Accessibility Statement

Last Updated: July 10, 2025

Our Commitment to Accessibility

Echo Voyages is committed to ensuring that our cruise services and digital platforms are accessible to everyone, including individuals with disabilities. We believe that all guests should have the opportunity to experience Canada's magnificent coastlines, regardless of their physical abilities or accessibility needs.

We are dedicated to complying with the Accessible Canada Act and the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA standards to ensure our services and website are accessible to people with a wide range of disabilities.

Website Accessibility

Current Accessibility Features

Our website includes the following accessibility features:

• Keyboard Navigation: All interactive elements can be accessed using keyboard navigation
• Screen Reader Compatibility: Proper heading structure and ARIA labels for assistive technologies
• Alt Text: Descriptive alternative text for all images
• Color Contrast: High contrast ratios meeting WCAG AA standards
• Resizable Text: Text can be enlarged up to 200% without loss of functionality
• Focus Indicators: Clear visual indicators for keyboard focus
• Skip Links: "Skip to content" links for efficient navigation
• Descriptive Links: Link text clearly describes the destination or function

Accessibility Testing

We regularly test our website for accessibility using:

• Automated accessibility testing tools
• Manual testing with keyboard navigation
• Screen reader testing (NVDA, JAWS, VoiceOver)
• User testing with individuals who have disabilities
• Third-party accessibility audits

Cruise Accessibility Services

Vessel Accessibility Features

Our modern fleet includes accessibility features such as:

• Wheelchair Accessible Cabins: Spacious cabins with roll-in showers and grab bars
• Accessible Pathways: Wide corridors and ramps throughout common areas
• Elevator Access: Elevators connecting all passenger decks
• Accessible Restrooms: ADA-compliant facilities on all decks
• Accessible Dining: Restaurants with accessible seating and service
• Hearing Loop Systems: Assistive listening devices in common areas
• Braille Signage: Important safety and directional signage in Braille
• Visual Alarms: Flashing lights for emergency notifications

Mobility Accommodations

We provide various mobility accommodations including:

• Priority boarding for guests with mobility challenges
• Wheelchair rental services (advance booking required)
• Accessible shore excursions with modified itineraries
• Beach wheelchair access where available
• Assistance with embarkation and disembarkation
• Accessible tender boat services for remote locations

Visual and Hearing Accommodations

For guests with visual or hearing impairments, we offer:

• Large print materials and Braille menus
• Audio descriptions for shore excursions
• Sign language interpreters (with advance notice)
• Assistive listening devices for lectures and presentations
• Magnifying devices for reading materials
• Service animal accommodations
• Visual and tactile safety demonstrations

Cognitive and Learning Accommodations

We support guests with cognitive and learning disabilities through:

• Simplified wayfinding and clear signage
• Visual schedules and easy-to-understand itineraries
• Patient and understanding crew training
• Quiet spaces for sensory breaks
• Flexible dining arrangements
• Companion or caregiver accommodations

Booking Accommodations

Advance Notice Requirements

To ensure we can provide appropriate accommodations, please notify us of accessibility needs:

• At least 30 days before departure for standard accommodations
• At least 60 days before departure for complex accessibility requirements
• At least 90 days before departure for sign language interpreters or specialized equipment

Required Documentation

For certain accommodations, we may require:

• Medical clearance from a physician
• Service animal certification and health records
• Equipment specifications for personal mobility devices
• Emergency contact information and care instructions

Accessible Cabin Features

Our accessible cabins include:

• 36-inch wide doorways
• Lowered closet rods and shelves
• Accessible bathroom with roll-in shower
• Grab bars and shower seats
• Visual and audible door alarms
• Accessible balconies (where applicable)
• Emergency communication devices

Service Animals

Service Animal Policy

We welcome service animals aboard our vessels in accordance with Canadian accessibility laws:

• Service animals are permitted in all passenger areas
• No additional fees for service animals
• Designated relief areas available on all decks
• Service animal food and care supplies permitted
• Advance notification required for proper preparation

Documentation Requirements

• Proof of service animal certification
• Current vaccination records
• Health certificate from licensed veterinarian
• Emergency care instructions

Shore Excursion Accessibility

Accessible Excursions

We offer modified shore excursions designed for various accessibility needs:

