spa packages on carnival cruise

Cloud 9 Spa, Carnival Cruise Line’s spa and fitness facility: What you need to know

Vacation is a time to relax, unwind and focus on your mental and physical well-being. With that in mind, nearly all cruise ships offer spas , salons and fitness centers that can help you look and feel your best when you sail.

Carnival Cruise Line 's wellness area is called Cloud 9 and offers seminars, classes, treatments and services that have you covered from scalp massage to pedicure. Read on to find out all about the Cloud 9 Spa, Fitness Center and Salon, including which ships have them, what they provide and what they'll cost you.

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What is Cloud 9 Spa on Carnival cruises? What are the Cloud 9 Salon and Fitness Center?

Cloud 9 is the name of the trifecta of products — spa, salon and fitness center — operated on most Carnival ships by independent contractor OneSpaWorld (which manages similar facilities on most cruise lines' vessels).

Spa treatments include massages (Swedish, hot stone and so forth), body wraps, facials, cellulite reduction, intravenous therapies, acupuncture and anti-wrinkle treatments.

Passengers wishing to have their hair coiffed or nails done can visit the related Cloud 9 Salon. Services include manicures, pedicures, blowouts, hairstyling, cuts and color, as well as men's services. Other offerings might be waxing, eyebrow shaping and teeth whitening.

Reservations are required for both the spa and the salon.

Related: Which cruise ship activities should you book ahead of time?

The Cloud 9 gym is affiliated with the Cloud 9 Spa and Salon on ships that have it. Like the spa and salon, it's managed by OneSpaWorld and provides an area for passengers to partake in for-fee exercise classes (think: yoga, spin and Pilates) and personal training or to conduct their own workouts on free-to-use equipment.

The Cloud 9 gyms are frequently outfitted with treadmills, ellipticals, rowers, both standard and recumbent exercise bikes, stair-climbers, weight machines, dumbbells, kettlebells, weight benches, medicine balls, yoga mats, balance balls and foam rollers. Other amenities might include water stations, towels and sanitizer for cleaning off machines and equipment.

The spa and fitness complexes on each ship also provide men's and women's locker rooms, and most vessels have saunas and steam rooms, too. On ships with thermal suites, you'll find heated tile loungers, soaking pools and other amenities. You'll gain access if you stay in certain cabin types, book a spa treatment or purchase a thermal suite pass.

For more information on specific offerings, visit the Cloud 9 page on Carnival's website .

Cloud 9 Spa prices

Except for complimentary consultations and gym equipment that's free to use, you'll shell out extra for everything offered at the spa, salon and gym. Expect to pay a significant markup compared to land-based treatments and services.

Examples of treatments, services and pricing are as follows:

• Swedish massage: $179 for 50 minutes, $219 for 75 minutes and $299 for 100 minutes
• Aromatherapy hot stone massage: $199 for 50 minutes, $229 for 75 minutes and $299 for 100 minutes
• Pro-collagen facial: $199 for 50 minutes
• Traditional manicure: $59 (30 minutes)
• Traditional pedicure: $69 (45 minutes)
• Blowout: $59 to $89
• Haircut: from $89
• Fitness class (yoga, Pilates or spin): $20 per class (three- and six-class packs are also available)

Note: Prices were accurate at the time of publication but are subject to change without notice.

An 18% gratuity is also automatically tacked on to the cost of all spa and salon treatments and services.

Watch for discounts on the first or second day of your cruise, savings if you book multiple treatments or classes, or deals for services on port days when most passengers are ashore.

Be aware that spa and salon employees are trained to pitch you pricey beauty and hair care products following any treatments you schedule. If you want to avoid high-pressure sales tactics that could bring down your relaxed vibe, request before the start of your service that they refrain from doing it.

Additionally, Carnival ships that have the Cloud 9 Spa also have Cloud 9 Spa cabins. When you book one of those, you're entitled to Cloud 9 amenities like unlimited thermal suite access, a body scrub kit, priority spa reservations, discounts on port day treatments, a complimentary body composition analysis, upgraded Elemis toiletries in your cabin bathroom and even free fitness classes (two per person).

Is a visit to the Cloud 9 Fitness Center, Cloud 9 Salon or Cloud 9 Spa worth it?

