We have two traditional Finnish-style saunas. Each sauna can accommodate up to 6 people. We keep the saunas at a target temperature of 190F, which is greatly aided by opening the door as little and as quickly as possible. Löyly, the practice of creating steam in a sauna by pouring small amounts of water over the hot stones, is allowed. Please see the next section, 'North / South', for a description of each sauna.

When booking a Private Session, you may have the choice between 'North' and 'South'. Both are excellent choices, but slightly different.

The North Sauna sits flush against the edge of the vessel, with nothing below you but the water. It has a larger door for ADA access. The deck is slightly smaller, but the view is dramatic. Particularly great for afternoon sun and moody weather.

The South sauna is set back from the water's edge, with slightly more deck space in front. Great for larger groups, and morning to mid-day sunshine.

Trust us, you can't go wrong with either. (Note: Shared Sessions allow guests use of both saunas)

Guests are allowed to plunge in the Bay as long as they stay within the demarcated plunge zone and use the platform ladders when exiting. Keep in mind that we are in an active marina, and the water can be dangerous and unpredictable. Enter at your own risk, stay within the markers, and always shower off before getting back into the saunas.

In spite of its urbanized periphery, Richardson Bay is considered one of the most pristine estuaries on the Pacific Coast as tides continuously flush water in and out of the Pacific Ocean. From April thru October, water samples are taken weekly from nearby Schoonmaker Beach to make sure the water is not contaminated and meets California's safety standards for swimming. For the latest test results, visit the Marin County Testing Map and search for Schoonmaker Beach.

Our site exists within a public marina, in close proximity to boaters, boat owners and other members of the public. As such we ask that you respect the premises as you would in any business — no running, jumping, yelling or other dangerous or disruptive activities.

Saunas are cleaned between each party, and at the end of each day.

Private bookings should have a reasonable expectation of privacy within their sauna and lounge area. That said, this is a public marina and a shared barge, thus total privacy cannot be guaranteed at all times. Guests must remain clothed in swimming attire at all times.

Freshwater showers are available for guests to rinse off, however soap is strictly prohibited for environmental reasons.

Shared reservations must be cancelled at least 18 hours in advance, and Private Sessions at least 48 hours in advance, of the booking start time. Bookings made within 18 hours / 48 hours of the start time are not eligible for cancellations or rescheduling. No-shows and late cancellations will be charged in full. Full Platform Buyouts must be cancelled at least 7 days in advance for a refund, less 25% deposit which is paid upon reserving.

There’s nothing better than a sauna in the rain. Sauna bookings will not be cancelled for weather.

We love ‘em. Email us to discuss: hello@thisisfjord.com

An adult must be present with all groups, with a minimum age of 14 to use the facilities.

We do not allow food or drink (other than water) onto the vessel.  There is a lovely lawn with tables just on-shore where those wanting to picnic can do so before or after their Fjord session.

Our small vessel is moored at the end of a dock in a recreational marina. The vessel itself has a wheelchair ramp, and our North Sauna has been built to accommodate a wheelchair.

While we love your pets, we unfortunately cannot let them onto the vessel, nor can we watch them on shore

Unfortunately sauna, swimming and alcohol don't mix. We ask that those parties interested in consuming alcohol refrain from doing so until after their session. There are lovely places to picnic nearby.