[stevendowning]

The initial problem for someone with a disability can be simply getting aboard. Standard passarelles (gangways) are too narrow for a wheelchair, but some yachts have been equipped with passarelles wide enough not only for a wheelchair but for three people. This allows a person with walking difficulties to have the support of an assistant on each side. Another yacht simplifies access with an electric lift, like those on special needs automobiles, that folds out and lifts the wheelchair to deck level.

[billm543]

Yachts aimed at the special needs market also solve the many small details that can make a wheelchair difficult. The dining areas, for example, are arranged with ample space on all sides so the guest isn’t limited to just one place at the table. [links]

[DerrickEaton]

Small details here

[jimmyrdavenport]

Yacht design more

[thomascaulk]

The Uri is a true blue-water motorsailer, uniquely designed to be operated and enjoyed by a wheelchair-bound paraplegic. Built in 1992 at Damstra shipyards in Holland, she is spacious and comfortable for 4-6 people, with two bedrooms below, a large enclosed galley and lounge abovedecks, and ample fore and aft sundecks. Maintained with love and care, the Uri's hull is 100% aluminum for longevity and durability. A true one-of-a-kind yacht, the Uri is uniquely comfortable and capable vessel for all aboard.

[i5Steve]

Udi has invested love and care in designing, sailing, and maintaining the Uri; she is a unique and irreplacable treasure. In all of his travels, he has never seen a boat so uniquely optimized for the needs of the handicapped. [links]

[dabbad]

The Uri was conceived and commissioned by Udi, a 60-year-old paraplegic. He has sailed her for several months every summer since she was launched in 1993, sailing throughout the Mediterranean, the Red Sea, and even the UK. here

[denaje]

The Uri is no superficial makeover of an existing yacht—she was designed for full accessibilty above and belowdecks. Galley, shower, head, and engine room are all wheelchair-friendly, enabling usage and maintenance by the owner. Thought was given to getting on and off the boat as well; the Uri boasts an aft Hydraulic crane and wide gangways for easy embarkation and disembarkation from any pier. Important controls have been placed within reach of a seated person, from lightswitches to winches. You'll find accessibility evident in many thoughtful details throughout the boat; she is a truly accessible motorsailer. more

[carolstreet444]

If needed, the staff can assist in transferring handicapped guests into the Jacuzzi; simply use the panic button for help. From the Jacuzzi, guests can watch entertainment on the 180cm by 180cm HD screen. A portable Karaoke machine can be enjoyed on every floor; each floor has its own sound system so if a guest does not want to hear then he or she can move to another floor. Scuba diving can also happen right off the yacht but guests need to inform the crew well ahead of time so that a professional instructor can be on board. Scuba diving is only available for a minimum 3-night cruise. See a diagram of the Well-able Yacht. here

[yvethwarren]

Access to the three stories is accomplished with a hydrophilic elevator which measures 21m can even lower disabled guests into the water if looking to swim. Impressively, the yacht uses renewable solar and wind energy to power all electricity onboard. On board is one captain, seafarer and cook and all have a lot of hospitality experience. The yacht’s main level (third floor) has even more reclining chairs for tanning as well as a misting system. On this floor is also a Jacuzzi (2m round) which can be filled with either fresh or sea water. more

[manixrock]

To ensure safety and peace of mind, panic buttons have been installed in every room on the yacht in case guests need assistance of any kind. In the main room, there is a sitting area for six people and the table’s height can be electronically adjusted; all other tables can be manually adjusted. There are even two cockpits (main and top floor) designed for handicapped guests to be able to drive as it is equipped with an electronic rudder and gas control lever. Although the kitchen (main floor) is not specially designed to be wheelchair accessible, some may still find it manageable. Plus, there will not be much need to prepare meals yourself because a professional cook accompanies the yacht. Guests are welcome to shop for their own food for the duration of the voyage or the staff can assist or do it completely. The kitchen also includes a ground level dish and clothing washer. A deck is also found on the main level with reclining lounge chairs for tanning and a misting system to help regulate body temperature. [links]

[L29Ah]

With architect Hacı M. Hekim, Tunc Tonger has designed a three-story wheelchair accessible yacht to provide the disabled with a comfortable and stylish atmosphere to travel at sea in called Well-abled. [links]

[xenfasa]

Rooms
There are three bedrooms (one VIP and two guest rooms) that are suitable for handicapped people and located on the first (ground) floor of the yacht. All three rooms are equipped with touch pad controls for the lights, music, HVAC system and even the doors. Furthermore, all the beds are hospital-style beds with controls for the feet and head and are at a height is 50cm from the floor to the top of the mattress. No matter what room you are staying in, disabled guests will find the comfort of grab-bars, a roll-up sink and roll-in shower in the bathroom. One can sit on the toilet or a portable padded stool to shower. The height of the mirror can be adjusted according to guest. In the VIP room there is one king-size bed (2m in length) and is composed of two independent bases to provide a comfortable arrangement for both our handicapped guest and his/her companion who may or may not be handicapped. In both guest rooms, there is only one twin bed but an air-bed can be provided for non-handicapped guests. One Roho airbed can also be provided (90cm X 200cm). more

[midnightmagic]

There are two 12v charging points for a mobile phone and, ideally with the engine running, a 230v supply at up to 600 watts is available to charge wheelchair batteries, or electric hoist batteries or to run low-powered medical equipment. There is also a 2-pin razor socket in the shower room. There is a TV and radio in the main cabin. here

[Hneal741]

Madam Butterfly is a cruising boat equipped with a hospital bed and other facilities to allow able-bodied carers to accompany those with mobility problems. We can supply a hoist (at extra cost) if needed. more

[sherrymade356]

See full conditions of hire HERE. [links]

[jhoki]

Only registered assistance dogs are allowed on board. [links]

[Bit-coin]

Self-drive hirings are open to both novices and experienced boaters alike, because full tuition tailored to individual requirements is provided at the start of each cruise by trained Despatchers. If you have any concerns about boat handling, please contact Accessible Boating, as they will provide whatever support you need. more