Cruising with Royal Caribbean is one of the most exciting ways to travel, offering world-class ships, thrilling onboard activities, and exotic destinations. For many guests, especially those with limited mobility, the cruise experience becomes more enjoyable and accessible with the support of mobility equipment such as wheelchairs, scooters, and other aids.

One of the most common questions from travelers planning their cruise is: How much does it cost to rent a wheelchair on Royal Caribbean?

The answer is not always straightforward since Royal Caribbean itself does not directly rent wheelchairs. Instead, the cruise line partners with third-party vendors that deliver mobility equipment directly to your stateroom before you board. Costs vary depending on the type of wheelchair, length of rental, and ship itinerary.

This guide explores in detail the costs of wheelchair rentals on Royal Caribbean, types of wheelchairs available, policies for bringing your own, alternatives such as scooters, and useful tips to make your cruise smooth and accessible.

Does Royal Caribbean Provide Wheelchairs Directly?

Royal Caribbean provides a limited number of wheelchairs onboard that can be used for embarkation, disembarkation, or emergencies only. These wheelchairs are not available for extended use throughout your cruise.

For ongoing mobility needs, passengers must either:

1. Bring their own wheelchair from home, or

2. Rent a wheelchair or scooter through an approved vendor that services Royal Caribbean ships.

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Wheelchair on Royal Caribbean?

While costs vary by vendor, location, and type of wheelchair, here’s a general idea of what you can expect:

1. Standard Manual Wheelchairs

• Average daily rate: $15 – $30 per day

• Weekly rental packages: $75 – $120 for a 7-night cruise

• Best for guests who need occasional use or have someone available to push the wheelchair.

2. Transport Chairs (Lightweight)

• Average daily rate: $10 – $25 per day

• Weekly packages: $60 – $100 per week

• Lightweight and easy to fold but require assistance from another person.

3. Power Wheelchairs

• Average daily rate: $40 – $60 per day

• Weekly rental: $150 – $250

• Suitable for passengers who need independent mobility throughout the ship.

4. Scooters (Mobility Scooters)

• Average daily rate: $45 – $70 per day

• Weekly rental: $175 – $300

• Very popular on cruises because they allow independent movement across large ships.

Important Notes

• Rental costs depend on cruise length (3 nights vs. 14 nights).

• Prices vary between vendors but generally fall within these ranges.

• Damage waivers or insurance may add $20 – $50 extra to the rental.

• Delivery and pickup fees are usually included when arranged through approved vendors.

Who Provides Wheelchair Rentals for Royal Caribbean?

Royal Caribbean partners with specialized accessibility providers who deliver wheelchairs, scooters, and other medical equipment directly to the ship. While vendor availability can vary, two of the most widely used companies include:

• Special Needs at Sea (SNG)

• Scootaround

These companies allow you to:

• Reserve mobility equipment in advance.

• Have it delivered directly to your stateroom.

• Pick it up before disembarkation without hassle.

Bringing Your Own Wheelchair

Guests are welcome to bring their own wheelchairs onboard at no extra cost. Royal Caribbean’s ships are accessible-friendly, with features such as:

• Wheelchair-accessible staterooms with roll-in showers.

• Wide corridors and elevators.

• Accessible seating in theaters, dining areas, and public venues.

However, before bringing your own wheelchair:

• Ensure it fits in your stateroom door (standard widths vary by ship).

• Consider weight and maneuverability, as larger chairs may be harder to use in narrow spaces.

Policies for Wheelchair Users on Royal Caribbean

• Advance Notice – Royal Caribbean recommends contacting their Special Needs department at least 30 days before sailing to confirm accessibility needs.

• Storage – Wheelchairs and scooters must be stored inside guest staterooms, not in hallways or stairwells.

• Shore Excursions – Not all excursions are wheelchair accessible. Guests should confirm accessibility when booking.

• Assistance – Crew members can help during embarkation and debarkation, but guests are expected to manage their mobility equipment independently during the cruise.

Benefits of Renting a Wheelchair on Royal Caribbean

1. Convenience – No need to transport a wheelchair from home.

2. Comfort – Modern rental wheelchairs are designed for ease of use.

3. Flexibility – Choose between manual chairs, power chairs, or scooters.

4. Accessibility – Ships are large; mobility equipment helps cover distances.

5. Stress-Free Travel – Equipment is delivered directly to your cabin.

Potential Drawbacks

1. Cost – Renting can be more expensive than bringing your own.

2. Availability – Equipment is limited; early booking is essential.

3. Space – Staterooms may feel smaller with mobility equipment inside.

4. Shore Access – Some ports may use tenders, which may not accommodate wheelchairs.

Tips for Renting a Wheelchair on Royal Caribbean

1. Book Early – Reserve at least 30–60 days before sailing to ensure availability.

2. Know Your Needs – Decide if you require a manual wheelchair, transport chair, power chair, or scooter.

3. Consider Insurance – Damage coverage can save you unexpected costs.

4. Measure Doorways – Check stateroom door width before booking.

5. Plan Shore Excursions – Choose activities that are mobility-friendly.

6. Communicate with Special Needs – Inform Royal Caribbean about your requirements so they can make arrangements.

Self-Assist Disembarkation with Wheelchairs

Guests using wheelchairs can also choose self-assist disembarkation if they can manage luggage independently. However, many wheelchair users prefer standard disembarkation, where assistance is provided to move luggage and guide passengers through customs.

Accessibility Features on Royal Caribbean Ships

To make wheelchair use easier, Royal Caribbean has incorporated:

• Accessible cabins with automatic doors, wider entryways, and roll-in showers.

• Elevators in all public areas.

• Reserved seating for shows and dining venues.

• Accessible pools and whirlpools with lifts on some ships.

• Shore assistance teams at select ports.

Alternatives to Renting Wheelchairs

If you don’t want to rent a wheelchair, consider:

• Bringing a folding travel wheelchair – lightweight and portable.

• Using a mobility scooter – better for longer distances onboard.

• Walking aids (walkers or rollators) – suitable for those needing occasional support.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I rent a wheelchair directly from Royal Caribbean?

No, Royal Caribbean does not rent wheelchairs directly. Rentals are handled by third-party vendors.

2. How much does a scooter rental cost compared to a wheelchair?

Scooters generally cost more, averaging $175 – $300 per week, compared to manual wheelchairs at $75 – $120 per week.

3. Can I use a wheelchair during shore excursions?

Yes, but not all excursions are wheelchair accessible. Check excursion details before booking.

4. Do I need to pay extra for delivery of the wheelchair to my stateroom?

Most approved vendors include delivery and pickup in the rental price.

5. What if I only need a wheelchair for embarkation and disembarkation?

Royal Caribbean provides complimentary wheelchairs for boarding and leaving the ship, but not for use during the entire cruise.

Conclusion

Renting a wheelchair on Royal Caribbean is an excellent way to ensure comfort, independence, and accessibility while enjoying your cruise vacation. While the cruise line itself does not rent wheelchairs directly, third-party vendors provide convenient rental services with delivery and pickup at your stateroom.

Costs range between $75 and $120 per week for manual wheelchairs, $150 to $250 for power wheelchairs, and up to $300 for scooters. Prices vary by vendor, equipment type, and cruise length.

To make your cruise stress-free, book your wheelchair early, communicate with the Royal Caribbean Special Needs department, and plan your excursions and stateroom choice with accessibility in mind. With the right preparation, your cruise can be as enjoyable and comfortable as possible, no matter your mobility needs.