Whether you want to maintain your workout routine or spend a relaxing afternoon at the spa, MSC Seaside has plenty of options for wellness and fitness.
Located on Deck 8, MSC Seaside’s wellness facilities include the MSC Aurea Spa and MSC Gym Powered by Technogym. The spa offers massages, beauty treatments, salon services, and an extensive Thermal Area featuring saunas, steam rooms, a Snow Room, and other relaxation experiences.
For passengers who prefer staying active, the gym provides cardio and strength-training equipment with panoramic ocean views.
One important distinction is that the gym is included in your cruise fare, while most spa services and Thermal Area access cost extra. Guests sailing with the Aurea Experience or MSC Yacht Club may receive additional spa benefits.
In this MSC Seaside Spa and Gym Guide, we’ll cover the facilities available, explain the Thermal Area, discuss spa treatments and gym equipment, and help you understand which services are included.
MSC Seaside Spa and Gym at a Glance
MSC Seaside’s main spa and fitness facilities are located together on Deck 8.
| Facility | Location | Additional Charge? |
|---|---|---|
| MSC Aurea Spa | Deck 8 | Treatments cost extra |
| Thermal Area | Deck 8 | Yes, unless included with your booking |
| Saunas and Steam Rooms | Deck 8 | Thermal Area access required |
| Snow Room | Deck 8 | Thermal Area access required |
| Massages and Body Treatments | Deck 8 | Yes |
| Hair Salon and Barber Shop | Deck 8 | Yes |
| Nail Salon | Deck 8 | Yes |
| Medi Spa and Beauty Services | Deck 8 | Yes |
| MSC Gym Powered by Technogym | Deck 8 | No |
| Specialized Fitness Classes | Deck 8 | May cost extra |
| Personal Training | Deck 8 | Yes |
| Top 19 Exclusive Solarium | Deck 19 | Included for eligible Aurea guests |
MSC Seaside has a particularly extensive Thermal Area, with several different heat, cold, and water-based experiences.
The gym is another highlight, offering a sizable fitness center with ocean views.
You don’t need to purchase spa services to use the gym, and you don’t need to book the Aurea Experience to purchase a massage or Thermal Area pass.
MSC Aurea Spa – Deck 8
MSC Aurea Spa is the main wellness and beauty center aboard MSC Seaside.
The spa combines treatment rooms, beauty services, and relaxation facilities in a dedicated space separate from the ship’s busier entertainment and pool areas.
MSC describes its Aurea Spa concept as being inspired by Balinese wellness traditions, with treatments designed around relaxation and rejuvenation.
On MSC Seaside, the spa includes:
- Thermal Area with saunas, steam rooms, and other relaxation experiences.
- Massage and body-treatment rooms.
- Facial and skincare treatments.
- Hair Salon.
- Nail Salon.
- Barber Shop.
- Medi Spa services.
- Spa Boutique.
For passengers who enjoy visiting spas while traveling, this is one of the more interesting facilities aboard MSC Seaside.
You could book a massage after a busy day exploring a port, enjoy the Thermal Area during a sea day, or schedule a salon appointment before an evening onboard.
And because the spa is located on Deck 8, it’s convenient to several of the ship’s other public spaces, including the Waterfront Boardwalk and Marketplace Buffet.
However, most spa services are not included in the standard cruise fare.
MSC Seaside Thermal Area: Saunas, Snow Room and More
One of the biggest attractions within the MSC Aurea Spa is the Thermal Area.
Unlike a traditional spa with just a sauna or steam room, MSC Seaside has several facilities designed around heat, cold, water, and relaxation.
Guests can move between different experiences during their reserved visit, following the spa’s guidelines.
The Thermal Area is separate from the ship’s regular swimming pools and hot tubs, and access is controlled.
What’s Included in the MSC Seaside Thermal Area?
