The Ultimate Virgin Voyages Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Cruising (2025)

Virgin Voyages made a splash onto the cruising scene when its first ship, Scarlet Lady, began sailing in 2021. Since then, two additional ships have joined the fleet (Valiant and Resilient Lady) and another (Brilliant Lady) is set to begin sailing in late 2025. Whether you’re a first-time sailor or looking to book your next voyage, this comprehensive guide will take you through everything you need to know before setting sail with Virgin Voyages.

Virgin Voyages has created a cruise experience that stands apart from traditional cruise lines. With its adults-only atmosphere, all-inclusive pricing model, exceptional dining, and unique entertainment, it appeals to travelers looking for something different. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, Virgin Voyages offers a fresh take on cruising that combines luxury, fun, and relaxation.

The cruise line continues to evolve, establishing itself as an innovative player in the cruise industry.

Table of Contents

• Fleet Overview
• Adults-Only Experience
• All-Inclusive Value
• Bar Tab Instead of Drink Packages
• Dining Options
• Cabin Options
• Unique Entertainment & Activities
• The Beach Club at Bimini
• The Band
• Virgin Voyages App
• Sailing Club Loyalty Program
• Late Embarkation and Disembarkation
• What to Pack for your Virgin Voyage
• Virgin Voyages Tips for First-Timers

Fleet Overview

Virgin Voyages currently operates three ships, with a fourth on the way:

1. Scarlet Lady – The flagship vessel that debuted in 2021
2. Valiant Lady – Joined the fleet in 2022 as the second ship
3. Resilient Lady – The third ship in the fleet, launched in 2023
4. Brilliant Lady – Set to begin sailing in September 2025

All ships in the fleet are around 110K gross tons and share the same general design and layout. The ships are mid-sized by industry standards, accommodating approximately 2,770 passengers and 1,160 crew members.

Adults-Only (or Kids-Free) Experience

While some cruise lines are more family-friendly than others, Virgin Voyages is strictly adults-only. With a design aimed to appeal to the 18+ crowd, Virgin Voyages’ goal is to create an “environment for reflection, transformation, and exploration without life’s everyday stressors”.

Thus, bookings are open only to sailors who are 18 years of age or older — absolutely no kids are allowed on Virgin Voyages.

The cruise line particularly aims to attract travelers who might not ordinarily consider a cruise for their vacation. The vibe on the ships is distinctly casual and laid-back compared to traditional cruise lines, with no formal nights or dress codes (except for themed events where dressing up is optional but encouraged).

All-Inclusive Value

One of Virgin Voyages’ most appealing aspects is its all-inclusive pricing model, which offers significant value compared to other premium cruise lines.

What’s Included:

• Accommodations – 93% feature ocean views and 86% have balconies with most including a balcony hammock
• All dining at 20+ restaurants – No main dining room or buffet; instead, you get specialty dining experiences created by Michelin-starred chefs along with snacks like pizza and ice cream
• Basic beverages – Still and sparkling water, non-pressed juices, sodas, drip coffee, and tea
• Wi-Fi – Basic internet access for all passengers
• All gratuities – No additional service charges or crew tips will be added to your onboard account, even on drink or spa purchases
• Group fitness classes – Unlike most cruise lines that charge extra for fitness classes
• Entertainment – All shows and performances are included
• Beach Club at Bimini – Most Caribbean sailings visit this private beach club on the island of Bimini

What’s Not Included:

• Alcoholic beverages – Though there is no traditional beverage package
• Premium coffee drinks, fresh-pressed juices, and smoothies
• Shore excursions – Called “Shore Things” by Virgin Voyages
• Spa treatments and thermal suite – Though Mega RockStar guests get thermal suite access
• Premium menu items – Some restaurants have upcharge items
• Ship Eats delivery fee – $10 for room service delivery (waived for RockStar guests)
• Tattoo Parlor
• Upgraded WiFi options (Premium and Work from Sea WiFi)
• Merchandise
• Casino play
• Some upcharge activities – like the Grog Walk

Bar Tab Instead of Drink Packages

Unlike most cruise lines, Virgin Voyages does not offer traditional beverage packages. (Though, one is being tested on select sailings.) Instead, they use a “Bar Tab,” which functions similarly to onboard credit specifically for beverages.

