North Vancouver wellness attraction named 'coolest sauna experience'

Metro Vancouver is home to several world-class saunas for those looking for a wellness retreat. And a North Vancouver sauna based in Deep Cove just got a major shout-out.

National Geographic recently highlighted Sisu Swim Sauna as the “coolest sauna experience right now.”

“From public community centres to high-end spas, Vancouver has a longstanding love of saunas,” said writer Megan Hughes in the international publication.

“Floating versions bring the ritual onto open water, pairing intense heat with bracing fjord dips.”

The private rental floating sauna was first launched in 2024 by fitness entrepreneur Nate Morris, and sails in B.C.’s southernmost fjord, the Indian Arm.

According to the National Geographic spotlight, Morris constructed his sauna boat after spending time in Sweden, where he discovered coastal contrast therapy.

Though originally meant for personal use, his sauna boat proved popular, so Morris began chartering it to groups.

“We alternate between fjord and sauna, becoming increasingly comfortable with the cold,” shared Hughes of her experience.

“Some of the others are brave enough to launch themselves from the boat’s upper deck, taking their time in the water, while others opt to ease in inch by inch before staying submerged for only a few seconds.”

A two-hour private sauna boat session for up to 11 people costs $995, while a three-hour sailing for the same number of guests runs $1,470.

The National Geographic also highlighted the floating North Vancouver sauna as an example of how locals connect.

“I’ve come to realize this is typical of the way Vancouverites socialize,” Hughes added. “After-work drinks are replaced by run clubs and kayak trips; Saturday mornings spent in the mountains or the ocean.”

Vancouverites have plenty of options for sauna experiences around the city.

North America’s largest sauna opened last fall in the heart of downtown at 955 Pacific Blvd.

Tevah Wellness, a 4,200 sq. ft. facility, has a 725 sq. ft. sauna with the ability to accommodate up to 60 guests.

A WWII-era barge is also slated for a new life on the Kitsilano waterfront as the home of HAVN’s Vancouver sauna location.

The Vancouver Maritime Museum formally applied earlier this year to enable the establishment of a floating spa destination at Heritage Harbour, its marina in Kitsilano Point, located immediately north of the museum building.

HAVN is the same operator of the floating spa attraction that first opened at Victoria Inner Harbour in 2023, right in front of the B.C. Legislature.

The full National Geographic spotlight on Sisu Swim Sauna can be found online.