November 1999

The Grand Princess - The First (but not last) Ataxia Cruise

by Tim Daly, Access Travel, Columbia, MD

The initial ATAXIA cruise (February 7th , 1999) was a great success.

Not only did we raise money for ATAXIA, but tremendous and permanent friendships were created. Everyone had a truly wonderful time, the weather was great (80 to 85 degrees and sunny every day) and the people were even greater. The relaxed atmosphere on board insured a wonderful, fun filled time, as people with ataxia and care-givers met and shared!

While the "accessibility" was pre-verified, we were all anxious to "test," first hand, the "accessibility" of this newest and largest cruise ship. Our observations were enhanced by the many mobility impaired individuals we encountered. The staff/crew did a marvelous job meeting, not just the letter of the law (ADA - Americans with Disabilities Act) but, just as important, the spirit of the law. Our fellow passengers were equally pleasant and helpful. Everyone (Room Stewart, Purser, Dinning Room Staff, etc.) were extremely proactive (not just reactive) in helping, and at the same time not making one feel "different." The only "less than positive" comment I heard was that this ship is too big with the result that one has to do too much walking. However, having pointed that out, be sure to note the positive side of that comment, the Grand Princess has so many optional activities that no matter where one's interests lie, they can probably be satisfied, choices abound! From jointly visiting the various ports, daily forays into the casino, to late night conversations, us NAF'ers had a vacation to remember! Many of us have already made plans to visit one another soon!

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