Can I go ashore if I have a disability or accessibility needs?

Accessibility

Last updated: 27/05/2025

Going ashore

If you need assistance while disembarking the ship, we kindly ask that you complete the On-Board Needs Questionnaire via My P&O Cruises as soon as possible. This gives us plenty of time to accommodate your needs and follow up with any questions where necessary.

Our crew can help you where it’s safe and practical to do so, including wheelchair or arm assistance on the gangway. However – for your safety and theirs, they can’t lift or carry you.

Please note:

• It may not be possible for wheelchair users to go ashore in all ports of call, so please consider this when choosing your cruise holiday.

• In ports of call, our crew can help you from the top to the bottom of the gangway but they can’t provide assistance in, or back from, the terminals.

• In some ports, it’s safer for the ship to dock offshore rather than alongside. If this is the case, we’ll use a tender (small vessel) to take you to and from the port. Anyone wishing to board the tender will first need to complete a mobility assessment. For more information, please see our article ‘What is the disembarkation process?’

For more information, see our ‘Going ashore’ page

When you get to shore

You’ll need to make your own way to and from the terminal. Where shuttle buses are supplied, we’ll do everything we can to provide an accessible bus. If this isn’t available, you’re invited to use a taxi service as an alternative. Please keep the receipts and speak to Reception when you return to the ship, so any expenses can be refunded to your on-board account.

Please note: 

• For health and safety reasons, tour providers and coach operators reserve the right to refuse carriage to any guest who can’t use the vehicle’s steps independently. 

• For shore experiences operated by minibus, there’s no storage space for mobility scooters or wheelchairs.

Accessible shore experiences

We offer a number of accessible options for shore experiences in destinations where they are available. You can browse and book shore experiences before you sail, online via My P&O Cruises or on board via My Holiday, or you can visit the Shore Experiences team on board.

Please note: 

• A limited number of accessible shore experiences are available via My P&O Cruises but there are more options to book once you’re on board.

• Experiences that offer wheelchair-friendly activities will begin with the word ‘accessible’.

• Other accessible shore experiences may include the word ‘leisurely’.

You can also see the level of activity within the details page of each shore experience. Experiences with a low activity level would be suitable for guests with reduced mobility or those who use a walking aid.

For more information, see our ‘Accessible shore experiences, city stays and land tours’ page. Or visit the Shore Experiences team on board.

Still need help?

Still have questions? Our friendly Customer Contact Centre is always happy to help! Contact us today on 0344 338 8003.

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