Traveling with Brynn
By Brynn Travels with MFT on
What Is Autism on the Seas and How Can It Help Families Travel?
Planning a cruise can be exciting—but for families with autistic travelers, it can also feel overwhelming. That’s where Autism on the Seas comes in. This amazing organization helps make cruising easier and more enjoyable for families who have a loved one with autism or other developmental disabilities.
So, What Is Autism on the Seas?
Autism on the Seas (AotS) is a special program that works with major cruise lines—like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Disney—to provide extra support for travelers with autism and other special needs. They’ve been doing this since 2007 and are trusted by thousands of families.
They offer staff-supported group cruises where trained team members travel with you and help your family every step of the way. These cruises are still open to the public, but AotS families get added perks and personalized help.
What Kind of Support Do They Provide?
Here are just some of the ways Autism on the Seas helps make cruising easier and more enjoyable:
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Priority boarding & disembarkation – Skip long lines and stressful waiting.
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Reserved seating at shows & meals – Quiet spots and flexibility when you need it.
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Private activities just for AotS families – From sensory-friendly playtime to pool fun and more.
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Trained staff who understand autism – They help with transitions, behaviors, and can even give you a break!
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Help during shore excursions – Staff can come with you off the ship too.
Why Families Love It
Many families say it’s the first time they’ve truly relaxed on vacation. Parents get support. Kids get to have fun in a way that works for them. And it’s all in a welcoming, judgment-free zone.
Plus, kids and adults make new friends. Some families even cruise with the AotS group year after year!
Who Can Use Autism on the Seas?
The program supports travelers of all ages with:
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Autism
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ADHD
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Down Syndrome
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Cerebral Palsy
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Other developmental or cognitive challenges
Even if you don’t need the staff-supported cruise, AotS can help you plan your cruise with pre-trip planning tools, social stories, and custom cruise assistance.
If you'd like help choosing the right cruise or getting started with Autism on the Seas, I’m here to help! As an Autism Certified Travel Professional and a parent to an autistic child myself, I know how important it is to feel supported and safe while traveling.
Let’s make your next cruise smooth, fun, and unforgettable.
Replies (9)
- JugglingNothing:
I once had a meltdown on a family trip because a line was too long. I would’ve killed for a program like this.
- Eli Mercer:
Totally. It's so different when someone knows how to redirect calmly or spot when you need a break.
- Real Ray C:
Honestly, the trained staff part is what sold me. It’s not just lip service. Having people who understand behaviour and sensory stuff is such a relief.
- Charlotte:
Exactly! I’m always thinking about the lineups and transitions. Having staff who actually get it is priceless.
- JugglingNothing:
Same here. I’d get so overloaded before we even got on the ship. This sounds like such a thoughtful approach.
- Real Ray C:
This is the first time I’ve even heard of Autism on the Seas! Such a game changer. Reserved seating and quiet spaces are so underrated.
- Charlotte:
This is amazing. Thank you for sharing so many details! I’m a mom to a kiddo with sensory needs and travel planning is always intimidating.
- Eli Mercer:
I love this. Honestly, I wish my parents had known about something like this when I was younger. Airports and cruise terminals used to wreck me.
- JugglingNothing:
This is fantastic info, Brynn. ❤️ As an autistic adult, I know how stressful travel can be. The priority boarding alone would save so many meltdowns.