How much does it cost to rent a wheelchair on Marella Cruises?

Cruising with Marella is an exciting experience filled with beautiful destinations, onboard entertainment, and all-inclusive convenience. However, for passengers with mobility needs, planning ahead is crucial. A common question many travelers ask is: “How much does it cost to rent a wheelchair on Marella Cruises?”In this detailed guide, we’ll explore wheelchair rental costs, availability, booking policies, alternatives, and tips to ensure a smooth journey for anyone who requires mobility assistance while traveling with Marella Cruises.

1. Accessibility on Marella Cruises: An Overview

Marella Cruises, part of the TUI Group, is committed to making cruising as accessible as possible. Their ships are designed with accessibility features that include:

• Adapted cabins with wider doors and roll-in showers.

• Ramps and elevators to reach public areas.

• Reserved seating in theatres and lounges.

• Accessible dining areas.

• Crew trained in assisting passengers with mobility needs.

Despite these features, many guests still require a wheelchair or mobility scooter onboard. Marella Cruises doesn’t automatically provide these but offers options through partnerships with specialist mobility equipment suppliers.

2. Does Marella Provide Wheelchairs Directly?

Marella Cruises itself does not supply wheelchairs for general use onboard except for emergency or medical purposes. Instead, they work with mobility rental providers who deliver equipment directly to the ship.

This means:

• Passengers must pre-book wheelchairs or scooters before sailing.

• The wheelchair will be waiting in your cabin or at embarkation.

• Rentals are handled through third-party companies approved by Marella.

3. Wheelchair Rental Costs on Marella Cruises

The cost of renting a wheelchair varies depending on:

• The type of wheelchair (manual vs. electric scooter).

• The rental provider.

• The duration of your cruise.

Typical Costs (2025 Estimates):

• Manual wheelchair: £50 – £90 per week.

• Lightweight transport chair: £40 – £80 per week.

• Electric mobility scooter: £120 – £200 per week.

• Heavy-duty or specialist wheelchair: £150 – £250 per week.

For a 7-night Marella cruise, most passengers can expect to pay around £60–£80 for a manual wheelchair rental.

4. How to Book a Wheelchair for Your Marella Cruise

Booking early is essential. Here’s how to arrange it:

Step 1: Notify Marella Special Assistance

• Call Marella Cruises Special Assistance team.

• Inform them of your mobility needs.

• They will advise you on approved suppliers.

Step 2: Choose a Mobility Supplier

Marella typically works with companies such as:

• Mobility at Sea (UK-based)

• Other regional suppliers depending on port of embarkation.

Step 3: Confirm Rental and Costs

• Select the type of wheelchair you need.

• Confirm delivery and pick-up details.

• Pay in advance (most suppliers require full payment upfront).

Step 4: Collect Onboard

• The wheelchair is usually delivered directly to your cabin before you arrive.

5. Renting Through Mobility at Sea

Mobility at Sea is one of the leading providers recommended by Marella Cruises.

• They offer a wide range of wheelchairs and scooters.

• Prices start from £50 per week for a manual wheelchair.

• They handle delivery, collection, and servicing.

• Bookings can be made directly on their website or via phone.

6. Alternatives to Renting a Wheelchair

Not every passenger needs to rent. Here are alternatives:

• Bring your own wheelchair – If you already own one, Marella allows you to bring it, provided it meets size and weight restrictions.

• Use portside assistance – At embarkation and disembarkation, Marella can provide push assistance from check-in to the ship.

• Temporary onboard use – Some ships may have a small number of wheelchairs for short-term use (e.g., medical emergencies), but these are not available for full-cruise rental.

7. Accessibility Policies and Guidelines

If you’re planning to rent or bring your own wheelchair, keep these Marella policies in mind:

• Cabin Choice: Book an adapted cabin if using a full-size wheelchair or scooter. Standard cabins may not have enough space.

• Weight & Size Limits: Mobility scooters usually must not exceed 23” wide to fit through doors.

• Battery Type: Only certain battery types are permitted for electric wheelchairs/scooters (sealed dry/gel batteries).

• Advance Notice: Notify Marella at least 60 days before sailing if you need special assistance.

8. Pros and Cons of Renting vs. Bringing Your Own

Renting a Wheelchair

 Convenient – delivered directly to your cabin.Professionally serviced and ready to use.No airport hassle transporting equipment. Extra cost per week. Limited availability if booked late.

Bringing Your Own

 No extra rental costs.Familiar comfort with your own equipment. Risk of damage during flights or transfers. More difficult airport/port logistics.

9. Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Book early – Wheelchair rentals can sell out quickly, especially during summer.

• Confirm details – Always get written confirmation of your booking.

• Pack accessories – Cushions, footrests, or bags may not be included in rentals.

• Check insurance – Travel insurance should cover medical equipment.

• Ask about excursions – Not all shore excursions are wheelchair accessible.

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I rent a wheelchair onboard once I arrive?No, rentals must be arranged in advance. Only emergency chairs are onboard.

Q2: Do I need an accessible cabin to rent a wheelchair?For full-time use, yes. Standard cabins are not spacious enough for scooters or full-size chairs.

Q3: Can I take my rented wheelchair ashore?Yes, but accessibility varies by port. Some destinations use tenders, which may not be suitable for wheelchairs.

Q4: Is there a deposit required for rentals?Some suppliers require a refundable deposit; check before booking.

Q5: Can Marella staff push me around the ship in my wheelchair?No, crew members cannot provide continuous personal assistance. Passengers must travel with a companion if needed.

11. Real-Life Example

Sarah, a 68-year-old passenger, sailed on Marella Explorer in 2024. She rented a manual wheelchair for £65 for her 7-night cruise through Mobility at Sea. The chair was delivered directly to her cabin before embarkation and collected at disembarkation. She praised the process as “seamless” and recommended booking at least 3 months in advance.

12. Why Planning Ahead Matters

Failing to arrange a wheelchair before your cruise can create serious problems, such as:

• Limited mobility onboard.

• Missing shore excursions.

• Safety risks during emergencies.

• Stress and frustration at the start of your holiday.

Booking in advance ensures peace of mind and allows Marella to prepare your cruise experience with your needs in mind.

13 how much does it cost to rent a wheelchair on Marella Cruises?

On average, you’ll pay £50–£90 per week for a manual wheelchair and £120–£200 per week for a mobility scooter. Costs vary depending on the supplier, ship, and duration of your cruise.

Since Marella Cruises does not directly supply wheelchairs, passengers should pre-book rentals through approved mobility suppliers like Mobility at Sea. By planning ahead, you’ll ensure a stress-free holiday with full accessibility both onboard and ashore.