness – and can cause complications while in charge of a vessel Click to expand...

• Jun 29, 2022

Hello, Thank you for your messages and advice. I’ve just been for my ENG1 and haven’t been granted it due to the Dr carrying it out wanting more information from my consultant. If I do get the eng1 it will be with limitations meaning no lone working, working from heights, and uk costal waters only, unless a dr onboard. So it’s looking unlikely for me to get the job as a cruise ship nurse, because working as a nurse onboard you are working alone and on call. To say I’m upset is an understatement, I’ve been diabetic for 22 years now and it has never stopped me from doing anything in my life. This is the first time I’ve experienced this. Anyway thought I’d post and let you guys know what my outcome was. Thanks again, Laura  

• Jun 30, 2022

LauraU said: f I do get the eng1 it will be with limitations meaning no lone working, working from heights, and uk costal waters only, unless a dr onboard. Click to expand...

What size cruise ship are we talking about? All the ones we’ve been on (600 passengers, approx) had a doctor on board. And they were happy to accept passengers with Type 1 Diabetes.  

• Jul 17, 2022

Hi Laura ,So sorry to hear about this . I have just encountered a similar issue with my Daughter. She was due to start her dream job as cruise staff onboard a Disney Cruise ship. She is so upset as she has failed her medical this week solely down to being Type 1. The reason we have been given is that she is too much of a risk when in high seas (50 miles from shore). Obviously these ships have good medical facilities, and must be generally equipped for most situations as they have Type 1 guests on board. I haven't given up yet as it seems so unfair. Any other advice would be greatly appreciated.  

Deleted member 21371

It's a difficult situation all around. I worked offshore many years ago, and had to be certified for everything. Unfortunately it's not focused on yourself, but on your ability to be able to aid others in a emergency. Out of coastal waters and you really are on your own. We were all trained in search and rescue, firefighting, first aid, BA usage, life boat and life raft deployment, among other things, even down to jumping off the deck into the sea. So it is an onerous job at the wrong time in the wrong place. Bigger ships obviously have different skill sets in different teams, but it's still a prime consideration of the employee that at some time somewhere something may go wrong, and you or someone next to you may be getting wet or needing urgent intervention, or both. But things are changing with diabetes, and many more places are recognising that.  

• Jul 19, 2022

GRB said: Hi Laura ,So sorry to hear about this . I have just encountered a similar issue with my Daughter. She was due to start her dream job as cruise staff onboard a Disney Cruise ship. She is so upset as she has failed her medical this week solely down to being Type 1. The reason we have been given is that she is too much of a risk when in high seas (50 miles from shore). Obviously these ships have good medical facilities, and must be generally equipped for most situations as they have Type 1 guests on board. I haven't given up yet as it seems so unfair. Any other advice would be greatly appreciated. Click to expand...