Feeling Hot, Hot, Hot: 6 Natural Hot Springs You Can Experience on a Cruise
Wellness is more than a state of mind; it’s a way of life. In honor of World Bathing Day coming up on June 22, Holland America is taking a deep dive into some of the hot springs you can visit on your cruise. You can also enjoy warmth and wellness onboard with offerings such as the Thermal Suite and hot tubs.
Why a Hot Spring on a Cruise Shore Excursion?
One popular way our guests can explore wellness is by experiencing a local hot spring — a naturally occurring pool of groundwater that’s heated by magma or hot rock from deep in the Earth’s crust. Rich in minerals and used for therapeutic soaking, hot springs are a priority destination for visitors and locals alike. And many of our cruise itineraries feature shore excursions that allow guests to safely and conveniently experience natural hot springs.
The warm water activates the parasympathetic nervous system, slowing down your heart rate and easing tension since it boosts circulation to the muscles and joints. It’s a rare chance in our busy lives to slow everything down for a moment. Hot springs also play a big part in community life, and many cultures have bathing rituals dating back thousands of years.
Tips to Boost Your Hot Spring Relaxation
To ensure you maximize your (chill) experience, here are a few tips:
- Pack your bathing essentials, such as layered clothing, a swimsuit, towel, sandals, reusable water bottle, and an optional waterproof phone pouch
- Test the water temperature before you enter and avoid soaking in water hotter than comfortable
- Limit your session to 15–20 minutes at a time to prevent overheating and dehydration
- Avoid submerging your head or swallowing hot spring water
- Stay on marked paths to avoid unstable ground near geothermal features
- Consult a doctor before you partake if you’re pregnant, have any heart conditions, or are immunocompromised
- Pay attention to local etiquette, respect any posted signs, and plan enough time for relaxation and gradual acclimation. In other words: chill out in a hot spring
Ready for a relaxing vacation? Find your next cruise.
Holland America Hot Spring Cruise Destinations
Holland America travels to a variety of places where you can explore natural hot springs:
| The Port | Hot Spring Excursion |
|---|---|
| 1. Qaqortoq, Greenland | Take a boat tour to a remote island where you can bathe in natural, hot pools surrounded by Arctic scenery and floating icebergs |
| 2. Fairbanks, Alaska | The Chena Hot Springs & Ice Museum Tour includes a visit to a 100+ year-old resort, a guided ice museum tour, and a soak in a natural outdoor hot springs rock lake |
| 3. Puerto Chacabuco, Chile | The Patagonian Fjord Cruise & Hot Springs Experience features a catamaran journey to rural hot spring pools surrounded by landscapes |
| 4. Roseau, Dominica | A Hot Springs Escape in Wotten Waven offers open-air volcanic mineral baths that is often combined with visits to local waterfalls |
| 5. Reykjavík, Iceland | Our Moonscapes, Hot Springs & Lobster Tails excursion includes visits to active geothermal areas and volcanic sites |
| 6. Kagoshima, Japan | Enjoy a traditional Japanese Hot Springs/ Sand Bath experience. But please note: local regulations do not permit visitors to go to an onsen with visible tattoos. |
You don’t have to leave the ship to enjoy a good, relaxing soakcation.
Restore your body and calm your mind at our full-service Spa & Salon, featured on every Holland America ship. Enjoy private massage rooms, a Thermal Suite & Hydropool — all designed for effortless relaxation. Take advantage of hot tubs on the Lido Deck or enjoy a cold drink by the adults-only Sea View Pool.
However you choose to experience thermal wellness, we encourage you to try it and discover its restorative benefits both on board and ashore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there hot springs visited during cruise itineraries?
Many destinations feature access to natural hot springs. The best way to find natural hot springs and swimming pools is to research the ports you’re visiting ahead of time and look into the available shore excursions.
How long should I plan to spend at a hot spring or lagoon during a cruise excursion?
It varies by individual, of course, but in general plan for 2–3 hours, allowing time to soak, relax, and enjoy any included amenities or dining experiences.
