It must have been very difficult for you to do this video. I appreciate your honesty and for your forthrightness in talking about this situation

Talking about keeping it real! I marvel how you can talk about your weight issues honestly and openly. You do not ignore it or hide it. You are just real about it. You covered everything a non fluffy person was probably thinking while you were listing the challenges. Yet again, you have tackled a topic that many would not dare to speak on. It’s your gift to us and I am one of the many that sure appreciate it.

Once again, thank you Tony & Co. for telling it like it is, for everyone, not just a few. The Cruising Community encompasses many types of people. 🚢

I was 315 lbs (5 feet, 3 inches.) I suffered a heart attack, 2 strokes. I lost some weight but surely not enough. Let me tell you what made me look at this weight loss situation seriously. I was sitting in church and noticed that my thighs had busted through my gray jeans. Thankfully, it was the inside seams. That was the event that made me say, "That's It." I've lost 125 lbs... size 26 to 16. I'm still working on it but when I go on a cruise I eat what I want... then it's back to business. It's a slow process but I'm determined one day to get to that size 12. By the way, I'm perfectly fine, truly blessed by God's miracles. Thanks for your honesty... took a lot of courage to share. I have to admit the bathroom had me rolling! 😂

Before I lost weight, I'd go to the MDR on the first day before dinner & ask for an armless chair. They were more than happy to help. As of Thursday, I'm down from 405 to 275 with my Intermittent Fasting! 😊 You've got this Tony!!

I’m a big gal and I when I planned my Alaskan cruise, I knew there would be a lot of walking. I had booked many months in advance so I was able to get myself in a better condition with 10-15 minute walks and swimming. By the time of the cruise, i was ready for it. The walking was not nearly as hard as it would have been if I didn’t prepare myself and I kinda wished I had planned more physically challenging excursions. I had signed up for light activities thinking that I might not be able to do anything more strenuous. When I came home, I found that I lost a little bit of weight and decided that I want to continue bettering my health, so I decided to do the 30 min walk for 30 days and take up biking. Being big doesn’t mean you have to suffer, i recommend everyone to do some light activity routinely before a big trip, it makes everything so much easier.

I lived 15 years as a plus size woman, which brings additional challenges, but I empathize with your topic. Good for you Tony to share this information and the difficulties others may not understand nor face. People and facilities can be brutal to those who do not fit the “normal” configuration and standards built to accommodate people. Great video and thanks for sharing.

Your closing to this vid is powerful and is an excellent point: live your life, work on overcoming limitations, and stay encouraged. I have recently began cruising as of October 2022, since then, I’ve gone on 5 cruises. Each cruise is motivation for me to keep losing weight and working on myself. Last year, I started at 315lbs. Currently at 260lbs. My goal for my bday cruise next month is 250lbs. This video gives me an added push and helps keep me focused. Thanks for sharing this video and thank you for the encouragement 🙏🏾

Thank you for your bravery ❤ If losing weight was easy none of us would be fat.

You actually changed my opinion about obese people. Increased my empathy. From here on out I won’t judge. This increased my empathy and compassion. It can’t be easy.

I know that cruising could be rough for heavyset people. My wife was a heavyset woman who had a bit of difficulties. We always cruised out of NYC. But, when we flew we sat next to each other and I lifted the armrest between us. By the way Tony, I once wore a size 42 portly suit. My wife was handicapped so sometimes I was able to get her a wheelchair. Other times she had a walker with a seat. Sometimes we had a table with a chair atone end and a bench at the other side. I sat on the bench and my wife sat in the chair. Tony, my late wife tried to lose weight many times. She didn't. Sometimes she ended up gaining weight. My wife often sat on the seat on her walker. One time on a Celebrity ship the shower door would not close with her in it. Sometimes we would shower together and I could clean those spots my wife couldn't reach. This is true. Glad I could carry some extra clothes for my wife in my carry on. I go to the gym. My wife didn't want to go. But, we used to walk around on the promenade deck. Even the ones that went entirely around the ship. People come in all shapes and sizes. Am subscribed and hit the like button.

