Do American Cruise Line Ships Have Hair Salons On Board

Yes, most American Cruise Line ships feature fully equipped hair salons offering haircuts, styling, coloring, and treatments for both men and women. These onboard salons provide convenient, professional services, so you can stay polished throughout your cruise—no need to skip your routine while at sea.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, most ships have salons: American Cruise Lines offers onboard hair salons on nearly all vessels.
• Services vary by ship: Confirm available treatments like cuts, coloring, or styling before booking.
• Book early: Salon appointments fill quickly due to limited space and high demand.
• Special occasions covered: Ideal for weddings, formal nights, or milestone celebrations at sea.
• Check pricing upfront: Costs are often higher than land-based salons; review fees in advance.

Do American Cruise Line Ships Have Hair Salons On Board?

Imagine this: you’re lounging on the sun deck of a luxurious cruise ship, the ocean breeze gently tousling your hair as you sip a cocktail. You glance in a mirror and notice your roots are showing, or your split ends are making a dramatic appearance. You start to wonder—can I get a quick touch-up or a full salon service while at sea? For many travelers, especially those on longer voyages, maintaining their personal grooming routine is essential. Whether it’s a simple haircut, a blowout before a formal night, or a restorative treatment, the question arises: do American cruise line ships have hair salons on board?

The answer is a resounding yes—but with nuances. Most major American cruise lines, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and Princess, offer onboard hair salons as part of their full-service spa and wellness facilities. These aren’t just makeshift stations; they are professional-grade salons operated by trained stylists and often affiliated with well-known beauty brands. However, the availability, services, pricing, and experience can vary significantly between cruise lines, ships, and itineraries. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about onboard hair salons, helping you plan your grooming needs before, during, and after your cruise.

Why Onboard Hair Salons Are a Game-Changer for Cruisers

Convenience for Extended Voyages

On cruises lasting a week or more, maintaining your hair’s health and appearance becomes more than a vanity concern—it’s a practical necessity. Long days in the sun, exposure to saltwater, and humidity can wreak havoc on your locks. Without access to a salon, many guests would be forced to endure split ends, frizz, or faded color until they return home. Onboard hair salons eliminate this problem by offering professional hair care right at sea. Whether you’re on a 7-day Caribbean getaway or a 14-day transatlantic crossing, you can schedule a cut, color, or treatment without stepping off the ship.

Special Occasion Preparation

Most cruise lines feature formal nights, themed parties, and special events like captain’s dinners or galas. These occasions often call for polished, camera-ready hair. Onboard salons allow guests to book blowouts, updos, or even intricate styling for these events. For example, Royal Caribbean’s “Formal Night” on its Oasis-class ships draws hundreds of guests in elegant attire, many of whom visit the salon to complete their look. A well-styled hairdo can elevate your confidence and enhance your overall cruise experience.

Post-Excursion Touch-Ups

After a day exploring tropical ports, your hair might be windblown, salt-crusted, or sun-damaged. Instead of waiting until your next port or the end of the cruise, you can book a quick conditioning treatment or a trim. This is especially valuable for travelers who want to maintain a consistent look for social media, family photos, or business meetings (for those on a work-cation).

Cost and Time Efficiency

While salon services on a cruise aren’t cheap, they can be more time-efficient than venturing into foreign cities. In ports with limited English-speaking salons or unfamiliar styling preferences, finding a reliable stylist can be a gamble. Onboard salons offer a known standard, professional staff, and the ability to book in advance. Plus, you avoid the hassle of transportation, language barriers, or unexpected closures.

Which American Cruise Lines Offer Hair Salons (And What to Expect)

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival operates Spa Carnival, a full-service wellness center on nearly all its ships. The salon, often branded as Salon by Mandara (a partnership with the global spa brand), offers a wide range of services. Guests can enjoy:

• Haircuts for men and women
• Coloring and highlights (including root touch-ups)
• Blowouts and styling
• Scalp treatments and deep conditioning
• Waxing and nail services (in the same facility)

Stylists are licensed professionals, and appointments can be booked via the Carnival Hub app or at the spa desk. Carnival often runs promotions like “Buy One, Get One 50% Off” during embarkation week, making it a smart time to schedule services.

