The SaluSpa Bali is a 4-person AirJet hot tub with 120 jets, LED lighting, and a traditional external pump setup — ideal for buyers who want ambiance and a familiar design. The SaluSpa Barbuda UltraFit is also a 4-person, 120-jet AirJet spa, but features a revolutionary UltraFit integrated pump built directly into the liner, a dual-cover system (both standard and EnergySense included), MaxHold beam construction, and a sleek space-saving footprint at 71″ × 71″ × 26″. Both reach 104°F (40°C) and include FreezeShield cold-weather protection. Choose the Bali for LED ambiance and a lower price; choose the Barbuda for superior energy efficiency, a cleaner patio setup, and better long-term insulation.
What Is the SaluSpa Bali?
The SaluSpa Bali is a 4-person round inflatable AirJet hot tub by SaluSpa, listed on saluspa.ca and available at Amazon.ca (ASIN B0D7J1WTGP). It features 120 AirJets, reaches 104°F (40°C), and comes with remote-controlled LED lights — the key lifestyle feature that separates it from most entry-level AirJet models. The Bali uses DuraPlus 3-layer material, FreezeShield automatic heating, a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) safety system, and a ChemConnect chemical dispenser. It ships with a reinforced cover and the all-in-one multi-function pump.
What Is the SaluSpa Barbuda UltraFit?
The SaluSpa Barbuda UltraFit is a 4-person AirJet hot tub by SaluSpa, listed on saluspa.ca and available at Amazon.ca (ASIN B0C79LDKZ4). It measures 71″ × 71″ × 26″ and features 120 AirJets, a max temperature of 104°F (40°C), and the signature UltraFit integrated pump — built directly into the spa liner rather than sitting as a separate external unit. The Barbuda ships with both a standard cover and an EnergySense insulated cover (40% more efficient), uses MaxHold fabric internal beams for superior air retention, DuraPlus 3-layer outer walls, FreezeShield winterization, and a Ground Detection System. It is APSP-14 and Title 20 compliant.
Full Spec Comparison: SaluSpa Bali vs. SaluSpa Barbuda UltraFit
| Feature | SaluSpa Bali | SaluSpa Barbuda UltraFit |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 2–4 persons | 2–4 persons |
| Inflated Dimensions | 195.6L x 195.6W x 71.1H | 180.3L x 180.3W x 66H |
| Shape | Round | Round |
| AirJets | 120 AirJets | 120 AirJets |
| Jet Type | AirJet (bubble massage) | AirJet (bubble massage) |
| Max Temperature | 104°F / 40°C | 104°F / 40°C |
| Pump Type | External multi-function pump | UltraFit integrated pump (built into liner) |
| Internal Beam System | DuraPlus 3-layer standard | MaxHold fabric beams (superior air retention) |
| Outer Material | DuraPlus 3-layer | DuraPlus 3-layer |
| Puncture Resistance | 33% more than standard PVC | 33% more than standard PVC |
| Stretch Resistance | 56% more than standard PVC | 56% more than standard PVC |
| Cover Included | Reinforced cover (1 cover) | Dual cover system — standard + EnergySense both included |
| EnergySense Cover | Not included | Included (40% more efficient) |
| LED Lights | Remote-controlled LED lights | Not included |
| FreezeShield | Yes — 42–50°F protection | Yes — 42–50°F protection |
| Cold-Weather Winterization | FreezeShield automatic | FreezeShield automatic |
| Safety System | Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) | Ground Detection System |
| Chemical Dispenser | ChemConnect | ChemConnect |
| Control Panel | Digital, reachable from inside spa | Digital, reachable from inside spa |
| App Connectivity | App Control | App Control |
| Patio Footprint | Standard (external pump adds space) | Reduced by up to 50% (integrated pump) |
| In the Box | Spa, pump, ChemConnect, reinforced cover, filter cartridge (VI), repair patch | Spa, UltraFit pump, ChemConnect, standard cover + EnergySense cover, filter cartridge (VI), repair patch |
| Brand | SaluSpa | SaluSpa |
| Best For | Ambiance, evening use, buyers wanting LED | Space-saving, energy efficiency, Canadian winters |
Pump Design: The Biggest Difference Between These Two Models
The SaluSpa Barbuda UltraFit uses a built-in UltraFit pump integrated directly into the liner — the SaluSpa Bali uses a traditional external pump unit.