You have no idea how many people you have helped through this video. I know you focus on cruising, but many of these challenges apply to a variety of situations. Thank you for caring enough to share.

As a large person looking to take my first cruise in over 20 years, I found this to be extremely insightful. I don't know what prompted you to select this subject, but thanks, lots.

Wow. Tuff subject -- I've never seen anyone touch it, but you did it candidly and with respect and sensitivity. Bravo. PS. Thanks for addressing those wondering "why don't you just lose some weight question?" Like telling an alcoholic to just stop drinking...if it was so easy we'd live in a perfect world, free from any addictions.😢

Tony I agree with you about the challenge of being morbidly obese. At 57 I reached 298 lbs. At 5'9 that was too much for my frame. After seventeen years and three back surgeries I slowly went down which took years not months to less than 190 lbs. Weight continues being an issue for me and the potential to gain excessive weight will always be there. So I understand and applaud you and others for tackling weight challenges. Happy cruising and God Bless!

Another challenge: trying to reduce the size of suitcases. But the videos on 1 carry on bags, have a person size L or less. Plus size clothes are bigger and take up more space.

As a fellow plus-sized person, thank you for this. We make adjustments to go through this life with the body we got and make the most. Thanks for the tips and your courage. ⚓️

I have had three knee replacements and as a result, I don’t have the normal range of motion, making it difficult to get up from some seats. I actually mentioned this to the captain on Mariner of the Seas last week. My complaint/suggestion was to have available higher chaise lounges at the pool, which I would be glad to pay extra for!

Thank you Tony for opening up this topic for discussion. I'd like to ask your patience for listening to my recent adventure in a port of call. Last year we were in Turkey at Ephesus. Incredible ruins. Our tour included the Terraced Houses which required an extreme amount of stairs (for me anyway). I was exhausted and couldn't have completed them without my husband pulling me up. I'm quite overweight but did not want to miss out. Between the heat and weight I was a mess. But I finished it and have the picture to prove it! That is my gold medal. We should be proud of ourselves for participating in these adventures. We may have some barriers but we do not have to miss out entirely. Keep cruising everyone. 😊

Thank you, Tony! My biggest challenges are keeping up with the pace of the other cruisers while 1) going up all the ramps to get on board the ship (“Is there something wrong with you?”) and 2) keeping up when walking along the pier to get back aboard the ship. One time, a woman who was observing my struggle actually flagged down a security man with a wheelchair!). It’s so hard to be unable to move quickly enough without holding up the entire group.😔

There are so many reasons for being overweight, life is complicated, when you are open and honest it makes people think that wouldn’t normally. There is not enough kindness and understanding of others in this world. Thanks for sharing ❤

As two people of size and short stature (200 and 240lbs), we used to travel Premium Econo when available, but those seats are less and less available. We often have 7 to 12-hour travel days, so comfort getting to and from is important. What we now do is fly what I call "Red-neck Premium Economy". I now book 3 Econo seats for two people - takes a bit of time on the phone with the airline, generally an hour, to arrange, but that added seat between the two of us makes the long trips more bearable. 3 Econo seats, booked with carefully chosen seats, and selecting/paying for them at the time of booking have made all the difference. 3 Econo seats often will be less than 2 Premium Econ as well - so we have won on both fronts.

Do not be afraid to get wheelchair assistance when needed while embarking or debarking or getting shuttled when needed. As a cancer patient and overweight female I watched my husband, Tony’s size (but older) struggle walking behind my wheelchair for many cruises until I finally convinced my husband to get one. He also has bad ankles from previous surgeries. Now our cruises at least start off easier. We can walk at our own pace once aboard the ship.Our wait staff handles the seating at dinner without problems ( so far) and on buses and planes I squeeze in with him. We take it as it comes and LOVE that Tony addresses this topic!!!❤❤❤

This was really information packed. In fact you should offer a copy to each cruise line so they could maybe address some of these issues. Good luck in your weight loss journey.

All I can say is thank you Tony! Your closing was so inspiring it made me cry. People need to realize that even though we are larger, we are people too and deserve to enjoy life.

