image: David Martinez. words: STACY BROOKS
in the know
Left: The Nordic Spa pool and whirlpool bath aboard the Viking Star
NEWS IN BRIEF
RIDING THE WELLNESS WAVE
From thermal cycling to sunrise yoga, cruises are increasingly helping travelers prioritize well-being and self-care
T
he growth of wellness-related travel is showing no signs of stopping. A Research and Markets report shows that the industry will
surpass $1 trillion in 2026, with savvy cruise lines tapping into the market with spa, fitness, amenity and excursion options that prioritize well-being. For example, Viking’s Nordic Spa is inspired by the Scandinavian tradition of alternating between hot and cold, which can benefit both physical and mental health. Guests can heat up in the sauna and cool down in the snow grotto (a glass-enclosed room with man-made snow) — the switch in temperature is said to help with circulation. Cruise lines are also providing innovative
ways to stay active. Virgin Voyages has a robust schedule of free fitness classes designed to appeal to all levels, from high-intensity interval training to a daily, open-air sunrise yoga class. AmaWaterways has also jumped on the active bandwagon. Alongside yoga classes on the deck,
the luxury river cruise line’s AmaMagna boasts the first full-sized pickleball court on board a ship. It’s also teamed up with adventure travel company Backroads to offer biking cruises along the Danube River. Meanwhile, Silversea takes a holistic approach
to wellness that extends beyond spa and fitness. Based around the belief that good sleep is the ultimate form of self-care, suites are outfitted with tailor-made mattresses, while guests can choose from a menu of different pillow options varying in material and firmness. Time spent on shore can also promote well-
being. Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers wellness- focused excursions that include a sunset yoga class on a golden-sand beach in Tenerife and a visit to Italy’s Terme dei Papi (Thermal Baths of the Popes), whose mineral-rich, spring-fed waters have been prized for their therapeutic properties since ancient Roman times.
Hawaii encourages volunteer tourism As Hawaii’s tourism sector booms, the state’s Malama Hawaii program helps visitors give back. The program connects tourists with volunteering opportunities including beach cleanups, food distribution and garden work days.
2027 itineraries for Backroads Adventure travel company Backroads will offer new trips to the Faroe Islands, Romania and Zanzibar in 2027. It’s also updated many existing itineraries, focusing on culinary experiences and family travel.
Orient Express’ first yacht The luxury train service has unveiled the Orient Express Corinthian. The 110-passenger yacht will cruise the Mediterranean and Adriatic through October 2026 and the Caribbean during the fall and winter.
fall 2026 • 13
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