Special needs access at SIBS / Sunseeker

[henryf]

We had a bit of disaster on the run up to Southampton whereby Emily was immobilised and in quite a lot of pain when trying to hobble around. She had come out of a plaster cast and into a boot but moving around the show proved difficult and slow.

The show organisers kindly lent us a wheelchair for the day and all the gate staff seemed to know of its availability. One lot even offered to fetch one for us but we declined deciding instead to pick it up next morning. We really appreciated being able to whizz round again.

When we arrived at Sunseeker there were a couple of guys specifically tasked with ensuring those less able could access the stand and negotiate the stairs. They had a couple of electric stair climbing machines which we didn't actually need, Ems just took her time and used crutches.

Their presence and Sunseeker's approach to inclusivity were much appreciated. The guy who helped us negotiate stand access also ensured we were able to get on and off boats quickly and safely. Being honest there was one chap managing access to the boats who assumed anyone who needed assistance was just there for a day out but he was not representative. The guy showing us round immediately identified us as owners and insisted we see the new 66 as well as the 52.

Top marks for both the boat show organisers and also Sunseeker. Much appreciated


Henry

 

[beejay190]

Agreed.
Due to my dodgy knee the Gate staff allowed me to cross the two roads rather than use the bridges.
I noticed parked close by on one of the roads a Ferrari, Lamborghini and a McLaren. Clients of Princess i was told !

 

[SP2]

That's excellent to hear and let's hope they also considered all forms of disability in addition to mobility impairment.

Not quite in the same league as Sunseeker access, but SWMBO was mightily impressed on booking with a new restaurant this week that they asked whether the party had any particular access requirements. As a disability access consultant she gave them 5 stars.

 

[henryf]

Agreed.
Due to my dodgy knee the Gate staff allowed me to cross the two roads rather than use the bridges.
I noticed parked close by on one of the roads a Ferrari, Lamborghini and a McLaren. Clients of Princess i was told !

Princess hospitality parking was just opposite the gate you will have used behind the Holiday Inn. They also use the area to chauffeur clients to the train station / hotel etc.

The family who own Princess Motor Yacht Sales also own the Rybrook group who have main dealerships for Bentley, BMW, Jaguar, Lamborghini, Land Rover, McLaren, MINI, Porsche, Volvo and Rolls-Royce so it's not unusual to see one or two nice cars in and around the boats at public events. I haven't managed to get them to throw in a freebie when buying a boat yet though

Whilst I don't agree with the arrangements for general access to and from the marina forcing you to detour towards the Sunseeker part of the show & marina you couldn't fault the staff for their eagerness to help in cases of need. We really appreciated it and it made our weekend a lot more enjoyable so wanted to acknowledge on here.

Henry

 

[henryf]

That's excellent to hear and let's hope they also considered all forms of disability in addition to mobility impairment.

Not quite in the same league as Sunseeker access, but SWMBO was mightily impressed on booking with a new restaurant this week that they asked whether the party had any particular access requirements. As a disability access consultant she gave them 5 stars.

People, myself included, are often quick to jump on Sunseeker for their love of sharp suits, overt styling and flamboyance of client interior choice but on this occasion they showed their human side. I've seen the special needs team operating at London as well but never had need of their service .

Appreciated it on Sunday though

 

[Portofino]

People, myself included, are often quick to jump on Sunseeker for their love of sharp suits, overt styling and flamboyance

Yup
When I had a Sunseeker our bog ( 1 vacuflush packed up August wife n 2 small kids on board )
So off i toddled on a week end to the Sunseeker .fr sales office ,they put me in touch with client support
" we have a 24 hr policy for toilet issues Sir "
Sure enough on a Sunday tech,s came out -- all fixed

An other time they sold it in 3 weeks and later I bought what I have now ,but with no Aicon ( November so no biggie )
Over the following winter I asked for 3 quotes from various local yards specifically requesting a central chiller and air handlers ,and at the time emphisising low noise .
It was like bang into brick wall they all quoted for selfies .
Feb on a visit I bumpt into the SS broker and told him of my woes .
He reccomended a guy they -SS - use to retro fit silent air con -halliulia --- at last
Even today 3 years on -- we keep in touch ,--well I get invites to shows etc .
I think the marketing / customer service is drilled into them which nowadays includes " inclusivity "

That's partly why they are so successful even with mediocre ( in some not all ) products

 

[dash300]

The guy showing us round immediately identified us as owners and insisted we see the new 66 as well as the 52.

Top marks for both the boat show organisers and also Sunseeker. Much appreciated


Henry

How did he do that do you wear a badge or tattoo ?

 

[henryf]

How did he do that do you wear a badge or tattoo ?

By the answers to his questions, the conversation I was having with my wife and so on.

I think the biggest clue was when he asked if we had a boat and I said yes.

He then asked what we had and I told him.

Henry

 

[MrB]

By the answers to his questions, the conversation I was having with my wife and so on.

I think the biggest clue was when he asked if we had a boat and I said yes.

He then asked what we had and I told him.
Henry

:encouragement:

 

[colhel]

I had mobility issues on my visit to SIBS too, having spent most of the day in the Dean and Reddyhof tent.

 

[rafiki_]

I had mobility issues on my visit to SIBS too, having spent most of the day in the Dean and Reddyhof tent.

:encouragement:

oGaryo of this Parish, started in the D&R, before stumbling off to MDL where the serious watering occurred. I think it went downhill from there.......................

 

[henryf]

:encouragement:

oGaryo of this Parish, started in the D&R, before stumbling off to MDL where the serious watering occurred. I think it went downhill from there.......................

I think Colin & Gary would give each other a pretty good run for their money. I wouldn't put money either way

Henry

 

[rafiki_]

I think Colin & Gary would give each other a pretty good run for their money. I wouldn't put money either way

Henry

 

[johnwest]

Previous experience on the D & R stand has taught me to be wary. I didn't go this year !!!

j