Tony, I understand what you are going through! I used to weigh 380, and before my gastric bypass surgery, I was 280, and now 141 pounds. It is tough for heavy people as well as handicapped (I am 82 years old & now permanently on a walker, and have trouble with steps). Take care of yourself & keep up your good work!

Thank you Tony! I used to be obese and dealt with all of these. We are all humans!!! ♥️ I’m so glad I found a way out.

I had to comment, you made this so real!. I am not a plus size person and never thought of all the challenges. I am also awed in your honesty and frankness. you pulled no punches, you made no excuses you have my total R-E-S-P-E-C-T

Hi Tony, Thanks for bringing this Heavy subject up for discussion. My wife and I are also in the plus size club. We wanted to go on a 14 night RT P&O cruise from the UK this coming January . We were dreading flying to London round trip for the cruise. After a careful search on the web for an alternative to flying and shelling out tens of thousands for first class, I found a repositioning cruise from Miami to Southampton on the NCL Joy and returning 4 weeks later to Miami after it gets drydocked for upgrades in Europe. It was super cheap, like under 400 USD PP each way, far cheaper than flying economy . I believe they are doing this for a few of their ships in the future😁

I am absolutely a plus sized cruiser. I’m 29 days out from my next cruise and I’m dieting like crazy to drop a few pounds to try and make the airplane, the shuttle busses, and all the other uncomfortable situations a little less uncomfortable

*i am fat and you can find me at the buffet - over and out!!!!!*

Bless you, Tony, for this message. I have always wanted to take a cruise, but my husband is in the 5XL range and also 6'6". Size is always a challenge. I don't want to travel without him, but don't know if he is physically able to enjoy it. Besides being compassionate to those with physical limitations, you are very practical in letting us know what to expect. Thank you!

My travel partner is plus sized with severe back issues, thank you for sharing the challenges. Some places are more inclusive than others.

This is why you are one of the top cruise vloggers. You cover it all!!! Very honest!!

For many of these reasons I’ve used as motivation to start a healthier lifestyle. I’m going with a group that needs to take a 7 mile hike and I don’t want to be the one left behind so I’ve been exercising and eating better as I’m determined to get healthier and take that hike.

‘We’re still out here trying to be alive’ oh Tony, love you. 😅

Thank you, Tony, for raising my sensitivity toward the challenges you face. So impressed that you sally forth. We all benefit from you pushing through. Bravo!

thank you for brining these things up. This reminded me of a situation that happened a few years ago when I was traveling with a friend and on the plane she was seated next to me. However, after take off we were talking and it seemed to me that she wasn't comfortable and I asked her if she was, she said she was fine. it was a 4 hour flight and when we were getting out of our seats to get off the plane, she was having a really difficult time getting out of the seat. Long story short, teary eyed, she confided she was kind of frozen, her back froze up and she could barely move. That was due to the fact that her rump didn't fit in the seat from the start and she was sitting half side ways AND, the seat belt didn't even fit around her tummy. We were the last ones to get off the plane and she then felt comfortable without everyone looking at her, as she struggled to get out of the seat. She sat for 4 hours in great discomfort and unsafely. My heart sank when I learned this. She had a bad backache the rest of the trip! I never thought of her as overweight - yes, she was a little larger than me, wearing an 18/20 women's size, but surely not too big to fit in an airlines seat. Well, in fact, she was. We talked later and she said she was embarrassed to ask for a seatbelt extender because she did that once on a different flight, whispering her request to the flight attendant, who then loudly announced that she's be back with "a seat belt extender" - so that everyone around knew my friend needed one. She also confided that often times the restaurant we choose depended on the chairs they had. Now many things were making sense. We need businesses to automatically have available options for our larger sized fellow travelers and citizens. When booking tickets there should be an option for size related needs, just like dietary restrictions. And, they should not have to pay for a business class or first class seat - make some larger seat available in the rest of the plane. Our plus sized friends need to be comfortable and SAFE just like everyone else. Their money is just as green!

Great episode Tony! As a 6'4" 320ib man I have gone through all of those challenges. But I still love cruising. Restaurant booths are my biggest challenge.

