If you’ve been scrolling through Instagram or chatting with friends about travel, you’ve probably heard of Virgin Voyages. With their ‘pushing the boundaries’ bold red and grey ships, adults-only atmosphere, and promises of a ‘new’ kind of cruise experience, they’ve definitely had people talking. But is Virgin Voyages suited to you? Let’s find out.
The vibe: adults-only and unapologetically fun
Firstly, Virgin Voyages is only for adults and the atmosphere is relaxed yet lively, with a strong emphasis on fun, music, and a bit of cheeky humour. Picture neon lights, DJs spinning by the pool, themed events, and late into the night cocktail bars. There are quiet, chilled areas on the ship where you can relax if you’re looking for a bit of peace and quiet.
Dining: Say goodbye to the main dining room.
The dining experience is one of Virgin Voyages’ highlights. Forget the usual cruise ship buffet and set dining times. Instead, there are over 20 different restaurants on board, ranging from trendy bottomless brunches to sophisticated steakhouses and exotic street food in the Galley. Everything is included in your fare, which is a great touch. You can eat your way through the ship without worrying about extra charges. There are no formal nights. You can skip the traditional suit and tie and come as you are, whether it’s sequined jackets, elegant dresses, tank tops, or shorts. Nobody will bat an eye.
Cabins: Modern, Comfortable, and Tech-savvy
Virgin Voyages’ cabins are sleek and modern, with a minimalist design style. Most have balconies (or ‘sea terraces’ as Virgin calls them), where most include hammocks that are great for watching the sunset. The cabins are also equipped with smart technology, allowing you to control the lighting, mood, temperature, and even the curtains using a tablet. If you enjoy electronics, you’ll likely enjoy the high-tech features.
Entertainment: More Nightclub vibe than Broadway.
The entertainment on Virgin Voyages is, well, different. If you’re used to the large Broadway-style shows on regular cruises, you might be surprised. Instead, Virgin provides a variety of immersive performances, drag shows, pop-up acts, and themed events to keep the nightlife lively. The aim is to provide an edgier, more unexpected experience. If you are looking for something new and exciting, you will most certainly enjoy it.
Wellness: Pamper or Party (or both)
Virgin Voyages caters to both those who love fitness and those who simply want to unwind. There is a fully equipped gym, 80s-themed aerobics, bungee fitness, and yoga programs. If you’re feeling particularly energetic, there’s even a running track that’s cleverly placed away from the decks with fantastic views. If you prefer to relax, the spa has a variety of treatments available, as well as a thermal suite for some pampering. And if you overdid it at the party the night before, there’s even a detox juice bar to help you recover.
Sustainability: Eco-conscious Cruising
If being environmentally conscious is essential to you, you’ll be happy to hear that Virgin Voyages places a high value on sustainability. They are taking steps to lessen their environmental impact, such as prohibiting single-use plastics and adopting cleaner fuels and energy-efficient technologies. It’s encouraging to see a cruise line take these measures.
My personal opinion: I loved it so much that I’m going again!
I recently went on a Virgin Voyages cruise for the third time, and it was amazing. The relaxed yet active ambiance, the delicious food, and the general atmosphere was exactly what I was hoping for on a cruise with friends. From dancing the night away at themed parties to relaxing in a hammock on my sea terrace, it was all I imagined for and more. And the best part? I enjoyed it so much that I’m heading back in a few weeks for more fun!
So, is Virgin Voyages for you?
Virgin Voyages is ideal for anyone looking at a cruise experience that focuses on early morning fitness classes, late-night dancing, and things included like wifi and soft drinks. It’s for travellers who appreciate excellent food, prefer modern over traditional, and aren’t afraid to accept a little naughty cheekiness in the entertainment. If you don’t take life too seriously, you’ll probably love this cruise line.
If you’re a traditional cruiser who prefers classics like formal nights and large theatre shows, Virgin’s mood may be too different for you. And that’s fine! Travel is about discovering what brings you joy.
Lastly, Virgin Voyages is carving out a position in the cruise industry by being daring, innovative, and somewhat rebellious. So, if that sounds like your cup of tea (or glass of champagne), it could be ideal for your next cruise.
‘YOU DO YOU’
