Frequently Asked Questions: Disabled passengers

Are there special cabins for disabled passengers?

Yes, on the overnight routes there are four cabins per ship designed for disabled users. Two of these cabins are designed to allow ease of access whilst the other cabins two are fitted with lifting equipment. The cabins without lifting equipment have an additional drop-down berth available for a carer. The disabled cabins are fitted with a television.

We have a dedicated page with more information regarding facilities available for disabled passengers aboard the NorthLink Ferries fleet.

Can we offer assisted boarding for passengers travelling by car, who can be met with a wheelchair before boarding or from the car deck?

Yes, our staff will assist passengers either through the terminal or from the car deck.

Is there wheelchair / assisted transport device access to all public areas of the ship by lift direct from the car deck?

All public areas are accessible for wheelchair users. There is a lift direct from the main car deck and the disabled parking bays are close by. It should be noted there is no lift on the lower car decks on the Aberdeen -Kirkwall - Lerwick route. If you require use of the lift then please note that we strongly recommend that you notify us in advance so that a parking space next to the lift can be reserved for you.

Are there disabled toilets in the public areas?

There are three disabled toilets on deck 6 of the two larger vessels – one in the midships stairwell and two forward near the bar. On Hamnavoe there are disabled toilets on decks 5 and 6.

Are there tables without fixed seating to allow wheelchair access?

There are tables with movable seats in the restaurants, bars and lounges.

Do we recognise the ‘Disabled Drivers Association'?

We have made contact with the Association to find out where there are areas in which they can assist us to help our passengers. We have advised the DDA of our booking procedure and the discounts available.

Do disabled passengers who are members of the Disabled Drivers Association get any special discounts other than the standard disabled concession fare?

Not at present.

Have we been advised by the disabled drivers association on any special facilities which we should offer to our disabled customers?

No.

What’s the difference between the two types of cabin available?

All disabled cabins have wide access electrically-operated doors, sinks at the correct height etc. The higher spec. cabins also have hoists. The cabins without hoists have two additional fold-down berths, whilst the hoist-equipped cabins have one.

Can the berths be raised and lowered electronically, and any other special features?

The berths for disabled passengers are single beds at normal height. They do not need to be lowered from the wall.

Are both berths for disabled people?

The second and third (fold-down) berth is intended for use by a carer, partner or travelling companion.

En suite? Special features of bathrooms?

Basins and showers are sited at the correct height for wheelchair users. Toilets are fitted with the required rails and handles.

Is there a shower seat?

There is no fixed seat in the shower. Each cabin is equipped with a waterproof seat that can be wheeled into the shower and toilet.

Are there hoists?

The two higher spec. cabins are fitted with a bedroom hoist.

Is the door wide enough for a wheel chair?

Yes. The door width complies with the latest disabled access legislation.

Are there 250v 3-pronged electric points for the use of nebulisers?

All cabins are fitted with standard UK three-pin electrical outlets at 230 volts/50Hz.

Can a disabled passenger take 2hr oxygen bottles on board?

Yes.

Do you have to bring your own wheelchair?

We can supply a wheelchair when required. However, we would encourage passengers to bring their own chairs if they have one, as our wheelchairs can be required for multiple users, especially during the Summer.

Is there access for a motorised wheelchair?

In all ports except Scrabster it is possible to use a motorised wheelchair from terminal to ship and vice versa. At Scrabster we will provide transport onto the car deck and assistance to the lift.

What discounts and facilities are available for blind passengers?

Registered blind passengers travel free of charge. On overnight crossings we will provide a berth or cabin free of charge. Support dogs are allowed in the passenger’s cabin. If we are informed of special requirements in advance we will arrange for a member of staff to meet and assist the passenger.

Are Support Dogs Allowed in Cabins?

Yes. Support Dogs are allowed in cabins, and all public areas of the ferries.