So glad to hear the La Lido Loca song again! It feels like a celebration every time I hear it! Makes you wanna dance! Awesome video!!

This is literally the truest cruise video I’ve ever seen regarding plus size cruising. Thank you for being honest. From a plus size cruise queen.

This is the first time I've ever commented to any you-tuber. I watched this video and probably nodded the entire time. I completely agreed with everything you said. I am under five feet tall and about 315lbs, with arthritic knees. I did not feel as if you were asking for sympathy - just pointing out facts. It would be nice if people without weight issues just understood how hard it can be for people of size. I sometimes feel like I get the side eye from people with that same "why don't you just lose weight" judgement. My husband and I love you and your videos. You always make us laugh while keeping us informed. We are not big cruisers - we've been on 2 and are scheduled on one of the hallmark cruises on NCL next November, but we watch you every day!! Keep it up and keep being you. Shout out to Ludicris.

My husband is a obese and has mobility issues. We really appreciated your talk on the difficulties of plus sz travelers. We’ve experienced all the challenges and are now requesting accessible everything we can. And about to purchase our own folding wheelchair. Very few are out there for over 350 lbs. capacity. We live in TX and hardly any service or mobility stores. Some rental places for events. 😢Very frustrating!!

I have been a plus since I was a child. I finally swollowed my pride and use a cane when I am cruising. I am offered a wheelchair at the airport and in the terminal but the cane works fine. On my latest cruise on NCL, the seats in Cagneys were very uncomfortable. I appreciate chairs with no arms. Thanks for this real time challenge for all of us. Yes, I agree that it isnt always easy since I have extra health issues. Thanks for these tips. They are all so true.

kudos to you tony, for constantly addressing this matter that 40% of the populous (4/10 are considered "obese") have to navigate! i hope having to address this on a regular basis doesn't bring more stress, but i'm glad someone is addressing how callus and "size-est" the general world is, when nearly half the populous isn't a "straight size". I myself have never exceeded 220lbs, but even at a size 14/16 the issues already exist - getting any bigger, it only gets worse.

Thank you for your honesty. My sister is plus size and has mobility issues and everything you mentioned is true. Her worst problem was the high steps to getting into buses , whether it was the transfer to/from the airport or a tour.

I want to share my ah ha moment when it came to traveling and being overweight / obese. We were on a flight from Arizona to Florida. I was so surprised that I almost couldn't get the seatbelt across my body. My thighs we slightly hanging pass the seats edges. That was the moment (6 years ago) that I realized I had to do something about my weight and size. Our country does have a body weight problem. I honestly think that when a lot of people (myself included) stopped smoking they gained weight. It's inevitable. I am now considered overweight category, but I do agree with cruise bathrooms. Even though I am less than before weight wise, I find issue with it as well. Thanks for sharing!!

Thanks Tony! This is so relatable! I wish there was a resource for big cruisers that compares the various lines and their ships in terms of the fluffy friendliness. A future project for you, maybe?!

Thanks, Tony, for encouraging people of all sizes to enjoy life! You’re an inspiration!

Thank you for this, great respect for your honesty. One would hope others would stop judging and just be a good human being.

I appreciate your honesty. I first started following you back when you were living in NC and you were doing a daily step challenge. You and your wife would do these weekly weigh-ins. It ain't easy, but that's such a good place to start. I just want to encourage you - I've come down 50 lbs since my highest in 2018 and I accomplished this with steady exercise, limited eating window (i.e., intermittent fasting), and a replacement of processed foods with veggies. None of it over night, just small changes over time that added up. We're about the same age. Reach out to me if you want a buddy or accountability partner.

Hi Tony. Yes, I'm a fluffy cruiser. The pools should all have an accesable entry. Ramp or stairs. A lot of people can't help being plus size because of medical conditions. It's not always easy when people say, just lose weight you'll be able to do more. If it was only that easy. As always thank you for all you do ❤

Thank you for your candid approach to this subject. As a plus size woman I try to be prepared for anything that could take place while traveling. The swimming pool stair issue is a problem for the elderly as much as plus size. I have assisted many elderly folks who just don't have the strength to lift themselves up the ladder and hold on tightly to a wet rail. I know there might be a pool on the newer ships that have shallow stairs for a gradual entry and exit, but this is not guaranteed. Always appreciate your cheerful upbeat new presentation and honestly. See you on the Lido!

