I am writing to comment on this draft for the new access standards for passenger vessels, docket # 2004-1. My main concern is with the number of accessilbe cabins. We need many more accessible cabins, not less! My husband and I have tried many, many times to book a cruise vacation only to be thwarted, each and every time due to the lack of accessible cabins. We are both disabled, and our only means of mobility is via wheelchairs. I have been told by some cruise agents that I need to book, a cruise vacation at least 9 to 12 months in advance, to be able to get the wheelchair accessible cabin we need! I do not call this fair, let alone equal treatment. Please do not allow the cruise lines reduce the already inadequate number of accessible cabins available is the disabled community.
Mrs. Linda L. Hutchinson
[address]
Blacksburg, SC