If you want to be pampered on your next cruise then there are plenty of options to choose from, with many of our favourite small ship lines offering comprehensive wellness programmes, expansive spas and rejuvenating treatments. Here is our pick of the best spas at sea...
1. Silversea
Otium is a new spa concept debuting on Silver Dawn. Try a couple's massage set to live music, or sip Champagne while immersed in a steam bath. Facilities across the rest of the Silversea fleet are superb, with the spas aboard the newer vessels Silver Moon and Muse boasting sweeping sea views from the floor-to-ceiling windows, nine treatment rooms, an acupuncture suite, relaxation area and a dedicated outdoor whirlpool.
2. Seabourn
Seabourn have partnered with Dr. Weil, an expert in holistic wellness, and their ships have mindful living coaches who offer guided meditation and yoga sessions. The spa treatment rooms are complemented by a large Thermal Lounge with heated stone loungers, and on the newer vessels, Encore and Ovation, personalised spa services are offered in a dedicated Spa Cabana at The Retreat, while Penthouse Spa Suites positioned at the aft of the ship have direct access to the spa just a floor below.
3. Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Regent's most recent additions to the fleet, Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Splendor, each have an expansive spa area with adjoining aft deck space featuring an attractive infinity pool. Relax before or after your restorative treatment, designed to enhance your whole being, with the multisensory aromatherapy steam room, chill room, infrared sauna and experiential showers. Guests in the top Regent Suite enjoy their own in-suite spa with sauna, steam room and heated stone loungers with fabulous sea views.
4. Viking Ocean Cruises
The Viking spa experience is inspired by the line's Nordic roots, with a snow grotto to stimulate your circulatory system as well as a sauna and a large plunge pool. The space is a delightful retreat sheltered within the heart of the ship, giving a feeling of privacy and protection.
5. Hapag-Lloyd Cruises
Europa 2's Ocean Spa has much to offer. The sizable sauna area gives you a plethora of choices with a herbal sauna, Deep Ocean sauna, Finnish sauna and steam bath plus an ice fountain. The relaxation area, with whirlpool and loungers, connects to an aft deck area with additional seating accessed only from the spa. There is also a Personal Spa area with private sauna, its own whirlpool and massage tables.
6. Oceania Cruises
On Oceania's larger vessels, Marina and Riviera, the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center is the hub for a range of wellness experiences, from spa treatments to healthy Aquamar Vitality Cuisine. The large forward facing Aquamar Spa Terrace, complimentary for all guests in Concierge Level Staterooms and Suites, features a sizable pool along with great views. A similar sanctuary with enhanced terrace space will feature on board the newly announced Vista, due to be launched in early 2023.
