Do American Cruise Line Ships Have Barbershops and Beauty Salons for Passengers

Yes, most American Cruise Line ships feature full-service barbershops and beauty salons for passengers seeking haircuts, styling, manicures, and spa treatments during their voyage. These onboard amenities cater to both men and women, offering professional grooming and relaxation services in a convenient, upscale setting.

Key Takeaways

• Most ships have salons: American Cruise Line offers beauty salons on nearly all vessels.
• Barbershops are limited: Only select ships feature dedicated barbershops for men’s grooming.
• Book ahead: Reserve salon services early due to high demand and limited availability.
• Services vary by ship: Confirm offerings before sailing—amenities differ across the fleet.
• Premium pricing applies: Salon treatments are priced higher than land-based equivalents.
• Spa packages available: Combine beauty services with wellness treatments for added value.

Introduction: The Modern Cruise Experience and Personal Grooming at Sea

Imagine gliding across the calm waters of the Mississippi River or exploring the rugged coastline of Alaska, all while enjoying the luxury and convenience of a modern cruise ship. For many travelers, a cruise is not just about the destinations—it’s about the journey. From gourmet dining to Broadway-style shows, cruise lines go to great lengths to ensure every aspect of a passenger’s experience is exceptional. But what about personal grooming? In today’s world, where looking and feeling your best is a priority, many cruisers wonder: do American cruise line ships have barbershops and beauty salons for passengers?

The answer is a resounding yes—for the most part. As the cruise industry has evolved, so too have the onboard amenities, with personal care services becoming a standard feature on many American-based cruise lines. Whether you’re a business executive needing a crisp haircut before a formal dinner, a bride preparing for a wedding at sea, or simply someone who enjoys a relaxing spa day, cruise ships now offer a surprising range of grooming services. This blog post dives deep into the availability, quality, and nuances of barbershops and beauty salons across major American cruise lines, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Celebrity, and smaller river and coastal operators. You’ll discover what to expect, how to prepare, and how to make the most of these onboard luxuries.

Why Onboard Grooming Services Matter: The Rise of Wellness at Sea

Gone are the days when cruise ships were merely floating hotels with basic services. Today’s cruise lines position themselves as holistic wellness and lifestyle destinations, offering everything from fitness centers and meditation rooms to full-service spas and salons. The inclusion of barbershops and beauty salons is not just a luxury—it’s a strategic response to passenger demand for convenience, consistency, and quality during their vacation.

The Evolution of Cruise Ship Amenities

Over the past two decades, cruise ships have transformed into floating cities, with amenities that rival five-star resorts. The shift began in the early 2000s, when cruise lines recognized that passengers were increasingly valuing self-care and grooming during their trips. According to a 2022 Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) report, over 68% of cruise travelers use spa or beauty services during their voyage, with haircuts, manicures, and facials among the most popular.

This trend has led to the expansion of onboard salons, often operated by well-known spa brands such as Mandara Spa (a joint venture between Steiner Leisure and Carnival Corporation) and Spa Chakra (found on Norwegian Cruise Line). These partnerships ensure professional standards, trained staff, and access to high-end products, even in the middle of the ocean.

Convenience and Peace of Mind

One of the biggest advantages of having a barbershop or beauty salon onboard is convenience. Passengers don’t need to worry about:

• Finding a reputable salon in a foreign port
• Navigating language barriers or cultural differences in service expectations
• Scheduling appointments around shore excursions
• Carrying extra grooming supplies (e.g., razors, hair products)

Instead, everything is available within steps of your stateroom. For example, on Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas, the Vitality Spa & Salon is located on Deck 5, just a short walk from the main atrium and dining areas. This central location makes it easy to pop in for a quick trim or a relaxing scalp massage between activities.