That all depends. If you're someone who loves being pampered and doesn't mind a bit of a splurge, yes. If you're on a strict budget, a cruise is not the time to put the spa to the test since prices are much higher than what you likely can find at home.

If you're able to snag one of the deals mentioned above or you have a bit of onboard credit that's burning a hole in your account, it could make the experience a better value.

Plus, there's something to be said for convenience. Sometimes, you just don't have the time to paint your own nails before you embark, or you don't feel like styling your own hair for formal night. That's when the Cloud 9 Salon can come to the rescue — but you'll pay handsomely for the luxury.

Related: 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on their first cruise

You can almost never go wrong with a visit to the gym to use the free equipment. If you can't break your at-home gym routine or if all the food on your sailing has you feeling sluggish, it might be worth paying for an exercise class or two as well.

Beware of free seminars offered by spa technicians and fitness instructors. They're usually sales pitches for things like expensive beauty products, fancy treatments or shoe inserts that purport to correct posture.

Ultimately, it's up to you to decide how much time and money you want to invest in visits to the spa, salon and fitness center when you cruise.

Which Carnival ships have a Cloud 9 Spa, Salon and Fitness Center?

Of Carnival's 27 ships, 20 have facilities that are specifically branded as Cloud 9:

• Carnival Breeze
• Carnival Celebration
• Carnival Dream
• Carnival Elation
• Carnival Firenze
• Carnival Horizon
• Carnival Jubilee
• Carnival Luminosa
• Carnival Magic
• Carnival Miracle
• Carnival Panorama
• Carnival Paradise
• Carnival Pride
• Carnival Radiance
• Carnival Splendor
• Carnival Sunrise
• Carnival Sunshine
• Carnival Venezia
• Carnival Vista

Note: Other ships offer similar services but do not have the Cloud 9 branding.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The ultimate guide to Carnival Cruise Line ships and itineraries
• Here's which Carnival ship you should try, based on your travel style
• All the classes of Carnival cruise ships, explained
• A guide to Carnival Cruise Line's VIFP loyalty program
• All about Carnival Cruise Line cabins and suites
• All you need to know about Carnival Cruise Line food
• Carnival cruise ships by age
• Carnival cruise ships by size
• Carnival Cruise Line's Cheers drink package
• Carnival cruise tips and tricks

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How Much Are Spa Treatments On Carnival Cruise

Published: December 15, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Jayne Mcclinton

Introduction

Cruising on a Carnival Cruise is an exciting and luxurious experience, offering a wide range of activities and amenities to make your vacation truly memorable. One of the highlights of a Carnival Cruise is the spa, where you can indulge in a variety of rejuvenating treatments to relax your body and mind. Whether you’re looking for a massage, facial, or a full-body wrap, the Carnival Cruise spa has something for everyone.

The Carnival Cruise spa is renowned for its world-class facilities and expertly trained staff, ensuring that every guest receives the highest level of care and attention. From the moment you step into the spa, you’ll be greeted with a serene and tranquil atmosphere, designed to help you unwind and escape from the stresses of everyday life.

As you enter the spa, you’ll be enveloped in a soothing ambiance, with soft lighting, calming music, and the enticing aroma of essential oils. The reception area is staffed by friendly professionals who will guide you through the spa offerings and assist you in choosing the perfect treatment for your needs. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, rejuvenation, or a combination of both, the Carnival Cruise spa has a treatment tailored just for you.

Indulging in spa treatments while on a Carnival Cruise not only provides a wonderful opportunity for self-care and pampering, but it also allows you to fully immerse yourself in the luxurious surroundings and take advantage of the amenities available to you. Whether you’re looking to soothe sore muscles after a day of exploring ports of call or simply want to unwind and relax, a visit to the Carnival Cruise spa is the perfect way to enhance your cruising experience.

In this article, we will explore the different types of spa treatments offered on Carnival Cruises, the pricing for these treatments, and share some tips on how to make the most of your spa experience. So, sit back, relax, and prepare to embark on a journey of relaxation and rejuvenation with Carnival Cruise spa.

