Proposal to develop UK’s first public floating sauna in docks location

The UK’s first floating sauna has been proposed for Liverpool Waters.

Waterside regeneration specialist, Peel Waters, is working in partnership with Liverpool-based WYLD Sauna to bring the traditional Nordic sauna experience to Liverpool Waters this summer.

Moored within Princes Dock, it will provide a space to relax and escape in the heart of the city.

WYLD Sauna was established by outdoor swimming and sauna addicts, and having seen first-hand the explosion of floating saunas across Scandinavia, it is bringing the experience to sites across the UK, starting with Liverpool.

A planning application has been submitted to Liverpool City Council and the team behind the project hope to be in operation by early summer 2024.

The WYLD Sauna experience at Princes Dock will consist of a new floating pontoon containing a 30-person sauna complete with ice baths, waterfall showers, outdoors seating, changing rooms and direct access to the water for the ultimate swim-sauna experience.

Traditional dry saunas are restorative, comforting spaces that promote a deep sense of calm and offer numerous mental and physical health benefits – many of which are amplified by moving from the heat and plunging into cold water.

Jon Miller, co-founder of WYLD Sauna, said: “We are thrilled to be launching this UK-first in such a perfect location.

“There really is nothing better than being able to dip into cold, fresh water after a sauna. Princes Dock is the ideal site for us, where we can contribute to the thriving community of local swimmers, runners and scuba divers.”

He added: “We’re big believers in the health and social benefits that come with saunas, and want to make sure it’s available to as many people as possible. That’s why we’re making sure access to this high quality wellbeing experience will be possible at an affordable price.”

Liza Marco, Senior Asset Manager for Liverpool Waters, said: “We are all very excited to see this remarkable addition to the waterside in what will be a UK first.

“The WYLD Sauna will fit right in at Liverpool Waters, with the docks already alive with open water swimming, canoeing and scuba diving, alongside the occasional dragon boat race and international canoe polo tournaments.”

Subject to planning approval, WYLD Sauna will be open from early to late, Monday to Sunday, and sessions will be on a pay as you go basis starting from £5 an hour. Bookings will open two weeks before launch.