Custom Cruises Offered for Families of Kids With Autism

Taking a child with special needs on vacation can be anything but relaxing -- having to make do with imperfect accommodations, unfamiliar surroundings, and people who don't get your child can make getting home to the old dull routine seem more like a getaway than anything.

But what if you could vacation with families who are all dealing with the same special needs, in a venue specifically equipped and scheduled for the happiness of children like yours? That's the idea behind Autism on the Seas cruises from Alumni Cruises, which uses Royal Caribbean line ships for autism-themed cruises featuring professional staff, dietary accommodations, gatherings designed for children with autism and their siblings, and presumably more parent-to-parent networking than you can flap a beach towel at. Does that sound like your idea of a perfect vacation -- being surrounded by kids like your kids, and parents who understand -- or like one loooong week in a therapist's waiting room?

If you prefer something more along the "inclusion" lines, Alumni also offers individualized packages on non-themed cruises at no extra cost, but although you'll get an "autism card" to flash to staff, and some consideration for limited diets and service dogs, you probably won't get the comfort of knowing that other passengers understand why your child jumps or flaps or talks about one subject for six days, seven nights.

Would you want to go on a cruise devoted solely to your child's special needs and the similar needs of others? Pick an answer from the poll at right, and share your thoughts in the comments.

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