Posted on April 30, 2025

Cruising has undergone a transformation in recent years and nowhere is that more apparent than aboard Virgin Voyages. I sailed on the Scarlet Lady, one of Virgin’s innovative adults-only ships, and it quickly became a five-star experience for me. In this blog, I’ll dive into the advantages and disadvantages of cruising with Virgin Voyages, share booking best practices, highlight favorite destination ports, discuss food and entertainment options, and summarize my own memorable journey. Plus, if you're curious about the unique Bar Tab system, I’ll break that down too.

 

Why Choose Virgin Voyages?

Advantages

• Adults-Only Atmosphere: Every cruise is 18+, making it ideal for couples, friends, and solo travelers seeking a more sophisticated vibe.
• All-Inclusive Value: Tips, Wi-Fi, group fitness classes, and most restaurants are included in your fare—no sneaky upcharges.
• Innovative Dining: Forget the one-size-fits-all buffet. Virgin offers over 20 eateries, each with unique menus and ambiance.
• Flexible Itineraries: Many sailings are shorter (4- to 5-nights), with overnight stays in hot destinations and late departures. New longer Itineraries have or will be added soon.
• Modern Design: Scarlet Lady boasts chic, modern spaces, from the comfy cabins to the Instagram-worthy outdoor decks.
• Health-Focused: Onboard fitness and wellness options abound, from sunrise yoga to stylish gyms and the outdoor athletic club.

 

Disadvantages

• No Kids Allowed: An advantage for many, but not for families with children.
• Limited Itinerary Selection: Compared to legacy lines, Virgin’s number of destinations is still growing. New longer and diverse Itineraries have or will be added soon.
• Service Model Adjustments: No traditional main dining or buffet, which can take getting used to.
• No Traditional Drink Package: Instead, you pre-pay a Bar Tab for your beverages (more on this below).

 

Booking Best Practices

• Book Early: Virgin Voyages’ unique product is in high demand, especially for popular destinations like the Caribbean and Europe. Early bookings often get the best deals.
• Monitor Bar Tab Specials: If you plan on enjoying cocktails or specialty coffees, purchase the Bar Tab in advance. Look for promotions—at the time of my sailing, a $300 bar tab got you a $50 bonus ($350 total).
• Download the Virgin Voyages App: It’s essential for making dining reservations, viewing schedules, and accessing shipboard information.
• Check for Sailor Loot (Onboard Credit): Sometimes, travel agents or promotions offer extra credits, which can be used for spa treatments, excursions, or shopping.

 

Customer Favorite Ports

According to frequent sailors and online reviews, these ports often top the list:

• Bimini, Bahamas: Home to Virgin’s exclusive Beach Club, complete with pool parties, cabanas, and sunset bonfires.
• San Juan, Puerto Rico: Rich history, colorful streets, and local cuisine.
• Costa Maya, Mexico: Excursions range from beach days to ancient ruins.
• Marina di Carrara, Italy (for Florence and Pisa): A fantastic gateway for European sailings.
• Ibiza, Spain: Famous for its nightlife—Virgin includes late-night stays here.

 

A Feast for Foodies

Virgin Voyages redefines cruise dining by eliminating buffets and main dining rooms, replacing them with unique specialty restaurants—all included. My personal favorite part of the trip was the food, and I sampled meals from all the onboard eateries!

Here’s a taste of what you’ll find:

• Razzle Dazzle: Plant-forward, with bold flavors and creative cocktails.
• The Wake: Classic steakhouse and seafood in a glamorous setting.
• Gunbae: A social, interactive Korean BBQ experience.
• Pink Agave: Upscale Mexican cuisine.
• Extra Virgin: Elevated Italian restaurant with hand-made pasta.
• The Galley: A food-hall concept serving everything from tacos to bento boxes and all-day breakfast.

Each spot offers something distinct, and with no upcharges, you can try them all!

 

Entertainment: Bold, Unique, and Unforgettable

Virgin Voyages sets itself apart with its immersive, contemporary entertainment:

• Nightly Shows: Expect avant-garde performances, circus acts, drag shows, and interactive theater—not your grandparents’ cruise fare!
• Live Music: DJs, bands, and themed dance parties keep the decks lively.
• Pop-Up Experiences: From tarot readings to impromptu song sessions around the ship.
• Fitness & Wellness: Yoga, bungee workouts, and spa treatments for mind and body.

