ACL-American Cruise Lines, in a settlement with the U.S. Attorney's Office, has committed to enhancing accessibility across its fleet. The cruise line faced legal action following six complaints received by the U.S. Department of Justice regarding the lack of accessibility for individuals who use wheelchairs on its ships.
According to a press release from the United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut (Guilford, where ACL is headquartered), the complaints alleged shortcomings in providing fully accessible ships, safe embarkation/disembarkation procedures for wheelchair users, and wheelchair-accessible ground transportation during shore excursions.
Under the settlement, ACL is mandated to address accessibility issues on all its vessels. Within 18 months, the company must submit a comprehensive remediation plan to improve accessibility for passengers with disabilities on all ships, subject to review and approval by the United States before implementation.
Remediation efforts include implementing accessible boarding and disembarking procedures, staff training, establishing a publicly accessible "accessibility request" process and reservation procedures, and providing portable communication devices to alert deaf passengers during ship emergencies.
Additionally, the settlement necessitates ACL to adopt ADA-compliant policies, procedures, and training, appoint an ADA compliance officer, and develop an accessible website.
ACL's USA-flagged vessels are required to comply with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act.