What is the best electric wheelchairs for cruising?

Jun 10, 2025

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Your bags are packed and you’re finally ready to set sail for some summer sun. But how will you take your power chair with you? Cruise ships will now only allow power chairs with lithium batteries and, of course, you’ll want to take one that you can easily manoeuvre and stow away when not in use.

Big liners such as Disney and Carnival can hold a few thousand passengers so expect them to be very accommodating for wheelchair users. However, smaller ships are not as wheelchair-friendly and so you might need to consider which chair to take.

It is important to know that each cruise line is different when it comes to their level of accessibility, so it is highly recommended to contact your desired cruise line to discuss the process of bringing a powerchair aboard.

Read on to discover our top picks for the best electric wheelchairs for cruising…

Kerdom DX04-E100L 33lbs Ultra-Light Folding Electric Wheelchair

As the name suggests, the DX04 33lbs Ultra-Light Folding Electric Wheelchair is one of the lightest and most compact chairs on the market weighing in at just 15.7kg, making it one of the best electric wheelchairs for cruising.

When you’re not travelling around, it’s the perfect compact packaging for storing and because it’s so lightweight it can be lifted and stowed away in your cabin. Built-in handles sewn into the seat can be used when the chair has been folded.

When it comes to fine dining, both arm rests can lift up, allowing you to sit under dinner tables with ease and also to access your wheelchair to stand more easily.

Getting around

Reaching top speeds of 4mph on a fully charged battery, it’s the perfect model for onboard the ship. It features powerful brushless motors which are great on ramps, making freewheeling the wheelchair around the ship a lot smoother, with reduced noise output so as not to disturb other guests.

Ultimate safety

This chair comes fitted with electromagnetic brakes, an adjustable seatbelt with built-in suspension and a padded seat with back cushions. For ships with longer excursions, this chair’s tyres are puncture-proof so you won’t get stuck while you’re allowed some time to explore a new port.

An additional handy feature is an LED torch that can be found under the controller which lights the path should you need to walk around the corridors during the darker hours or board the ship in the evening.

Total Width: 19.68 inch or 49cm

Kerdom DX05-F20 Ultra-Light Instant Folding Electric Wheelchair

The Ultra-Light is incredibly robust with superb safety features. It’s the perfect choice for using around the ship and for excursions. It also holds two batteries, making it a great option for excursions as it has a longer range than many models.

Compact

This instant folding chair takes inspiration from the same mechanism used in children’s pushchairs, allowing it to fold down in seconds. As well as being super lightweight, it’s ideal for transporting on a cruise ship where personal space may be limited.

Easy navigation

It has a very tight turning circle and is narrow enough to navigate through doors and hallways around the ship, avoiding scraping walls as they go! And as for control, it’s super simple with a joystick that be placed on the right or left depending on preference.

Designed with a 12-inch rear-wheel drive system with two 250W motors, it’s great for excursions off the boat as it can handle tough terrains such as hills. Ramps are no battle for this machine with a smooth ride ensured. And because it can travel at up to 4mph and reach 15 miles on a fully charged battery, it’s great whilst onboard and when you get time off the ship to explore the local amenities.

Total Width: 25 inch or 63cm

Want to know more?

Kerdom Wheelchairs stock a range of high-quality power chairs suitable for a range of users. If you’d like advice on choosing your next power chair, contact our team.

How to Extend the Life of Your Mobility Electric Wheelchair

Extending the life of your mobility electric wheelchair requires proper maintenance, careful usage, and timely repairs. Here are some key tips to help you maximize its lifespan:

Battery Care (Most Important!)

Charge Properly: Follow the manufacturer’s charging guidelines—avoid overcharging or letting the battery drain completely.
Use the Right Charger: Always use the manufacturer-approved charger to prevent damage.
Store Correctly: If not in use for long periods, store the battery at 40-70% charge in a cool, dry place.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures: High heat or freezing conditions can degrade battery life.

Regular Cleaning & Maintenance

Keep It Clean: Wipe down the frame, seat, and controls regularly to prevent dirt and moisture damage.
Check for Corrosion: Inspect battery terminals and connectors for rust or corrosion.
Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply lubricant to joints, axles, and folding mechanisms (if applicable) to prevent wear.

Tire & Wheel Maintenance

Check Tire Pressure (if pneumatic): Keep tires properly inflated to reduce motor strain.
Inspect for Wear: Replace worn-out tires or solid inserts to maintain smooth movement.
Clean Wheels & Bearings: Remove debris that could cause friction or damage.

Avoid Overloading & Rough Terrain

Stay Within Weight Limits: Exceeding capacity strains the motor and frame.
Avoid Rough Surfaces: Potholes, gravel, and steep slopes can damage wheels and electronics.
Use Ramps Carefully: Tilt the wheelchair backward slightly when climbing curbs to avoid motor strain.

Electronics & Motor Care

Protect from Moisture: Avoid water exposure to prevent electrical damage.
Check Wiring: Look for frayed wires or loose connections.
Listen for Unusual Noises: Grinding or whining sounds may indicate motor or gear issues.

Proper Storage

Keep Indoors: Store in a dry, temperature-controlled area when not in use.
Cover if Outdoors: Use a waterproof cover to protect from rain and dust.

Regular Professional Servicing

Schedule Check-ups: Have a technician inspect the wheelchair annually (or as recommended).

Update Software (if smart wheelchair): Ensure firmware is up to date for optimal performance.

Handle with Care

Avoid Sudden Stops/Starts: Gradual acceleration reduces stress on the motor.
Fold/Unfold Carefully (if foldable): Follow instructions to prevent frame damage.

Replace Wear-and-Tear Parts

Batteries: Typically last 1–3 years; replace when runtime drops significantly.
Tires & Casters: Replace if treads are worn or wheels wobble.
Cushions & Upholstery: Prevent structural strain by maintaining seat integrity.

By following these steps, you can extend the life of your electric wheelchair, ensuring reliable performance and avoiding costly repairs. Always refer to your user manual for model-specific guidelines.