Royal Caribbean International has become the first cruise line to be certified as “Autism Friendly” with a bronze-level certification. The certification comes from Autism on the Seas travel organization, which certified the cruise line is ready to accommodate passengers with autism and developmental disabilities. With this certification, the cruise line has proven its commitment to its passengers with special needs, providing sensory-related toys, Autism-friendly movies, dietary options and modified youth programs.
Silver, gold, and diamond levels are also available in the certification process, requiring ships’ crew and youth staff to receive autism awareness training. Those reaching diamond level require crew to go through a hands-on training program. While Royal Caribbean enters at the lowest certification program, it’s the first of its kind, and a hopeful beginning to more cruise lines following suit.
For more on traveling with autism, see Special Needs Travel, as well as Best Special Needs Vacation Spots.
–Lissa Poirot
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