Special Occasions and Formal Nights

Many cruise itineraries include formal nights, weddings at sea, or milestone celebrations (e.g., anniversaries, birthdays). For these events, looking your best is essential. Onboard salons offer services tailored to such occasions:

• Men: Beard shaping, hot towel shaves, professional haircuts with styling products
• Women: Updos, blowouts, makeup applications, and bridal hair packages
• Couples: Couples’ spa treatments with synchronized hair and skincare services

For instance, Carnival Cruise Line’s Spa Carnival offers a “Glamour Night Package” that includes a haircut, shave, and facial for men, and a blowout and makeup session for women—perfect for formal night photos.

Barbershops vs. Beauty Salons: What’s Available on Major American Cruise Lines

While all major American cruise lines offer some form of grooming services, the scope and specialization vary. Understanding the differences between a barbershop (typically focused on men’s grooming) and a beauty salon (offering broader services for all genders) can help you plan accordingly.

Carnival Cruise Line: Fun and Functional Grooming

Carnival, known for its lively, casual atmosphere, offers the Spa Carnival on most of its ships. While not branded as a traditional barbershop, the spa provides:

• Men’s haircuts and shaves
• Beard trims and hot towel treatments
• Women’s haircuts, styling, and coloring (on select ships)
• Manicures, pedicures, and facials

Notably, Carnival’s newer ships, such as Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration, feature expanded salon spaces with dedicated men’s grooming zones. However, full barbershop experiences (e.g., straight razor shaves, classic barber chairs) are limited. Instead, the focus is on quick, efficient services that fit Carnival’s “fun ship” vibe.

Royal Caribbean: Premium Spa and Salon Experiences

Royal Caribbean takes onboard grooming to a higher level with its Vitality Spa & Salon, operated by Steiner Leisure. The salon offers:

• Professional barber services: Haircuts, shaves, beard shaping (available on all ships)
• Women’s beauty services: Haircuts, coloring, blowouts, updos
• Men’s spa treatments: Facials, scalp massages, and grooming packages
• Specialty services: Bridal packages, formal night styling

On ships like Symphony of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas, the salon is spacious, with separate stations for barbers and stylists. Royal Caribbean also offers a “Gentlemen’s Grooming Lounge” on select voyages, featuring classic barber chairs, vintage décor, and complimentary aftershave samples.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Spa Chakra and Gender-Inclusive Services

NCL’s Spa Chakra is one of the most comprehensive onboard spa and salon brands. While there’s no standalone barbershop, the salon is fully equipped to serve men and women with equal expertise. Services include:

• Men’s haircuts and shaves (including straight razor shaves on request)
• Beard grooming and scalp treatments
• Women’s hair coloring and keratin treatments
• Gender-neutral pricing and inclusive staff training

NCL also offers “Men’s Spa Days,” where male passengers can enjoy a full suite of grooming and relaxation services, including deep tissue massages, facials, and haircuts—all in a private, quiet environment.

Celebrity Cruises: Luxury and Sophistication

Positioned as a premium cruise line, Celebrity Cruises features the Celebrity Spa & Salon, which emphasizes luxury and personalized service. Key offerings:

• Barber services: Classic haircuts, hot towel shaves, beard sculpting
• Women’s salon: Blowouts, updos, makeup artistry
• Signature packages: “Executive Grooming” (for men), “Red Carpet Ready” (for women)
• Use of high-end products: Kerastase, Redken, and Elemis

On Celebrity’s Edge-class ships, the salon is located in the Spa & Wellness zone, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering ocean views during your service. The line also offers “at-sea barber experiences,” where a barber visits your stateroom for a private shave or trim—ideal for business travelers or those with mobility concerns.

American River and Coastal Cruise Lines: Smaller Ships, Big Services

Even smaller American cruise operators, such as American Queen Voyages (Mississippi River) and UnCruise Adventures (Alaska, Hawaii), include grooming services, though on a more limited scale. For example:

• American Queen’s Queen’s Spa offers basic haircuts and shaves, with advance booking required
• UnCruise includes a “grooming kit” in staterooms and offers mobile stylists for special events
• Purely river-based lines (e.g., Victory Cruise Lines) often partner with local salons in port cities for off-ship services

While these lines don’t have full salons, they recognize the importance of grooming and often provide alternatives, such as discounted off-ship salon coupons or onboard styling consultations.

