What is self-assist on Costa Cruises cruises?

For many passengers, cruising offers relaxation, adventure, and convenience. However, those with mobility or special needs often require assistance. Costa Cruises offers a concept known as Self-Assist, designed to provide flexibility and independence while ensuring safety.Self-assist allows passengers who need some help—but not full assistance—to manage certain aspects of their cruise journey independently. Understanding its rules, benefits, and limitations ensures a safe and enjoyable experience.

• Definition of self-assist on Costa Cruises

• How self-assist works

• Eligibility and requirements

• Procedures during embarkation and onboard activities

• Comparison with full assistance

• Tips for self-assist passengers

• Real-life examples and scenarios

• Frequently asked questions

Definition of Self-Assist

Self-Assist is a service designed for passengers who:

• Require partial assistance for boarding, mobility, or onboard services

• Can perform some activities independently but may need staff support for specific tasks

• Prefer more control over their cruise experience while still receiving safety oversight

It differs from full assistance, where trained staff or caregivers manage most activities, from embarkation to daily onboard routines.

Self-assist allows:

• Partial support during boarding and disembarkation

• Access to mobility aids or equipment on request

• Safety oversight without full dependency on staff

How Self-Assist Works

1. Pre-Cruise Preparation

Passengers requesting self-assist should:

• Notify Costa Cruises at booking or at least 30–60 days before departure

• Provide details of their mobility, medical, or sensory requirements

• Confirm which tasks they can handle independently

2. Embarkation

During boarding, self-assist passengers:

• May use ramps or elevators independently

• Receive guidance from staff for navigation or equipment setup

• Are encouraged to perform tasks they can safely manage

3. Onboard Mobility

Self-assist passengers can:

• Move around the ship independently using wheelchairs, walkers, or other aids

• Request staff help only for specific areas or situations

• Enjoy flexible independence while maintaining safety

4. Dining and Activities

• Self-assist passengers can choose their own seating or request partial help for meal service

• Participate in activities at their pace with optional staff assistance

• Maintain autonomy while accessing support for specific needs

Eligibility and Requirements

To use self-assist, passengers typically need:

1. Partial Mobility

• Able to move short distances independently

• Can use onboard equipment with minimal help

1. Cognitive Awareness

• Can understand instructions for safety and emergencies

1. Communication Ability

• Able to communicate needs to staff or caregivers

1. Pre-Cruise Coordination

• Notify Costa Cruises and provide details about limitations and self-assist requirements

Procedures During Embarkation and Onboard Activities

1. Embarkation

• Use designated self-assist lanes at the terminal

• Staff will provide limited guidance and oversee safety

• Passengers manage their luggage if capable

1. Mobility Assistance

• Onboard wheelchairs or scooters available on request

• Use of elevators, ramps, and accessible paths for self-navigation

1. Dining

• Optional assistance with meal service

• Freedom to choose dining times or seating

1. Excursions

• Participate independently if mobility allows

• Staff available to assist with boarding shuttles or transportation

1. Emergency Protocols

• Self-assist passengers must know safety procedures

• Staff will provide support during drills or emergencies

Comparison With Full Assistance

FeatureSelf-AssistFull Assistance

IndependencePartialLimited

Staff SupportOn-demandContinuous

EmbarkationSelf + guidanceFully managed

MobilityIndependent with optional helpStaff-assisted

DiningPartial or independentFully assisted

ExcursionsIndependent if ableStaff-assisted

Tips for Self-Assist Passengers

1. Communicate Clearly

• Notify staff of specific tasks you need help with

1. Bring Personal Mobility Aids

• Use your own wheelchair, cane, or walker if needed

1. Plan Activities Wisely

• Schedule excursions and onboard activities considering your independence level

1. Use Ship Facilities

• Familiarize yourself with ramps, elevators, and accessible paths

1. Maintain Safety Awareness

• Know emergency exits and drill procedures

1. Coordinate With Travel Agent

• Ensure all self-assist requirements are documented in advance

Real-Life Examples

Example 1: Partial Mobility

A passenger could walk short distances but needed help boarding the ship. Self-assist allowed them to manage most activities independently while receiving staff guidance for embarkation.

Example 2: Dietary Support

A traveler could eat independently but required assistance with special dietary meals. Staff provided partial support without restricting autonomy.

Example 3: Excursions

A passenger participated in shore excursions using a wheelchair but requested staff help only for boarding transport. This enabled independence while ensuring safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Who can use self-assist services?

Passengers with partial mobility or minor assistance needs who can safely perform some tasks independently.

Q2: Is pre-notification required?

Yes, notify Costa Cruises at booking or at least 30–60 days before departure.

Q3: Can self-assist passengers use wheelchairs onboard?

Yes, personal or onboard-provided mobility aids are available.

Q4: Are there extra fees for self-assist?

Typically no, unless renting specialized equipment or requesting additional services.

Q5: How does self-assist differ from full assistance?

Self-assist allows independence with partial support, while full assistance involves staff performing most activities for the passenger.

Self-assist on Costa Cruises provides a flexible and safe option for passengers who require partial assistance. It balances independence with support, allowing travelers to enjoy a cruise experience tailored to their abilities.

By understanding eligibility, procedures, and tips for smooth navigation, self-assist passengers can confidently manage embarkation, mobility, dining, and excursions while having staff support available as needed.