This is the most important structural difference between these two spas. The Bali’s external pump sits beside the spa as a separate unit, which is the standard design across most SaluSpa AirJet models including the Aruba and Bahamas. It works reliably and is easy to access. However, it occupies extra patio or deck space and creates a visible equipment area next to the spa.
The Barbuda’s UltraFit integrated pump is built directly into the spa wall. This eliminates the separate pump unit entirely, reducing the overall footprint by up to 50% according to SaluSpa. For Canadians with compact decks, balconies, or smaller backyard patios — particularly common in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary — the Barbuda’s space-saving design is a meaningful practical advantage. The integrated pump also produces a cleaner visual appearance, with no external equipment cluttering the look of the spa area.
Energy Efficiency and Cold-Weather Performance: Which Is Better for Canada?
The Barbuda UltraFit wins this category clearly — it ships with both a standard cover AND an EnergySense insulated cover, while the Bali includes only a reinforced standard cover.
Both spas include FreezeShield automatic heating, which maintains internal temperatures between 42°F and 50°F (6°C and 10°C) to protect the pump and liner when outdoor temperatures drop. This is an essential feature for Canadian shoulder-season use in provinces like Ontario, Quebec, and Alberta, where overnight temperatures can fall sharply even in May and September.
However, the cover difference is significant for operating costs. The Barbuda’s EnergySense cover is rated up to 40% more energy efficient than a standard reinforced cover. In practical terms, with Canadian electricity rates averaging approximately $0.14–$0.18 per kWh depending on the province, retaining heat through a better cover translates directly into lower monthly hydro bills. The Barbuda also carries APSP-14 and Title 20 energy compliance certification — the Bali does not specify this certification on saluspa.ca. For buyers who plan to use their spa through April through October in Canada, the Barbuda’s dual-cover system and energy compliance represent real ongoing savings.
Neither spa is rated for use in temperatures below 39°F (4°C) and both should be drained and stored indoors during deep Canadian winter.
LED Lighting: Where the Bali Wins
The SaluSpa Bali includes remote-controlled LED lights — the Barbuda UltraFit does not.
This is the one area where the Bali clearly outperforms the Barbuda. Remote-controlled LED lights add genuine ambiance to evening soaks, especially in Canadian fall evenings when darkness arrives early. The Bali is available in multiple colours and the LED system adds a resort-like atmosphere that many buyers consider a premium feature. If evening entertaining, mood lighting, or backyard aesthetics are priorities for your purchase, the Bali’s LED system is a distinct advantage that the Barbuda simply does not offer.
Jet and Massage System: Are They the Same?
Both the SaluSpa Bali and SaluSpa Barbuda have exactly 120 AirJets using identical AirJet bubble massage technology.
Neither model uses HydroJet Pro directional jets. Both release warm air bubbles from the base of the spa to create an all-over bubble massage experience. The AirJet system is excellent for general relaxation, stress relief, and muscle recovery but does not provide targeted therapy the way a directional HydroJet Pro system would. For targeted back or shoulder massage, the SaluSpa Cabo or SaluSpa Hawaii on saluspa.ca are better options.
The practical difference in the massage experience between these two models comes down to internal construction. The Barbuda’s MaxHold fabric beam technology is designed to provide superior air pressure retention compared to standard DuraPlus beams. More stable internal pressure means more consistent jet performance over time, particularly after multiple inflation and deflation cycles through Canadian seasons.
