🕒 Updated: December 6, 2024 | Published: November 22, 2024 | Written by: Joenid
Thinking about sailing with Virgin Voyages but you don’t feel prepared? You’re in the right place my friend! In this post, I’m diving into essential tips covering savvy booking strategies, must-have packing essentials, and all insider knowledge you’ll want before embarking on one of the Lady ships.
Having enjoyed four incredible trips with Virgin Voyages 🚢 over the past two years, I’ve piled a wealth of juicy Virgin Voyages tips and tricks. I can’t wait to pass it on to you. Even if you’re a seasoned cruiser or embark on your first voyage, these tips will ensure you have the most unforgettable experience. Given that the dynamics of Virgin Voyages are quite different from those of other cruise lines.
*This post might include affiliate links, meaning I could earn a commission if you buy through my link, without any additional cost to you. But don’t worry because I only recommend products or services I genuinely believe in and think will add real value to you.
What is Virgin Voyages Cruise?
Virgin Voyages is a subsidiary of the Virgin Group brand which you might be familiar with their famous hotels, airlines, music, and even aerospace ventures. Virgin Voyages features four sister ships 🚢: Scarlet Lady, Resilient Lady, Valiant Lady, and Brilliant Lady (debut in 2025). The four ladyships are very similar in plan deck, restaurants, and entertainment but the journey itself is extraordinary (my opinion!).
What Makes It Unique?
From the moment you board the ship, you will feel like getting into a luxury boutique environment. This cruise line breaks out the typical family-oriented cruise culture by offering an adult-only policy.
This means you don’t have to worry about children running, yelling around, or splashing water 💦 in the pool. Don’t get me wrong, I like kids but I never thought I would enjoy a no-kid environment until I sailed with the Virgin Voyages cruise.
Now let’s talk about formal dining and rigid dinner times. This is another fantastic way Virgin Voyages went beyond the normal cruise culture. They offer 20+ eateries 🍽️ to choose from and allow you to dine when and how you want because there’s no formal dress code.
Plus every meal is included in your booking fee, with few exceptions like the “Treat Yourself” which are selected items on the menu. Or dinner shows like “Ship Show” and “Another Rose” for an additional fee.
My favorite part is the elevated dining experience with menus created by Michelin-starred 🧑🏻🍳chefs. Some people might argue that Virgin Voyages is pricey. I’ve to be honest, I’ve noticed an increase in price since my first trip back in 2022. But still, once you factor in:
- Elevated meal 🍴options (included!).
- Gratuities included.
- Fitness classes included.
- Basic drinks included.
- Access to unlimited Wi-Fi 🛜 , etc.
The value becomes evident! Especially because I find that the quality of the cruise experience truly redefines what a cruise can and should be.
Things to Know Before Boarding Virgin Voyages
Status Match Virgin Voyages
A few people know that if you possess a loyal status with another cruise line you can request a status match with Virgin Voyages. This offer ends on December 31, 2024, to get Virgin Voyages status match form. If your request gets accepted, you instantly earn Blue Extras status.
This means you’ll get the benefits of the Blue Extra status until you unlock the highest tier of Deep Blue Extra. Imagine having premium WiFi, a $100 bar tab, 2 specialty coffee per day, and other perks on your first voyage.
DON’T FORGET TO READ:
Download the Virgin Voyages App
As soon as you book your trip, the first thing I recommend you do is download the Virgin Voyages app. Seriously, EVERYTHING is managed through the app! With the app, you can check in, select your boarding time, track your cruise schedule, manage and track payments, etc. Most important get familiarized with the app because it might be confusing even to tech-savvy.
Always track your Virgin Voyage App because dining reservations open 45 days before embarkation (60 days before for 🎸Mega RockStar and RockStar Quarters). Shorethings open 120 days before embarkation (135 days for 🎸Mega RockStar and RockStar Quarters).
Tip: I normally log in at midnight to secure the best dinner times. Check the time of popular performance to avoid picking a dining time that conflicts with a show you want to see!
Virgin Voyages Boarding Tips
As soon as you book your trip, download the VV app to watch and choose your desired embarkation time. If by any chance you arrive earlier than your chosen boarding time. You’ll have the option to drop off your luggage. After that, you’ll have to wait outside until your boarding time.
Sailing from Miami port, why not explore the area? Just keep an eye on the trolley on Terminal V and you can make your waiting time much more enjoyable by exploring Miami vicinity. You can watch the current trolley times and locations on this link. So plan accordingly!
Bring Cash for Onshore Expenses
While you don’t have to worry about tipping the crew member on board you might need to tip other non-crew members. At the port, you will meet luggage 🧳 porters who are not Virgin Voyages employees, so bring cash because you’ll need it for the tip. Also, if you venture out at any port, having cash on hand for local taxis 🚕 will save you any potential hassles and ensure you get where you need to go.
Virgin Voyages Bar Tab Tips
Unfortunately, VV does not offer drink packages like other cruise lines but they do offer a pre-purchase bar tab.