MSC Seaside’s Thermal Area includes the following facilities.
| Thermal Facility | Description |
|---|---|
| Finnish Sauna | Traditional dry-heat sauna |
| Dark and Bright Sensory Steam Baths | Steam experiences with different lighting and sensory environments |
| Snow Room | Cold environment designed for cooling down after heated experiences |
| Salt Relax | Salt-themed relaxation area |
| Geyser Kneipp | Water-based contrast experience |
| Emotional Showers | Showers featuring changing temperatures and sensory effects |
| Heated Benches | Heated seating for relaxation |
| Blower Pool | Water-based relaxation feature with air jets |
The variety is one of the things that makes MSC Seaside’s Thermal Area interesting.
Rather than spending your entire visit in one sauna or steam room, you can experience several different environments.
Finnish Sauna
The Finnish Sauna provides a traditional dry-heat experience.
This is a familiar feature for passengers who regularly visit spas or wellness facilities.
Saunas can become quite hot, so it’s important to follow the posted guidelines and avoid staying longer than you’re comfortable with.
Sensory Steam Baths
MSC Seaside has both Dark and Bright Sensory Steam Baths.
These provide humid, steam-filled environments with different lighting and atmospheric features.
For passengers who prefer humid heat rather than the dry heat of a traditional sauna, the steam baths offer another option.
Snow Room
One of MSC Seaside’s more distinctive spa features is its Snow Room.
The Snow Room provides a cold environment that contrasts with the heated saunas and steam baths.
Some guests enjoy alternating between warm and cold experiences, although you should always follow your own comfort level and any health-related guidance.
It’s not something you’ll find in every cruise ship spa, making it one of the facilities worth exploring if you purchase Thermal Area access.
Emotional Showers and Kneipp Experience
The Emotional Showers offer different water temperatures and sensory effects.
MSC Seaside also has a Geyser Kneipp experience, which uses water as part of the wellness circuit.
These features provide alternatives to simply sitting in a sauna.
Heated Benches, Salt Relax and Blower Pool
For passengers who prefer a less intense experience, the Thermal Area also includes heated benches and a Salt Relax area.
The Blower Pool offers another water-based relaxation feature.
Together, these spaces create opportunities to take breaks between the other thermal experiences.
The exact availability of individual facilities can depend on maintenance and operational conditions, so check with spa staff if there’s a particular feature you’re interested in using.
Is the MSC Seaside Thermal Area Free?
No. Thermal Area access generally costs extra unless it’s included with your booked cruise experience.
Guests traveling with the standard Bella or Fantastica Experience typically need to purchase access.
Eligible Aurea and MSC Yacht Club guests receive Thermal Area benefits as part of their booking.
MSC also requires Thermal Area visits to be reserved in advance, including for passengers whose access is included.
The Thermal Area is restricted to guests ages 18 and older.
MSC Seaside Thermal Area Passes and Pricing
If you’re interested in using the Thermal Area, you may be able to purchase access through MSC before your cruise or onboard.
Available options can include individual visits and multi-day or cruise-length packages, depending on the sailing.
We wouldn’t recommend relying on older published Thermal Area prices because the cost can vary by itinerary, cruise length, and available promotions.
Should You Book the Thermal Area Before Your Cruise?
If the Thermal Area is something you definitely want to experience, it’s worth checking the available packages before sailing.
MSC allows passengers to purchase selected spa services and packages before embarkation, and advance booking can sometimes offer better pricing.
However, the best value depends on the specific offer.
For someone who only wants to visit once, an individual session may make more sense.
For passengers who plan to spend time in the Thermal Area on several days, a multi-visit or cruise-length package may be more attractive.
Does a Massage Include Thermal Area Access?
Not necessarily.
Purchasing a massage or other spa treatment doesn’t automatically guarantee unlimited access to the Thermal Area.
Some spa packages may combine treatments with Thermal Area access, but the exact inclusions depend on the offer.
Before purchasing a package, check whether Thermal Area access is included, how long it lasts, and whether a reservation is required.
Massages and Spa Treatments on MSC Seaside
MSC Seaside offers a variety of massages and body treatments through the MSC Aurea Spa.
For many passengers, booking a massage is one of the easiest ways to enjoy a little extra relaxation during a cruise.
MSC’s spa program features Balinese-inspired treatments, along with other massage and wellness services.
