Interview with Krystian Kołakowski – ADA Program Manager, Trident BMC

Passed in 1990 and reformed over the years, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has radically improved the lives of people with disabilities. Because the Act also applies to cruises, the term ADA on board a cruise ship includes any modifications necessary to ensure that people with disabilities can enjoy their voyage as much as any other passenger. Trident BMC has a specialized team that creates the necessary outfits for newbuilds and modernizations; the team works worldwide. We interviewed Krystian Kolakowski, our project manager in charge of ADA.

Q: Trident has been involved in many ADA interior upgrades, could you please explain us what an ADA is?

A: An ADA interior upgrade project on a cruise ship involves modifying the ship’s interior spaces to make them more accessible to individuals with disabilities. This could include installing wheelchair ramps, widening doorways, adding grab bars and handrails, and modifying cabin layouts to accommodate wheelchair users. 

Q: Why is it important to have ADA upgrades on a cruise ship?

A: Cruise ships are popular vacation destinations for people of all ages and abilities. It’s important that everyone, regardless of their physical abilities, can enjoy all the amenities and experiences that a cruise has to offer. ADA upgrades ensure that individuals with disabilities can navigate the ship safely and comfortably, and have access to all the same facilities and activities as other passengers.

Q: What are some of the challenges involved in ADA interior upgrade projects on cruise ships?

A: There are several challenges to consider when undertaking an ADA interior upgrade project on a cruise ship. One of the main challenges is working within the constraints of the ship’s existing infrastructure, which can be complex and difficult to modify. Additionally, there are strict regulations and guidelines governing accessibility on cruise ships, and it’s important to ensure that all modifications are compliant with these standards.

Q: Are there any upcoming ADA interior upgrade projects that Trident BMC is working on?

A: Yes, we have several ADA interior upgrade projects currently in the works with different cruise lines, including a major renovation of a large cruise ship’s public spaces and cabins to improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities.