Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady Review: What to Expect
My first Virgin Voyages experience — and why Scarlet Lady surprised me in the best way.
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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⭐ Quick Pros & Cons of Scarlet Lady
Pros
Adults‑only (18+) — peaceful, fun, and refreshingly drama‑free
All specialty dining included (no buffets!)
Modern, boutique‑hotel vibe
Incredible food quality
Tech‑forward cabins with mood lighting
Bimini Beach Club is a standout port day
Cons
Entertainment can feel “out there” if you prefer traditional shows
Ship layout takes a day to learn
No kids allowed (pro for some, dealbreaker for others)
Bar Tab system isn’t a traditional drink package
Cruise Essentials I Recommend
Reef‑safe sunscreen
Waterproof phone pouch
Snorkel set
Portable fan
Beach bag
Find all these and more in my Amazon Cruise Essentials
🎨 First Impressions: Bold, Chic & Surprisingly Welcoming
From the moment I stepped aboard in Miami, Scarlet Lady felt more like a floating boutique hotel than a cruise ship. Neon lighting, curated art, and Virgin’s signature red created a vibe that was modern without trying too hard.
Embarkation was a dream — app‑based check‑in, no paper, no lines, just scan and go. It set the tone for the entire sailing.
🧳Need help with Packing? Check out my Virgin Voyages Packing List
Dining: Elevated, Eclectic, and Included
Filet Mignon at the Wake on Virgin Voyages
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.
🍽️Check out my full restaurant Guide - 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.
🍸 Curious about drinks? Here’s how Virgin’s Bar Tab works (it’s not a traditional drink package).
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 Beach Club Is a Standout
Me in Bimini
Our itinerary included a stop at Virgin’s private Beach Club at Bimini, and it was easily the highlight of the trip.
Expect:
DJ sets by the pool
Cabanas
Crystal‑clear turquoise water
A perfect mix of chill + chic
I didn’t book excursions this time, but the beach day alone made the stop worth it.
👉 Read my full review: Virgin Voyages Bimini Beach Club
👥 Who Will Love Scarlet Lady (and Who Won’t)
Perfect For:
Couples
Solo travelers
Foodies
People who want a modern, adults‑only vibe
Travelers who love nightlife, wellness, and unique entertainment
Not Ideal For:
Families with kids (they are not allowed)
Travelers who prefer traditional cruise entertainment
People who want a classic MDR + buffet setup
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. I have booked and sailed on 4 Virgin Voyages since this cruise.
🚢Want to learn more about Virgin Voyages? I got you! Check out My Virgin Voyages Guide -> Virgin Voyages Cruise Guide
❓ FAQs About Scarlet Lady
Is Scarlet Lady worth it?
If you want an adults‑only, foodie‑focused, modern cruise — absolutely.
What’s included?
Dining, WiFi, fitness classes, tips, entertainment, and basic drinks.
Is Scarlet Lady adults‑only?
Yes — 18+ only.
What’s the best restaurant?
Extra Virgni and The Wake are my top picks.
Is Bimini Beach Club worth it?
Yes — it’s one of the best private beach experiences at sea.
🌴 Ready to cruise smarter, splash harder, and travel like a pro?
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About the Author
Julie is a travel‑hacking expert and the founder of NO POINT LEFT BEHIND, a resource for families who want to turn everyday spending into unforgettable trips. She shares practical guides, points strategies, and real‑life travel experiences to help you maximize every dollar. Stay connected — follow Julie on Facebook for fresh travel tips and join the Travel Hacking Moms Facebook Group to be part of a supportive community of travelers learning together.
