Virgin Voyages Tips

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Virgin Voyages isn’t your typical cruise line — and that’s exactly why it has quickly become one of my favorite cruise lines. If you’re sailing with Virgin for the first time, here’s what to expect (and how to make the most of it). If you want to learn how I save big on next Virgin Voyage -> Save on Resilient Lady Virgin Voyages

1. It’s Adults-Only — and That Changes Everything

No kids. No splash zones. No character breakfasts. Virgin Voyages is 18+ and designed for grown-up fun — think elevated dining, late-night shows, and a wellness-meets-party vibe.

Pro tip: If you're used to family cruising, this will feel like a boutique hotel at sea.

2. No Buffets, No Main Dining Room — Just 20+ Included Eateries

Virgin ditches the traditional cruise dining model. Instead, you’ll find over 20 restaurants — all included — from Korean BBQ to vegetarian tasting menus. Instead of a buffet, they have a galley with food truck-type stations. Gourmet Sandwiches, ramen, sushi, salads, and so much more. Even better, it is all delicious.

Don’t miss:

Gunbae for interactive Korean BBQ
The Wake for steakhouse brunch
Extra Virgin for handmade pasta

Travel hack: Book dining reservations in the app as soon as they open (usually 45 days before sailing). Check out my Virgin Voyages Restaurant Guide -> Virgin Voyages Restaurants

3. Entertainment Is Edgy, Immersive, and Sometimes Wild

Forget Broadway-style revues. Virgin’s shows are immersive, cheeky, and often interactive. Think drag brunches, acrobatics, and dance parties that start at midnight.

First-timer tip: Don’t skip “Duel Reality” — it’s Romeo & Juliet meets Cirque du Soleil.

4. No Drink Package — But a Bar Tab Hack

Instead of traditional drink packages, Virgin offers a Bar Tab system. You prepay $300 and they’ll give you a $50 bonus. I have found the drinks to be reasonably priced. You can add your bar tab up to 48 hours before your departure. Not sure how much to buy? Check out my review of Bar Tab on a recent sailing -> Virgin Voyages Drink Package Bar Tab

5. The Cabins Are Smart — and Surprisingly Fun

Your Sea Terrace cabin comes with a hammock on the balcony and a tablet that controls lights, curtains, and mood settings. The hammock quickly became my favorite place to hang out on all my cruises. It is a great place to take a nap.

First-timer tip: Use “Zen Mode” at night for ambient lighting and white noise.

6. Embrace the Wellness Vibe

From sunrise yoga to the Redemption Spa’s thermal suite, Virgin leans into wellness. There’s even a tattoo studio onboard. I booked a specialty massage that included a 3-hour pass to the thermal spa. Talk about relaxation. I highly recommend. I spent 3 hours in there enjoying the amenities.

Hack it: Book spa treatments on port days for discounts.

7. Download the Virgin Voyages App Before You Board

The app is your key to everything: boarding pass, restaurant reservations, show tickets, and messaging.

Pro tip: If you were not able to get the dining reservations you wanted before boarding. Jump on the wifi when you first board the ship, and reservations should appear. I did this on my first sailing and got all the reservations we wanted.

8. Don’t Miss Scarlet Night

This is Virgin’s signature party night — everyone wears red, the ship transforms, and the pool becomes a dance floor.

First-timer tip: Pack something red and be ready to stay up late.

9. What to Pack (and What to Leave Behind)

Virgin is casual-chic. No formal nights, no dress codes. But you’ll want:

Red outfit for Scarlet Night
Workout gear for fitness classes
Swimsuits and cover-ups
Portable charger for your phone
Refillable water bottle (hydration stations everywhere)

Virgin Voyages is perfect for travelers who love boutique hotels, foodie experiences, and a little edge with their ocean views. I have traveled with my husband, son, sister, and friend on Virgin Voyages, and all agreed it was amazing.

Want to learn more about Virgin Voyages? You can visit my First Mates link. Be sure to check out my Virgin Voyages Cruise Guide .

Virgin Voyages Tips for First-Time Cruisers