Global Ports Holding has introduced the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme across its network of 35 cruise ports, extending an accessibility initiative first trialled at Nassau Cruise Port.
The internationally recognised sunflower symbol allows people with non-visible disabilities, health conditions or chronic illnesses to indicate discreetly that they may need additional time, understanding or support while travelling.
Teams across the port operator's global network have received dedicated training to recognise the symbol and understand how they can support passengers who choose to display it.
Sunflower programme reaches 35 cruise ports
Global Ports Holding announced the network-wide rollout on 2 September 2026. The company operates cruise terminals in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, northern Europe, Asia-Pacific and other major cruise regions.
More than 22 million cruise passengers pass through its ports annually, giving the programme the potential to provide a more consistent experience for travellers across a substantial international network.
The sunflower does not identify a particular disability or automatically disclose personal medical information. Wearing its green-and-yellow lanyard, badge or wristband is voluntary and simply signals that its wearer may appreciate help, patience or additional time.
Port employees receive dedicated training
Introducing the symbol is accompanied by staff training intended to help port teams recognise and respond appropriately to passengers with a wide range of non-visible conditions.
These can include neurological, cognitive, sensory and physical conditions as well as chronic illnesses. Individual needs vary, meaning the symbol is intended to begin a supportive interaction rather than make assumptions about the person wearing it.
Ports can be busy and unfamiliar environments, particularly during the concentrated embarkation and disembarkation periods associated with large cruise ships. Security processes, queues, transport connections, noise and crowds can create additional barriers for some travellers.
A consistent, recognised symbol can therefore help passengers seek assistance without having to provide a detailed explanation at every stage of their journey.
Nassau pilot leads to global expansion
Nassau Cruise Port became the first member of the Global Ports Holding network to adopt the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme. The Bahamas terminal served as the pilot before the initiative was extended to the group's other cruise ports.
Paul White, chief executive of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, described the expansion following the Nassau pilot as an important commitment to inclusive travel. He also highlighted staff training as an essential part of making the programme effective.
The sunflower symbol is recognised in more than 95 countries and is already used by organisations in travel, tourism, transport, retail and public services.
Accessibility becomes part of the port experience
Global Ports Holding chairman and chief executive Mehmet Kutman said every guest should feel welcome at the company's ports and described accessibility and inclusion as important elements of the passenger experience.
The development creates a shared accessibility standard across a geographically diverse collection of cruise terminals. Although the precise assistance available will still depend on the facilities and services at each port, trained personnel should now recognise the same symbol throughout the network.
For cruise passengers, the rollout may be particularly useful when an itinerary includes several unfamiliar destinations. A traveller who uses the sunflower can retain the same discreet indication of their needs while moving between participating terminals.
The programme does not replace requests for specific accessibility arrangements. Passengers requiring mobility assistance, medical support or other pre-arranged services should continue to contact their cruise line and relevant travel providers before departure.
A network-wide commitment
The move takes the scheme from a single-port pilot to a group-wide commitment covering all 35 Global Ports Holding cruise ports.
Its practical value will depend on consistent training and implementation at individual terminals, but the scale of the rollout makes it a notable accessibility development for the cruise sector.
By helping passengers communicate a possible need for additional support without publicly explaining their condition, the sunflower programme is designed to make the port experience more understanding, inclusive and easier to navigate.