Before you visit

Frequently asked questions

All you need to know before your VELA experience

FAQs

Find answers to common questions about booking, arrival, and your visit.

Is VELA accessible?

Our spa is fully wheelchair accessible with accessible parking, and treatment rooms. Please let us know of any accessibility needs when booking so we can prepare accordingly.

How big are your float pools?

Our float pools are approximately 134cm wide by 220cm long

How do I book?

Book directly through our website/online booking system. Select your service, preferred date and time, and complete payment. You'll receive a confirmation email immediately.

How long is a session?

Session times vary depending on the experience you choose (Bathhouse, Float, Spa Treatments etc). We recommend arriving 15 minutes before your start time to settle in and get oriented.

What's the difference between off peak and peak pricing?

Off peak covers Monday to Thursday. Peak covers Friday to Sunday. Passes and memberships can be used 7 days a week, so you can choose the option that suits how you like to visit.

Is a bathhouse session included with my treatment?

Yes. A 60 minute bathhouse immersion is included with every 60 minute or longer treatment. Arrive early to enjoy it before your treatment begins.

Please Note: If you are using the Bathhouse before your treatment, it is recommended to finish on a cold therapy (shower or plunge) to stabalise the skin before your treatment.

How do I purchase a gift card?

Gift cards can be purchased online or in the spa.

What should I bring?

Bring comfortable swimmers. We provide towels, earplugs, and a private changing room. Leave your phone and valuables in your locker. Arrive 15 minutes early to settle in.

What are your dining hours?

Dining at VELA is open Monday to Sunday from 9am, reserved exclusively for VELA guests. Hours may differ from time to time.

What's your cancellation policy?

For Spa Treatments we kindly request at least 48 hours' notice for any changes to your booking. Within 48 hours, a 50% deposit is forfeited. For same-day cancellations or no-shows, the full treatment value applies.

What's included in my session?

Every session includes access to the full bathhouse circuit including the Nordic sauna, steam room, infrared sauna, cold plunge, hydrotherapy mineral pool, indoor heated mineral pool and relaxation lounge, along with slippers, bathrobe, towel and free-flowing tea.

Is there a minimum commitment for memberships?

Yes. All memberships require a 3-month commitment, billed weekly from the date of purchase.

How are they redeemed?

Gift cards are redeemable online, or when booking over the phone.

Is float therapy safe?

Yes. The salt solution supports your body completely. You control the experience and can exit anytime. Our tanks are filtered and sanitised between every session. Consult your doctor if pregnant or have open wounds.

When should I arrive?

Arrive 15 minutes early to check in and change. This allows time to settle before your treatment or bathhouse session begins.

Do you cater to dietary requirements?

Yes. We accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and allergen-conscious diets. Notify us when booking so our kitchen can prepare accordingly.

What should I bring?

Bring your booking confirmation and a valid ID. We provide towels, robes, and lockers. Leave valuables at home or use our secure storage.

What should I bring?

Swimwear is required throughout the bathhouse and pools. One pair of slippers, one robe and one towel are all provided complimentary.

Are foundation / pre-sale rates available after opening?

100 foundation memberships are available for a limited time until sold out. After which, memberships will revert to their standard price as listed above.

How do I choose the right treatment?

Every treatment begins with a consultation, and our therapists are happy to guide you before you book. Call us or enquire online and we'll match the treatment to your skin and your time.

How long are gift cards valid?

All monetary gift vouchers are valid for 3 years from the date of purchase. Experience vouchers are valid for 3 years; however, if the experience is no longer available or the experience price changes during this period, the voucher will revert to its original monetary value at the time of purchase.

What happens during the float?

You'll enter a private shallow pool filled with warm salt water. Lie back and float effortlessly in darkness and silence for 60 minutes. Most people drift into deep relaxation or light sleep. There's no right way to float.

Can children dine with us?

VELA Spa & Bathhouse is strictly 18+. Children 16 years and over are welcome to attend with an adult. Please contact us to discuss your request.

When should I arrive?

Arrive 15 minutes early to check in and change. This allows time to settle before your treatment or bathhouse session begins.

Are there age restrictions?

Guests must be 18+. The space is designed for adults seeking quiet and focus.

Can I share a pass or membership with someone else?

No, you cannot share your VELA pass or membership with others.

Can I book a treatment for two?

Yes. Our Unwind ritual and Private Suite Experience are designed for couples and small groups. See the Rituals section of the menu for details.