What Services Can You Expect? A Breakdown of Common Offerings

Whether you’re booking a 3-day Bahamas getaway or a 14-day Alaska cruise, knowing what services are available helps you plan your grooming schedule. Below is a detailed look at the most common offerings across American cruise lines.

Barber Services: More Than Just a Haircut

Modern onboard barbershops go beyond basic trims. Expect:

• Haircuts and Styling: From fades to classic cuts, using professional clippers and scissors
• Hot Towel Shaves: A luxurious, close shave with pre-warmed towels, shaving cream, and aftershave balm
• Beard Trimming and Shaping: Precision work for beards, mustaches, and sideburns
• Scalp and Face Treatments: Deep cleansing, exfoliation, and moisturizing for men with sensitive skin
• Executive Packages: Combines haircut, shave, facial, and scalp massage (e.g., Royal Caribbean’s “Gentleman’s Escape”)

Tip: For the best results, bring a photo of your desired haircut or beard style. Stylists appreciate visual references, especially when working with diverse hair types.

Beauty and Hair Services for Women

Women’s services are often more extensive and include:

• Haircuts and Blowouts: From layered cuts to sleek, straight styles
• Updos and Styling: For formal nights, weddings, or themed parties
• Hair Coloring: Highlights, lowlights, and root touch-ups (available on larger ships)
• Makeup Applications: Full-face makeup, bridal makeup, or “natural glam” looks
• Extensions and Treatments: Keratin smoothing, deep conditioning, and tape-in extensions (on select ships)

Example: On Celebrity Cruises, the “Red Carpet Ready” package includes a blowout, makeup application, and a mini skincare consultation—perfect for a gala night.

Nail, Skin, and Wellness Services

Most onboard salons integrate nail and skincare services into their offerings:

• Manicures and Pedicures: Regular, gel, and paraffin treatments
• Facials: Hydrating, anti-aging, and acne-focused treatments
• Waxing: Eyebrow, facial, and body waxing (availability varies by ship)
• Massages: Often located in the same spa area, with options like Swedish, deep tissue, and hot stone

Tip: Book a “spa day” package (e.g., 3-4 services in one day) to save money and maximize relaxation. Many lines offer discounts for multi-service bookings made before the cruise.

How to Book and Maximize Your Salon Experience

Booking salon services on a cruise ship requires planning, especially during peak seasons. Here’s how to ensure a smooth and satisfying experience.

Booking Options: Pre-Cruise vs. Onboard

Most cruise lines allow you to book salon services in two ways:

• Pre-Cruise (Online): Available 30-90 days before departure via the cruise line’s website. Ideal for securing popular time slots (e.g., formal night, wedding day)
• Onboard: Visit the spa/salon desk on embarkation day. Staff can assist with same-day appointments or future bookings

Pro Tip: Pre-book at least one service (e.g., haircut, shave) to avoid long waitlists. On busy ships, popular stylists may be booked weeks in advance.

Costs and Value: What You’ll Pay

Salon services are not included in your cruise fare. Prices vary by ship, service, and location. Below is a sample price table for common services on major American cruise lines:

Service	Carnival	Royal Caribbean	Norwegian	Celebrity
Men’s Haircut	$25–$35	$35–$45	$30–$40	$40–$50
Hot Towel Shave	$20–$30	$35–$45	$30–$40	$40–$50
Women’s Blowout	$40–$55	$50–$65	$45–$60	$60–$75
Manicure	$30–$40	$35–$45	$30–$40	$40–$50
Facial (60 min)	$90–$120	$100–$140	$95–$130	$120–$160
Formal Night Hair & Makeup	$75–$100	$90–$120	$85–$110	$110–$140

Note: Prices are approximate and subject to change. Gratuities (typically 15–20%) are usually added automatically. Look for “spa credit” offers in pre-cruise promotions to offset costs.

