ESCAPE & RECHARGE

For many, cruising is all about relaxation. But sometimes the stress of tying up loose ends at work, packing and making flight connections makes passengers tense.

What better way to start unwinding on your cruise than with a massage? Or to prepare for a return to reality? The ship's masseuse will ease those knots away.

Years back, the single massage space was often a dark room on the lowest deck. Today's new and newly redecorated ships tend toward spacious, soothing colors and are contiguous to well-equipped fitness centers and beauty salons.
 

Most shipboard spas are operated by Steiner Leisure Ltd. of London, currently servicing over 100 cruise ships worldwide. Steiner has been involved in the design of the spas on board and has brought the cruise ship passengers spa therapies from both Europe and the Far East. Facilities do vary from ship to ship, some including sophisticated therapies like Thalassotherapy, Thermal Suites, Hydrotherapy, Dry Floatation treatments and the Rasul.

Most shipboard spas include complimentary whirlpools, lockers, steam and sauna rooms; massages, reflexology, hydrotherapy baths, facials and other treatments cost additional.

Spa facilities frequently incorporate Scandinavian and Oriental treatment philosophies. And personal trainers are available on the majority of Steiner-serviced ships.