Same sauna, three different pricing models. Here's how to compare.
The three models
1. Package pricing (most common residential)
"2-Hour Session $275, 3-Hour $375, Half-Day Event $1,200, Full-Day Event $2,500." Most reputable operators use this.
Pros for you: No surprise. Easy to compare. Bundles setup + teardown + fuel + sanitization.
Cons for you: Locked into the package window.
2. Hourly
"$120/hour, 2-hour minimum = $240, plus $75 setup, plus $50 teardown = $365 total."
Pros: Pay for actual time.
Cons: Open-ended. Add-ons stack. Hard to compare to package operators.
3. Event day
Fixed flat rate for full-day or half-day events. $1,200-$3,000. Designed for retreats + corporate.
Pros: Simple for organizers. All-in.
Cons: Only fits if you actually need a full day.
What changes the price
- Group size: base 4-6 people; each extra person $25-$50.
- Add-ons: cold plunge $75-$150, towels $25-$50, attended host $150-$300, aromatherapy $25-$50.
- Travel: within zone included; outside +$1-$2/mile.
- Premium time: evenings + weekends $25-$75 surcharge.
- Wood-fired: 15-25% premium over electric.
The deposit reality
50% non-refundable at booking is industry standard. Without deposit policy = unprofessional or scam.
How to compare quotes
Get all-in totals from each operator (setup, teardown, fuel, travel). Compare for SAME hours + group size + add-ons. Don't compare a 2-hour package to 3-hour hourly without normalizing.
Price isn't the only signal
Cheapest of three is rarely best. Look at:
- Real photo portfolio
- Insurance certificate
- Safety + waiver process
- Recent reviews
- Cold plunge availability
The bottom line
Package pricing from experienced operator = right for typical residential. Event day pricing for retreats + corporate. Hourly works for unusual durations. Whatever model: get all-in number in writing before paying deposit.