Virgin Voyages Cruise: Honest Review & What To Expect

So, you're thinking about hopping on a Virgin Voyages cruise? Awesome! You've probably seen the ads – the sleek ships, the edgy vibe, and the promise of a cruise experience unlike any other. But what's it really like? Let's dive into an honest review of Virgin Voyages, covering everything from the ship's design and onboard activities to the food, entertainment, and overall atmosphere. Get ready, sailors, because we're about to set sail on a virtual voyage!

First Impressions: Is Virgin Voyages Really That Different?

Okay, let's be real, the first thing that hits you about Virgin Voyages is the design. These ships are not your grandma's cruise liners. Think modern boutique hotel meets rock-and-roll chic. The Scarlet Lady (and her sister ships) boasts a striking red hull, and the interior is all about stylish details, curated art, and a serious attention to lighting. Walking on board, you'll notice the absence of traditional cruise ship clichés. No cheesy photoshoots, no announcements blaring over the loudspeaker every five minutes, and definitely no forced fun. Instead, you're greeted with a sleek, modern space that feels more like a trendy resort than a floating city. But beyond the aesthetics, what makes Virgin Voyages truly different? It boils down to a few key things: an adults-only policy, a focus on experiences over traditional cruise activities, and a commitment to sustainability. This cruise line targets a younger, more adventurous traveler who appreciates good design, great food, and a vibrant social scene. But is it all just hype? Or does Virgin Voyages actually deliver on its promise of a rebellious luxe cruise experience? Keep reading, and we'll break it all down.

Accommodation: Sailor Cabins and Rockstar Quarters

Let's talk about where you'll be crashing after a long day of exploring, eating, and partying. Virgin Voyages offers a range of cabins to suit different budgets and preferences, from cozy inside cabins to sprawling suites with private balconies and hot tubs. Even the most basic inside cabins are thoughtfully designed with a modern aesthetic and clever storage solutions. Expect mood lighting, comfortable beds, and stylish bathrooms. But if you're looking to splurge, the Rockstar Quarters are where it's at. These suites come with a host of perks, including priority boarding, a dedicated concierge, and access to exclusive areas on the ship. The Rockstar Quarters are seriously impressive. Think spacious living areas, fully stocked bars, and expansive balconies with ocean views. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with a group of friends, you'll find a cabin that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations. But regardless of which cabin you choose, you can expect a comfortable and stylish space to call home during your voyage. Pro tip: Consider booking a cabin with a balcony. There's nothing quite like waking up to the sound of the ocean and enjoying a cup of coffee on your private veranda.

Dining: Ditch the Buffet, Embrace the Variety

One of the biggest complaints about traditional cruises is the food. Endless buffets, mediocre main dining rooms, and overpriced specialty restaurants. Virgin Voyages throws that concept out the window. There are no main dining rooms, no buffets, and no assigned seating times. Instead, you have a diverse array of restaurants, each with its own unique cuisine and atmosphere. From upscale Mexican to Korean BBQ to a vegetarian-focused eatery, there's something to please every palate. And the best part? All the restaurants are included in the price of your cruise. That's right, no extra charges for specialty dining! The food on Virgin Voyages is generally very good, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and creative dishes. The service is also top-notch, with friendly and attentive staff who go out of their way to make your dining experience memorable. Highlights include: Razzle Dazzle (vegetarian), Pink Agave (upscale Mexican), Gunbae (Korean BBQ), and The Wake (steak and seafood). If you're a foodie, you'll be in heaven on Virgin Voyages. But even if you're not, you're sure to find plenty of delicious options to satisfy your cravings. So, ditch the buffet and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure!

