Virgin Voyages isn't like other cruise lines, and that's the point. No kids, no buffet, no main dining room, no formal nights. If it's your first time sailing with Virgin, here's everything you need to know before you go, from booking to your first night onboard.
The Dock, one of the best spots onboard to relax and watch the coast go by.
What Makes Virgin Voyages Different
Adults only. Every sailor is 18 or older.
20+ restaurants, all included. No cover charges and no set dining times.
No buffet. The Galley has made-to-order food stations instead.
Wi-Fi included on every fare.
No formal nights. The vibe is relaxed and stylish.
Sailors, not passengers. Virgin calls its guests "Sailors" and its ships "Lady Ships."
The Ships
Virgin has four ships, all similar in size and style:
Scarlet Lady
Valiant Lady
Resilient Lady
Brilliant Lady
Each ship has the same core restaurants and venues, with a few ship-specific differences. Homeports change by season, with sailings from Miami, San Juan, Los Angeles, New York, and Europe.
Before You Book
Pick your fare type
Virgin offers four fares: Lock It In, Base, Essential, and Premium. They change your flexibility, Wi-Fi, and dining reservation window. See Lock It In vs. Base vs. Essential vs. Premium.
Pick your cabin
From Insider cabins to Sea Terraces with a hammock to RockStar suites, the right cabin depends on how you travel. See How to Pick the Best Cabin on Virgin Voyages and Is Virgin Voyages RockStar Quarters Worth It?
Know what's included
Restaurants, essential drinks, Wi-Fi, and fitness are included. Gratuities, alcohol, and excursions are extra. See What's Included in Your Virgin Voyages Fare.
Book through a First Mate
It costs the same as booking direct, and a First Mate can choose your exact cabin and stack every offer you qualify for. See Why Use a Virgin Voyages First Mate?
Have elite status with an airline, hotel chain, or another cruise line? Virgin sometimes runs a Status Match that unlocks Blue Extras perks on a new booking before you ever sail. See Virgin Voyages Status Match for how it works.
Before You Sail
Download the Virgin Voyages app. It's where you'll book dining, Shore Things, and check your schedule.
Complete online check-in well before your sailing, including your photo and arrival time.
Book dining as soon as your window opens. Popular restaurants fill up fast. See the Virgin Voyages Restaurant Guide.
Book Shore Things early. Booking opens 120 days before sailing. See the Shore Things guide.
Prepay a Bar Tab if you drink, so you get the bonus credit. See Virgin Voyages Bar Tab Explained. Or run your numbers in my Bar Tab Calculator.
Prepay gratuities to save $2 per person, per night.
Check your documents. See Do You Need a Passport for a Cruise?
Embarkation Day Tips
Pack a carry-on with your swimsuit, medications, and anything you need for the first afternoon. Checked bags usually arrive at your cabin later in the day.
Arrive at your check-in time. The process is quick when you stick to your slot.
Head to lunch. The Galley is a great first stop while you wait for your cabin.
Explore the ship before sail-away. It's the best time to get your bearings.
What to Pack
Something red for Scarlet Night, Virgin's signature party night. Red isn't required, but most sailors wear it.
Swimwear and a cover-up for the pools and beach days
Comfortable shoes for port days
A going-out outfit or two. The dress code is relaxed but stylish.
Sunscreen and a reusable water bottle
For the full list, plus what to wear on Scarlet Night and what to leave at home, see my Virgin Voyages Packing List and Dress Code.
Your First Day Onboard
Check the app for the day's events and your reservations.
Catch a show. Virgin's entertainment is a highlight, and there are no assigned seats. See my Virgin Voyages shows guide for every show on your ship.
Find your favorite bar. Each ship has several, from cocktail lounges to the pool bar.
Go to The Manor. The ship's nightclub and cabaret space is a must at least one night.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Virgin Voyages adults only?
Yes. All sailors must be 18 or older.
Does Virgin Voyages have formal nights?
No. There are no formal nights, but there are fun theme nights like Scarlet Night.
What should I wear on Virgin Voyages?
Relaxed and stylish. Pack something red for Scarlet Night.
Is Virgin Voyages good for first-time cruisers?
Yes, especially for adults who want great food, a fun atmosphere, and fewer crowds and lines than a traditional cruise.
How far in advance should I book Virgin Voyages?
For the best cabin choice and pricing, book 6 to 12 months out. Popular sailings and suites go first.
Ready for Your First Virgin Voyage?
Request a free quote and I'll find the right sailing, fare, and cabin for your first trip, at the same price as booking direct. Check my current deals to see what's running now.
