What I really thought of Virgin Voyages - an adults only, luxury cruise line
I've said it before... I like big boats & I cannot lie.
But I REALLY do.
Virgin Voyages exceeded my expectations. Welp - I'm officially a cruiser!
But I know that not everybody is. (or, they don't think they are... yet)
Let's talk about who this ship IS for, and who I would NOT advise to go on this cruise line.
(After all, that's my role as your trusted travel advisor - to guide you with REAL feedback and professional advice.)
Your time & money is too important to waste.
What awaits you on Virgin Voyages...
Some of the best food I've had while on vacation - and it was consistently good. AND included. I'm talking Michelin-star restaurants.
Shows and excitement galore - dancers, comedians, magicians ... OH MY!
Mysterious dinner party performances, acrobatics, dual reality shows, immersive spa experiences. You can’t get bored. Unless of course, you hate being entertained and eating good food ;)
Experiential dining - interactive Korean BBQ night, a test kitchen, mixology classes.
From the minute you step on the ship, it's a party - but a first-class party!
It feels like a boutique hotel on the sea. I never once have felt over-crowded with people, except, perhaps at the pool. More on this later.
No dress codes and no assigned seating or dining times. All food is included and some of the best I’ve had on vacation.
Late-night bites, with a 24/7 diner. No buffets on board!
I’ve completed gold tier training on this ship, and you will receive added amenities and value when booking with me. (It's a win win!)
Who is Virgin Voyages FOR?
Parents needing a break from the kids! This is an exclusively adults-only voyage.
THE perfect match for this ship is an adult couples' or friends' trip!
A bachelorette party would be incredible. Girls' birthday trip? Ladies' trip to celebrate life? *chef's kiss.
Those who LOVE meeting new people and being entertained while on vacation.
That adult-family trip you keep pushing off? Here it is - and it's all planned and ready for you!
A huge plus about cruising is that you don't have to think twice about how you'll spend your day. Just walk outside your cabin, and excitement awaits.
We met a few solo travelers, and the ship even offers "solo meet ups" to connect people.
The age range on this ship was 30 to 60. However, it is possible some really good-looking 70 year olds made their way aboard ;)
Anyone active, hip and down for a good time! This ship has FUN.
Who is Virgin Voyages NOT for?
Vacationers looking only for peace & quiet. I made it my quest to find quiet places on the ship, and while I did find a few - this ship is geared toward excitement and human connection.
Travelers who aren’t willing to work with a mobile app. All shows, experiences, and even your on-board wallet is ON a mobile app. It's one of the most user-friendly apps I've seen, but if tech terrifies you, steer away, as your experience will be impacted.
Do small rooms/bathrooms scare you? Don't run away yet! I suggest upgrading to Rockstar suites, as the balcony rooms are on the small size. Although we really did love our room, and personally we did not mind, as we were out exploring the ship. Note: A balcony is a MUST.
Someone looking mainly for classy, cabaret entertainment, or simple live music. Virgin is a FUN and hip ship. Entertainment involves a drag queen, and while hilarious and engaging, this might not be for all. The cruise incorporated a wide variety of shows - From acrobatics, to pub trivia, karaoke, Scarlet Night, variety shows, bingo, and more.
Big pool-swimmers. This may not apply for ALL Virgin ships, but the Scarlet Lady only had one pool on-board, which did mean it was rather crowded (the only crowded place on board, in my opinion!). It was not a lap pool - more for sunbathing and cabana lounging.
What does the rate come with?
Listen - I believe there are many cruises that nickle and dime you. I did not feel this way on Virgin, and as long as you know what you're getting yourself into, that's what matters. So here goes:
What's included?
Food
Tips
Wi-Fi
Group fitness classes
Essential drinks
What's not included?
Shore Things
Bar tabs: If you pre-purchase $300 to use on your mobile "wallet", you'll be given $50 to spend on board. (That's free money, you girl-mathers!)
The best part? It's just a 20% deposit to confirm your voyage!
Pro tips:
(Don't worry about memorizing, all clients booking with me will receive these, and more):
Upgrade to the Rockstar status - Booking a suite unlocks access to Richards rooftop - exclusive sun deck where elegance meets exuberance.
Or consider the "Mega Rockstar Quarters" This includes a daily bar tab, in-room bar, Richard's VIP rooftop and private transfers.
Want the best suite on the ship? Go with the "Massive Suite" - You'll get a private terrace with unrivaled views and a PRIVATE hot tub - Trust me, this is insanely incredible.
Sign up for events right away when you get on board - Comedy shows, and workout classes do sell out!
Make sure app notifications are ON. You'll receive event and important cruise reminders.
Snag a cabana in the morning at the beautiful Dock House aboard the Scarlet Lady - on the Aft side, overlooking the beautiful seas.
Don't forget cash for luggage service tips, when checking bags.
Hot tub during dinner to likely have the place to yourself!
What is there to do?!
SO much! Some inclusions, in addition to the shows previously mentioned, you can expect:
A PJ party under the stars
Sunset soirée in the Caribbean - a late night beach ritual to bid adieu to Bimini in Bahamas
Workshops such as custom dance classes, wellness workshops, and mixology classes (may be additonal $$)
Champagne + Shopping
Casino on board
Games such as pub style trivia, game tournaments, puzzle competitions, adult summer camp, stargazing experiencing, late night dodgeball, live seahorse racing with a twist, and so much more.
Incredibly immersive shore experiences, such as:
Thrilling sports car drive in Monaco
Mountain winery tours
Truffle hunting in the French countryside
... So many options, it just depends where you go!
Where do they sail?
Australia and New Zealand
France
Singapore - Bali - Australia
Caribbean
Athens to Dubai
Portugal
Croatia
Spain
Italy
Turkey
Greece
New voyages from Portsmouth, UK, that hit the Atlantic coasts of Spain and France
San Juan
And more!
With any of these fabulous locations, we need to chat about pre and post to enhance your journey!
If you've made it this far, thanks for sticking around! I hope you've gotten value out of this.
If Virgin Voyages is the right fit for you, get the heck out of this email, and let's make ship happen!
Prefer to book now, and not wait for me to pair you with your custom fit?
You can book at that link below, and you'll be automatically associated with me as your advisor, for additional perks. It pays to book cruises with a travel advisor! Just make sure your links says, " Sold and Serviced by Megan Vatnsdal, Travel Advisor" to earn your perks.
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