Why booking a cruise can become a voyage into wellness

Why booking a cruise can become a voyage into wellness

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Sail into serenity with Celebrity Cruises, where health-focused experiences and tranquil spaces make your trip a sanctuary for body and mind

There’s a moment on every Celebrity Cruises voyage – whether you’re cloaked in the gentle steam of the hammam or stretching quietly through a sunrise yoga class – when the outside world slips away. Across the fleet, from the newest Edge Series ships – Celebrity Xcel, Celebrity Ascent and Celebrity Apex – to the Millennium and Solstice Series, wellness is not an afterthought but the very pulse of the voyage.

“At Celebrity Cruises, we understand that our guests seek many ways to relax and restore,” reflects Jeannette Coto Dou, Celebrity’s vice president of product development. “For guests who seek an elevated level of relaxation and personalised service, Celebrity’s AquaClass staterooms provide not only luxurious comfort, but also access to a dedicated team of wellness professionals for the personal touch.”

Step into any spa across these ships and it’s clear this is a world designed with intention. The spa isn’t simply a place for indulgence – it’s a carefully curated sanctuary. With more than 120 treatments ranging from deeply restorative massages to acupuncture, it’s a playground for the senses and a balm for the spirit. Onboard Edge Series vessels, the spa extends to an oasis of space and light. Designed by award-winning interiors guru Kelly Hoppen CBE, warm tones and fluid lines flow throughout the space, from the double-height entrance crowned by a grand chandelier to the expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that dissolve the boundary between sea and sanctuary. Here, the ever-changing ocean views become part of the healing journey.

The spa experience is enriched by unique offerings such as the first-ever hair salon at sea, offered by the Parisian-based Kérastase, alongside full-service nail and barbershop salons, making it a haven for head-to-toe renewal. For many, the heart of wellness onboard lies within the Sea Thermal Suite, an evolution of the Persian Garden found on Millennium and Solstice Series ships. The Thermal Suite offers eight distinct spaces to unwind, from the cleansing steam of the hammam and the enveloping calm of the Salt Room to the gentle cascade of the Rainfall Water Therapy Room.

Keep fit afloat

Beyond the spa, wellness stretches into movement and mindful living. State-of-the-art gyms outfitted with the latest cardio and strength equipment are there for guests who wish to pursue their fitness routines while gazing out to the endless horizon. Classes range from high-intensity barre, Hiit and circuit training sessions to restorative yoga and Pilates, guided by expert trainers who tailor experiences to individual goals. “Our guests want variety,” Coto Dou adds. “From invigorating workouts to mindful stretching, the goal is to offer fitness that feels as good as it looks.”

For those who want to take a refreshing swim or lounge under the sun, all Edge Series ships feature stunning main pools that open onto spacious pool decks with panoramic ocean views. Celebrity Apex’s outdoor areas feature a lively resort deck with a large pool and private cabanas, creating a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere. Meanwhile, the adults-only Solarium is a tranquil retreat featuring an inviting pool, bubbling whirlpools and relaxing music – a peaceful hideaway which can be enjoyed come rain or shine.

Expect elegant design on deck 

Celebrity Xcel, which debuts in November 2025, will raise the bar with its own expansive pool area that blends sleek design with comfort. Guests will never want to leave their sunbed thanks to the new pool valet offering poolside chilled towels, card games, sunscreen and storage for personal items, while those on Caribbean sailings can enjoy poolside parties, live music, meditation, unique tropical treats and games with Celebrity’s Poolest Day Ever.

In late 2025 Celebrity Xcel will unveil the line’s largest spa, featuring an expanded salon, a new bubbles bar for social relaxation and the Hydra Room: a warm, jet-powered pool with heated loungers. Thermal Suite guests will also enjoy the exclusive outdoor Vitamin D Deck with sweeping views, stylish seating and complimentary non-alcoholic drinks – an ideal spot to soak up sunshine and serenity.

Wellness at Celebrity Cruises extends beyond spa treatments, beautiful spaces and fitness routines; it’s reflected in every element of the experience. Menus are thoughtfully designed to provide nourishing, balanced options that support both body and mind. Guests can also participate in guided meditation sessions and mindfulness workshops that encourage slowing down, breathing deeply and finding calm amid the gentle motion of the sea. “Wellness isn’t only physical,” Coto Dou explains. “It’s about cultivating presence, calm and renewal on every level.”

Making it positively personal 

If you prefer the comfort of your own stateroom, the AquaClass experience brings wellness right to your door. Guests enjoy spa-infused amenities and access to a personal spa concierge, who can tailor in-room fitness kits featuring yoga mats, meditation tools and body conditioning equipment. It’s a seamless extension of the wellbeing ethos that flows throughout the ship.

What truly sets Celebrity apart, Coto Dou explains, is the sense of unfolding transformation guests feel. “Whether our guests leave feeling relaxed, re-energised, or renewed, we offer elevated experiences they won’t find anywhere else.” 

To book your perfectly balanced cruise, go to celebritycruises.co.uk, call 0800 2404 312 or contact your travel agent.

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