Overview of Carnival Cruise Spa

The Carnival Cruise spa is a luxurious oasis onboard the ship, dedicated to providing guests with a wide range of spa treatments and wellness services. It serves as a sanctuary where you can relax, rejuvenate, and pamper yourself while enjoying the breathtaking views of the ocean.

The spa facilities on Carnival Cruises are designed with your comfort and relaxation in mind. The serene and peaceful environment, combined with state-of-the-art equipment, ensures a truly indulgent experience. Whether you’re seeking a massage, facial, body treatment, or a combination of services, the Carnival Cruise spa offers something for every preference and need.

Upon arrival at the spa, you’ll be greeted by knowledgeable and friendly staff who will guide you through the available treatments and help you choose the best options for your desired experience. The spa therapists are highly skilled and trained in various techniques, ensuring that you will receive top-quality treatments tailored to your specific preferences.

The Carnival Cruise spa offers a wide range of services, including massages, body wraps, facials, manicures, pedicures, hair styling, and more. You can choose from a variety of massage styles, such as Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone, and aromatherapy, each designed to relax your muscles and promote overall well-being.

Facials at the spa are designed to nourish and revitalize your skin, using high-quality products to address specific skin concerns, such as dryness, aging, or acne. The skilled estheticians will analyze your skin and recommend the best facial treatment to enhance your natural glow.

In addition to individual treatments, the Carnival Cruise spa also offers couples’ packages, perfect for a romantic and relaxing getaway. These packages include side-by-side massages, facials, and other treatments, allowing you and your partner to experience blissful relaxation together.

Aside from the treatments themselves, the Carnival Cruise spa also features various amenities for guests to enjoy. Many spas include whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation lounges where you can unwind before or after your treatments. These spaces provide a tranquil atmosphere where you can take in the serene views of the ocean while letting the cares of the world slip away.

Overall, the Carnival Cruise spa offers a truly luxurious and rejuvenating experience. Whichever treatment you choose, you can rest assured that you’ll be in the hands of skilled professionals who are dedicated to ensuring your relaxation and well-being throughout your time onboard.

Types of Spa Treatments Offered

The Carnival Cruise spa offers a wide range of spa treatments to cater to various preferences and needs. From relaxing massages to invigorating facials, there is something for everyone looking for a moment of indulgence and self-care. Here are some of the popular treatments you can find onboard:

• Massages: Carnival Cruise spa offers a variety of massage styles, including Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone, and aromatherapy. Each massage is designed to promote relaxation, relieve muscle tension, and enhance overall well-being.
• Facials: The spa offers a range of facials tailored to address different skin concerns. Whether you have dry skin, aging skin, or acne-prone skin, there is a facial treatment suitable for you. The facials use high-quality products and techniques to deeply cleanse, exfoliate, and nourish your skin.
• Body Treatments: Indulge in luxurious body treatments, such as body wraps and scrubs, to revitalize your skin and promote a sense of rejuvenation. These treatments often involve exfoliation, hydrating masks, and massage to leave your skin feeling silky smooth and refreshed.
• Manicures and Pedicures: Treat your hands and feet to some pampering with manicures and pedicures at the spa. Enjoy a relaxing soak, nail shaping, cuticle care, and a choice of nail polish colors to complete your look.
• Hair and Scalp Treatments: The spa also offers hair services, including cuts, styles, and treatments to nourish and rejuvenate your hair. Indulge in a soothing scalp massage to further enhance your relaxation.
• Wellness Classes and Workshops: In addition to individual treatments, the Carnival Cruise spa often offers wellness classes and workshops, including yoga, meditation, and fitness sessions. These activities promote overall well-being and provide a holistic approach to self-care.

It’s important to note that the availability of specific treatments may vary depending on the Carnival Cruise ship and itinerary. It’s recommended to check the onboard spa menu or contact the cruise line directly for the most up-to-date information on available treatments.

No matter which spa treatment you choose, you can expect a blissful experience in a tranquil and serene environment. The highly trained spa therapists will ensure that you leave feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, and ready to make the most of your cruise vacation.

Pricing for Spa Treatments

The pricing for spa treatments on Carnival Cruises can vary depending on the specific treatment, the length of the session, and the cruise ship you are on. It’s important to note that spa treatments on cruise ships tend to be more expensive compared to land-based spas due to the convenience and luxury of having a spa onboard.