Is it worth it? In my opinion yes, since isn’t just for alcoholic beverages. The bar tab covers a wide range of drinks; espresso coffee, smoothies, and cold-pressed juices. All of which aren’t complimentary. Plus if you bring your bottle of wine to a restaurant, you can also use it to cover the corkage fees ($25).
Bar Tab options vary and currently start at $200 (+$25 bonus) up to $1,000 (+$250 bonus). The cool part? The bigger the bar tab the more bonus you can get! Plus you can share your bar tab with any other friend on board so you don’t have to drink solo.
You need to buy the bar tab before boarding through the VV app. And if you aren’t as tech-savvy, there’s a booth at the VV Miami port waiting area. This will be your LAST OPPORTUNITY to buy a bar tab before boarding! If you decide not to purchase it before boarding don’t worry because drink 🍹prices will be the same. However, you’ll miss out on those awesome bar bonuses.
Virgin Voyages Clothing Packing Tips
The best part of this cruise line is there is no dress code because they embrace a “come-as-you-are” experience. This means you don’t have to worry about packing formal night clothing. However, they do have “theme” activities, and trust me, bring a few extras to enjoy the full sailing experience. Other than that just focus on packing comfortable and versatile outfits.
Virgin Cruise Pajama Party
One of the highlights of each cruise is the fun Virgin Voyages pajama party, so be ready to pack your favorite PJs. The PJ party is at The Athletic Club Bar (Deck 16) and typically the first night on board. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, they move it to The Manor (Deck 6). If you feel creative be prepared because they also have a contest for the most original PJs. But always check the app to double-check the PJ party time and location.
Scarlet Night Virgin Voyages💃🏻
Every cruise features Scarlet Night, a captivating night where the cruise is transformed into a red-themed performance. The Scarlet Night ends with an unforgettable pool party at Deck 15. If the weather doesn’t cooperate on Scarlet Night, the party is moved to the Red Room (Deck 6).
While it’s not mandatory to wear red, you might regret it if you don’t! It doesn’t have to be formal clothing it can be whatever makes you feel comfortable. On this night you’ll see casual clothing and some people decide to bring the most creative reddest attire.
We Fancy
We Fancy is an entertainment show with The Happening Cast. On this night you are welcome to participate in your best glamorous version and usually, people wear gold/glitter✨. Check your trip entertainment activities because We Fancy doesn’t happen on all trips.
Virgin Voyages Workout Classes
I feel Virgin Voyages has the most fitness and healthy vibe compared with other cruise lines. Don’t forget to pack workout clothes because there are a lot of fitness classes, a gym (Deck 15), and The Runway 🏃🏻♀️ (a running track at Deck 17). If you’re feeling motivated to work out, you can find:
- Spinning 🚲 classes, and don’t worry about shoes/cleats because they are provided (Bike Studio at Deck 15).
- Outdoor Yoga 🧘 classes (The Perch at Deck 17).
- Bungee classes (Balance Studio at Deck 15).
- HIIT classes a high-intensity interval training (Group Fitness at Deck 16).
- Virgin Voyages VHS 1980s music workout class, if you want to participate I highly encourage you to pack your 80s workout outfit.
The best part is all these fitness classes are complimentary!
Other Clothing Accessory
I tend to get cold easily and I find the interior temperature on the cruise comfortable. However, I have experienced some chilly nights, which is why I always pack a light jacket or a warm scarf just in case.
Extras to Bring for Convenience
Tech Gears
If you can’t escape from your professional commitments and still have to do some remote work from the cruise. Then don’t forget to pack your tech essentials!
- Laptop. 💻
- Mouse.
- Earphones.🎧
- Charger ⚡️ (the cabins come equipped with American-style outlets, European plugs, and USB charging).
- There are plenty of electrical outlets 🔌 around the ship but if you plan to take your laptop off the cruise, a portable power bank will save you from battery anxiety.
Medical Extras
- While I generally don’t get motion sickness, on one occasion we hit some rough waters. It was the first and only time in my four sailing trips that I felt very sick. To be on the safe side, don’t forget to pack:
- Motion sickness medication.
- Motion sickness wristbands or motion patches. If you forget, no worries because you can find them in The Ship Shop, Deck 6.
- Ginger chews (a natural remedy for nausea)
- For those with special medical needs:
- Ensure you bring essentials like an extra glucose monitoring (CGM) system (if you are diabetic). I am not diabetic but on one of my trips, a sailor’s CGM system got damaged, and was not able to find a replacement at the cruise Medical Center (Deck 4).
- I am allergic to shellfish and I always ensure to pack EpiPen and Benadryl.
- Are you noise-sensitive?
- I feel that I am too sensitive to noise, especially since I find the music at the Bimini Beach Club a bit too loud for my liking. If you are sensitive too, I recommend packing some noise-reduction earplugs.
