Disney Destiny - Buyer beware with Disability!!

[brensher]

First time on DCL. The trip was good except for our experience on Castaway Cay (CC). We were a family of 14 (6 children 6yo-9yo, 8 Adults). One of our family members has stage 4 melanoma. Prior to the trip I phone Customer Service and Special Services SEVERAL times to find out what accommodations can be made for shade on CC. I tried to book a cabana, but as this was our 1st Disney cruise, and we had NO priority, that was out of the question. I then asked how we could request chaises with umbrellas. I was told they would be plenty of chaises with umbrellas. I specifically asked if would could arrange for one. I was flat out told NO. It was on a first come first serve basis. I explained the medical situation several times, but that made NO difference.

As we weren't the first ones off the ship and we missed the tram and had to wait, needless to say all the chaises and umbrellas were taking on Pelican Beach. I went directly to the customer service hut and explained the situation. Their response was, chaises and umbrella's are on a first come first serve basis, we were out of luck and there was nothing they could do.

We returned to the ship as we couldn't be in the sun. Very disappointing -- very disheartening. I tried so hard way before we left to arrange for this but it was like Disney didn't care about a medical condition. Really soured the trip. We all went through the motions for the rest of the trip but the thrill was gone. Will we take another Disney cruise, probably not. Very Sad

 

[lanejudy]

I'm sorry this had such an impact on your cruise experience. DCL does not have any system of reserving seats on the beach. Chairs and loungers become available throughout the day as people come and go, and also as the sun shifts overhead what may have been shade in the AM is bright sun in the PM or vice versa. The covered seating at Cookies/Cookies Too may have been a short-term solution while waiting for shaded seats to open up. Did you consider sending someone from your party off the ship early to grab a shaded lounger? That's probably what I would have done. Whomever is ready earliest. Another option would have been to try Serenity Bay for your wife, though I realize that would mean not seeing the kids play in the water. I assume she was dressed with large-brimmed hat and SPF clothing. But if she absolutely cannot spend any amount of time outdoors, I guess none of those things could have helped.

I hope you were able to find enjoyment in other activities either onboard or other port stops.

 

[Mle8308]

I would have bought an umbrella that attaches to a beach chair before my trip and brought it with me, if going to CC and sitting on the beach was a priority. Or ensured I, or at least someone from my party, was off the ship first thing to grab a shaded lounger. Sorry for your experience, but people have to take some responsibility to ensure they get what they need, especially in your situation, can't count on someone else to. You should have joined the Boards sooner, many of the more experienced cruisers here could have given you some great advice.