Generally, the price range for spa treatments on Carnival Cruises starts from around $100 for basic treatments like a 50-minute massage or facial. However, prices can go up significantly for specialty treatments or longer durations. Premium treatments, such as hot stone massages or advanced skincare therapies, can cost upwards of $200 or more.

It’s worth considering that gratuity is typically not included in the listed prices, so it’s customary to tip your spa therapist separately. The recommended gratuity amount is usually around 15-20% of the total treatment cost, but it’s ultimately up to your discretion.

Carnival Cruises often offer spa packages that provide a combination of treatments at a discounted rate. These packages can be a great value if you plan to indulge in multiple spa treatments during your cruise. Keep an eye out for any promotional offers or discounts that may be available. It’s also advisable to make reservations for spa treatments as early as possible to secure your preferred time slots and take advantage of any limited-time deals.

Additionally, it’s important to be aware of any cancellation policies. If you need to reschedule or cancel a spa appointment, make sure to do so within the designated timeframe to avoid any cancellation fees.

While spa treatments can be a significant additional expense during your cruise, many guests find the luxurious experience and the benefits to their well-being well worth the investment. Remember to budget accordingly and prioritize the treatments that appeal to you the most.

Overall, the pricing for spa treatments on Carnival Cruises offers a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick escape or a full day of pampering, the Carnival Cruise spa has a variety of treatments to cater to your needs.

Special Packages and Deals

When it comes to spa treatments, Carnival Cruises often offers special packages and deals to provide guests with enhanced value and a more immersive spa experience. These packages bundle together multiple treatments or services at a discounted price, allowing you to indulge in a variety of treatments while saving money. Here are some of the special packages and deals you may find:

• Spa Day Pass: Carnival Cruises may offer a Spa Day Pass that grants you access to the spa facilities for a full day. With this pass, you can enjoy the whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation lounges at your leisure, even if you don’t book any specific treatments.
• Couples’ Packages: Perfect for romantic getaways, couples’ packages are available on many Carnival Cruise ships. These packages typically include side-by-side massages, facials, and other treatments, allowing you to relax and rejuvenate together.
• Pre-booking Discounts: Sometimes, Carnival Cruises offers exclusive discounts for guests who pre-book their spa treatments before the cruise. This allows you to secure your desired treatments and enjoy a discounted rate at the same time.
• Port Day Specials: On port days, when many guests are off the ship exploring, the spa may offer special discounts or promotions to entice guests to indulge in treatments during quieter times. These port day specials can provide an excellent opportunity to enjoy the spa facilities with fewer crowds and at a reduced price.
• Package Combinations: Carnival Cruises may offer package combinations that include different treatments and services bundled together at a discounted rate. For example, you might find a relaxation package that includes a massage, facial, and access to the spa facilities all in one package deal.

It’s essential to keep in mind that special packages and deals may vary depending on the Carnival Cruise ship and itinerary. They are often limited-time offers, so it’s recommended to check the cruise line’s website or contact their customer service directly to inquire about any available promotions.

In addition to the special packages and deals, it’s worth paying attention to any onboard events or demonstrations by the spa staff. These events provide an opportunity to learn more about the various treatments and products offered at the spa, as well as any exclusive discounts or incentives that may be available to attendees.

By taking advantage of these special packages and deals, you can make the most of your spa experience on Carnival Cruises while enjoying savings and added perks. It’s worth exploring the options and finding the package that suits your preferences and budget to ensure a truly rejuvenating and worthwhile experience.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Spa Experience

