Background Information:
We are a couple in our late 40's travelling with DH sister and BIL (who were new to cruising). I have Muscular Dystrophy and mobilise using a walker most of the time, but outside the home, I use a portable powerchair called a Puzzle Chair. This was our 2nd Cruise together and my fourth, but it was 14 years since our last cruise, it was to be completely different.
The Christmas/New Year Cruise on the Diamond for 12 nights went down the eastern coast of Australia across to the Fiords of New Zealand and then up the eastern coast of NZ. Colleagues of DH did this itinerary in early 2010 and raved about it, and once we saw the ship docked at Auckland, we thought 'this is the cruise - let's head away from a decent break, relax, see Australia and NZ from a different perspective including seeing the Fiords for the first time'. I have been to all our ports before, and DH, SIL & BIL had been to all but Hobart. It was more about cruising for us than sightseeing.
Stateroom - Deck 10 - C302, a Handicapped Cabin (HC) with Balcony
The stateroom was perfect. Great location - by forward lifts.
Bathroom worked very well. All the handrails necessary and a good shower seat. Shelf space was adequate and I could get my chair under the sink.
Room was well laid out with plenty of room for the powerchair and walker. Two double wardrobes, 3 draws and plenty of shelves.
Balcony was fantastic - easy to access, with a good ramp.