Spa Overview

The QCNY Spa is a gorgeous getaway from the city and a great place to have a daycation. I’ve been there three times now, so I wanted to write a little review of the space. 

To get to Gov Island you have to take the ferry, either from Brooklyn or the tip of Manhattan. The ferry from Manhattan drops you a lot closer to the spa and has way more times so I prefer to go from there. 

There are two different female locker rooms on the 2nd floor of the spa. I’ve noticed that if you book the sunset entrance the locker room has fewer amenities (one less bathroom, no full length mirror, less showers and hair drying stations) and slightly smaller lockers.

The lockers are pretty tiny considering they give you two towels. I like to use one for the pool and keep one in the locker for showering after. Also, I suggest you bring your own sandals to wear while you’re there. The ones they give you are these hard jellies that give me blisters. I prefer the World Spa sandals I purchased there.

When you check in, make sure to take a picture of the layout of the spa, you will absolutely get lost. It’s probably the most confusing spa layout I have ever experienced, but it’s not the worst thing in the world to be lost at this gorgeous spa! Two separate pool areas, saunas on two different floors, and steam rooms in the basement (that were unfortunately under construction one of the times I went there so be sure to call in advance!).

Hydrotherapy 

Don’t miss the heated outdoor hydrotherapy pools overlooking the city skyline! Hidden feature: Search along the inner pool walls for discreet silver buttons to activate targeted hydro-massage jets that release back and shoulder tension.

Spa Dining

For dining, the daytime brunch buffet offers fresh, nutrient-rich options ideal for pairing with a spa day. It’s much better than the dinner menu. But if you stay into the evening, they offer a complimentary artisanal charcuterie board with any two drink orders after 6 PM! 

Luxury Skincare

The highlight for skincare lovers is the curated Facial & Body Care Walkthrough on the 2nd floor. Here’s the ideal sequence to get that radiant, post-spa glow:

1. Step 1 (Pore Opening): Spend 10–15 minutes in the panoramic sauna to loosen impactions and soften skin texture.
2. Step 2 (Exfoliation): Apply the complimentary gentle facial scrub using small circular motions.
3. Step 3 (Refresh): Gently remove the scrub with the chilled, aromatherapy-infused towel provided.
4. Step 4 (Deep Hydration): Layer on the complimentary plumping face mask for rich nourishment and visible dewiness.