Visiting the spa on a Carnival Cruise can be a truly memorable and relaxing experience. To ensure that you make the most of this indulgent opportunity, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Book Early: Spa appointments can fill up quickly, so it’s advisable to book your treatments as early as possible. Consider pre-booking before your cruise to secure your preferred time slots and take advantage of any pre-booking discounts.
• Arrive Early: Arriving early for your spa appointment allows you to fully relax and prepare your mind and body. Take advantage of the spa’s facilities such as whirlpools, saunas, and steam rooms before your treatment to enhance the overall experience.
• Communicate Your Preferences: During your spa treatment, communicate any preferences or concerns to your spa therapist. Whether it’s adjusting the pressure during a massage or discussing any skin sensitivities before a facial, clear communication ensures that you receive a personalized and enjoyable experience.
• Disconnect from Technology: Take this opportunity to disconnect from the outside world and enjoy some uninterrupted relaxation time. Consider leaving your phone in your room or turning it off to fully immerse yourself in the spa ambiance and maximize the benefits of your treatment.
• Hydrate: Drinking plenty of water before and after your spa treatment helps promote hydration and aids in the detoxification process. Stay hydrated throughout your cruise to enhance the benefits of your spa experience.
• Take Your Time: After your spa treatment, take some extra time to relax and enjoy the post-treatment tranquility. Most spas have dedicated relaxation areas where you can take a moment to savor the sense of calm and rejuvenation.
• Consider Package Offers: If you’re planning to indulge in multiple spa treatments, explore the special package offers available on your cruise. These packages often provide a combination of treatments at a discounted price, allowing you to enjoy a variety of spa experiences while maximizing savings.
• Take Advantage of Demonstrations and Workshops: Attend any spa demonstrations or workshops offered on the cruise. These sessions provide valuable insights into skincare, wellness practices, and products, enhancing your overall spa experience and knowledge.
• Don’t Forget to Tip: While gratuity is not typically included in the price of spa treatments, it is customary to tip your spa therapist separately. Show your appreciation for their exceptional service by offering a gratuity of around 15-20% of the total treatment cost.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can maximize your enjoyment of the spa on your Carnival Cruise. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, rejuvenation, or both, the spa experience can be a highlight of your vacation, leaving you feeling refreshed and pampered.

A visit to the spa on a Carnival Cruise is an opportunity to indulge in relaxation, rejuvenation, and self-care while immersed in the luxurious surroundings of the ship. The Carnival Cruise spa offers a wide range of treatments, from massages and facials to body wraps and manicures, designed to cater to various preferences and needs.

Throughout your spa experience, you’ll be greeted by knowledgeable and friendly staff who are dedicated to ensuring your comfort and satisfaction. The tranquil atmosphere, coupled with state-of-the-art facilities, creates an oasis of serenity where you can truly unwind.

While spa treatments on Carnival Cruises may come at an additional cost, they offer a unique and luxurious opportunity to enhance your cruise vacation. Whether you’re a seasoned spa-goer or new to the experience, the Carnival Cruise spa is sure to provide moments of blissful relaxation and rejuvenation.

When planning your spa visit, consider booking your treatments early to secure your preferred time slots and take advantage of any special packages or deals. Arrive early to fully enjoy the spa facilities and communicate your preferences to ensure a personalized and enjoyable experience.

Remember to disconnect from technology, hydrate, and take your time to fully immerse yourself in the spa ambiance and appreciate the post-treatment tranquility. And don’t forget to show appreciation for your spa therapist by offering a gratuity.

Whether you’re looking to unwind from the stresses of daily life, celebrate a special occasion, or simply treat yourself, the Carnival Cruise spa is the perfect place to embark on a journey of relaxation and rejuvenation.

So, prepare to indulge in a world of luxury as you sail the seas with Carnival Cruise and immerse yourself in a blissful spa experience that will leave you feeling refreshed, revitalized, and ready to seize the adventure that lies ahead.

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• Cruise Reviews

Review: Carnival Breeze Cloud 9 Spa

Heather Baxter

• November 8, 2019

With a thalassotherapy pool and four thermal suites, Carnival Breeze’s Cloud 9 spa is a must for anyone looking to relax. While we’re reviewing Cloud 9 Spa on Carnival Breeze, it can also be found on Carnival Dream , Carnival Magic , Carnival Vista , Carnival Horizon , and Carnival Panorama .

Before I Went To Cloud 9 Spa

This was my second time sailing on  Carnival Breeze,  and having purchased a Cloud 9 spa pass my first time around, I knew I had to do it again.

Carnival Breeze has one of the best spas in the fleet, as it features multiple thermal suites and the popular thalassotherapy pool. Before my first cruise on Breeze , I was able to tour the ship for a day, and I was immediately seduced by the relaxing aromas and bubbling waters.

