CCL-Carnival Cruise Line became the first passenger shipping company certified "sensory inclusive" by KultureCity - a nonprofit organization dedicated to accessibility for individuals with invisible disabilities and sensory needs. The rollout of the program began in October 2019 and all of Carnival's South Florida-homeported liners are certified, with the remaining fleet due to be completed by March 2020.
As part of a fleetwide training program, hundreds of the CCL's guest-facing crew (youth staff and guest services personnel) have been trained to help adults, youth and kids with sensory-related questions or needs relating to conditions like ADHD, Autism, PTSD, Down syndrome, etc.
KultureCity sensory bags are offered for check out for the duration of the voyage and contain various items "to help calm, relax and manage sensory overload." The items include noise-canceling headphones (by Puro Sound Labs), a visual feeling thermometer (in conjunction with Boardmaker), fidget toys, and a KultureCity VIP lanyard to help staff identify guests.
Once onboard, passengers should inquire at Carnival's Guest Services desk about borrowing a sensory bag and other accommodations available.
In addition to KultureCity certification, Carnival Cruise Line will be the first cruise ship operator to complete an additional special needs certification program by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards.