Learn 2 Cruise

Just when you think you can’t get any more relaxed, you spot the cruise ships salon and spa and realize you are in fact in paradise. Cruise ships are home to some of the best salons and spas in the world. Exotic treatments, luxury products and an experienced staff will take you to a new level of calm. The emphasis on relaxation is truly evident when you step into the cruise ships spa. Calmer colors, natural woods and aromatherapy steam rooms are the trend to promote a natural state of relaxation for guests.  Cruise lines have spent millions of dollars to reinvent the atmosphere and ambiance of this onboard oasis. Carnival Cruises ships, the Splendor and Dream, both offer an impressive 40,000 square foot salon and spa spanning 2 decks. Regent Seven Seas Cruises partnered with the world renowned Canyon Ranch Spa, founded in Tucson, in order to bring their guests a true therapeutic and spiritual spa experience.  Regent continues this experience into the Compass Rose dining room where guests can enjoy a healthy menu also inspired by Canyon Ranch. The menu features nutritious cuisine, vegetarian and kosher dishes all prepared with organic ingredients.

Spa Services and Treatments While Cruising

In almost all cruise ship spas you will find standard treatments like facials, body wraps and scrubs along with a variety of massages. The price for these services varies largely by cruise line and length of treatments. Be prepared to spend a minimum of $50 and up to $120 or more for the above mentioned treatments. Check with the staff for a spa menu which will list their prices and explain in detail the services offered. Don’t forget to tip! Even on “all-inclusive” cruises these services will always be extra and the masseuses tip has not been included in the batch of tips you may have to pay at the end of your cruise.

Need a tan? Want whiter teeth? Yes, it can be done on the ship! As if lying by the pool isn’t enough, spray tans and tanning beds are now common among the top cruise lines. Disney Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Lines offer tanning and tooth whitening to cruisers.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Mandara Spa is leading the way by offering new age services called MediSpa Treatments. These are medical procedures like Botox, Restylane, and Perlane injections that can all be done while cruising and are performed by certified MediSpa physicians. It is remarkable that such advanced treatments can be done on a cruise ship however I don’t recommend you try these services. Some side effects and adverse reactions are possible with procedures like this and could leave you miserable for the reminder of your cruise. I would suggest a detoxifying facial or rejuvenating fruit body scrub to help tighten and lift your skin in a natural way.

• L2C Tip – Celebrity Cruises is the first cruise line to offer acupuncture treatments onboard. With their new option of pre-booking spa treatments be sure to take advantage and book this new treatment for your next cruise.

Salons at Sea

Cruise guests can also get their hair cut and colored while cruising. Expect to pay about $15 for a trim, $40-$70 for root color touch ups and $30-$50 for a wash and style. Be sure to find out when the cruise ships formal nights are and make an appointment right away so you can get your hair styled for the big night. Manicures, pedicures, facials and even body waxing are available too! Ladies, not all ship salons are equipped to do acrylic nails so be sure to ask your travel agent to have the cruise line fax a salon menu to you before you go. Some cruise lines offer a barber shop for men’s grooming needs. In the Disney Cruise Line barber shop, guys can get a haircut, beard trim or enjoy a hot shave. Remember the rules of tipping I mentioned above apply to salon services!

• L2C Tip – Look for discounted salon and spa treatments on the days the ship is in port. Most guests are off the ship so the spa will offer great specials to guests in order to increase business while in port.

What to Expect From Your Cruise Ship Spa Experience

Before I tell you what to expect at your future spa experience I must stress the importance of booking your treatments right away. Salon and spa appointments fill up extremely fast, especially on the days the cruise ship is at sea. Check with your cruise line on how to book appointments. Online reservations are becoming popular but some cruise lines like Disney, only allow you to begin making reservations after 1pm on the day of embarkation. If you find you weren’t able to get the time or day you wanted ask to be placed on the waiting list. As the week goes on guests get busy with other activities and tend to cancel a treatment here and there thus making room for those on the waiting list.

Cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Holland America and Norwegian Cruise Lines all provide sandals and robes for the duration of your spa visit. Lockers to store your things and showers are also available. A pre-treatment relaxation room is a great place to begin to unwind before your massage or facial. Your masseuse or esthetician will meet you in here and take you to the treatment room.

A few things to remember so you get the most out of your spa experience:

• Ask for a treatment room with an ocean view. It makes the experience even better!
• Try something new. Most spas offer at least 4 different types of massages and dozens of body wraps, facials and scrubs all containing rejuvenating elements like fruit, natural oils, coffee and even chocolate!
• Talk to your masseuse or esthetician and let them know the amount of pressure you prefer and if you have any areas that need additional attention such as a sore shoulders or back.

Once your treatment is complete spend a few more minutes in one of the aromatherapy steam rooms or saunas. This is a great way to really reap the benefits of the treatment you just received. After a massage your circulation is increased therefore releasing toxins and lactic acid throughout your body. Remember to drink plenty of water to flush the waste out quickly and efficiently in addition helping your body repair and rejuvenate itself.

The Products  Onboard

Luxury spa products like the British Line, Elemis, and natural lotions from Pevonia are the standard in onboard salons and spas. These products are made of high quality natural and sometimes organic ingredients. All the products used during your treatment are for sale in the spa gift shop. Although pricey they are well worth the money. The smell and effects of the creams and lotions is a great way to remember your cruise long after you have returned home.