When two of Princess` ships are launched next spring, a new sea-going spa product will also debut, marking the first time a major cruise line has created and operated its own onboard spas. The new “Lotus Spa(R)” aboard Caribbean Princess and Sapphire Princess will feature an array of renowned sea-based treatments and services designed for both men and women, with even some special services for teens, plus custom staff uniforms designed by noted L.A. fashion designer Sue Wong. And, in an industry first, consumers will be able to make advance reservations for spa treatments prior to their cruise through Princess` web site.

The first new Lotus Spa will debut onboard Caribbean Princess in April 2004, and the second will launch on Sapphire Princess when the ship enters service in May. The Steiner Corporation, with whom Princess has had a long and successful history, will continue to operate the spas on the remainder of the Princess fleet.
“With the introduction of Caribbean and Sapphire Princess we had the opportunity to further enhance the onboard spa experience,” explained Jeff Kohl, Princess` Director of Spa Operations. “Our goal is to create a sanctuary for our guests where relaxation and rejuvenation of the body and mind come together in a warm, service-oriented environment.”
Kohl explained that the serenity of an Asian-themed spa setting has been well received by Princess passengers, and this latest move is designed to build upon that success. “It`s very exciting to be able to create a Princess-branded spa experience from the ground up. We were able to assemble an impressive collection of some of the most exciting products and treatments in the spa and beauty industries, plus add a distinctive element of Asian flair to the experience with the custom-designed uniforms by Sue Wong,” Kohl said. “Combine all this with a top-notch service credo of warmth and customer care, and we expect our passengers will discover yet another new experience which sets Princess apart.”

Kohl, who is also President of the International SPA Association (ISPA), says the organization commissioned a 2002 spa industry study conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers that shows the dramatic increase of spa-going consumers—a 71 percent increase in total spa visits between 1999 and 2001. “The industry numbers, along with our own results, show that the spa experience is growing in importance as a leisure activity. And we want to provide to our passengers the most innovative, pampering and rejuvenating spa experience possible,” he said.

Related stories on Caribbean Weekly:
(25/07/03) Princess Increases Strength in Caribbean

(01/10/03) Princess develops “Destination: Caribbean” on website
——-