Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival Splendor: Cloud 9 Spa Suites

This mainstream line is known for pleasing the masses, not indulging the elite. But in July 2008, its newest ship, the Carnival Splendor, will introduce spa suites. (Where hotel trends go, cruise lines will eventually follow.) These 68 suites will have private access to the 21,000-square-foot spa through their own dedicated elevator. The real bonus is that you can slip down for a late-night steam—even when the spa is closed to other guests. The cabins themselves may not be the biggest or most special, but in addition to exclusive spa access, they also have in-room yoga mats and elastic fitness bands, so you can work away all that onboard eating without leaving your stateroom. Bonus: Aerobics classes are free to Cloud 9 Spa Suite guests.

Best detail: The spa, which stretches over part of a whopping two decks, will have a massive thalassotherapy pool. The pool will be popular—probably too popular—so skip it during the day and plan to go late at night, when you'll have it all to yourself.

Set sail: Summer, Europe; winter, the Caribbean

Carnival Cruises
Tel: 800 227 6482
Cloud 9 Spa Suites from $300 per person per night, based on double occupancy

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