• Wheelchair-accessible transportation
• Shorter duration options with rest stops
• Alternative viewing locations for scenic tours
• Audio descriptions and tactile experiences
• Accessible restroom facilities at tour stops
• Professional accessibility guides

Excursion Modifications

Standard excursions can often be modified to include:

• Pace adjustments for mobility limitations
• Alternative routes avoiding stairs or uneven terrain
• Additional assistance from tour guides
• Transportation accommodations
• Sensory-friendly adaptations

Dining Accessibility

Accessible Dining Options

• Wheelchair-accessible seating in all dining venues
• Adjustable height tables available upon request
• Large print and Braille menus
• Assistance with meal selection and service
• Special dietary accommodations
• In-cabin dining for guests with mobility limitations
• Quiet dining areas for sensory sensitivities

Special Dietary Requirements

Our chefs can accommodate various dietary needs:

• Texture-modified foods for swallowing difficulties
• Allergen-free meal preparation
• Diabetic-friendly menu options
• Low-sodium and heart-healthy choices
• Specialized feeding assistance when needed

Emergency Procedures

Accessible Emergency Information

Safety information is provided in multiple formats:

• Visual, audio, and tactile safety demonstrations
• Written emergency procedures in large print and Braille
• Sign language interpretation for safety briefings
• Personal emergency assistance plans
• Accessible muster stations and evacuation routes

Personal Emergency Plans

For guests requiring assistance during emergencies:

• Individual emergency response plans
• Designated crew assistance assignments
• Alternative communication methods
• Accessible evacuation equipment
• Emergency contact procedures

Staff Training

Accessibility Training Program

All Echo Voyages staff receive comprehensive training on:

• Disability awareness and sensitivity
• Proper assistance techniques
• Accessible equipment operation
• Emergency procedures for guests with disabilities
• Communication strategies for various disabilities
• Legal requirements and best practices

Ongoing Education

• Regular accessibility training updates
• Guest feedback integration into training programs
• Partnerships with disability advocacy organizations
• Crew certification in accessibility assistance

Accessibility Equipment

Available Equipment

We provide various accessibility equipment onboard:

• Manual and electric wheelchairs
• Shower chairs and bath benches
• Hearing amplification devices
• Magnifying glasses and reading aids
• Toilet seat risers and grab bars
• Pool lifts and accessible beach equipment
• Communication boards and visual aids

Personal Equipment

Guests are welcome to bring personal accessibility equipment:

• Personal wheelchairs, scooters, and walkers
• CPAP machines and medical devices
• Hearing aids and cochlear implant accessories
• Guide dogs and service animals
• Medications and medical supplies

Feedback and Continuous Improvement

Guest Feedback

We actively seek feedback from guests with disabilities to improve our services:

• Post-cruise accessibility surveys
• One-on-one feedback sessions
• Online accessibility feedback forms
• Focus groups with disability community members
• Partnership with accessibility consultants

Continuous Improvement Initiatives

• Annual accessibility audits of vessels and services
• Technology updates for assistive devices
• Staff training program enhancements
• Partnership with accessibility advocacy groups
• Investment in new accessibility technologies

Accessibility Support Team

Pre-Cruise Planning

Our accessibility support team assists with:

• Accessibility needs assessment
• Cabin and excursion recommendations
• Equipment rental arrangements
• Medical facility information
• Travel document assistance
• Special dietary arrangement coordination

During Your Cruise

• Daily check-ins with accessibility coordinator
• Equipment maintenance and replacement
• Excursion modifications and alternatives
• Dining assistance coordination
• Emergency response support
• Guest advocacy and problem resolution

Pricing and Policies

No Additional Fees

Echo Voyages does not charge additional fees for:

• Accessible cabin accommodations
• Basic accessibility equipment use
• Service animal accommodations
• Standard accessibility services
• Modified shore excursion options

Companion Policies

• Companions and caregivers welcome at standard rates
• Flexible cabin arrangements for care needs
• Assistance with companion booking coordination
• Medical professional travel arrangements

Contact Our Accessibility Team

For accessibility questions, accommodation requests, or to provide feedback:

Accessibility Statement Updates

This accessibility statement is reviewed and updated regularly to reflect improvements in our services and changes in accessibility standards. We are committed to ongoing enhancement of accessibility across all aspects of our operations.