Durability and Material Construction
Both spas use DuraPlus 3-layer outer material — but the Barbuda adds MaxHold fabric internal beams for superior structural stability and air retention.
DuraPlus construction is present in both models. It is 33% more puncture resistant and 56% more stretch resistant than traditional single-layer PVC. This is important for Canadian use, where UV exposure in summer months and temperature cycling between seasons can degrade cheaper materials faster.
The Barbuda’s MaxHold internal beam system is a newer SaluSpa technology. It provides better air pressure retention between uses, reduces the need for frequent re-inflation, and ensures the spa walls maintain consistent shape. This is the same MaxHold technology used in the newer Bali Smart variants at the higher end of the Bali product line, confirming that the Barbuda uses more advanced internal construction than the standard Bali model listed on saluspa.ca.
Safety Features
Both spas include an automatic shut-off function and FreezeShield protection. The Bali specifies a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) system, which automatically cuts power if electrical current is detected in the water — an important safety feature for any outdoor hot tub connected to a household outlet. The Barbuda specifies a Ground Detection System that ensures proper grounding at the outlet. Both spas require connection to a standard 110–120V grounded outlet. Never use an extension cord with either model.
What’s in the Box?
| Item | SaluSpa Bali | SaluSpa Barbuda UltraFit |
|---|---|---|
| Inflatable Spa | ✅ | ✅ |
| Pump | External multi-function pump | UltraFit integrated pump (built into liner) |
| Cover | 1 × Reinforced cover | ✅ 2 covers — standard + EnergySense |
| LED Lights | ✅ Remote-controlled | ✗ Not included |
| Chemical Dispenser | ChemConnect | ChemConnect |
| Filter Cartridge | Type VI (quantity not specified) | Type VI (quantity not specified) |
| Repair Patch | ✅ | ✅ |
| Energy Certification | APSP-14, Title 20 compliant | APSP-14, Title 20 compliant |
Price and Value in Canada
The SaluSpa Bali is available at Amazon.ca (ASIN B0D7J1WTGP) and the SaluSpa Barbuda UltraFit at Amazon.ca (ASIN B0C79LDKZ4). Both are mid-range 4-person AirJet models. The Barbuda typically commands a moderate premium over the Bali due to its UltraFit integrated pump technology, dual cover system, and MaxHold construction. On a cost-per-feature basis, the Barbuda delivers more value for buyers who prioritize energy savings and space efficiency. The Bali is the stronger pick for buyers who want LED atmosphere at a lower price point.
Who Is Each Spa For?
Choose the SaluSpa Bali if you want remote-controlled LED lighting for evening ambiance, prefer a standard pump setup you’re already familiar with, are purchasing primarily for spring-to-fall use in Canada, or want to pay a slightly lower price for a solid 4-person AirJet spa with 120 jets.
Choose the SaluSpa Barbuda UltraFit if you have a smaller deck or patio where the space-saving UltraFit integrated pump makes a real difference, want both covers included to maximize energy efficiency through Canadian shoulder seasons, value the MaxHold beam construction for consistent long-term performance, or prioritize APSP-14 energy compliance and lower monthly hydro costs.
Final Verdict
The SaluSpa Bali and SaluSpa Barbuda UltraFit are evenly matched in their core specs — both seat 4 people, both deliver 120 AirJets, and both reach 104°F with FreezeShield protection. But they are meaningfully different products.
The Bali wins on ambiance. Remote-controlled LED lights are a genuinely premium feature at this price point and set the Bali apart for buyers who love evening outdoor entertaining. The Barbuda wins on everything else: integrated UltraFit pump, dual-cover energy system, MaxHold beam technology, and a cleaner patio footprint. For Canadian buyers who plan to use their spa frequently from spring through fall and want to keep energy costs reasonable, the Barbuda UltraFit is the smarter long-term investment. For buyers who want atmosphere and a familiar setup, the Bali delivers excellent value.
