Accessible group transport and wheelchair-accessible minibuses
Accessible travel works when the vehicle, the stops and the timings are all planned for it. We arrange wheelchair-accessible minibuses and suitable coaches with licensed partner operators, based on what each passenger actually needs.
What EU passenger rights cover, and where charters differ
Regulation (EU) 181/2011 gives disabled passengers rights on EU regular bus and coach services, including limits on refusing boarding and full compensation for mobility equipment lost or damaged through carrier fault. It mainly covers scheduled services, not private charters. On a private hire, your request is what sets the standard, so spell out every need at the start and keep a copy of what was agreed.
What the rules require
- On services of 250 km or more, request assistance at least 36 hours ahead
The accessible minibus
A wheelchair-accessible minibus typically seats 10-16 plus wheelchair spaces; a Sprinter configuration of 10+1 seats plus one wheelchair space is common. Wheelchair spaces reduce luggage room. Tell the operator how many passengers stay in their chairs, how many transfer to a seat, and the chair type, so the vehicle is configured correctly. For larger groups, an accessible minibus can run alongside a standard coach.
City access rules that help
Amsterdam's S100 exemption for large coaches is available to groups including disabled passengers. Rome's ZTL BUS zone C, closed to most coaches, admits transport for disabled passengers. In both cities the exemption has to be requested by the operator and granted before travel, so mention it at the enquiry stage rather than the week before.
Allow time at every stop
Where set-downs are short, such as 10 minutes at a Barcelona Zona Bus stop or 15 minutes inside Budapest's Castle zone, loading a wheelchair can use most of it. The operator chooses stops and parking with that in mind, and the programme should allow extra minutes at each.
Questions
Does Regulation 181/2011 apply to our private trip?
Mainly it covers scheduled services. On a charter, your stated requirements set the plan.
How many wheelchair users can one minibus take?
It depends on configuration. A common layout is 10+1 seats plus one wheelchair space.
Can we get closer to sights in Amsterdam or Rome?
Groups with disabled passengers may qualify for access exemptions. The operator applies.
Cities
Vehicles
- Full-size coach — 49-57 seats
- Midi coach — 29-35 seats
- Minibus — 16-19 seats
- Executive van (Mercedes V-Class / Sprinter class) — up to 8 seats
- Executive car (E-Class sedan class) — 1-3 seats
- Wheelchair-accessible minibus — 10-16 plus wheelchair spaces seats
Plan accessible transport
Tell us the passengers' needs, dates and route. We match an operator and vehicle before quoting.
Request a quote or call 442046529800