Entertainment: Shows, Parties, and Everything in Between

Get ready to be entertained! Virgin Voyages takes a different approach to onboard entertainment, steering clear of traditional cruise ship shows and opting for more immersive and interactive experiences. Expect a mix of live music, DJ sets, dance parties, and quirky performances that will keep you entertained day and night. One of the highlights of the entertainment program is the shows produced by renowned creators. These aren't your typical cruise ship productions; they're innovative, boundary-pushing, and often a bit bizarre. Think Cirque du Soleil meets a late-night cabaret. There are also plenty of opportunities to dance the night away, with DJ sets spinning everything from classic disco to modern electronic music. And if you're looking for something a little more low-key, you can catch a live music performance in one of the ship's many bars and lounges. But the entertainment on Virgin Voyages isn't just about the shows and parties. It's also about creating a sense of community and connection among the passengers. There are plenty of opportunities to meet new people, participate in activities, and let loose. So, whether you're a party animal or prefer a more relaxed vibe, you'll find something to keep you entertained on Virgin Voyages. Just be prepared to step outside your comfort zone and embrace the unexpected!

Activities: More Than Just Lounging by the Pool

Sure, you can lounge by the pool all day if you want to. But Virgin Voyages offers a wide range of activities to keep you busy, from fitness classes to cooking demonstrations to mixology workshops. The ship features a well-equipped gym with state-of-the-art equipment, as well as a variety of group fitness classes, including yoga, Pilates, and spin. If you're looking to relax and rejuvenate, you can head to the Redemption Spa, which offers a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. There are also plenty of opportunities to learn new skills, with cooking demonstrations, mixology workshops, and art classes. And if you're feeling lucky, you can try your hand at the casino. But the activities on Virgin Voyages aren't just about physical fitness and learning new skills. They're also about having fun and connecting with other passengers. There are plenty of social events, including pool parties, game nights, and themed gatherings. And if you're looking for something a little more adventurous, you can participate in one of the ship's shore excursions. So, whether you're a fitness fanatic, a foodie, or a social butterfly, you'll find plenty of activities to keep you entertained on Virgin Voyages.

Itineraries: Sun, Sand, and Sea Days

Virgin Voyages offers a variety of itineraries, ranging from short weekend getaways to longer Caribbean cruises. The most popular itineraries include stops in the Bahamas, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic. But Virgin Voyages also offers cruises to Europe, with stops in Spain, Italy, and France. The itineraries are designed to offer a balance of port days and sea days, with plenty of time to explore the destinations and enjoy the ship's amenities. The port days are typically packed with activities, including sightseeing tours, water sports, and shopping excursions. And the sea days are a great opportunity to relax by the pool, enjoy the spa, and participate in onboard activities. Virgin Voyages also offers a range of themed cruises, including music festivals, wellness retreats, and culinary experiences. So, whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed adventure, you'll find an itinerary that suits your needs. Just be sure to book your cruise in advance, as the most popular itineraries tend to sell out quickly.

Target Audience: Is Virgin Voyages Right for You?

Virgin Voyages isn't for everyone. It's designed for a specific type of traveler: one who appreciates good design, great food, and a vibrant social scene. The adults-only policy means that it's not suitable for families with children. And the focus on experiences over traditional cruise activities may not appeal to those who prefer a more structured and predictable vacation. But if you're a millennial or Gen Xer who's looking for a different kind of cruise experience, Virgin Voyages may be just what you're looking for. It's a great option for couples, groups of friends, and solo travelers who are looking to let loose, have fun, and meet new people. So, if you're open-minded, adventurous, and looking for a cruise that's a little bit different, Virgin Voyages is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared to step outside your comfort zone and embrace the unexpected!

Overall Verdict: Yay or Nay?

So, what's the final verdict on Virgin Voyages? Overall, I'd say it's a yay. It's a unique and innovative cruise experience that's unlike anything else on the market. The ships are beautiful, the food is great, the entertainment is top-notch, and the atmosphere is vibrant and social. But it's not perfect. The adults-only policy may not appeal to everyone, and the focus on experiences over traditional cruise activities may not be for those who prefer a more structured vacation. But if you're looking for a cruise that's a little bit different, Virgin Voyages is definitely worth considering. It's a great option for millennials and Gen Xers who are looking to let loose, have fun, and meet new people. So, if you're open-minded, adventurous, and looking for a cruise that's a little bit different, book your voyage today. You won't be disappointed!