Basic beverages like still and sparkling water, non-pressed juices, soda, tea, and drip coffee are included. However, premium coffee, fresh squeezed juice, and alcoholic beverages will cost extra.

Sailors can purchase a Bar Tab before setting sail. This is a dedicated allowance for premium beverages that can be used onboard the ship and at the Beach Club at Bimini. Note that the Bar Tab is nonrefundable once the voyage begins.

How the Bar Tab works:

• You can pre-purchase Bar Tab credit before your cruise
• Virgin Voyages adds bonus credit based on how much you purchase:
  • $200 Bar Tab: an extra $25 to spend and a total of $225 in drinks to share
  • $300 Bar Tab: an extra $50 to spend and a total of $350 in drinks to share
  • $500 Bar Tab: an extra $100 to spend and a total of $600 in drinks to share
  • $750 Bar Tab: an extra $175 to spend and a total of $925 in drinks to share
  • $1000 Bar Tab: an extra $250 to spend and a total of $1250 in drinks to share
• Bar Tab can be used for alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, fresh juices, and smoothies
• Unlike traditional beverage packages, your Bar Tab can be used to buy drinks for friends (so not everyone in the cabin needs to purchase one)
• Any unused amount will not be refunded so purchase wisely

Sailors are also permitted to bring two 750ml bottles of wine per cabin in carry-on bags, but there is a $25 corkage fee.

A Variety of Dining Options

Virgin Voyages has upped the ante when it comes to cruise ship dining. There is no main dining room, no true buffet, and no set dinner times. Instead, there are 20+ dining options that are all included in your cruise fare, and each offers a distinct culinary experience.

The food and dining is certainly where Virgin Voyages shines! The food quality and intimate spaces make you feel like you are dining at a restaurant on land instead of on a cruise ship.

Key Restaurants:

1. The Wake – An upscale steak and seafood restaurant with impressive wake views
2. Extra Virgin – An Italian trattoria serving handmade pasta and regional specialties
3. Gunbae – The first Korean BBQ restaurant at sea with communal grilling
4. Pink Agave – An upscale Mexican restaurant with a vibrant atmosphere
5. Razzle Dazzle – Vegetarian-forward restaurant with creative dishes (including some meat options)
6. The Test Kitchen – Experimental, laboratory-style restaurant with set tasting menus

Instead of a traditional buffet, The Galley serves as a food hall with various stations offering made-to-order items including burgers, tacos, noodles, sushi, and desserts.

Dining reservations can be made starting 45 days before departure for regular guests, or 60 days for those booked in RockStar and Mega RockStar Quarters. Only one reservation per restaurant can be made in advance, though additional reservations may be available onboard.

Of note, these reservations need to be made in the Virgin Voyages app. So, make sure it is installed on your phone prior to when your booking window opens.

Cabin Options

Virgin Voyages offers several cabin categories with uniquely designed spaces featuring technological enhancements and modern décor. A standout feature is that 93% of cabins have an ocean view, and 86% include balconies with signature red hammocks.

All rooms also include rainfall showers, mood lighting, a 43+ inch TV, bathroom toiletries, several power and USB outlets, and a safe big enough for your laptop.

Unfortunately, sailors cannot pick their exact room location. Much like a hotel, the cruise line auto assigns a room from the selected cabin category at the time of booking. However, if you call Sailor Services or work with a travel agent they may be able to get you booked into a specific cabin of your choice.

Main Cabin Categories:

1. Insider – Interior cabins without windows, the most economical option, some solo options available
2. Sea View – Cabins with a window or porthole, some solo options available
3. Sea Terrace – Standard balcony cabins with hammocks, XL Sea Terraces also available

RockStar Quarters:

For those looking for a luxury experience, Virgin offers “RockStar Quarters”. These suites come with enhanced amenities and privileges:

• Sweet Aft Suite
• Seriously Suite
• Cheeky Corner Suite
• Brilliant Suite

These guests receive access to Richard’s Rooftop, one-time in-room bar, and early booking/priority access for dining and experiences.