Depending on the current menu, options may include traditional relaxation massages, hot-stone treatments, couples treatments, facials, and body treatments.
The exact selection can change, so we wouldn’t recommend planning around a particular massage until you’ve confirmed it’s available for your sailing.
How Much Do Massages Cost?
Massage prices depend on the treatment, length of the appointment, and available promotions.
MSC may offer discounts for advance bookings or selected onboard appointments.
Before making a reservation, check the total price, including any applicable service charges.
Also review the cancellation policy, especially if you’re booking an appointment during a port day when your plans could change.
When Is the Best Time to Book a Massage?
Sea days are a natural choice because many passengers prefer spending a relaxing afternoon at the spa.
However, sea-day appointments can also be popular.
If you have a preferred time or want a particular treatment, we recommend looking at availability early in the cruise.
Passengers who are flexible may find opportunities for promotions during port days or less popular appointment periods.
Hair Salon, Nail Salon and Barber Shop
MSC Seaside’s spa facilities extend beyond massages and the Thermal Area.
The ship also has several beauty and grooming services.
Hair Salon
The Hair Salon offers professional hair services, including cutting, styling, and coloring.
This can be convenient if you want to have your hair styled before an evening event or simply enjoy a salon appointment while on vacation.
Nail Salon
The Nail Salon offers manicures, pedicures, and other nail treatments.
For passengers who enjoy these services, it’s another option for spending some relaxation time onboard.
Barber Shop
MSC Seaside also has a dedicated Barber Shop.
Services can include haircuts, grooming, styling, and shaving.
All of these services carry additional charges.
We recommend confirming prices and appointment availability directly with the spa staff.
Medi Spa and Beauty Treatments
MSC Seaside also has a Medi Spa offering specialized aesthetic and beauty services.
The ship’s spa facilities were designed to accommodate services related to anti-aging treatments, skincare, and body shaping.
However, the availability of specific procedures can change over time.
We wouldn’t assume that every treatment advertised across MSC’s fleet is available aboard Seaside.
If you’re interested in a particular Medi Spa service, contact the spa staff to confirm the procedure, qualifications, pricing, and any applicable restrictions before booking.
MSC Seaside Gym Powered by Technogym – Deck 8
Location: Deck 8 – Ocean Cay
For passengers who want to maintain their exercise routine during their cruise, MSC Seaside has a dedicated fitness center equipped with Technogym equipment.
The gym is approximately 9,365 square feet and offers panoramic ocean views.
One of the advantages of working out on a cruise ship is the setting.
Instead of looking across a parking lot or a row of televisions, you can exercise while watching the ocean through the gym’s windows.
MSC Seaside’s fitness center is large enough to accommodate a variety of cardio and strength-training activities.
And unlike the spa’s Thermal Area, regular gym access is included in the cruise fare.
Cardio Equipment
MSC Seaside’s gym offers cardio equipment suitable for passengers who want to maintain their normal exercise routine.
Equipment generally includes:
- Treadmills.
- Stationary exercise bikes.
- Elliptical machines and other cardio equipment.
For runners, the treadmills are particularly useful.
Even if you’re someone who prefers running outdoors, a treadmill can be a practical option while cruising.
You don’t have to worry about the weather, finding a safe running route in port, or trying to exercise on crowded outdoor decks.
And getting in a workout while looking out at the ocean isn’t a bad alternative.
Strength Training Equipment
The gym also includes Technogym strength-training equipment.
Passengers can use the available resistance machines and other equipment for strength workouts.
Whether you prefer a full-body routine or simply want to keep up with your regular training, the fitness center provides options beyond cardio.
We wouldn’t promise a particular selection of free weights, squat racks, or specialized equipment because gym layouts and individual machines can change.
If your training depends on something specific, it’s worth confirming the available equipment onboard.
Is the MSC Seaside Gym Free?
Yes. Regular access to the MSC Seaside gym is included in your cruise fare.
Passengers do not need to book the Aurea Experience or purchase a spa package to use the fitness center.
Standard cardio and strength-training equipment are available to eligible guests without an additional gym admission fee.
Specialized fitness classes and personal training are separate services and may carry charges.
