Exploring New Possibilities in Wellness Tourism: Insights from a Floating Sauna in Tasmania, Australia

While “wellness tourism” is a well-established term overseas, it is finally gaining traction in Japan as well. Until now, the focus has been on retreat-style yoga experiences and stays at luxury spas aimed at escaping the hustle and bustle of daily life and rejuvenating the mind and body. However, in recent years, there has been a growing number of travelers seeking a more profound form of healing that brings them into harmony with nature.

When considering this kind of essential healing, the “sauna experience in harmony with nature” on Tasmania, Australia, serves as an excellent example. By introducing two highly acclaimed sauna facilities in Tasmania—the floating “Kuuma” and the lakeside “Floating Sauna Lake Derby”—we will explore new possibilities for tourism that blends local resources with wellness.

"Kuuma," a Wooden Sauna Boat in Southern Tasmania

"Kuuma," a wooden sauna boat floating in Northwest Bay on the outskirts of Hobart in southern Tasmania, is a unique mobile wellness facility launched in 2024. Standing on the deck, visitors are greeted by a tranquil bay stretching out before them; as mist drifts by and sunlight streams in, every moment becomes an experience of "immersing oneself in nature."

Founder and CEO Nathan Gore says, “While sauna boats are common in Scandinavia, Tasmania also has cold seawater, crisp air, and nature that changes with the seasons. In fact, I feel this is the perfect place to establish a sauna culture.”

After setting sail, the boat cruises for about 25 minutes before anchoring in North West Bay. That’s where the 90-minute session begins. The wood-fired Nordic-style sauna ensures the interior is thoroughly dry, and a pleasant heat envelops the body. After working up a sweat, you can jump straight into the sea from the deck.

“Even people who say they won’t go in because the water is cold end up jumping in anyway,” says Mr. Gore. “That’s because there’s an amazing sense of refreshment in the cold.”

The session lasts 90 minutes (including the cruise) and costs AUD 80 per person. The maximum capacity is eight people, and private charters for three hours are also available. While private bookings were initially common, 80% of sessions are now shared with other travelers, reflecting a growing number of tourists who enjoy socializing while traveling. Although sauna culture is not yet widespread in Australia, Kuuma is gradually changing that perception.

“Saunas are inherently social spaces. The unique charm of this boat is the ability to share an experience with strangers you happen to meet while traveling,” says Nathan.

A tranquil sauna on the shores of Lake Derby, embraced by the lake and forest

In Derby, a small town nestled in the mountains of northeastern Tasmania, a different kind of “tranquility” prevails. In this town known as a mountain biking hotspot, “Floating Sauna Lake Derby”—a wooden sauna anchored on the lake—welcomes visitors with the scent of firewood and the warmth of the wood.

Although the sauna literally floats on the lake, it is securely anchored, making it so quiet that you can barely hear the sound of the waves. In addition to the 60-minute sauna experience, 15 minutes are set aside before and after for preparation and relaxation. After working up a good sweat in the sauna, you can dive into the freshwater lake from the adjacent pier. Throughout this cycle, the scent of firewood, the eucalyptus forest stretching out before you, and the color of the sky reflected on the lake’s surface will satisfy all your senses.

Prices vary depending on the number of people: AUD 90 for two people and AUD 180 for four. The maximum capacity is six people, and only private bookings are accepted.

Tasmania’s Vision for the Future of “Local Resources × Wellness”

Abundant water resources, a cool climate, and a deep respect for nature. Tasmania holds rare potential in wellness tourism. Kuuma and Floating Sauna Lake Derby are prime examples of how these local strengths are being leveraged to transform the region’s unique charm into meaningful experiences.

Rather than simply importing Nordic culture, they offer a unique interpretation that blends with the local natural environment. This approach offers valuable lessons for tourism professionals worldwide.

Wellness tourism is not just about physical and mental recovery; it is also a journey that encourages reconnection with nature and culture. The sauna experience in Tasmania reminds us of this significance.

Considering the global trends in wellness tourism through the lens of this Tasmanian case study, it is highly likely that “small-scale destinations offering high experiential value by blending the natural environment with local culture”—much like the sauna experience—will proliferate in various regions. Rather than simply providing luxurious facilities, there will be a noticeable trend toward connecting with local communities.

Furthermore, the “visualization of self-care” through digital tools will become a new key factor. Digital tools that measure heart rate, sleep, and stress levels in real time—allowing users to tangibly feel the results of their experiences—are gradually being introduced at saunas, hot springs, and various activities around the world.

Wellness tourism will continue to evolve globally. It is important to keep an eye on the latest global trends.

With the cooperation of: Tourism Australia, Tourism Tasmania

*This article was originally published in the tourism industry news publication “Travel Voice” (July 2025) and has been edited by our company based on that source.