Worried that the spa passes might sell out, I pre-purchased the couples spa package online — priced at $220 — for my husband and me to enjoy on our seven-night cruise. (An individual pass is $140 for the week.) When we purchased it the first time we sailed on Breeze , I thought that was a bit pricey.

Now, we have a Norwegian cruise booked for later this year, upon which a spa pass for the week will cost about $220 each. So  it’s truly a great deal and a competitive rate.

Onboard Carnival Breeze Spa Experience

On Carnival Breeze , the ship features the standard complimentary saunas and steam rooms inside the respective men’s and women’s locker rooms on Deck 12.

However, those who book a Cloud 9 spa stateroom, or who purchase access through the spa pass like I did, are granted exclusive access to the thermal suites and the thalassotherapy pool on the deck above.

The thermal suites include two dry heat chambers (the Laconium and Tepidarium) and two steam chambers (Oriental and Aroma), as well as an aromatic shower.

Through the heat, these suites help you sweat out impurities in your body and cleanse out toxins. Some of these suites also include heated chaise lounges that are nothing short of heavenly to lie on.

One thing that made a huge difference in my spa experience this cruise versus the first time I was on the Breeze was choosing the Your Time Dining option for dinner. After a hot day sunbathing on the lido deck or touring an island, it doesn’t always sound appealing to go sit in a hot, steamy thermal suite.

However, with a flexible dining schedule, instead of feeling pressured to spend time getting dressed for dinner, we were able to enjoy more time in the spa.

That’s because we only went to the main dining room three times over seven nights; the other nights we dined at Bonsai Sushi, Cucina del Capitano, and the Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse.

Access to the thermal suites closes at 10:00 p.m. , so we either went to the spa before dinner and ate late or ate early and went right before bed.

Cloud 9 Thermal Suites and Thalassotherapy Pool

I tried all the suites, and my favorite was the Oriental steam room — mostly because I prefer steam rooms to dry heat, and because the Oriental room had two heated chaise loungers that were usually unoccupied.

After spending some time in the Oriental room, I’d venture into the dry heat rooms, which are easier to breathe in. Between the soft spa music playing overhead and the quiet water trickling over rocks in a bowl in the corner, I nearly fell asleep on the loungers several times. That’s a testament to how relaxing it is.

I did try the aromatic shower as well, though the nozzles that spray from the sides of the wall weren’t working on our cruise.

And, perhaps I wasn’t working it properly, but the aromas only worked with cold water, not hot (as that was another button beneath the scents). So it seemed you could only take an aromatic cold shower or a scent-less hot one.

The thalassotherapy pool is the cherry on top of this spa sundae. This j etted pool filled with mineral-rich ocean water is said to help relieve pain and soothe muscles. All these areas are co-ed, but don’t worry — everyone was clothed! Most people come in their swimsuits and flip-flops.

After spending time in the thermal suites, the thalassotherapy pool is the perfect way to really relax. We walked nearly seven miles during our port day in San Juan, and the thalassotherapy pool was a blessing we didn’t know we needed. It completely relaxed my muscles, and my feet weren’t sore the next day like I had expected.

The pool on the Breeze is also special in that it has its own dedicated room at the front of the ship. On Carnival Vista and Horizon , the pool is set in the ground just behind the heated chaise loungers inside the thermal suite. And, to be honest, it looks like an afterthought on those ships.

It’s also called a “mineral salts” pool on those ships, not a thalassotherapy pool like on Breeze . The difference? I couldn’t tell you. All I can say is that the Breeze takes the cake for dedicating an enclosed space to such a large pool with built-in loungers.

Exclusive Cloud 9 Spa Access

One of the best things about the Cloud 9 spa is that Carnival caps the number of people who have access to the spa at 50 per sailing. A crew member confirmed to me that means 50 people total, including those with spa staterooms and those who purchase a spa pass.

This is a big perk, considering the spa can get rather busy on sea days.

Each day you visit, you turn your card in at the front desk, and they give you a wristband to wear. The color of the band changes every day to prevent swapping and sharing of bands.

However, even when I saw it at its busiest, there was always plenty of room to enjoy the thermal suites and plenty of room in the thalassotherapy pool. Plus, people never spent too long in one place. You don’t want to get overheated, after all.