For passengers who exercise regularly, the gym is a valuable included amenity.
Fitness Classes and Personal Training
MSC offers fitness activities and training programs across its fleet, and MSC Seaside has facilities to support group and individual workouts.
Depending on the sailing, the schedule may include activities such as stretching, yoga, group fitness, and other instructor-led sessions.
Personal training may also be available for passengers who prefer individual guidance.
Are Fitness Classes Free?
Some basic fitness activities may be included in the cruise fare, while specialized classes and personal training can cost extra.
The exact schedule and pricing can change.
We recommend checking the MSC for Me app or visiting the fitness center early in your cruise to see what’s offered.
If you enjoy group workouts, it’s worth checking the schedule on embarkation day because certain sessions may have limited capacity.
MSC Seaside Gym and Spa Age Requirements
MSC has specific age and safety rules for its gym and spa facilities.
These are particularly important for families traveling with teenagers.
Gym Age Requirements
MSC’s published gym rules include the following restrictions:
| Age | General Gym Rules |
|---|---|
| Under 13 | Not permitted to use the gym |
| 13-15 | Parent or guardian waiver and adult supervision required |
| 16-17 | Parent or guardian waiver required; additional supervision rules may apply |
| 18+ | Standard adult access |
Guests under 16 are not permitted to use the gym’s weightlifting or resistance equipment.
MSC also requires appropriate exercise clothing and closed-toe athletic shoes.
The fitness staff may apply additional restrictions based on equipment, activities, or safety requirements.
Spa Age Requirements
The Thermal Area is restricted to guests ages 18 and older.
Some salon services and selected treatments may be available to minors under specific conditions, including parental consent and supervision.
Those arrangements are separate from adult Thermal Area access.
MSC also restricts certain heat treatments during pregnancy.
If you have health considerations that could affect sauna, steam room, or other thermal experiences, review the spa’s guidance before participating.
Aurea Experience and Yacht Club Spa Benefits
MSC Seaside offers different cruise experiences, and some include additional wellness benefits.
This is an important distinction because passengers with certain bookings may already have Thermal Area access included.
Bella and Fantastica
Passengers sailing with Bella or Fantastica typically receive complimentary access to the gym.
However, Thermal Area access is generally an additional purchase.
Massages, salon appointments, and other spa treatments are also charged separately.
Aurea Experience
The Aurea Experience includes additional wellness benefits.
Eligible adult guests receive access to the Thermal Area, subject to reservation requirements.
Aurea guests also receive a 10% discount on spa treatments purchased onboard under MSC’s published benefits.
MSC Seaside has another Aurea feature worth knowing about: the Top 19 Exclusive Solarium.
Located on Deck 19, this outdoor relaxation space includes loungers and a whirlpool.
It’s important to understand that the Top 19 Solarium and the indoor Thermal Area are two separate facilities.
The Solarium offers outdoor relaxation, while the Thermal Area provides saunas, steam rooms, and other wellness experiences.
MSC Yacht Club
MSC Yacht Club guests also receive special spa benefits.
These include unlimited Thermal Area access under MSC’s Yacht Club benefits, subject to the spa’s reservation procedures and operating rules.
Yacht Club guests may also receive discounts on selected spa treatments.
However, massages and other individual spa services are not automatically complimentary simply because you’re staying in Yacht Club.
For passengers comparing the different booking options, included Thermal Area access can be a useful benefit to consider.
But we’d only assign significant value to that perk if you actually plan to use the spa.
MSC Seaside Spa and Gym Hours
The spa and fitness center don’t necessarily follow the same operating schedule.
The gym may open earlier in the day, while the spa operates according to its treatment and Thermal Area schedule.
Specific opening and closing times can vary by sailing.
Thermal Area visits require reservations, and massage appointments depend on availability.
If you’re planning to use the gym regularly, check the posted hours on your first day.
For spa appointments, it’s worth reviewing availability as soon as possible if you have a preferred time.
The MSC for Me app and onboard spa staff are the best resources for current schedules.
What’s Included and What Costs Extra?
