Image courtesy of Virgin Voyages
First it was records. Then came airlines, hotels, banking and space tourism. And now: Virgin Voyages, the latest company within Sir Richard Branson's vast Virgin Group, is here. I'm admittedly obsessed with the "yacht-inspired," adults-only cruise line. And, thanks to Fora's partnership with Virgin Voyages, I've got the insider access and expertise to level-up your time at sea.
Below, I'm breaking down some of our favorite elements of the Virgin Voyages experience (rockstar-approved cabins! stargazing at sea!). Plus, you’ll find a few of Virgin Voyages’ luxe cruise ships, as well as several of the fabulous locations to which they sail.
Dare I say, even the most cruise-averse traveler might be converted?
First things first, why is Virgin Voyages different?
Image courtesy of Virgin Voyages
If anyone knows how to elevate the cruise industry, it most certainly is Sir Richard Branson. And his disruptive, bold mindset is alive and well on Virgin ships.
For starters, guests stay in modern, “Clever Cabins,” edgy, rock-n-roll-inspired “RockStar Quarters” or the exclusive Tom Dixon-inspired “Mega RockStar Quarters,” complete with a curated in-room bar, stargazing sea terrace and a 24/7 RockStar Agent service.
Another difference: on Virgin Voyages ships, there’s not a buffet in sight. Award-winning chefs (many of whom are Michelin-starred) are behind the cruise ships’ multiple eateries. Choose from vegetarian-forward fare, elevated Italian, classic American, health-conscious cuisine, Korean BBQ and nearly everything in between.
Virgin Voyages is also a wellness powerhouse. Fitness classes are top-notch (HIIT, yoga, cycling, meditation...). Apart from the fitness classes, guests can enjoy a boxing ring, running track and dedicated pavilion for sunrise yoga. Indoors, the well-equipped B-Complex gym comes with weights, stretching space and top-tier cycling, rowing and running machines. (If you're looking for more onshore gym inspiration, check out this list of the best hotel gyms.) Afterward, guests can relax at the Redemption Spa, with hot and cold plunge pools, plus steam, sauna, salt and mud rooms. And did I mention that on board, all meals, entertainment, wifi, and gratuities (!) are included?
But where to set sail?
Image courtesy of Virgin Voyages
There are multiple Virgin Voyages ships, each of which offer different itineraries in various destinations. Perhaps a trip to San Juan is calling your name, or a Barcelona vacation, or maybe one to Phuket, Dubai, Bali or Singapore. Regardless of where you travel, setting sail on a Virgin Voyages cruise ship presents a different kind of cruise experience, one that continues to shake up the cruise industry as a whole.
And remember: when you book with me, the process becomes even more seamless. I'll help you with all the details, from selecting the ideal itinerary to breaking down the disembarking process. All you'll need to worry about is enjoying your time on board.
Set sail on one of Virgin Voyages' stylish ships
For a Caribbean escape: Scarlet Lady
Image courtesy of Virgin Voyages
The Scarlet Lady operates year round, departing from Miami, Florida, before cruising around the Caribbean. Her Caribbean itineraries include a late stay at Virgin Voyages’ own Beach Club at Bimini, in the Bahamas.
For a glam coastal moment: Valiant Lady
Image courtesy of Virgin Voyages
The Valiant Lady travels to the Mediterranean during the summer, and to the Caribbean in the winter. Late and overnight stays are available in Ibiza, Mallorca and Cannes.
For an elevated adventure: Resilient Lady
Image courtesy of Virgin Voyages
The Resilient Lady departs from Athens, Greece, with overnight stays in Mykonos and Croatia. In winter, she heads to the South Pacific, exploring the waters of Australia and New Zealand.
And this year, Virgin Voyages’ new cruise ship, Brilliant Lady, will set sail.