Whether you’re looking for a quick manicure before a formal night or a three-day personalised treatment programme, many big ships now offer extensive wellness facilities that are hugely popular with passengers, whatever their pampering needs.

Some large modern ships have vast spas across more than one deck, often in prime positions, with thermal suites, thalassotherapy pools, large his and hers changing areas and numerous treatment rooms. On many, use of the thermal suites (saunas and steam rooms) is free, with passengers just paying for personal treatments. These can range from Swedish, Balinese or Thai massages (usually the most popular) to facials, body scrubs and wraps, reflexology and even acupuncture.

Some ships are going one step further and creating ‘destination spas’ that give a wellness theme to several elements of your holiday. This can include accommodation in spa cabins (with easier access to the spas, in-room spa products and some treatments included in the price), personalised spa programmes and even ‘spa restaurants’ offering light and healthy cuisine. Treatments for children and teenagers are becoming popular on some larger ships, too.

If the spa is going to be an important part of your cruise, then do your research and find the right ship. Also look to brands – many ship spas are operated by outside specialist companies but some cruise lines have developed their own spa brands with accompanying products.

Spas can get very busy, especially on sea days or before formal evenings. So it’s important to book your appointments as soon as you board, or find out whether there’s an online pre-boarding booking service via the ship’s website. If you’re planning to have several treatments then spa days or packages usually offer better value.

Attached to most spas you’ll find fitness centres – some with an extensive array of machines and several studios for yoga, pilates and exercise classes. Beauty salons offer everything from a cut and blow-dry to teeth-whitening or cellulite treatment, and there are usually boutiques where you can buy spa products to take a little bit of the magic home with you.

Ask your ACE travel agent for details.