Thank you for this, Tony. Being a plus size woman, this all hits home for me. I have experienced so much of this in my cruise travels. I am always concerned if i will fit in the chair, or if i will be able to handle getting in and out of the tender, going ashore. These are all things I have to think about as well. I want to enjoy life just like everyone else. Until I get this extra weight off, I will be worrying about something on every cruise. Thank you for sharing and being open and addressing this.

Thank you for covering this! I feel I can "weigh-in" too. I am also a plus-size cruiser in the 400+ range. You spoke about folks who wonder why we don't lose weight, and it's not for lack of trying. I call myself a trampoline dieter. Every time I lose weight, it ends up bouncing back higher than it was when I started... Pre-embarkation: I agree with avaoiding flights. it is part of why I returned to cruising, living in South Florida, it meant less than a hour drive to the port and get onto the ship... But as I started to become more adventurous, I found that I went to other places. One great airline policy for large cruisers: Alaska airlines requires you to get an additional seat, and you have to do it on the phone with a customer service representative... The advantage? if the flight is not completely full (if there are any open seats besides your extra) they will refund the full price of the second fare. Embarkation: I do deal with mobility issues and can't stand or walk for long and tried to white knuckle it through boarding the last cruise, and by the time we reached the entry way onboard, I was begging the crewmember escorting us in to just for the love of god find me a place to sit down for just a moment. It was quite painful. Seating on the cruise: I agree with your assessment of the seating issues in the dining and entertainment venues. If you go back regularly to the same areas, they learned your preferences quickly even in a freestyle dining atmosphere like NCL. Glas that you did mention the balcony cabins, the chairs on the balcony are not useable by someone of large stature. and they don't have any replacements... One time I had a cabin steward who swiped an office chair with no arms from somewhere, and he just asked that I bring it back inside when not on the balcony. He got a big tip!

Awesome for not letting it stop you!! Happy and safe travels!

Great info! I recently lost 35lbs I could not believe how I would haven been able to walk my Disneyland/Universal trip. I was so worried about ‘Will I fit?’ ‘Can I walk the VIP tour?’ It’s such a true worry that most don’t speak of. Thanks for bringing it to light 👍🏿

Wow, this was so good. It is nice to have it acknowledged. It is also nice to have so many people out there commenting about the fact that they relate. I have lifted a chair up trying to get out because I was stuck. My size does limit the things I do, so thank you for the encouragement. ❤👍

I can totally sympathize with everyone who has these issues. I myself had a medical issue 20 years ago that has caused my weight to slowly creep up no matter what I do. While my husband is a big guy (6’4” & 290) has bad knees, can find some of these issues to be a challenge as well. We typically book business class seats on planes if the flight is longer than 2 hours, it just too much for his knees. (Tony, you should count your blessings for booking business class on your Australian flight) even some of the business class seats can be a challenge if you are a window seat. Excursion buses can be tour buses which tend to be higher up, read as more (steep) steps up and down. Those excursions description are so subjective to who is writing them, we have been on ones that were listed as moderate that I would have considered easy and others like Viking’s Mt. Florin’s hike that list it as 1500ft hike, but but does not mention that it is at least a 6% grade hike up. As far as packing goes, I try to book nonstop flights even if they are more because less chance of missing luggage but I also do 2 things as well - I will pack a carry on with a few outfits and shoes to get me through a few days and our checked bags we will split our clothing into the bags, just be sure to pack things that go together for outfits if you can. I have gone into the ships gift shops and have looked, wishing they carried clothing in bigger sizes. I mentioned to salesperson in the ship’ s shops that it too bad they do not carry things in bigger sizes, in hopes they mention the feedback from customers. Plus size people need to mention this on every cruise as well if we want this to change. And if your luggage does go missing, it may be hard to find your size of clothing nearby the ports, and if you do it may not be something you normally would have bought. Fortunately my husband and I are still of a size that fitting into armed chairs can sometimes be cozy. I do wish they would do away with the tub/shower combo, it does feel narrow for any person plus I always feel like there is a risk stepping into it. Here’s another little gem that plus size people will love, in Quebec City, we stayed at the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac, paid over $1k a night for the room (you only live once right?) and the space where the commode was, only 24” between the shower and vanity. How’s that for cozy? I think cars seats are at least that wide!😂😂😂