Mega RockStar Quarters:

The ultimate luxury experience comes with the Mega RockStar Quarters:

• Gorgeous Suite
• Posh Suite
• Fab Suite
• Massive Suite – The most luxurious accommodation, featuring a music room, outdoor hot tub, and expansive terrace

These guests receive Richard’s Rooftop access, early booking/priority access for dining and experiences, daily Bar Tab, complimentary access to the thermal suite, private transfer to ship or free parking, bottomless in-room bar, and Work from Sea WiFi.

Unique Entertainment and Activities

Much like dining, Virgin Voyages has re-envisioned cruise ship entertainment. Virgin Voyages’ entertainment options are distinctly different from traditional cruise lines.

Theater Shows

Rather than Broadway-style productions, the focus is on immersive shows and experiences held in two main venues, The Red Room and The Manor.

• The Red Room: The main entertainment venue; a transformational theater that can be configured in four different ways to create varied experiences during the voyage
• The Manor: A two-story nightclub inspired by Richard Branson’s first recording studio; features various themed parties throughout the cruise

While all four ships in the fleet feature a variety of shows and entertainment, there are slight differences in the offerings. In addition to the options listed below, there’s the signature PJ Party, Festival Stage Acts, Scarlet Night, live music around the ship, and various activities with the Happenings Cast.

• Scarlet Lady – Untitled Danceshow Partything, Duel Reality, Studio 72, Ships in the Night, Heartbeat, Lights Camera Drag, Klub Rubiks, Y2K party, We Fancy
• Valiant Lady – Untitled Danceshow Partything, Duel Reality, Studio 72, The Miss Behave Show, It’s a Ship Show, The Magnets, Club Caliente, We Fancy
• Resilient Lady – Lola’s Library, The Miss Behave Show, Persephone, Club Rubiks, Another Rose, We Fancy
• Brilliant Lady – Electric, Disco Reimagined, Murder in the Manor, Duets, Red Hot, Up with a Twist, Out of Time

There’s also more traditional cruise entertainment with a twist like karoake, trivia, board games, dance classes, and crafts. Most of these experiences and entertainment offerings do not require reservations.

Scarlet Night

The highlight of most Virgin Voyages cruises is Scarlet Night, a ship-wide immersive event that transforms the entire vessel into a red-themed celebration. The evening includes multiple themed pop-up performances throughout the ship, interactive experiences with the Happenings Cast, storytelling centered around the “Octopus Goddess”, a massive pool party where sailors are encouraged to wear red attire, and an after-party that continues into the early morning at The Manor nightclub.

Wellness and Fitness

• Redemption Spa – Featuring a thermal suite and treatment rooms for massages, facials, and various other services
• The Athletic Club – An outdoor training zone with boxing bags and fitness equipment
• B-Complex – Indoor fitness center with the latest equipment for cardio and strength training
• Wellness Pool – A dedicated pool for relaxation
• Group Fitness Classes – Including yoga, meditation, cycling, and HIIT workouts (all included in your fare)

Fitness classes do require reservations and do fill up quickly. These reservations can be made it the app once onboard the ship.

The Beach Club at Bimini

Most Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries include a stop at The Beach Club at Bimini, Virgin Voyages’ private beach destination in the Bahamas. This exclusive 4.5-acre resort offers:

• Two expansive lagoon-style pools
• Complimentary beach loungers and hammocks
• Private cabanas available for rent
• Multiple bars and food options (food is complimentary)
• Water sports and excursions available for purchase
• Extended time in port, often into the evening
• Exclusive area for RockStar guests
• Ability to explore the rest of Bimini if you’d like

The Beach Club provides a relaxed beach day experience with the signature Virgin Voyages vibe, including DJ performances, a flotilla party, beach games, as well as beach yoga and meditation sessions.

The Band

Much like Princess Cruises’ Ocean Medallion, The Band RFID bracelet is your wearable all-in-one device. The Band acts as your room key card allowing you to enter your cabin, make onboard purchases, scan on and off the ship, and more.

