A Solo Traveler's Guide to Virgin Voyages: Essential Tips

Socializing at sea

Virgin Voyages does a great job organizing events for solo travelers, including a few different solo mixers. I highly recommend you attend the first, which takes place before the larger Sailaway Party. It is hosted by Virgin Happenings Crew and it is a good way to meet people in a relaxed atmosphere. The Happenings Crew does a great job facilitating the event. It features flowing bottles of champagne and an icebreaker activity for everyone to introduce themselves. Then the Happenings Crew leads the group to the Sailaway Party by the pool. You instantly have a group of people to experience this fun event with. I also recommend you start a What'sApp group with fellow solo travelers. A group of us started a chat and we were able to communicate the entire trip. It was an easy way to see if someone wanted to join you for trivia or time at the pool.

Onboard Activities

Best things to do Solo: Virgin has several activities on board that are perfect for solo travelers. On any given day, you can join a trivia or game show. Or even join a game of pickle ball. I've done both and they were great ways to meet people. If you are into fitness, join a group fitness class. Always go to the Solo Sailor Mixers. You can find the times in your app once on the ship. You will also have a flyer in your room with details. Virgin Voyages usually hosts two during the cruise.

I also highly recommend doing the Grog Walk on the ship. It is the perfect way to meet fellow travelers and have a blast exploring the ship’s top bars and lounges! I booked this on my last cruise, and it was a fantastic experience, especially as a solo traveler. There were plenty of other solo sailors at the event, making it easy to connect and socialize. With four different stops, you’ll get to enjoy delicious cocktails, snacks and some fun group activities that really help break the ice. There is a cost and you can book through the Virgin Voyages app once you're on board — just be sure to sign up early, as spots fill up quickly. My last cruise had Grog Walks three different nights, making it easy to fit into your schedule.

Dining as a Solo Traveler on Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages really takes care of solo travelers, and dining on board is no exception. They offer a fantastic setup where you can enjoy great meals with fellow solo travelers, making the experience social and fun. I had great dinners every night and made some friends along the way.

On the first night of the cruise, they typically organize a large dinner for solo travelers at Razzle Dazzle. This is a great way to start your voyage by meeting others who are also traveling solo, and the restaurant's fun, vibrant atmosphere is the perfect setting for it.

For the rest of your trip, solo traveler dinners are arranged every night. Here’s how it works: you simply go to the designated meeting point, let the crew know which restaurant you’d like to dine at and they’ll give you a ticket. Each restaurant usually reserves 6–7 spots for solo diners, so you’ll get to enjoy dinner with other solo travelers, making it a fun, small-group experience.

Restaurant options

• Gunbae: This interactive Korean BBQ restaurant is a must-try, especially for solo travelers. The fun grilling experience and drinking games make it easy to mingle and break the ice. I recommend doing this early in the trip!

• Extra Virgin: If you love Italian food, Extra Virgin is a standout. Their fresh pasta is delicious, but don’t miss out on their steak — it’s one of my favorite dishes on the ship.

• Pink Agave: For a high-energy, social dinner, head to Pink Agave. Their large selection of tequila and amazing guacamole make this a great spot to try, especially if you love bold Mexican flavors.

• The Wake: For a more elegant dining experience, The Wake offers stunning views and a menu of seafood and steaks. It’s perfect for solo travelers who want a more refined evening.

• The Dock House: This Mediterranean-inspired spot is laid-back and perfect for small plates and conversation. It’s also great for sunset dining with its outdoor seating.

• The Test Kitchen: If you’re feeling adventurous, The Test Kitchen is all about experimental cuisine. It offers multi-course meals that are a great conversation starter among solo diners.

• Razzle Dazzle: The playful vibe and colorful décor at Razzle Dazzle make for a fun dining experience. The menu is packed with plant-based options and indulgent treats, catering to all tastes.

• The Galley: For something more casual, head to The Galley, a food hall with a variety of options for breakfast, lunch or a snack. It’s a great place to grab a quick meal and chat with others. Many mornings we would send a group text seeing who was up for breakfast in the Galley.

Virgin Voyages really makes sure that dining as a solo traveler is a welcoming experience. Whether you’re enjoying a lively meal at Gunbae or savoring something a bit more upscale at The Wake, you’ll always find great food and good company.