Here’s a quick comparison of MSC Seaside’s spa and fitness services.
| Facility or Service | Included in Cruise Fare? |
|---|---|
| Regular gym access | Yes |
| Standard cardio equipment | Yes |
| Standard strength-training equipment | Yes |
| Selected fitness activities | Depends on activity |
| Specialized fitness classes | May cost extra |
| Personal training | No |
| Thermal Area | Only with eligible booking benefits |
| Finnish Sauna and Steam Baths | Thermal Area access required |
| Snow Room | Thermal Area access required |
| Massages and Body Treatments | No |
| Facials | No |
| Hair Salon | No |
| Nail Salon | No |
| Barber Shop | No |
| Medi Spa | No |
| Top 19 Exclusive Solarium | Included for eligible Aurea guests |
For most passengers, the biggest takeaway is simple: the gym is free, but the spa is primarily a paid experience.
If you booked Aurea or Yacht Club, check you
r benefits before purchasing any additional Thermal Area access.
Tips for Using the MSC Seaside Spa and Gym
There are a few things we’d recommend keeping in mind if you plan to use the wellness facilities during your cruise.
Check Spa Prices Before Boarding
MSC offers opportunities to purchase spa services before your cruise.
If you’re considering a massage or Thermal Area package, compare the advance prices with the options available onboard.
Booking early may provide savings, although individual promotions can vary.
Reserve the Thermal Area
Even if your cruise experience includes Thermal Area access, don’t assume you can walk in whenever you want.
MSC requires reservations for Thermal Area sessions.
We recommend confirming your access and arranging visits early in the cruise.
Bring Proper Workout Clothes
The gym requires appropriate fitness clothing and closed-toe athletic shoes.
If you plan to exercise, pack the same basic clothing and shoes you would use at home.
For a longer sailing, consider how many workouts you expect to complete when deciding what to pack.
Plan Around Sea Days
Sea days are a convenient time for both gym workouts and spa appointments.
However, they can also be popular.
If you prefer exercising when fewer people are using the equipment, consider trying different times to see what works best.
For spa treatments, booking earlier gives you more flexibility when selecting an appointment.
Consider Whether a Thermal Pass Is Worth It
The Thermal Area can be a great addition to your cruise, but it isn’t necessarily something every passenger needs.
If you enjoy saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation facilities, you may find it worth the extra cost.
If you’d rather spend your days exploring ports, enjoying the pools, or participating in onboard activities, a cruise-length pass might not provide much value.
Think about how often you’ll realistically use it before purchasing.
Don’t Confuse the Thermal Area With the Pool Deck
MSC Seaside has several swimming pools and whirlpools available to guests in different areas of the ship.
Those are separate from the MSC Aurea Spa Thermal Area.
You can enjoy the ship’s regular pool facilities without purchasing a Thermal Area pass.
For more details on the swimming facilities, see our MSC Seaside Pools, Water Slides and Hot Tubs Guide.
Final Thoughts on the MSC Seaside Spa and Gym
MSC Seaside offers a strong combination of spa and fitness facilities for passengers who want to relax, stay active, or enjoy a little of both during their cruise.
The MSC Aurea Spa is particularly interesting because of its extensive Thermal Area.
With saunas, steam baths, a Snow Room, emotional showers, and several relaxation features, it provides more variety than a traditional spa centered primarily around massages.
For passengers who enjoy wellness experiences, it may be worth considering a Thermal Area visit or purchasing a package.
Meanwhile, the MSC Gym Powered by Technogym provides a sizable fitness center with ocean views, making it easier to maintain your workout routine while at sea.
And since gym access is included in the cruise fare, you don’t have to spend anything extra to use the regular exercise equipment.
Our recommendation is to explore your spa options before boarding, especially if you plan to book massages or use the Thermal Area.
If you’re sailing with Aurea or MSC Yacht Club, make sure you understand your included benefits before purchasing additional access.
And if you’re simply looking to keep up with your exercise routine, the gym is one of the ship’s useful included amenities.
Whether your idea of relaxation is spending time in a sauna or getting in a workout while watching the ocean, MSC Seaside has options for both.