Steamed to Perfection: Does The Ritz-Carlton Spa Live Up to the Hype?

In a city that thrives on high energy, can The Ritz-Carlton Spa truly offer an escape? Promising a blend of Eastern traditions

and modern luxury, this Marina Bay retreat claims to melt stress away like steam from a sauna.

But does it deliver? From signature treatments infused with local botanicals to thermal facilities designed for deep relaxation, we put this spa to the test. Whether you’re after a quick reset or an indulgent retreat, read on to find out if it’s worth the visit.

Overall Observations

The spa boasts a thoughtfully designed linear layout, with four private changing rooms situated at the top of the venue. Each changing area comfortably accommodates up to 20 guests, though, during my visits, I was pleased to find no more than three visitors using the facilities at any given time, ensuring a tranquil and exclusive experience.

As expected from a spa of this calibre, guests are provided with luxurious robes and plush towels, enhancing the sense of comfort and indulgence. Hydration is well considered, with access to ice-cold infused water, chilled towels, and bottled water, allowing visitors to refresh and rejuvenate effortlessly.

The spa maintains a relaxed yet refined approach to its rules. One notable policy is the strict prohibition of mobile phone usage, as clearly stated on signage—an essential touch to preserve the peaceful ambiance.

The jacuzzi, set at a soothing 40°C, is a generously sized 5 x 3 metres, offering ample room to unwind between sauna sessions. However, during my visit, only one of the jet buttons was functioning, meaning the shoulder and back water jets were unavailable—a disappointing limitation for those seeking a more therapeutic experience. That said, the jacuzzi itself was deeply comfortable, providing a welcome moment of relaxation in the spa's tranquil setting.

Sauna Experience

The centrepiece of the spa is a compact, four-seater, single-tier sauna. Due to Singapore’s strict 70°C maximum sauna regulation, this particular sauna maintained a modest 67°C, offering a gentle but enjoyable heat. However, the single-tier design limited the opportunity to experience the higher temperatures typically available on upper benches. This also resulted in a persistent cool draft around the ankles, slightly reducing the immersive warmth. The curved bench, while preventing full reclining, provided a comfortable upright seating position, allowing for relaxed yet well-supported posture. A water bucket was available for steam generation, though it lacked aromatics and was inconsistently refilled. On one occasion, the water had a noticeable chlorine-like scent, suggesting it may have been sourced from the jacuzzi rather than fresh supply. That said, the addition of water still delivered that satisfying burst of steam, creating brief moments of intense heat within the sauna.

Despite these minor drawbacks, I thoroughly enjoyed my time unwinding in this sauna. The considerate and respectful atmosphere among fellow guests contributed to the overall sense of relaxation and conviviality. For those looking to maximise the health benefits, I’d highly recommend indulging in multiple sessions during a visit.

Additional Facilities & Atmosphere

Sadly, the steam room was in a process of being upgraded on my second visit. This will surely be one to check out in the future! 

The spa is equipped with three showers, each offering a range of functions to suit different preferences. While generally well-maintained, one of the showers had a noticeable drain odour, reminiscent of the occasional sulphuric "eggy" smell found in spas worldwide. Guests seemed aware of this, as they gravitated towards the other two cubicles, which provided a fresher and more enjoyable experience.

The toilets were well-appointed, maintaining the spa’s commitment to hygiene and comfort. A dedicated relaxation space was available, allowing guests to acclimatise to room temperature, unwind, or even nap.

One notable aspect that could be further enhanced is the sensory experience of the spa. While the decor is elegant and well-maintained, the lack of natural light made the space feel slightly enclosed. Additionally, a greater emphasis on aromatherapy would elevate the ambiance—after all, a little sandalwood or essential oil infusion goes a long way in creating that signature spa atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the spa. While the focus appears to be heavily geared towards the therapy services, the facilities offer a relaxing and well-considered retreat. If you're planning a visit, I’d highly recommend indulging in one of their massages, as it’s clear that significant effort is placed into delivering high-quality treatments.