10 Ways to Make Your Carnival Cruise Spa Experience Even Better
Are you looking to relax and rejuvenate on your next Carnival Cruise? Here are 10 essential items to pack for a luxurious spa experience. From comfortable slippers to relaxing bath products, these items will help you make the most of your time at the spa.
*note, I booked the Cloud 9 Stateroom which included unlimited access to the Thermal Suites, guests may purchase single or weekly passes.
1. Swimsuit
You will need a swimsuit if you want to use the spa pools, sauna, and steam rooms. The Carnival Vista thermal suites are co-ed. There is a gender specific dry sauna in specified locker rooms though.
2. Shampoo and Conditioner
Carnival advertises that the Cloud 9 Spa room includes “Upgraded ELEMIS in-stateroom toiletries.” The Cloud 9 Spa balcony stateroom only had Conditioning Shampoo and Shower Gel. Although the Conditioning Shampoo smells nice, it may not be as effective as your regular conditioner at home. You can buy the Kérastase branded conditioner from the Cruise’s salon or the shops where you port.
3. Lotion
I assumed the cruise would provide small bottles of lotions like hotels do. I asked my steward about it, but unfortunately, they don’t provide lotion. You have to buy their lotion from the spa or shops. Only Shampoo and Bar Soap is provided. (What to expect in a Cloud 9 Spa Stateroom)
4. Water Bottle
In the Thermal Suites (specifically on the Carnival Vista), a water fountain is available, but no cups. I personally am not a fan of water fountains for hygiene purposes. To hydrate, you must step outside the suite, get a cup of water from the treatment waiting room, and bring it back inside (the water would be fruit infused though!). There is also water fountain in the fitness center/gym.
5. Face Masks
Use a face mask and relax on the heated loungers. (Other amenities of the Cloud 9 Thermal Suite) It’s a fantastic way to save money and indulge in a rejuvenating treatment, all while using a product your skin is already used to. Best of all, no need to pay for a professional service.
6. Shower Flip Flops
The Thermal Suite is a wet area and is shared by guests. Wearing flip-flops can help to keep your feet clean and free of bacteria. Although the spa crew regularly cleans the thermal suites, having your own footwear adds comfort and peace of mind to your spa experience.
7. Book or Magazine
You may want to bring a book or magazine to read while you are relaxing on the heated loungers at the spa. If you did not bring a book, you can borrow one in the ship’s library.
8. Ear Plugs
During my cruise, I may have been unlucky to visit the Thermal Suites (Picture Tour of the Thermal Suites) during busy periods or when there were talkative groups. As a result, it was difficult to fully relax on the heated lounger chairs due to the ongoing chatter.
9. Body Scrub
All Cloud 9 staterooms receive a small DIY body scrub kit as a gift. As you can see, the DIY scrub kit is a small amount. It’s intended for single use only. If you’re traveling with others or embarking on a longer cruise, bringing your own body scrub allows you to save money and have it available for multiple uses for you and your party.
10. Essential Oils
For a personalized touch, consider bringing your favorite essential oils to enhance your relaxation on the heated loungers. Apply a few drops to your wrists, feet, back of the neck, or temples and indulge in the soothing aromas as you unwind.
