Carnival Cruise Lines Working to Become Sensory Friendly

Jul 22

Written By Travel Advisors Unlimited LLC

Carnival Cruise lines is joining the Sensory - Friendly travel business. This is not only great for families with anyone on the Autism Spectrum, but also those with PTSD, Down Syndrome and other cognitive disabilities.

Currently there are only six ships that have been certified including Carnival Horizon, Carnival Conquest, Carnival Sensation, Carnival Magic, and Carnival Victory all based out of Miami. Carnival Sunrise, based from Fort Lauderdale, has also been certified. Carnival plans to have their whole fleet completely certified by March of 2020. These ships were certified by Kulture City, a non-profit group from Alabama that promotes inclusiveness and accessibility.

This means that hundreds of crew members that come face to face with guests every day, are able to answer guests’ questions about how different activities and attractions might trigger or affect those with sensory issues. Staff has also been trained to tell the difference between a meltdown and sensory overload. They have been taught how to act accordingly to help calm the child down. The best part is they have weighted vests, sensory activities and even conversation cards for when they’re so overwhelmed they can hardly speak. With a child not only diagnosed with autism, but sensory processing disorder and anxiety, this is wonderful. This makes me comfortable sending my child to participate in their youth program, Camp Oceans.

Kulture City has also provided Carnival Cruise Lines with sensory bags for guests who may need them. Inside contains noise canceling headphones, fidget toys, and communication cards. They also contain a lanyard for guests to wear that alerts crew members so they are able to assist. Personally, I cannot thank them enough for this option. We’ve had instances where my son's headphones have been broken or misplaced. I couldn’t imagine having this happen on a cruise ship, especially since I couldn’t just have Amazon deliver a new set.

“Carnival Cruise Line is to be commended for training their staff about autism and offering sensory bags that will enable individuals with autism and their families to have an enjoyable cruise,” autism advocate Dr. Temple Grandin said in a press release. (USA TODAY) Temple Grandin is not only an autism advocate, she is also on the spectrum and specializes in psychology and is a professor of animal science at Colorado State University. If you ever get the chance to hear her speak, I highly recommend it. She is absolutely brilliant!

I am so glad to see that more and more places are becoming inclusive. I cannot tell you how many people stare at us during a sensory overload. Having people not only understand what is happening, but be able to assist if I need it. It’s a real blessing!

For more locations that have Sensory Inclusive Certification, you can download Kulture City’s app in the Apple Store or Google Play Store. It lists all sorts of places, including zoos, football stadiums, baseball stadiums and more! You can also visit KultureCity.org for more information.