A Little Bit of Sanctuary

Unless you choose an Adults only ship or a Six Star cruise line the chances are the idea of a sea day with the usual fight for a sun lounger, bubbling hot tubs , long queues for the bar along with all the headaches of screaming children and noisy poolside screens is a real (sun) downer!

Adults-only sun decks offer all the former in a much more serene environment, many have amenities not available in the main deck areas and nicer loungers or sun beds and even Cabanas and maintain a strict adults-only ambiance and offer a literal Sanctuary from the chaos and busyness of a day at sea

These are 5 of the best!

The Sanctuary: An Ocean of Calm on Princess Ships

Exclusive Haven Features Dedicated Serenity Stewards to Pamper Guests where “Serenity Stewards” Attend To Every Need

A unique oasis of tranquility on Princess vessels, The Sanctuary offers guests the perfect place to take a break and indulge in a private getaway.  The exclusive adults-only retreat offers a relaxing alternative to the myriad outdoor activities and entertainment available elsewhere throughout the vessel.  Solitude seekers can escape completely to this plush, outdoor spa-inspired setting with signature beverages, light meals, massages, attentive service and relaxing personal entertainment and Al Fresco Massages

MSC Cruises offers a Sanctuary of Serenity With Top 18 Exclusive Solarium

Soak Up the Sun in Style in New Adults-Only Area, $20 / half day

With its own dedicated spa service, bar menu and comfortable lounge setting, Top 18 is the perfect venue to relax and unwind surrounded by incredible ocean vistas. As guests are greeted at a private entrance (on deck 18), they are provided a refreshing chilled towel and escorted to their own personal lounge beds, where they can idly spend the day enjoying their own serene seaside respite. For those who prefer unwinding in the shade, wide-brimmed “relaxation pods” are also made available.

Top 18 guests will also revel in a variety of specially tailored spa treatments available right on deck. Exclusive reflexology and facial treatments can be enjoyed without leaving the comfort of Top 18’s personal lounge beds, while various head, neck and shoulder massages are available from the solarium’s private massage chairs. Lasting up to 20 minutes, these express treatments are the perfect way to instantly de-stress and re-energize mind and body.

While sunbathing, guests stay hydrated and quenched with a water mister, extensive Tiki bar menu offering a delectable variety of nutritious drinks and coolers and complimentary fresh fruit skewers offered throughout the day. Your choice of alcoholic beverages are also available at Top 18.

Daily and cruise-long access passes for MSC’s Top 18 can be purchased at the ships’ reception areas or directly at the entrance to the solarium. Full day passes are priced starting at 15 euros and weekly passes at 80 euros.

P&O’s ‘The Retreat’ is a luxurious open-air spa terrace, offering the ultimate in sophisticated pampering on board Azura, Britannia and Ventura only.

Here you’ll find luxury sun loungers*, airy cabanas for al fresco spa treatments, personal waiter service and of course, gorgeous panoramic views. What’s more, because it’s a paid-for, child free service, you’re guaranteed an exclusive experience. Passengers will even be able to stay in select spa staterooms situated next to the spa offering convenient access

*There are 48 sun loungers within the Retreat, 18 are outside in the sun area and the rest in the shade. Sun lounger positions are not guaranteed.

Britannia has 60 sun loungers within the Retreat.

When you purchase a Spa Package you will receive access to The Retreat, please see the Spa Package details below for more information. You may also purchase a day pass for The Retreat once on board.  Please note every passenger that books a Spa Package will be guaranteed a sunbed.

Spa day passes are available to purchase once on board

NCL’s Posh, Vibe, and Spice H20 18+ , Free for Spice H20, Posh and Vibe require passes that start at $15 and $20 per day, or $59 and $79 per week.

Posh and Spice H20 on Norwegian Epic, Vibe and Spice H20 on Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway and Norwegian Escape

The Mediterranean-inspired Posh Beach Club comes with daybeds, fruit skewers, and a full bar, while The Vibe Beach Club has a huge hot tub, waterfall and chaise-style loungers. H20 is similar to Posh and Vibe during the day, but by night, it becomes an Ibiza inspired dance club by night as passengers celebrate with themed parties like disco night, a ravey glow party, and of course, an 80’s dance party.

Royal Caribbean’s The Solarium is free and for ages 16+ pn all ships except Majesty of the Seas

The Solarium continues to grow in size with every new ship launched by Royal Caribbean, a strong testament to its popularity. Though older ships might not have the cascading lagoons or other bells and whistles like the Solariums on Quantum, Anthem, and Harmony, all of them come with cushioned lounge chairs, hot tubs, a seating area and a full bar. The best part? The area is covered by a large glass canopy to keep the warmth in, giving it a real tropical feel.

If you want to beat the Sun Bed Wars this is a must do – can I have one at home please .?!