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Silversea introduces accessible tours in Caribbean, Central America

PHOTO: Silversea
Nine accessible tours are available in the Caribbean and Central America, with additional options planned for the Mediterranean
Through a partnership with Accessible Travel Solutions, a company devoted to expanding opportunities for disabled and senior travelers, Silversea Cruises is now offering accessible shore excursions.

Vehicles with lifts or ramps, experienced guides

These are available in nine destinations in the Caribbean and Central America, and additional excursions will be developed for the Mediterranean in 2019.

The collection incorporates such enhancements as vehicles with wheelchair lifts or ramps; trips to sites and attractions that have step-free access, accessible restrooms and routes that avoid steps; and guides who are experienced with accessibility issues.

'From up-close encounters with sea turtles in Grand Cayman to exploring UNESCO World Heritage-listed landmarks in San Juan, these new accessible experiences are sure to bring the world closer to our disabled and senior guests,' said Adria Bono, director of shore excursions for Silversea.

'We appreciate Silversea's dedication to serving all guests regardless of their accessibility needs,' said John Sage, owner and founder of Accessible Travel Solutions. 'With our first-hand accessibility knowledge and years of experience, we look forward to enabling Silversea's guests to travel deeper to enjoy amazing onshore experiences.'

Waterfalls, wildlife, scenery, culture

One tour, 'Accessible Pitons & Waterfalls' from Castries, St. Lucia, unlocks natural wonders and cultural riches during a full-day exploration of the island. Highlights include a visit to the charming fishing village of Anse La Raye, a stop to photograph the majestic Pitons and access to a step-free garden path in Soufrière's Diamond Botanical Gardens where participants can admire the Diamond Waterfall.

On 'Monkey Sanctuary & Iguana Hideout for Limited Mobility' in Roatán, Honduras, participants interact with playful primates at a sanctuary, browse crafts at a flea market, encounter pet-friendly iguanas at an iguana and marine wildlife park and take a scenic island drive.

'Accessible St. Kitts,' from Basseterre, includes UNESCO World Heritage-listed Brimstone Hill Fortress, historic Romney Manor and a stop to marvel at spectacular ocean and island vistas from Timothy Hill Scenic Outlook.

In Cozumel, 'Accessible Mayan Experience & Scenic Drive' goes to a cultural center for a taste of ancient Mayan life, ceremonies and foods, including tortillas and chocolate. A visit to the ruins of El Cedral offers insight into the island's oldest community. A tequila tasting and free time to relax on an accessible beach round out the excursion.

'Accessible Grenada,' from St. George's, explores the Caribbean's quintessential spice island. Participants savor the aromas of fresh nutmeg, cocoa and vanilla at a spice market, visit a nutmeg factory, learn about the origins of the spice trade at the historic Dougaldston Spice Estate and take a panoramic drive through Grand Etang National Park.