What exactly is a thermal suite on Princess Cruises?

Question

I am looking to book a cruise on the Star Princess and the ship has a "thermal suite" on it. All the brochure says is it is a good place to go to relax before or after a spa service. But what exactly is it?

Answer 1

From a description of another Princess ship found on Travelocity:  "...and a heavenly thermal suite where you'll find heated tile lounge chairs with water running through them. (The thermal suite may be used by anyone receiving a spa treatment that same day.)"

It also seems like saunas and steamrooms are part of most thermal suites, along with showers.  Here are some photos I found of a couple's cruise vacation on Holland America (probably very similar to what you'll find on Princess):  http://www.elite.net/~thehalls/thermal.h...

Answer 2

It's basically a sauna with different rooms ... a wet sauna, a dry sauna, an area with tiled recliners that you just relax in.  In my professional opinion, I always thought it was a little lame that you had to pay extra to sit in the sauna. Some ships will offer a package that gives youo unlimited access for the duration of your cruise.  The spa will usually have an open house on Boarding Day ... go check it out and see if it's for you.