One final note: the exclusive locker rooms for spa guests come with huge showers that are close to half the size of my interior stateroom.

Several times, I took a shower caddy of toiletries up to the spa and enjoyed the large, roomy showers in the locker rooms instead of the rather small shower with the awkward curtain in my stateroom.

This might be a helpful tip if your cabin is full, too, and you have to share the bathroom. Take advantage of your spa pass!

Final Thoughts

The Cloud 9 spa represents the pinnacle of rest and relaxation on Carnival, and I can’t recommend that you book it. On both occasions, the spa’s staff were incredibly kind and helpful. Honestly, my only disappointment is that it’s not open for longer hours.

The spa opens at 8 a.m. and closes at 10 p.m. I wish it opened at 6 a.m. and closed at midnight… that way, I could have more flexibility to start and end my day at the spa without interrupting my plans onboard or in port.

If you’re considering a spa stateroom or a thermal suite pass, don’t hesitate to pre-purchase it. With only 50 people having access, you don’t want to miss out on a chance to enjoy a life of luxury in the spa.

Video: Carnival Breeze Cloud 9 Spa Review

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Moscow (Russia)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Russia Rivers

Local Time 2024-04-16 22:22

Moscow is a Volga River cruise port, Russia's capital and largest city (population over 12,2 million, metro 17 million). Moscow City covers a total area of approx 2610 km 2 (970 mi2). By population, the city is ranked the world's 14th largest. Moscow is one of the Russian Federation's all 3 federal cities - together with St Petersburg and Sevastopol .

Being Russian Federation's capital, Moscow is a major economic, political, scientific and cultural center, as well as Europe's biggest city.

According to Forbes 2013, Moscow has been ranked as the 9th most expensive city in the world by Mercer and has one of the largest urban economies, being ranked as an alpha global city according to Globalization and World Cities Research Network. It is also one of the fastest-growing tourist destinations in the world according to MasterCard Global Destination Cities Index. Moscow is the northernmost and the coldest megacity and metropolis on the Earth. It's home to Ostankino Tower, the tallest free-standing European structure; the Federation Tower, the tallest European skyscraper; and the Moscow International Business Center. 

Moscow is situated on Moskva River in the Central Federal District of European Russia, which makes it the most populated inland city in the world. Moscow city is well known for architecture, particularly its historic buildings like Saint Basil's Cathedral. With over 40% of its territory covered by greenery, it's one of the greenest capitals and major cities in Europe and the world. Moscow is the seat of power of the Russian Government, being the site of Moscow Kremlin, a medieval city-fortress that is now the residence of the President of Russia. Moscow Kremlin and Red Square are among the several World Heritage Sites in the city. 

Moscow has 2 passenger terminals, North River Terminal (Rechnoy vokzal) and South River Terminal. The regular ship routes and cruises along Moskva and Oka rivers are used mostly for entertainment. North River Terminal (1937-built) is currently the main hub for long-range routes along the river. There are 3 freight ports that serve Moscow.

In late-July 2021 the city announced plans to incorporate a fleet (unspecified number) of fully electric passenger ferries into its public transportation network from summer 2022, the goal being to reduce the dependence on cars.

• The boats are designed with length ~22 m (72 ft), passenger capacity 42, modern amenities (Wi-Fi, USB charging points, tables for working commuters), spaces for storing scooters and bicycles.
• Moscow Transport confirmed that two routes (with max daily capacity ~16,000 passengers) have already been mapped out.
• Passengers will be able to pay via bank cards, the city’s Troika card (smart card for travel by any public transportation) or biometric payment cards. Those with monthly/yearly public transit tickets will use the boats at no extra cost.
• The new electric ferry service is up to 5 times faster (in comparison to other city public transports) and ~2 times faster than by car.

Moscow cruise terminal

Moscow's cruise terminal is called North River Terminal or River Station  ("Rechnoy Vokzal" / "речной вокзал").

The terminal was opened in 1937 and is one of 2 passenger terminals (the other being South River Terminal) of the city's river transport. North River Terminal is the main hub for long-range (including cruise) shipping routes. 

South River Terminal (above photo) was opened in 1985.

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Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

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