Insightful! Your video should be mandatory for not only cruise companies, but all companies regardless of the industry. I’m sorry that you’ve dealt with the issue, and have tremendous respect for how you manage and educate others. From about a year ago, suddenly developed mobility issues. No fun. I can still move around…but it’s tiring. I’m sensitive to this subject. My physical therapist emphasizes CONFIDENCE…mind over matter. Happy sailings, Tony! Love your vlogs!!! PS - several US airports have a new program…I don’t recall the name of it. They recognize that impairments are not always noticeable to the eye, but they’ll offer a tag to let staff and security know if you have a challenge, and will be helpful…I first had the experience at Denver, but it’s being rolled out to other airports.

Thank you for being authentic and honest about the struggles of having extra weight. Our bodies are actually conditioned to retain our weight. When you try to restrict calories your body actually releases more hormones to make you even more hungry. This then makes you feel like you just can’t do it and you tend to gain even more weight. It has NOTHING to do with willpower. But weight shouldn’t limit anyone from going out and living!

Just got back from a Caribbean cruise. The heat and humidity for me was not fun. Walking on our stops was hard for me. Thank you for addressing this topic. Good luck to you and all of us battling the weightloss 🙏💙

The swimming pool issues really upset me. Before I will book a cruise I need to be absolutely certain there are steps going into at least one of the pools on board. If I can’t go swimming while I’m cruising, I’m not going. There are lots of issues with only having a ladder to get out of a pool. The first time I came across this issue I was younger, even though I was already plus size, but I was recovering from a badly broken arm… and found myself unable to get out of the pool! I had to have two people help me out of the pool without pulling on my arm. So it probably isn’t just the overweight people who have a problem with using a pool ladder when there are no steps. Ridiculous for cruise ships not to have steps going into a pool.

Appreciate your content. May I also add that travelling with hidden disability is also challenging. So, fellow travellers- please be kind to all.

Well said Tony. We're proud of you.

We must also be aware that not everyone that is heavy is guilty of overeating. Medical conditions and medications can cause weight gain and weight retention. We shouldn’t judge without knowing the whole story.

I think this video is a great service to first time cruisers who may not know about some of these things. Sure, they understand the airplane seats, the bus seats, and the challenges of walking long distances but who would think about the size of the space to use a toilet in their cabin? I'm sorry so many people found it necessary to 'dislike' it or make nasty comments. Instead of being kind, they choose to be ignorant. That's sad. Keep up the great work, Tony!

I hear you Tony. I am 6’3” and 500lbs and love cruising. Every one of your points is totally valid. I live In Philadelphia and only drive to cruise terminals in my area (NYC, NJ, Baltimore) which limits my available cruise options. I plan my cabin choice near either a public restroom or an elevator bank to get me to one. Re: MDR - I go to the head waiter on Day 1 and ask for a chair with no arms and it will be there for you the entire cruise. The other factor that I ask for is a table away from others or not too far from the entrance or not too far a walk, because trying to squeeze between tables while others are seated and eating is terribly awkward. As always, we love you and your videos. Keep them up.

You might look into lyft rides are a few dollars cheaper than uber. A front desk person showed me that. And I find that scheduling a last minute ride is cheapest. Waiting is usually 5-15 minute wait.

You’re brave to be open and honest about this topic. Personally I am a thin guy but I sympathize with you and love your channel. Hang in there and stay healthy. ❤️

As an average size person I appreciated your Plus Size travel input and information. In no way did I view it as you having a pity party--rather you were encouraging others to enjoy the cruise/travel life while understanding some inherent challenges. You do an outstanding job with your videos and I appreciate your content very much. With sincere gratitude, Teresa

Thank you Tony. Me and my husband are plus size and we totally understand the challenges of cruising. We appreciate your openness. Love you and Jenny and wishing you much more success. We are both "big" fans.