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean’s Vitality Spa is one of the most upscale onboard spa experiences. The salon, branded as Salon by Elemis, features:

• Customized haircuts and styling
• Keratin treatments and Brazilian blowouts
• Highlights, balayage, and color correction
• Scalp massages and hydrating masks
• Specialty services for formal nights (e.g., chignons, curls)

Royal Caribbean uses premium products like Elemis, Kerastase, and Redken. The salon is located near the main pool deck or fitness center, making it easily accessible. On larger ships like Symphony of the Seas, the salon is spacious with floor-to-ceiling windows and ocean views—turning your haircut into a mini-vacation.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

NCL’s Spa & Salon by Mandara offers a tropical-inspired atmosphere with bamboo accents and calming music. Services include:

• Men’s and women’s haircuts
• Color services with ammonia-free options
• Hair extensions (limited availability)
• Scalp detox treatments
• “Quick Fix” blowouts (30-minute service)

One standout feature is NCL’s “Salon Happy Hour,” where guests can receive discounts on select services during off-peak hours (e.g., 9–11 AM). This is ideal for budget-conscious cruisers who still want professional care.

Princess Cruises

Princess’s Medi-Spa & Salon combines medical-grade skincare with hair services. The salon, branded as Salon by Steiner, is known for:

• Anti-aging hair treatments (e.g., collagen-infused masks)
• Color correction and gray coverage
• Formal styling for weddings or vow renewals
• Men’s grooming (beard trims, scalp treatments)

Princess often caters to older demographics, so their salon services emphasize subtle, elegant styling. The staff are experienced in working with mature hair types, including thinning hair and gray blending.

Other Notable Lines

Smaller or niche American lines like Holland America, Celebrity Cruises, and Oceania Cruises also offer salons, though with fewer daily appointments. Celebrity’s Salon by Kerastase is particularly popular for its use of high-end products and personalized consultations. Oceania, known for luxury and longer itineraries, provides full-service salons with extended hours to accommodate guests on extended voyages.

What Services Are Typically Offered (And What’s Rare)

Commonly Available Services

Most onboard salons cover the basics with a few premium upgrades. Here’s what you can generally expect:

• Haircuts: Men’s fades, women’s trims, layered cuts. Prices range from $50–$90.
• Styling: Blowouts, curls, straightening, and formal updos. $60–$120 depending on complexity.
• Coloring: Single-process color, root touch-ups, highlights, and balayage. $80–$200+.
• Conditioning Treatments: Deep conditioning, keratin, and scalp detox. $40–$150.
• Men’s Grooming: Beard trims, hot towel shaves, scalp massages. $30–$75.

Many salons also offer add-ons like hair gloss ($25), shine spray ($15), or scalp massages ($30 for 15 minutes).

Rare or Limited Services

Due to space, licensing, and equipment constraints, some services are either unavailable or offered only on select ships or itineraries:

• Hair Extensions: Available on some Royal Caribbean and NCL ships, but not guaranteed. Requires advance booking and consultation.
• Perms or Chemical Straightening: Rare due to ventilation requirements and chemical handling. Only offered on larger ships with dedicated ventilation systems.
• Wigs or Hairpieces: Not provided, but some salons can help with wig styling or maintenance.
• Advanced Color Corrections: Complex fixes (e.g., removing box dye) may require multiple sessions or referral to a specialist onshore.

Tip: If you need a service that’s not listed in the onboard spa menu, ask the spa manager in advance. They may accommodate special requests or refer you to a partner salon in a port city.

Specialty and Seasonal Services

Many cruise lines introduce seasonal or event-based services:

• Formal Night Packages: Includes blowout, makeup, and nail polish change. $150–$200.
• Wedding or Vow Renewal Styling: Custom updos, veil placement, and touch-up kits. $120–$250.
• Sun Damage Repair: Post-beach hydrating treatments with SPF-infused conditioners.
• “Salon Escape” Packages: Combine haircut, massage, and facial for a full day of pampering.

Booking, Pricing, and Tips for a Smooth Experience

How to Book Appointments

Booking your salon service is crucial—slots fill up quickly, especially on formal nights. Here’s how to secure your spot:

• Pre-Cruise Booking: Available on most cruise lines (Royal Caribbean, Carnival, NCL) via the cruise line’s website or app. You can often book up to 30–60 days before departure.
• Onboard Booking: Visit the spa desk on embarkation day. Early birds (first 24–48 hours) get the best availability.
• Walk-Ins: Rarely available. Only possible during off-peak hours or on shorter itineraries.

Pro Tip: Book your most important service (e.g., formal night styling) first. Then fill in with other appointments later.

