Which one to use WC or ECV

[Carnator]

We are thinking of going on a cruise Jan 09. I was wondering would it be easier getting around on the ship using wheelchair or ECV? I can walk a little, so getting around in our room I would be ok but that would be about all the walkiing I could handle. I heard it is hard manuvering ECV on the ships. I use one constantly every day at work so I am used to driving one. Also would I run into problems with a wheelchair such as inclines or ramps. It will be my DW, DS 11 and DD 7. Our DD is on the go 24/7 and my wife is concerned about me and having to keep up with her. I told her that I would be fine in a chair but she thinks she will have less to worry about if I have my ECV. I know that it is still a year away but it would help with our planning.

The ECV that I have is shoprider - sovereign B#, 3 wheel. It says it has a turning radius of 37'.

I read Chesire's post on 12/25 " Accessibility Onboard the Disney Ships" , it was very helpful. I was wondering if anyone else had anything else they could share...

It will be on Disney Cruise,(as if there were any other)

Thanks for any info and suggestions.

 

[dclfun]

You should'nt have issues getting around in an ECV on the ship. I've travelled with people using ECV's that got around easily. If you don't have your own power chair then I'm assuming you meant an ECV vs. a manual chair which would not give you the same independence. The only problems I've had in my chair involve the "lips" on the doorways to the outer decks and sometimes getting stuck ( I have a long bolt under my chair to fit in an EZ lock in my van) or needing someone with me to open doors that don't have a pushplate. Getting around in the buffet area is tight also but there will always be a crew member to help and even take your tray and find you a seat or if it's nice weather you can go to an outdoor table with much more space. I'm not sure about the model ECV you use but if it's large the other option would be to rent a smaller one for the cruise if it's possible for you to use one comfortably. If you're using DCL transfers it's a good idea when you send in your medical information form to ask about your particular model ECV on the motorcoach lifts and to be sure any other needs are taken care of before you board.----Kathy