There’s always something surprising and modern to do—day and night.

 

The Bar Tab Explained:

Unlike traditional drink packages, Virgin Voyages offers a Bar Tab system:

• Set Your Limit: Prepay $300 (or more) before your voyage (must be done before sailing). Virgin often adds a bonus—like $50 extra for every $300.
• No Pressure: Only pay for what you want. No requirement for everyone in the cabin to purchase; you can share with others.
• Covers More Than Just Booze: Use your Bar Tab for cocktails, spirits, wine, beer, specialty coffees, pressed juices, and more at any bar onboard.
• User-Friendly: Your Bar Tab is loaded onto your account and can be accessed at any venue or for room service drinks.

I’m not a big bar person, and this system fits my travel style perfectly. I appreciated not feeling forced into a big package and being able to share with friends. Refer to the link for more information: Bar Tab

 

Pajama Party: A Cozy & Playful Kickoff

As a travel agent who’s had the pleasure of sailing on the Scarlet Lady, I can say the Pajama Party is the perfect way to set the tone for your Virgin Voyages adventure—it’s playful, relaxed, and genuinely fun. Held on embarkation night, this event invites sailors to leave their inhibitions (and formalwear) at the door and put on their quirkiest, coziest pajamas. It’s not just about comfort—this is a proper party!

The Dock House, with its laid-back beach club vibes, is transformed into a sea of silky pajamas, colorful slippers, and fuzzy onesies. Expect a blend of chilled DJ beats, creative cocktails, and a warm, welcoming community spirit. Icebreakers and photo opportunities abound, making it easy for solo travelers and groups alike to mingle. For many, meeting fellow sailors in such a relaxed, judgment-free environment sets a friendly and inclusive vibe that lasts the entire sailing.

Impact: The Pajama Party immediately breaks down social barriers. Instead of stiff introductions, you’ll find laughter, camaraderie, and an instant sense of belonging, making it a fantastic way to start the voyage.

 

Scarlet Party: The Electric Core of Virgin Voyages

On every Virgin Voyages sailing, the Scarlet Party is the showstopper event. It’s more than a deck party—it’s a ship-wide phenomenon that takes over the pool deck with pulsing music, high-energy entertainment, and spectacular lighting. Sailors are encouraged to dress in brilliant red attire, embracing the ship’s signature color and letting their boldest selves shine.

Expect performances from the incredible Happenings Cast (the ship’s resident artists and entertainers), impromptu dancing, epic DJ sets, and playful surprises throughout the night. From red confetti showers to conga lines winding around the pool, the atmosphere is electric and uninhibited.

Impact: The Scarlet Party truly embodies the essence of Virgin Voyages: modern, inclusive, and unforgettably fun. It brings everyone together—no matter their age, background, or travel style. Even the most reserved guests often find themselves joining the dance floor, letting loose, and forging new friendships. It’s an event you’ll talk about long after the cruise ends.

 

How These Parties Shape the Virgin Voyages Experience

Both the Pajama Party and Scarlet Party encapsulate what makes Virgin Voyages—and Scarlet Lady—so special. They’re inclusive, lively, and designed to help sailors connect in ways that feel genuine and joyful. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, these signature events ensure every sailor feels part of the Virgin Voyages family. You’re not just a passenger—you’re part of an extraordinary, floating celebration.

Pro Travel Agent Tip: Pack those pajamas and something fabulous and red! These events aren’t just “extras”—they’re central to the spirit of a Virgin Voyages cruise, creating memories (and friendships) you’ll cherish.

 

My Personal Scarlet Lady Review

My experience aboard the Scarlet Lady was truly five-star. The atmosphere in my cabin was incredibly relaxing and radiated good vibes—perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure. The crew’s professionalism and prompt service made everything easy. I thoroughly enjoyed dining at every eatery—all the food stood out for its creativity, variety, and quality. While bars aren’t my main draw, Virgin’s Bar Tab option beats traditional cruise drink packages. It’s flexible, sharable, and offers great value, especially with the bonus!

 

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a fun, modern, and inclusive cruising experience, Virgin Voyages is a fantastic choice. From the destinations and food to entertainment and overall vibe, they bring a fresh alternative to traditional cruising. The music is a diverse mix of cultural sounds.  I can’t wait for my next voyage!

Have you sailed with Virgin Voyages or the Scarlet Lady? Share your experience in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts and tips!