Tender, with loving care

Cruise Travel, July-August, 2004 by John A. Handy

Over the years we have taken several cruises on different lines. The issue of elderly passengers, many handicapped, having to use a tender, in our opinion, has not been properly addressed. It is understandable that in some ports a tender is required to go ashore. Able-bodied persons can barely manage the present tender design. We believe that some tenders should be designed with consideration for the large majority of elderly or handicapped passengers. This is not just for convenience, but far more important for all passengers, it is a safety issue.

A customized tender could have better access, ramps, seating space, passageways, rest rooms, and storage areas for wheelchairs. So maybe we need some tenders that are not just lifeboats with an engine. The time has come for naval architects to go back to the drawing board for new tender designs.

Mr. & Mrs. John A. Handy, Harlingen, TX