Disney Cruise Special Needs

In honor of Autistic Awareness Month, one of our top Magic Makers®, Traci Elswick, writes of her experiences traveling to the Disney Destinations with her son with autism.  For her article on traveling to the Walt Disney World® Resort, please click here.

Is it possible to have a magical vacation on Disney Cruise Line® with child that has autism?  Yes, with proper planning by one of our Magic Makers® here at Off to Neverland Travel®. I have just returned from our first cruise with my 14 year old son with autism and had a wonderful time. I would like to share what I have learned and make it a magical trip for all who are traveling with an autistic child.

First when making your reservation let your Magic Maker® know your special needs so it can be brought to the attention of the Disney Cast Members. Also, if your child is on a special diet the cast members need to know to accommodate you better. I noticed on our vacation, like at the Disney Parks, my son seems to be more verbal and “living in the moment” unlike in the “real world”. My son is very hypersensitive to sounds so the music from the deck and shows seem to bother him quite a bit. My recommendation for children sensitive to sound is to bring ear phones to block out some of the noise. My 15 year old typical son wore them when listening to music so it won’t make your child stand out.

My son really loves all the character interaction. Your Personal Navigator (the daily cruise itinerary left in your cabin each night) details out which characters are appearing each day, where to find them, and what time they will be available.  Plan to be in line about 15 minutes prior to the scheduled time so you can avoid long lines. The characters seem to be trained on knowing how to approach a special needs child and are very patient and kind with them. I never had any problems with the character interaction.

Take lots of breaks during the day. I would suggest doing one of the 4-night itineraries so you don’t feel so rushed to see it all. Remember its a leisurely cruise, not a Walt Disney World® marathon!

My son enjoyed watching the movies playing on board. Disney Cruise Line® even offers 3D and first run movies. There is variety of Disney movies playing on the Ariel Vision Screen at the Goofy Pool and in your staterooms. The live, Broadway quality shows were a bit loud and overstimulating at times for my son. Sit on the end of the aisle in case you might have to leave with your child. Don’t forget the headphones for the shows if your child is hypersensitive to loud noises.

The kids clubs are excellent on Disney Cruise Line®. With a visitor’s pass, my son and I would check out the kids club together for a short time each day. They even offered for him to stay by himself. I know the limitations of my son and knew if wasn’t a good idea for us; but if your child could handle it they will be in great hands.

We had a bit of pixie dust sprinkled on us during our trip which is why I feel the Disney Destinations are the best choice for our family vacations due to the special care they take to accommodate the special needs traveler. The youth counselors left a bag full of goodies for my son on the 2nd night of our cruise. They knew how much he loves Toy Story and made him picture of Woody and Buzz with a Toy Story calendar and a bag full of goodies.  The gift bought tears to my eyes. That is the Disney Difference. That is why when I pick a vacation for my son with autism I always come back to the Disney Parks or Disney Cruise Line®. From the theme parks to the cruise ships, the Cast Members know how to treat the special needs traveler.

So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to set sail with your child on board the Disney Wonder®, the Disney Magic®, the Disney Dream™, or on the Disney Fantasy™ (maiden voyage March 2012)!

The Disney Destinations are one of the top destinations in accommodating all types of special needs from autism to mobility issues to special dietary concerns.
What experiences do you have in traveling with an individual with special needs?