The band also acts as a geo-locator for app features like Shake for Champagne and Ship Eats. Essentially, it allows the crew to find you onboard the ship to deliver food and beverages ordered through the app.

You’ll receive your band during check-in at the terminal prior to embarkation. It is sailing specific, so you will not be able to use it for future voyages. Though, you can recycle it upon disembarkation if you’d like.

The Virgin Voyages App

The Virgin Voyages app is an essential tool for your cruise experience. It will be your digital resource once onboard the ship, so be sure to download it prior to your voyage.

You can make dining reservations or reserve shore excursions via the app (either pre-cruise or once onboard). You can also make reservations for the spa and fitness classes.

The Virgin Voyages app, in conjunction with The Band, also allows for onboard food and drink delivery services, including Shake for Champagne and Ship Eats.

Much like other cruise line apps, you can view your onboard account and all the daily activities as well. You can even chat with Sailor Services via the app instead of visiting in person.

Further, the app will send push notifications with reminders for reservations, to alert you when the ship is cleared to go ashore at a port of call, and more. This is important as there aren’t many ship-wide announcements made during the voyage.

There is also a tablet located in each cabin from which you can request services like water, towels, and room cleaning. This tablet also controls the lights and curtains in the room.

Sailing Club (Loyalty Program)

Virgin Voyages’ loyalty program is called the Sailing Club, which rewards repeat sailors with escalating benefits based on the number of cruises completed.

How it works:

• Complete one eligible voyage and you’re automatically enrolled in the Sailing Club
• Complete two voyages to unlock Blue Extras on your third voyage
• Complete four voyages to unlock Deep Blue Extras on your fifth voyage

Blue Extras benefits include:

• Dedicated Sailor Services support
• Exclusive cocktail reception
• Laundry service (one bag)
• One specialty coffee per day

Deep Blue Extras additional benefits:

• Two specialty coffees per day
• Two pressed items and one specialty-cleaned item
• Priority boarding at embarkation
• Unlimited premium WiFi
• $100 Bar Tab credit

Only full-fare sailings qualify for the Sailing Club program. Discounted sailings, gifted cruises, comped casino cruises, or voyages booked with airline points don’t count toward status.

Late Embarkation and Disembarkation

In keeping with the relaxed vibe, Virgin Voyages offers a later boarding and departure than many cruise lines.

With that being said, embarkation begins generally around 1:45 PM. So, if you are flying into the homeport the morning of your cruise, you will have plenty of time to get to the terminal. However, we still always recommend flying in a day early just in case you encounter any travel delays.

We also recommend completing your check-in as soon as possible so you can reserve one of the earlier boarding groups. If you are staying in RockStar Quarters or have Deep Blue Extras perks, you’ll get priority embarkation.

In terms of disembarkation, sailors can sign up for times as late as 10:30 AM. So, you can take your time and have some breakfast before getting off the ship. Just be sure to plan your flights home accordingly.

What to Pack for Your Virgin Voyage

Virgin Voyages has a more casual atmosphere than traditional cruise lines with no formal nights, but there are still some special events that you may want to bring along special attire. We also have a few trusted cabin hacks to make the best use of the cozy quarters.

Here’s a helpful list of some items you may want to pack:

• Red attire for Scarlet Night – This ship-wide celebration is best enjoyed when dressed in red
• Pajamas for the PJ Party – There’s a fun pajama party on the first night, so pack your favorite sleepwear to wear out
• Themed outfits – Check your sailing for any special themed events like the We Fancy party
• Athletic wear – For group fitness classes and workouts like the popular VHS workout (80’s themed)
• Reusable water bottle – There’s no bottled water available onboard, only refill stations
• Magnetic hooks – Cabin walls are metal, making these perfect for hanging items like bags and hats to save space
• Over-the-door shoe organizer – Great for organizing small items in your cabin like charging cords, toiletries, sunglasses, and the like
• Motion sickness remedies – Just in case, even if you don’t typically experience seasickness
• Sunglasses and sunscreen – Especially important for beach days at Bimini or while lounging poolside
• Portable phone charger – Useful for long days of exploring ports or using the app onboard
• Towel clips – Helpful to secure your beach towels to the lounge chairs
• Wrinkle release spray – Since irons aren’t allowed onboard cruise ships

Virgin Voyages provides Red Flower bath products in all cabins, so you can save space by not packing shampoo, conditioner, body wash, or hand soap. You’ll also want to make sure you leave the clothes irons, steamers, and other prohibited items at home.

