What is your idea of a dream vacation? Is it a full body massage while the ocean waves gently lull you into a state of euphoria? Or perhaps your tastes run more in the direction of a hydrotherapy bath or a seaweed wrap. No matter what your preferences in the pampering department, you can rest assured that your next cruise vacation will be prepared to fit the bill. Cruise ships have become all about the ultimate in relaxation and stress relief in recent years, and the spas have been designed to cater to even the most discriminating spa customer. While many ship passengers will enjoy spa services for the first time on a vacation at sea, most spas will also offer the latest and greatest in spa services to suit everyone on the passenger roster.

Most cruise line spas are owned by Steiner of London, which has been in business since the 1930’s as a family-owned salon. By the year 1945, Steiner had taken its show on the road – or sea, in this case – by offering salon services on the Cunard Queen Elizabeth II. Today, Steiner runs the spas on most major cruise lines, including those owned by the Carnival Corporation and the Royal Caribbean/Celebrity Company. If you have visited a spa on a cruise ship recently, the chances are good that you have come face to exfoliated face with the Steiner Company.

Tips for the Spa Experience at Sea

Thanks to the increased utilization of the Internet, the miserable experience of spending your first day at sea in line to book a spa treatment is fading into the past. Now, many cruise lines offer the option of booking services online before you even board the ship. Keep in mind that appointments for formal nights generally fill up quickly, so book treatments on those days as early as possible. It is also quite common for cruise ship spas to offer discounted rates on services for the days in port. If you are looking for a quieter spa atmosphere and some extra cash to remain in your pocket, stay onboard for a port day, and enjoy your spa treatment then. Cruise schedules will list the spa specials for each day, so that you can plan accordingly.

A cruise vacation is a time that many first time spa visitors will spread their wings. This means that the staff is generally ready and willing to answer all of your questions about the experience, making this an opportune time to try something new. It is important to note that most spa employees are trained to try to sell the spa products to you during your appointment. If you know you will not be purchasing any items, let your staff member know up front to spare both of you the “hard sell”.

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