Can I add a personal message?

Yes you can!

How often should I float?

The benefits are cumulative, so the more regularly you float, the deeper and more lasting the results tend to be. Starting with once a week or once a fortnight is a sensible approach, particularly for guests managing chronic pain, stress or poor sleep.

Is there a dress code?

VELA is a luxury Spa & Bathhouse so we encourage all guests to dress appropriately. If you are dining between experiences you are welcome to wear your bath robe provided.

Do you offer gift cards?

Yes. Gift cards are available for custom amounts, delivered digitally or available for pick up at VELA. They’re redeemable against any experience offered at VELA.

Is the bathhouse accessible?

Yes. We have accessible changing facilities, with level access to most areas of the bathhouse. Contact us before your visit if you have specific needs or questions.

Can I upgrade my membership?

Yes you can. Please contact our team if you wish to upgrade your membership.

What if the balance isn't used?

All vouchers expire after 3 years even if the full value of the voucher has not been redeemed.

What if I'm claustrophobic?

The pools are entirely open with no lid, capsule or walls closing in around you. You can extend your body fully, shift positions freely and adjust the lighting and sound throughout the session. Many guests who expected to feel anxious find the open design changes the experience completely.

Are there age restrictions?

Yes. Guests must be 18+. The space is designed for adults seeking quiet and focus.

Do you host private groups?

We do. Groups of eight or more can arrange private dining as part of their VELA experience. Contact us via the Enquire button above, or reach out directly for tailored options.

Can I combine my session with other experiences?

Yes! Bathhouse sessions work well combined with float appointments, spa treatments and dining for a full VELA day. A 60 minute bathhouse session is included with any 60 minute or longer spa treatment.

Can I pause my membership?

Yes, you can pause your membership for up to 3 months after the initial 3-month commitment period.

Do I need to know how to swim?

The salt concentration means everyone floats effortlessly. However, we recommend people be comfortable in water before trying float therapy.

Is the bathhouse mixed gender?

Yes it is.

Do multi-visit passes expire?

Yes. 5-pass sessions are valid for 6 months and 10-pass sessions are valid for 12 months.

How long is a float session?

Sessions are 60 minutes. Arriving at least 15 minutes beforehand is recommended, and it's worth giving yourself some time afterwards to transition gently rather than heading straight back into a busy day.

What's your cancellation policy for sessions?

For Bathhouse & Float sessions:

  • Less than 24 hours: 50% deposit forfeited
  • Same-day cancellation or no-show: 100% of booking charged
  • If cancelling within 24hrs using a multi session pack, your credit will be forfeited  
  • If cancelling within 24hrs using a membership, you will be charged a $20 late cancellation fee

For Spa Treatment sessions:

  • Less than 48 hours: 50% deposit forfeited
  • Same-day cancellation or no-show: 100% of booking charged
Are the pools private?

Yes. Each float pool is in its own private suite.

What should I do to prepare?

Avoid caffeine for a few hours before your session. Avoid shaving on the day, as the salt can sting small cuts. A light meal rather than a heavy one is advisable. We provide everything you need at the spa.

Is floating safe during pregnancy?

Please consult your doctor or midwife before booking.

Can I float if I have a skin condition?

Please contact us to discuss your condition prior to booking. We recommend consulting your doctor or allied health specialist for further advice.

Is there car parking?

On-site parking is available, free of charge.

When is VELA open?

Bathhouse: 7am – 9pm Monday to Saturday, 10am – 5pm Sunday.

Spa treatments: 9am – 6pm Monday to Saturday, 10am – 5pm Sunday.

Do I need to make a reservation?

Yes. Please make a reservation in advance to secure an appointment. This is especially important for group bookings.

Do I need to pay in advance?

A 50% deposit is required at the time of booking, using a credit card or valid gift voucher.

Can I use my mobile phone or other technology?

To maintain a relaxing, tranquil environment and ensure the privacy of all guests, mobile phones, smart watches, tablets, computers, cameras, headphones and speakers must remain on silent. If you are taking photographs, please ensure you only capture those in your immediate party.

Can I bring my own food and drink?

VELA is fully licensed. All food and alcohol needs to be purchased onsite.

What do you do with lost property?

Items will be kept in the manager’s office until collection. We can also arrange to mail your belongings to you within Australia for a fee.

Still have questions?

Reach out to our team for anything else you need to know.

Ready to experience VELA?

Book your first visit or explore our membership options today