Tips for First-Time Virgin Voyagers

Before You Book:

• Book your cruise as early as possible – Virgin often offers the best rates when itineraries first open for booking, with prices typically increasing as the sail date approaches
• Book with a travel advisor – Travel advisors often have access to special group rates or promotions that could include Sailor Loot (onboard credit) or Bar Tab; they can also help you navigate the ins and outs of your first Virgin cruise
• Consider booking as a solo traveler – Virgin Voyages offers dedicated solo cabins without the hefty single supplement and often runs deals with reduced single supplements on other cabin categories
• Required documentation – Unlike many cruise lines, Virgin Voyages requires passports for all sailings. This means even if you’re a U.S. resident taking a closed-loop cruise from Miami, you’ll need a passport; whereas, you could sail on other cruise lines with just a birth certificate and government issued ID

Before Your Cruise:

• Complete online check-in as early as possible – This helps secure an earlier boarding group
• Download the Virgin Voyages app – Essential for making reservations and navigating the ship
• Make dining reservations as soon as your booking window opens – Popular venues like Extra Virgin and The Wake fill up quickly
• Look into Bar Tab promotions – Pre-purchasing Bar Tab often comes with bonus credit
• Print your luggage tags – These will be emailed to you 72 hours prior to embarkation
• Pack any alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages (if desired) – You’re allowed to bring up to twelve 12-ounce cans or paper cartons per person (no glass or plastic bottles) and two bottles of wine or champagne per cabin in a carry-on bag

Embarkation Day:

• Your cabin will be ready when you board – Unlike some cruise lines that make you wait, you can go directly to your cabin
• Watch the safety video (muster) – This is mandatory and must be completed before sail away
• Explore the ship – Take time to get familiar with the layout and discover hidden gems
• Visit the dining concierge – Located at Razzle Dazzle, they can help secure additional dining reservations that you may not have been able to get pre-cruise

During Your Cruise:

• Don’t miss brunch options – The Wake and Razzle Dazzle offer excellent brunch that many sailors overlook
• Try Ship Eats – This room service delivery offers most menu items for a $10 delivery fee including breakfast and all day options
• Check out the Glam Station before Scarlet Night – Free makeup and glitter are available to enhance your look
• Look into laundry services if needed – Self-service laundry isn’t available, but you can get a bag washed and folded for around $55, or pay per item
• Use the tablets in your cabin – These control lights, request room service, and access other cabin features
• Take advantage of The Beach Club at Bimini – This is included in your fare and offers a great beach day experience

Before Disembarkation:

• Consider booking your next cruise onboard – The “My Next Virgin Voyages” (MNVV) program offers discounts and perks when you book your next cruise while still onboard
• Select a later disembarkation time (if desired) – Virgin offers later checkout times than most cruise lines, so take advantage of this for a more relaxed final morning
• Check your onboard account – Review charges the day before disembarkation to resolve any discrepancies

Technology Tips:

• Connect to WiFi as soon as you board – Basic WiFi is included, so get connected early and put your phone in airplane mode to avoid roaming charges once you set sail; you can also pay to upgrade your WiFi in the app once onboard
• Take advantage of the charging ports – There are multiple USB ports in your cabin and throughout the ship like at the Grounds Club and The Galley
• Use the chat feature in the app – You can communicate with your travel companions without using cellular data

Remember that Virgin Voyages is designed to be a more relaxed cruise experience than traditional cruise lines. Don’t try to do everything—instead, focus on the experiences that interest you most and leave time to simply enjoy the ship’s atmosphere.

Comments

Is there anything else you would like to know before cruising on Virgin Voyages? Do you have an upcoming sailing on Scarlet, Valiant, Resilient, or Brilliant Lady? Drop us an anchor below with your Virgin Voyages tips, tricks, and secrets.