Most hot tubs can comfortably hold four adults — that is, if you’re OK with playing accidental footsie — but the 16-person, half-moon versions in the adults-only Solarium on Freedom of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas, and Independence of the Seas are roomy enough to be social without unintended intimacy. Best of all, they cantilever 12 feet over the ship’s side, for totally cool views of the surf below.

Because the two hot tubs located at Oceania Marina and Riviera’s Deck 12 pool can get crowded, guests looking for quiet may want to opt for the more tranquil Deck 14 aft Spa Terrace, with its thalassotherapy pool (Riviera) and whirlpools (Marina). Alas, it’s part of Canyon Ranch SpaClub, so there’s a fee — but that also cuts down on crowding. 

Located indoors — which is great for cruises in cooler climes — on all Solstice-class ships (Eclipse, Equinox, Reflection, Silhouette, and Solstice), these two hot tubs in the adults-only Solarium flank a quiet lap pool lined with cushioned loungers. Ahh.

For a soak with the wind in your hair, sails overhead, and an awesome view of the ship's wake, it’s hard to beat the two aft pool deck hot tubs on Wind Surf, Windstar Cruises' elegant sailing ship.

Without a doubt one of the most serene spaces on Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas, the adults-only Solarium features retractable glass-canopied ceilings, cushy sun beds and four large hot tubs with views of the bow and the horizon.

If adults-only time is your thing, you can enjoy it at the Retreat Pool, far from the kid-filled main pool on Princess’s two newest ships: Regal Princess and Royal Princess. Cabanas there will cost you, but comfy deck chairs are complimentary. At night, it’s also fun to soak in the Fountain Pool hot tub and enjoy Movies Under the Stars.

Ships known as “fun ships” are not exactly “Shush, I’m trying to nap” ships, but Carnival has solved that problem with its complimentary adults-only Serenity retreats. The ones on Carnival Dream, Carnival Magic, and Carnival Breeze feature two hot tubs — as will the one on Carnival Vista, debuting in 2016.

Located outside The Haven’s private courtyard, this quiet hot tub far forward on Deck 19 of the new Norwegian Escape is public — and a great place to “escape” if the pool deck’s lively vibe is not your style.

There are three hot tubs at the Deck 9 Lido Pool on Holland America’s Eurodam — and the retractable roof means you can enjoy them even if the weather doesn't cooperate.

If you’re on Seabourn Odyssey, Seabourn Sojourn, or Seabourn Quest and you want to enjoy some quiet time, simply head to the forward corridor on Deck 6, open the door at the end, and — voila! — a truly quiet place to soak. It's a reminder that luxury does come with privileges.