Traverse Tall Ship Company renews autism accessibility certification

Traverse Tall Ship Company has renewed its Certified Autism Center™ designation from IBCCES, extending its role in Traverse City’s Certified Autism Destination™ effort. The renewal follows updated staff training and adds another certified visitor option in a destination marketed to autistic and sensory-sensitive travelers.

Why it matters: - The renewal keeps Traverse Tall Ship Company in Traverse City’s Certified Autism Destination™ network, which is meant to give autistic and sensory-sensitive visitors more trained options for recreation, hospitality and entertainment. - The designation can help the company improve visitor experience while strengthening its appeal to families looking for accessible travel options.

What happened: - Traverse Tall Ship Company renewed its Certified Autism Center™ designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards, or IBCCES. - To keep the designation, at least 80% of front-facing staff completed updated training focused on communicating with, assisting and welcoming autistic and sensory-sensitive visitors and their families. - Captain Jamie Trost said the renewal extends the company’s commitment to universal accessibility and to making passengers feel safe and welcome. - The company is featured on the IBCCES Accessibility App, which is free to download.

The details: - Traverse Tall Ship Company sails the Schooner Manitou and the Sailing Yacht Scout from Discovery Pier in Traverse City. - The company says both vessels sail multiple times daily. - Traverse Tall Ship Company says it has been serving visitors and residents since 1987. - IBCCES says the Accessibility App gives users real-time guidance on certified destinations, sensory-friendly spaces and tailored recommendations. - IBCCES also operates AccessibilityCertified.com and AutismTravel.com as free online tools that list certified locations and professionals. - Each organization listed on those sites has met IBCCES certification requirements. - IBCCES says it has spent 25 years providing autism, sensory and neurodiversity training and certification for professionals worldwide. - IBCCES says it works in more than 125 countries and offers training in 8 languages.

Between the lines: - The renewal helps reinforce Traverse City’s broader accessibility branding, not just Traverse Tall Ship Company’s own visitor experience. - IBCCES framed the designation as part of a larger shift toward tourism that is easier to navigate for residents and visitors with disabilities. - The certification also serves as a reputation signal for the company, since accessibility credentials can differentiate travel businesses in a competitive market.

What’s next: - Traverse Tall Ship Company is expected to continue meeting IBCCES renewal requirements to keep the Certified Autism Center™ designation. - The company will remain part of the wider Traverse City effort to maintain and build on the Certified Autism Destination™ status. - IBCCES will continue promoting its accessibility tools and destination programs for travelers and organizations seeking certification.

The bottom line: - Traverse Tall Ship Company is using its autism certification renewal to deepen accessibility for visitors while supporting Traverse City’s broader push to become a more inclusive destination.