Navipier is committed to ensuring that our website and tour services are accessible to all individuals, including those with disabilities. We strive to provide inclusive experiences that allow everyone to explore Canada's natural beauty.
Last Updated: July 9, 2025
Our Accessibility Commitment
At Navipier, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the wonder of Canada's landscapes and marine environments. We are dedicated to:
- Providing equal access to our website and digital services
- Ensuring our physical tour services accommodate diverse needs
- Continuously improving accessibility across all aspects of our business
- Training our staff to provide inclusive and respectful service
- Listening to feedback and making meaningful improvements
Website Accessibility Standards
WCAG 2.1 Compliance
Our website is designed to meet or exceed the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA standards. These guidelines ensure our content is:
Perceivable
- Alternative text for all meaningful images
- High contrast color schemes for readability
- Scalable text that can be enlarged up to 200%
- Captions and transcripts for video content
- Consistent and logical page structure
Operable
- Full keyboard navigation support
- No flashing content that could trigger seizures
- Sufficient time limits for interactive elements
- Clear focus indicators for navigation
- Multiple ways to navigate and find content
Understandable
- Clear and simple language
- Consistent navigation and layout
- Form labels and error messages
- Predictable website behavior
- Help and documentation when needed
Robust
- Compatible with assistive technologies
- Valid and semantic HTML markup
- Works across different browsers and devices
- Future-proof accessibility features
- Regular testing and updates
Assistive Technology Support
Our website is designed to work effectively with various assistive technologies:
Screen Readers
Compatible with JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and other popular screen reading software
Keyboard Navigation
Full website functionality available through keyboard-only navigation
Voice Recognition
Works with Dragon NaturallySpeaking and similar voice control software
Screen Magnification
Supports screen magnifiers and browser zoom up to 400% without loss of functionality
Physical Tour Accessibility
Vessel Accessibility
Our fleet includes accessibility features to accommodate guests with mobility challenges:
Wheelchair Access
- Wheelchair-accessible boarding ramps
- Dedicated wheelchair spaces on deck
- Accessible washroom facilities
- Wide pathways and maneuvering space
Mobility Support
- Handrails and grab bars throughout vessels
- Non-slip surfaces for safety
- Assistance with boarding and disembarking
- Adjustable seating options
Visual Impairment Support
- Audio descriptions of scenery and wildlife
- Tactile experiences when possible
- Clear verbal navigation instructions
- Service animal accommodation
Hearing Impairment Support
- Visual safety demonstrations
- Written tour information and maps
- Sign language interpreters (advance notice required)
- Assistive listening devices available
Booking and Communication Accessibility
Multiple Contact Methods
We offer various ways to communicate with us to accommodate different preferences and needs:
- Online Booking: Accessible web forms with clear labels and error messages
- Phone Booking: TTY/TDD compatible phone lines available
- Email Communication: Text-based communication for detailed discussions
- In-Person Consultation: Available at our accessible office location
- Video Calls: Video conferencing with closed captioning available
Accessible Documentation
All tour information and documentation is available in accessible formats:
- Large print materials upon request
- Digital documents compatible with screen readers
- Audio versions of key information
- Simple language versions for cognitive accessibility
- Translated materials for non-English speakers
Specific Accommodations Available
Mobility Accommodations
- Wheelchair-accessible vessel boarding
- Priority seating near amenities
- Assistance with personal mobility equipment
- Modified tour routes when necessary
- Extended boarding and disembarking time
- Accessible parking arrangements
Cognitive Accommodations
- Simplified tour information and maps
- Clear, step-by-step instructions
- Quiet spaces for sensory breaks
- Flexible scheduling and pacing
- Visual aids and pictorial guides
- Support person accompaniment
Medical Accommodations
- Medication storage facilities
- Rest areas and comfortable seating
- Dietary accommodation coordination
- Emergency medical equipment access
- Modified activity levels
- Medical equipment accommodation
Service Animal Support
- Service animals welcome on all tours
- Designated relief areas
- Fresh water bowls available
- No additional fees for service animals
- Staff trained in service animal etiquette
- Quiet spaces for animal comfort
Staff Training and Awareness
All Navipier team members receive comprehensive accessibility training covering:
Disability Awareness
Understanding different types of disabilities and appropriate interaction approaches