Love you Big T! Your delivery and humor keep me coming back video after video. ❤

Tony, as 3-4X size Cruiser I have bypassed 95% of your forementioned problems by booking a handicapped cabin (plenty of room) and also booking handicapped accessible excursions as the transportation has oversized seating. The assigned dining for handicap also takes into consideration the possibility of size. I just needed to swallow my pride and accept that oversize is a handicap.

I love how honest you always are Tony! Great for people to know what to expect going into something. Knowledge is power for sure. I may not have all of these challenges but I do because of extreme low back pain experience a lot of challenges when cruising. Not being able to sit comfortably either it be on a plane or waiting in lines it’s hard. Many of the “fun” things I can’t do because of pain and safety. So I get it truly. Thanks for sharing 😊

Tony, sharing all of your experiences is admirable. You are so understanding of some of the trade offs you have and willing to attempt every solution possible to make cruising work. Thanks for sharing your solutions to be helpful to many.

How about a follow up video on which Cruise lines is better at accomodating plus sizes? Meal, blacont and entertainment seating, bathroom sizes, embarkation etc... You probably have useful info to share on this.

I was both overweight AND recovering from a total hip replacement when we cruised earlier this year. Issues I struggled with were I'm not "elderly" and didn't "look disabled" but had the mobility issues you point out in this video: long walks from the boat to shore, excursions that were categorized as "easy" with "opportunities to rest" but had little to no places to actually SIT DOWN and rest, challenges with stairs/getting on and off shuttles/low toilets with no grab bars in ports/excursions, etc. Thankfully, I have lost 45lbs and have regained my strength and stamina. I'm hoping to have an easier time getting around next time. Side note: there were NO "handicap accessible" cabins that accommodated a family of 4 on our NCL ship. Their solution: purchase a handicap accessible stateroom with an adjoining cabin for our elementary aged children. What a joke.

Tony, can't tell you how much I appreciate you, your content, and your outlook on life. Thank you for everything!

Thank you Tony. Plus size people expect to get the creature comforts for free. You tell it like it is. You must pay for comfort. You face the facts, and manage your life, to make yourself as comfortable as possible. Thank you again for telling the truth.

As a fellow Plus Size Cruiser .. thank you for speaking up for us 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

Tony, as one of those overweight persons I'm right there with you. IF there were easy answers we'd all be skinny. Thanks for putting our problems out there. You are my hero.

I wanted to go on more cruises but my husband (after an illness) is now a “larger” person with mobility and standing issues. Your description of the challenges he may face convinced me that this would not be the type of enjoyable vacation for him. No fault of the cruise lines or my husband, it’s just the way it is. Thank you for being direct and honest.

Mine and my husband's first cruise is coming at the end of Sept 2024 (Breeze from Galveston). He is 6'4 & 300 lbs and many places (in general) don't accommodate his height, much less weight. I am 5'9 and 260 lbs, so double whammy! Thank you for this video, because I would hate to have not been prepared and it taint our enjoyment. Knowledge IS power and going in and knowing that we'll find obstacles will make them much easier to handle and prepare for!

Tony.. I applaud you putting this video out. I’m a 2XL. I have my challenges on some of the list. I can only wish the cruise lines would try and accommodate. There will always be larger cruisers. They/we deserve to enjoy our cruise too.

Thank you thank you thank you Tony! I absolutely appreciate this whole video, but especially your final message. Knowledge *is* power AND we shouldn’t miss out on life just cos we’re fat. So, thank you for the info and the encouragement. Love it 💜

Tony, you are a prime example of not letting our challenges stop us from enjoying life. My wife is disabled, needs a Walker/Chair and she has many other challenges but we've traveled to 49 of our 50 states and in February of next year we will finally finish our Grand Tour of the United States when we cruise to Hawaii. Keep up the great work, don't let the Naysayers both you. Focus on what you can control, your effort and your attitude, keep on Traveling.