Understanding Pricing and Fees

Onboard salon services are not included in your cruise fare. Expect to pay 30–50% more than you would at a land-based salon. Here’s a sample pricing table for a 7-day cruise:

Service	Carnival	Royal Caribbean	NCL	Princess
Women’s Haircut	$65	$80	$70	$75
Men’s Haircut	$50	$60	$55	$58
Blowout	$70	$90	$75	$85
Root Touch-Up	$85	$110	$95	$105
Deep Conditioning	$55	$75	$60	$70
Formal Updo	$90	$120	$100	$115

Additional notes:

• Gratuity: A 15–20% automatic gratuity is added to all salon services.
• Discounts: Look for “Spa Happy Hours,” “Buy One, Get One,” or loyalty program perks (e.g., Diamond+ on Carnival).
• Payment: Charged to your onboard account. No cash payments.

Tips for a Great Salon Experience

• Bring Photos: Show your stylist reference images of your desired cut or style.
• Arrive Early: 10–15 minutes before your appointment to fill out forms and discuss needs.
• Ask About Products: Salons use professional-grade products. Ask if they’re available for purchase (e.g., Kerastase, Redken).
• Request a Scalp Massage: Many stylists include this free during coloring or conditioning.
• Check for Allergies: Inform the stylist if you have sensitivities to ammonia, PPD, or fragrances.
• Tip Generously: While gratuity is automatic, extra cash tips (in envelopes) are appreciated for excellent service.

Alternatives and What to Do If the Salon Is Full

Onboard Alternatives

If the salon is fully booked, consider these options:

• Self-Care Kits: Purchase travel-sized conditioners, serums, or dry shampoos from the spa or gift shop.
• Hair Accessories: Use clips, headbands, or scarves to style your hair creatively.
• DIY Blowouts: Use the in-room blow dryer and a round brush. Many cabins have high-quality dryers.
• Ask the Concierge: The cruise concierge may know of off-peak slots or stylists with cancellations.

Port-Based Salons

In major ports like Nassau, St. Thomas, or Cozumel, you can find reputable salons. For example:

• Salon 180 (Nassau): English-speaking stylists, accepts walk-ins, $50–$80 for cuts.
• Hair & Beyond (St. Thomas): Offers keratin treatments and color services. $70–$150.
• Salon de Belleza (Cozumel): Popular with cruisers; book ahead via WhatsApp.

Caution: Research salons online, read reviews, and confirm pricing before booking. Avoid street touts offering “cheap haircuts.”

Last-Minute Solutions

• Roommate or Travel Buddy: If you’re traveling with someone skilled in hair care, they might help with a trim or blowout.
• Formal Wear Hacks: For formal night, wear a hat, fascinator, or elegant scarf to divert attention from hair.
• Embrace the Messy Look: Beachy waves or a low bun can be stylish and low-maintenance.

Conclusion: Yes, You Can Stay Stylish at Sea

So, do American cruise line ships have hair salons on board? Absolutely—and they’re more sophisticated and comprehensive than many travelers realize. From quick trims to formal updos, keratin treatments to scalp massages, these onboard salons provide professional, convenient, and often luxurious hair care services. While they come at a premium, the time saved, the quality of service, and the peace of mind they offer make them a worthwhile investment for many cruisers.

Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, planning your grooming needs in advance can enhance your vacation experience. Book early, compare pricing, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. And remember: while the ocean may be unpredictable, your hair doesn’t have to be. With the right salon service, you can step off the ship at every port—and at the end of your journey—feeling confident, refreshed, and camera-ready. So pack your bags, book that blowout, and set sail with style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do American Cruise Line ships have hair salons on board?

Yes, most American Cruise Line ships feature full-service hair salons as part of their onboard wellness amenities. These salons offer haircuts, styling, coloring, and treatments for both men and women.

What services are available at American Cruise Line hair salons?

The onboard hair salons typically provide a range of services, including cuts, blowouts, updos, and coloring. Some ships may also offer scalp treatments and specialized styling for formal nights.

Are salon appointments required on American Cruise Line ships?

Yes, it’s highly recommended to book appointments in advance, especially during peak times like sea days or formal nights. Walk-ins may be accommodated based on availability.

Do American Cruise Line ships have hair salons for special events?

Absolutely! The onboard hair salons specialize in event-ready styles, including bridal updos, prom looks, and elegant evening styles. Many guests use them before dining or attending onboard events.

How much do salon services cost on American Cruise Line ships?

Prices vary depending on the service and ship, but they’re generally comparable to land-based salons. Gratuities are often additional, so check the menu or ask when booking.

Are American Cruise Line hair salons open every day?

Salon hours depend on the itinerary, but they’re usually open daily, with extended hours on sea days. Schedules are posted in onboard newsletters or available at guest services.