- While I haven’t had any noise issues in the cabin myself, I’ve heard some complaints about noise from the neighboring sailor. If that’s something you’re concerned about bringing noise-reduction earplugs can make a significant difference!
More Essential to Pack!
- As a book lover, I can’t travel without my Kindle (Oasis). Whether you are into physical books or an e-reader lover, don’t forget to pack something to get lost in during quiet corners aboard the ship.
- What I love about Virgin Voyages is that each cabin has a complimentary water pitcher filled daily with fresh water. While they don’t provide bottled water, they encourage you to bring a reusable water bottle and you’ll find several water stations to refill it.
Tip: Empty your bottle before boarding for the first time the ship to avoid issues with security.
Note: I’ve not had any security issues during my visits to Bimini and Puerto Plata ports. I brought my reusable water bottle filled with water and I didn’t have any issues with the security at all.
- Lastly, don’t forget to pack two (750ml) bottles of wine per cabin (in your carry-on bags). We typically pack Jam Jar wine 🍷 (no need for uncorking). But don’t worry if you forget this tip because there’s a cute corkscrew in the cabin! If you really love the corkscrew you can even purchase it on board.
Tips After Boarding Virgin Voyages Cruise
First Things To Do After Board
Once you step aboard, the first order of business is to connect to the Virgin Voyages’ complimentary Wi-Fi. To start booking the popular entertainment shows and hottest spa time slots. To book spa services head to Redemption Spa on Deck 5.
If you are not a savvy tech or have issues with the VV app, just visit the Sailor Services on Deck 5 (The Manor Deck 6 for Rockstar Quarters). They’ll assist you in booking popular entertainment shows. Book dining experiences and shore things even if you miss them before boarding.
After you’ve made reservations, I recommend you explore the ship and familiarize yourself with each deck. Don’t forget to watch the safety video; you can watch it on your phone through the VV app or on the TV in your cabin. It’s a crucial step for a smooth start to your cruise!
Tips You Need For Visiting Ports
- Some people don’t know that they are allowed to buy alcohol at the ports. Just remember, once you pass through the security check-in, you’ll find a standing table where you need to hand over any liquor. They will keep it safe until your final night on board.
- If your cruise is departing from Miami port, get ready for a stop at Bimini Beach Club.
- When you disembark you’ll notice towels available for guests. There is no need to pick one there if you plan to go to the Beach Club because they’ll provide you with towels at the Beach Club.
- If you are planning to do a shore thing or stay at the beach near the port, then grab a towel from the embarkation area of the ship.
First-Time Virgin Voyages Cruise Tips
Let me share some entertaining insights to improve your journey.
- Most of the entertainment shows happen in two primary locations:
- The Manor is like a cabaret-style experience that will leave you speechless with the magical entrance, and you cannot walk in without having a perfect shooting📷 section.
- The Red Room is the larger entertainment venue that makes you feel like you are visiting a new place every time you enter because the theater has a rotating stage for diverse shows.
Tip: If you are an introvert and prefer to enjoy the show without being in the spotlight, I recommend you sit down at the second level of both venues. If shyness is not an issue for you then sit on the first rows so you can be part of the show from the start!
- Do you need to find some quiet and relaxed spots to get some work or to lose yourself in a good book? Then check out my post where I go over the variety of perfect places to find inspiration and get work done. I found them perfect to get some inspiration and get things done.
Virgin Voyages Smoking Areas
Can you smoke on Virgin Voyages? Yes, you can! There are two designated smoking areas on board (one outdoor and one indoor). The outdoor smoking area is located by Richard’s Rooftop entrance on Deck 16. If you prefer trying your luck at the casino slot, there’s an indoor smoking area on Deck 6.
Overall Virgin Voyages Tips
I honestly love sailing with Virgin Voyages, and I feel the experience truly stands apart from traditional cruise lines. The vibe on board is unique, attracting both relaxation seekers and those looking for a joyful environment.
I’ve noticed a particular shift in the age range of Virgin Cruises leaning toward a more mature crowd. Interestingly, I found the most mature people on board are often the happiest and funniest. If you really want to enjoy the full experience you must leave behind the age and bring your youthful spirit.
To wrap up:
- Explore the restaurants (YOU MUST TRY ALL OF THEM!) and bring an open mind because you’ll encounter the most creative dishes!
- Explore each port stop because there’s nourishing culture waiting for you. Low budget? You can stay in the port area and explore it.
- Puerto Plata port offers free pool access (which is gorgeous!).
- There’s free transportation to get to Bimini Beach Club and the delicious food is complimentary!
- Take advantage of the free fitness classes because Virgin Voyages also gives tips for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
- Issues understanding the VV app? you can visit the Grounds Club (Deck 7) or Grounds Clun too (Deck 15), and grab a hard copy brochure with the daily itinerary.
I hope these hacks make your Virgin Voyages experience seamless and enjoyable. Feel free to leave a comment if you want to share any of your Virgin Voyages tips!☺️