I appreciated this video. As a larger person who is new to cruising, this is all good information. I think you presented it very well and addressed a necessary concern. Those skinny people who don't get it have their own issues to work on. Thanks!

I’ve also noticed handicap accessible excursions are getting few and far between.

Thanks so much for touching on this subject, Tony. I know it is challenging when you know you should lose weight but it’s not as easy as people think. Larger people know they should lose weight and they want to. I know because I was on my way to being 200 lbs. When I was younger, it was so much easier to lose weight but as I aged, it got harder. Unfortunately, the choice was taken from me when I was diagnosed with Diabetes. I had to change my diet and cut out a lot of foods that I liked to eat. In a way, it was a blessing because I did lose weight but who wants to get sick to do it. My weight now fluctuates between 150 and 156. My Diabetes is under control and I do occasionally treat myself when I’m good (this means maybe every six months). I do a lazy Keto diet that really helps me. I cut out a lot of carb laden foods and when I get a sweet tooth, I usually have to bake my own goodies using almond flour. It is what it is. But I truly feel for people that have a hard time losing weight because I’ve been there too.

Your honest self-reflection is refreshing.

I’m 6’ 4” pushing 400#. I’ve been 300+ for the past 10yrs. Cruising, and vacationing in general, has become increasingly difficult and challenging for me. I accept most of these challenges as being the result of my own life choices. Not everyone has that luxury, but I accept I’m a big guy living in a world designed for smaller people than me. It doesn’t make it easier or less embarrassing, but this attitude does cut down on the resentment and frustration. It’s like complaining about the weather; doesn’t do anyone any good. My acceptance also enables me to better prepare myself for the inevitable challenges. This video is an excellent way to help others be forewarned.

I ballooned to 329lbs about 10 years ago and had similar issues flying and with cruising. I am now down to 255lbs and have been there for a my last 2 cruises. The lower weight does make a difference both in the air and on the ship.

I can't understand why the gift shop never carries larger sizes. Look around cruises, a lot of XXL people that can't buy clothes because, you don't carry big enough stuff.

AMEN!!! I am a fluffy cruiser as well and everything was spot on!!!! most people don't realize the fright about these things we have. The dining room chairs are always a big problem for me. I always try and request a private table with all the chairs having no arms.

Thank you for this video. I have been "plus size" since junior high (with occasional "thin" years) and I totally agree with you that traveling can be difficult. I'm also 6'3" so that just doubled my problems when I used to travel. Can't travel anymore since I'm disabled but I really enjoy following some of the You Tube cruising channels for my traveling fun. =) I just shook my head when you said people have said "just lose weight." Spoken like someone who has never had weight issues. They are clueless! Happy cruising!

I am athletic built , so this topic doesn’t really apply to me, but I do have a heart and I do have empathy for others (Plus I appreciate his channel). I feel like the world is changing and companies need to adapt to everyone. I’ve been on a few cruises, and I have noticed people with a larger size having issues or embarrassed to do certain things and I think that if cruises are going to have the nerve to change certain cabins to solo cabins, they need to start accommodating people of bigger sizes. Make sure that seating venues can accommodate people of a bigger size and definitely clothing for all sizes ( even if it doesn’t sale). Everyone spends money, and everyone should at least be comfortable.

Tony I watch your videos faithfully. Your channel even convinced me to try a cruise! I'm going in December and have had some concerns about my size and mobility. This video was perfect, thank you so much for the no nonsense information. Now I know to wear my good sneakers for embarkation day. You're the best dude. ❤

For larger size people, you can book a handicap accesable cabin, these have much bigger toilets and showers, You do not have to be disabled to book one, Usually four cabins on each deck For theatre shows just go sit in the handicap seats, same rules apply, So you should get on with your accommodations and toilet needs Regards

As a plus-size cruiser, I like Carnival. As soon as I show up in the dining room on the first night of the cruise, the staff just switches out my chair for an armless one. I don't have to ask. It saves me embarrassment, and it's happened on the last 3 cruises.