Tips for a Great Salon Experience

• Arrive 10–15 minutes early to fill out intake forms and discuss your needs
• Communicate clearly with your stylist or barber—bring photos if needed
• Ask about products used; many salons sell high-end brands (e.g., Aveda, Kerastase)
• Check cancellation policies—missed appointments may incur fees
• Use spa credits wisely—some can be applied to salon services

Special Considerations and Alternatives

While most American cruise lines offer robust salon services, there are exceptions and alternatives to keep in mind.

Smaller Ships and River Cruises

As mentioned earlier, river and expedition cruise lines may not have full salons. However, many:

• Partner with local salons in port cities (e.g., New Orleans, Juneau)
• Offer mobile stylists for special events
• Provide grooming kits with basic tools (scissors, razors, combs)

Tip: If you’re on a river cruise, ask the guest services desk for salon recommendations in upcoming ports. Some lines even arrange group appointments.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

Most onboard salons are wheelchair accessible, with wide doorways and adjustable chairs. Staff are trained to accommodate diverse needs, including:

• Passengers with limited mobility
• Hair textures and types (e.g., curly, afro, textured)
• Gender-neutral service environments

Celebrity Cruises and NCL, in particular, emphasize inclusivity, with stylists trained in cultural competency and diverse hair care.

DIY Grooming: What to Pack

Even with onboard salons, it’s wise to bring a few essentials:

• Travel-sized hair products (gel, pomade, spray)
• Disposable razors or a compact electric trimmer
• Nail clippers, file, and polish (for touch-ups)
• Skincare products (especially if you have sensitive skin)

Bonus: Many cruise lines offer “grooming stations” in staterooms or public areas with mirrors, lighting, and outlets—perfect for last-minute touch-ups.

Conclusion: Grooming at Sea Is More Accessible Than Ever

The days of roughing it at sea are long gone. Today’s American cruise line ships are equipped with barbershops and beauty salons that rival those on land, offering everything from quick trims to full spa makeovers. Whether you’re a man seeking a sharp shave before a formal dinner, a woman preparing for a wedding at sea, or simply someone who values self-care during vacation, you’ll find professional, convenient, and high-quality grooming services onboard.

From Carnival’s fun-focused Spa Carnival to Celebrity’s luxurious salon suites, the range of options ensures there’s something for every traveler. By understanding what services are available, how to book them, and what to expect in terms of cost and quality, you can enhance your cruise experience and return home looking and feeling your best. So the next time you pack your bags for a cruise, leave the clippers behind—your onboard barber or stylist is ready to help you shine, one sea mile at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do American Cruise Line ships have barbershops and beauty salons onboard?

Yes, most American Cruise Line ships feature full-service barbershops and beauty salons for passengers. These facilities offer haircuts, styling, manicures, and other grooming services to keep you looking sharp during your cruise.

What services are available at the beauty salons on American Cruise Line ships?

The onboard beauty salons provide a range of services, including haircuts, coloring, blowouts, facials, and waxing. Some ships also offer specialty treatments like scalp massages and aromatherapy sessions.

Can I book an appointment at the barbershop on an American Cruise Line ship?

Yes, you can schedule appointments for haircuts, shaves, and beard trims at the barbershops onboard American Cruise Line vessels. It’s recommended to book early, as these services are popular and fill up quickly.

Are barbershops and beauty salons included in the cruise fare?

No, services at the barbershops and beauty salons are not included in the base fare and are offered at an additional cost. Pricing varies depending on the treatment, and gratuities may be added separately.

Do American Cruise Line ships cater to men’s grooming needs?

Absolutely! The barbershops on American Cruise Line ships specialize in men’s grooming, offering classic haircuts, hot towel shaves, and beard care. These services are designed to provide a luxurious and relaxing experience.

Are beauty salons on American Cruise Line ships staffed by licensed professionals?

Yes, all beauty salon and barbershop staff are licensed and experienced professionals trained to deliver high-quality services. They use premium products to ensure you receive a spa-like experience at sea.