Note from the Editor:

This article was written for the SDC by the travel experts at CruiseAway*. With years of experience working alongside the world’s leading cruise lines, the CruiseAway’s experts know when the best deals drop, what sells fast, and how to spot true value.

If you think a cruise is all about indulgent dining and endless cocktails by the pool (and yes, there’s plenty of that too!), think again.

Modern cruise ships are designed to be floating sanctuaries, offering everything you need to unwind, recharge, and even kick-start healthier habits while you sail to stunning destinations.
From world-class spas to sunrise yoga overlooking the ocean, wellness at sea has never been more enticing.

Click here to see some fabulous options*

Spa sanctuaries at sea*​

Cruise ship spas rival some of the best on land, blending luxurious treatments with incredible ocean views. Imagine a hot stone massage while the waves gently roll beneath you, or a soothing seaweed wrap to refresh tired skin after a day in the sun. Here are just a few:

• Celebrity Cruises*: The SEA Thermal Suite on Celebrity Edge offers heated loungers, steam rooms, and sensory showers—perfect for melting away stress.
• Princess Cruises*: The Lotus Spa features everything from aromatherapy massages to medi-spa services, so you can leave your voyage glowing inside and out.
• Seabourn*: Their Spa & Wellness program, developed with Dr. Andrew Weil, focuses on holistic treatments and mindfulness practices designed to rejuvenate body and soul.
• MSC Cruises*: Experience MSC’s tranquil salt rooms*, hydrotherapy pools, and Balinese-style massages, all designed to detoxify, relax, and revive.
• Norwegian Cruise Line*: Step into the Mandara Spa Thermal Suite* for thalassotherapy pools, saunas, and heated tile loungers with floor-to-ceiling ocean views.
• Royal Caribbean*: The Vitality Spa & Fitness Center* combines cutting-edge facials, body therapies, and even medi-spa options like Botox and skin rejuvenation.
• Viking Ocean Cruises*: Indulge in their unique Nordic Spa*, featuring snow grottoes, hot tubs, and hydrotherapy circuits inspired by Scandinavian wellness traditions.

Check out all these Cruise Lines & more here*.

Top signature treatments at sea*​

Cruise ship spas go beyond the basics, offering signature therapies you’ll be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. Here are some standout treatments to try on your next voyage:

• Salt Therapy Rooms (MSC Cruises)*: Relax in a serene Himalayan salt room* designed to promote respiratory health, detoxification, and deep relaxation.
• Seaweed Wraps (Princess* & Celebrity*): Harness the mineral-rich benefits of the ocean with wraps that nourish skin, reduce inflammation, and leave you glowing.
• Hot Stone Massages (Available Fleetwide)*: Melt away tension as warm, smooth stones soothe tired muscles and ease stress.
• Nordic Snow Grotto (Viking)*: Move between icy snow rooms and hot saunas for a true Scandinavian wellness ritual that boosts circulation and refreshes the senses.
• Thalassotherapy Pools (Norwegian* & Royal Caribbean*): Float in mineral-infused seawater pools designed to ease joint pain, improve circulation, and invigorate the body.
• Acupuncture & Holistic Therapies (Seabourn* & Oceania*): Explore mind-body treatments such as acupuncture, reflexology, or mindfulness sessions at sea.
• Couples’ Cabana Massages (Luxury Lines)*: Share the experience with side-by-side massages in private ocean-view cabanas*, perfect for romance and relaxation.

Fitness with a view*

Who says your fitness routine must take a holiday?

Cruise ships are now home to state-of-the-art gyms with panoramic ocean views, plus an exciting array of group classes to keep you moving while you sail. From sunrise yoga to high-energy spin sessions overlooking the sea, working out on a cruise has never felt so inspiring.

• Royal Caribbean*: Think sunrise yoga on deck, spin classes with floor-to-ceiling ocean views, rock-climbing walls, and even surf simulators for a fun, active challenge.
• Oceania Cruises*: Enjoy Pilates reformer sessions, barre classes, and personal training tailored to your needs, all in sleek, well-equipped studios.
• Holland America Line*: Stay active with walking tracks and fitness programs designed by wellness experts from O, The Oprah Magazine, blending inspiration with practical routines.
• Princess Cruises*: Join Zumba or stretch classes in their modern fitness centres or hit the open-air jogging track for a refreshing sea breeze run.
• Celebrity Cruises*: Their fitness offerings include F45 Training high-intensity interval sessions, Peloton bikes, and even destination-themed wellness classes*.
• Virgin Voyages*: Skip the traditional gym vibe and hit The Athletic Club* with outdoor boxing, functional training areas, and a 360-degree sea-view running track.

Whether you want to maintain your fitness goals or try something new, cruise ships are turning workouts into unforgettable experiences—with a view that no land-based gym can beat!



The ultimate in relaxation awaits*

A cruise isn’t just about seeing the world—it’s about slowing down, rejuvenating, and treating yourself along the way.

With world-class spas, unique treatments you won’t find on land, and tranquil ocean views at every turn, wellness at sea is the perfect blend of indulgence and discovery. Whether you’re unwinding in a salt room, floating in a thalassotherapy pool, or enjoying a sunrise yoga session on deck, there’s no better way to nurture your mind, body, and soul while you sail*.

So why wait? Your floating sanctuary is ready—all you need to do is step aboard*.

Let the experts help plan your next adventure here* or call: 1300449697*