Communication Skills
Effective communication techniques for guests with various communication needs
Assistive Technology
Familiarity with common assistive devices and how to provide appropriate support
Emergency Procedures
Specific protocols for assisting guests with disabilities during emergencies
Service Animal Protocols
Proper interaction with service animals and understanding of access rights
Universal Design Principles
Creating inclusive experiences that benefit all guests
Advance Planning for Accessibility
What We Need to Know
To provide the best possible experience, please inform us during booking about:
Mobility Needs
- Wheelchair or mobility device type and dimensions
- Transfer capabilities and assistance requirements
- Preferred seating arrangements
- Any restrictions on physical activities
Communication Preferences
- Preferred communication methods
- Language or interpretation needs
- Assistive listening device requirements
- Visual or hearing impairment considerations
Support Requirements
- Need for companion or support person
- Service animal accommodation
- Personal care attendant requirements
- Specific assistance preferences
Medical Considerations
- Dietary restrictions or allergies
- Medication or medical equipment needs
- Activity limitations or precautions
- Emergency contact information
Accessibility Features by Tour Type
Vancouver Harbor Discovery
- Fully wheelchair accessible vessel
- Audio narration with visual cues
- Multiple viewing areas at different heights
- Indoor and outdoor seating options
- Accessible washroom facilities
Cultural Heritage Journey
- Audio descriptions of cultural sites
- Tactile cultural artifacts when available
- Sign language interpretation available
- Flexible pacing for different needs
- Alternative format educational materials
Wildlife Safari
- High-powered binoculars available
- Detailed verbal descriptions of wildlife
- Hydrophone access for whale sounds
- Photo assistance for those with vision impairments
- Educational materials in multiple formats
Private Charters
- Fully customizable accessibility features
- Personal assistance as needed
- Flexible itinerary modifications
- Specialized equipment available
- Extended time for boarding and activities
Ongoing Improvements
Current Initiatives
We are continuously working to improve accessibility across all aspects of our business:
- Website Enhancement: Regular accessibility audits and improvements
- Fleet Upgrades: Installing additional accessibility features on vessels
- Staff Development: Advanced accessibility training programs
- Technology Integration: Implementing new assistive technologies
- Partnership Building: Collaborating with disability organizations
- Guest Feedback: Regular surveys and feedback collection
Future Plans
Our accessibility roadmap includes:
- Mobile app with enhanced accessibility features
- Virtual reality tour previews for trip planning
- Expanded multilingual accessibility resources
- Partnership with adaptive equipment providers
- Development of sensory-friendly tour options
- Implementation of real-time accessibility updates
Legal Compliance and Standards
Navipier complies with applicable accessibility legislation and standards, including:
Canadian Standards
- Accessible Canada Act (ACA)
- Canadian Human Rights Act
- British Columbia Human Rights Code
- Accessible British Columbia Act
- CSA B651 Accessibility Standard
International Guidelines
- Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1
- UN Convention on Rights of Persons with Disabilities
- ISO 14289 (PDF accessibility)
- International Maritime Organization guidelines
- Universal Design principles
Feedback and Continuous Improvement
We Want to Hear From You
Your feedback is essential in helping us improve our accessibility. Please share your experiences, suggestions, and concerns with us.
Email Feedback
Send detailed feedback to: [email protected]
Phone Feedback
Call us at: +1 514-346-8613
TTY: +1 514-346-8614
Online Form
Complete our accessible feedback form on our contact page
In Person
Visit our accessible office at:
1525 Coal Harbour Quay, Vancouver, BC
Response Commitment
We commit to:
- Acknowledging all accessibility feedback within 2 business days
- Providing a detailed response within 10 business days
- Implementing feasible improvements within reasonable timeframes
- Following up on implemented changes
- Reporting annually on accessibility improvements
Contact Our Accessibility Team
Accessibility Coordinator
Navipier Canadian Tours
Address:
1525 Coal Harbour Quay
Vancouver, BC V6G 3J7
Canada
Phone: +1 514-346-8613
TTY: +1 514-346-8614
Email: [email protected]
Office Hours:
Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday - Sunday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Alternative Formats
This accessibility statement is available in alternative formats upon request:
- Large print (16pt, 18pt, or 24pt font)
- Audio recording (MP3 format)
- Braille (contracted or uncontracted)
- Plain language version
- Electronic text file (for screen readers)
- Additional languages as needed
To request an alternative format, please contact our accessibility team using the information above.