'Knowledge gaps are preventing cruising from becoming the most accessible form of holiday'

Another client, David, had mobility needs following a stroke. He was forced to sleep with vomit on his sheets after housekeeping refused to change them.

This came after he and his partner asked to move cabins due to the lack of space in their wheelchair accessible cabin. They spent their entire trip unable to move around their room freely.

Despite these negative experiences, accessible travel expert Jennie Berry tells me Virgin Voyages are “doing a lot right and are inclusive for different marginalised groups”.

"It’s a bit of a mixed bag when it comes to cruising,” she says. “I am yet to see any of Virgin Voyages’ competitors use the same boarding system they do – where the steps turn into ramps and are motorised. This is a huge help for me as a wheelchair user."

To truly make cruising accessible for all, any training the crew receive should help them understand passengers’ needs and, subsequently, help them communicate in a more effective and sensitive way. Jennie agrees. “There is a lot more that can be done on this front," she adds.

By addressing these knowledge gaps, cruise lines can take massive strides towards ensuring every traveller – regardless of their needs – can enjoy their cruise to the fullest.

Kate Holroyd is a travel professional and the former owner of Lancashire agency Strawberry Holidays.