Discover the Magic Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady
My First Adults-Only Cruise Experience – May 2023
Scarlet Lady
In May 2023, I boarded the Scarlet Lady for my very first Virgin Voyage—and it was unlike any cruise I’d taken before. As a seasoned traveler, I was curious how Virgin’s edgy, adults-only approach would stack up against the family-friendly lines I had been on in my 20s. Spoiler: it was refreshingly different.
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First Impressions: Bold, Chic, and Surprisingly Welcoming
From the moment I stepped aboard in Miami, Scarlet Lady felt more like a floating boutique hotel than a traditional cruise ship. The aesthetic was sleek and modern—think neon lighting, curated art, and a vibe that screamed “cool without trying too hard.” Virgin’s signature red was everywhere, but it never felt overdone.
Embarkation was smooth, and the app-based check-in made everything feel seamless. No paper, no lines—just scan and go.
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Dining: Elevated, Eclectic, and Included
One of the biggest surprises? No buffets and no main dining room. Instead, Scarlet Lady offers over 20 eateries—all included in your fare. I tried:
Test Kitchen is an innovative restaurant where you can watch your meal being prepared
Pink Agave for upscale Mexican fare
The Wake for steakhouse vibes and brunch with a view
The food was consistently excellent, and the lack of upcharges made it easy to explore without hesitation. Every night was an amazing meal.
🍽️Virgin Voyages Restaurant Guide
Entertainment & Atmosphere: Edgy but Approachable
Virgin’s entertainment is bold—think immersive theater, drag shows, and late-night cabarets. I caught Dual Reality and was blown away by the energy and creativity.
The ship’s vibe is adult, but not raunchy. It felt like a place where couples, solo travelers, and groups of friends could all find their groove.
Virgin Voyages Drink Package Bar Tab
Cabin Experience: Techy & Thoughtful
I stayed in a Sea Terrace cabin, which featured:
A comfy bed that converts from day to night mode
A hammock on the balcony (yes, really!)
Mood lighting and tablet-controlled everything
It was cozy, functional, and surprisingly spacious for a standard balcony room.
Ports & Excursions: Bimini Was a Highlight
Our itinerary included a stop at Virgin’s private Beach Club at Bimini. It was a perfect blend of chill and chic—think DJ sets by the pool, cabanas, and turquoise water. I didn’t book excursions this time, but the beach day alone made the stop worthwhile. Read my full review Virgin Voyages Bimini Beach Club
Final Thoughts: Would I Sail Again?
Absolutely. Scarlet Lady was a bold first step into Virgin Voyages, and it left me wanting more. It’s not for everyone—but if you’re looking for a cruise that breaks the mold, this is it.
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