Tender ports, explained
The short answer
In a tender port, the ship anchors off shore and small boats — tenders — carry guests to land. Most tenders need you to manage a few steps. Motorized chairs may not be allowed, and if you cannot go ashore, there is usually no refund for that port.
What the rules say
Holland America Line: When a ship cannot dock, guests go ashore on smaller boats called tenders.
Source: Holland America Line, checked September 21, 2026
Virgin Voyages: To board most tenders you must be able to take steps. Motorized wheelchairs and scooters are not allowed on tenders unless the ship and tender allow roll-on boarding.
Source: Virgin Voyages, checked September 21, 2026
MSC Cruises: Where tenders are used, guests must be fit and mobile enough to get on and off the tender without assistance. Crew may not carry wheelchairs or scooters onto the tender.
Source: MSC Cruises, checked September 21, 2026
Princess Cruises: If you cannot tender or get off the ship, there is no refund or credit for the missed port.
Source: Princess Cruises, checked September 21, 2026
How to plan around tenders
- Ask which ports on your itinerary use tenders before you book.
- If you use a wheelchair or scooter, prefer itineraries where most ports are docked.
- In a tender port, go ashore later in the morning, when the lines for the tender are shorter.
- Weather and sea conditions can change plans on the day. The Captain decides.
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Call (239) 357-0814What getting on a tender looks like
- Guests gather at a lower deck, often by ticket number or tour group.
- Crew help you step from the ship's platform into the boat.
- The ride to shore can take several minutes and may be bumpy.
- You step up onto a dock or pier on shore.
Exactly how it works varies by port, weather and ship.
Rules on mobility devices
What the rules say
Holland America Line: Staff are not allowed to carry scooters or wheelchairs heavier than 100 lbs. The Captain makes the final call on helping guests with limited mobility, based on weather, location and the weight of the guest or device.
Source: Holland America Line, checked September 21, 2026
Norwegian Cruise Line: In a standard (non-accessible) stateroom you need a collapsible wheelchair, or a motorized wheelchair or scooter no wider than 26 inches to fit the door.
Source: Norwegian Cruise Line, checked September 21, 2026
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