Fire & Sunset Soirées on Virgin Voyages' Valiant Lady

Ship overview

The Valiant Lady, one of Virgin Voyages' stellar fleet, offers an unforgettable journey with its top-tier amenities and innovative entertainment. For planning tips and general expectations, check out my guide, Tips and Tricks When Cruising with Virgin Voyages.

What to know when cruising the Fire & Sunset Soirées

The Fire & Sunset Soirées cruise is perfect for those exploring vibrant locales and relaxing on beautiful beaches over a long weekend. This itinerary features stops at Key West and the Beach Club at Bimini, providing a mix of culture, nightlife and sun-soaked relaxation.

Itinerary overview

Day 1: Embark in Miami
Day 2: Sea day
Day 3: Key West
Day 4: Beach Club at Bimini
Day 5: Disembark in Miami

Key West

The southernmost point in the continental United States, Key West is a vibrant island city known for its unique blend of cultural influences, historic sites and lively atmosphere. Start your day with a visit to Cuban Coffee Queen for authentic Cuban coffee to fuel your adventures. Next, head to the Hemingway House (cash only), the former residence of the famous author, where you can tour the beautiful home and gardens and meet the resident six-toed cats.

Blue Heaven is a must-visit spot for brunch, offering delicious Caribbean-inspired dishes in a quirky, laidback setting. If you're craving more local flavors, El Siboney serves up some of the best Cuban cuisine on the island. Stop by Garbo's Grill, a food truck known for its gourmet street food, for a casual yet unforgettable meal with great live music.

As you explore the historic streets, don't miss iconic bars like Captain Tony's Saloon and Sloppy Joe's. Both are steeped in Key West history and offer a lively atmosphere perfect for unwinding with a drink. When hunger strikes again, the Conch Shack provides a taste of the island's famous conch fritters.

For a sweet treat, visit Mattheessen's for their famous cookies and key lime pie, a delightful way to end your day of exploration in Key West. Whether you're enjoying the culinary delights, historical sites or vibrant nightlife, Key West offers an unforgettable experience for every visitor.

Beach Club at Bimini

The Beach Club at Bimini, an exclusive oasis for Virgin Voyages' guests, promises a luxurious beachside escape. Lounge on pristine white sands or relax in private cabanas while soaking in the sun's warmth. Dive into the crystal-clear lagoon-style pools or enjoy a refreshing swim in the turquoise ocean. For a more active experience, join a beach yoga class, snorkel among vibrant coral reefs or bike around the picturesque island.

As the day transitions into night, the Beach Club comes alive with world-class DJ sets and beach parties, creating the perfect atmosphere for dancing under the stars. Indulge in fresh, local cuisine that captures the flavors of the Caribbean, paired with refreshing cocktails from the beach bar. With unique experiences like bonfires and sunset cruises, the Beach Club at Bimini offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure and unforgettable memories.

Packing considerations

Packing for the Fire & Sunset Soirées cruise involves preparing for both beach days and vibrant nightlife. Be sure to pack plenty of swimwear, sunscreen, a sunhat and water shoes for the beach. Consider casual yet stylish outfits for the evenings, with some dressier options for dining and nightlife. Virgin does not have typical formal nights, so go ahead and leave those items at home.

Remember to pack themed attire for the ship's events, such as Scarlet Night (red attire), '80s workout-themed clothes for the VHS Workout class, '70s attire for Studio 72, gold attire for the We Fancy party and pajamas for the PJ Party.

Ship-based activities

Grog Walk - Meet and mingle with other sailors by joining the Grog Walk on the first evening. For $50, enjoy four cocktails from various bars around the ship.

PJ Party - Held at the Athletic Club, this late-night party is perfect for those who pace themselves on day 1. Wear your pajamas to the Grog Walk to seamlessly transition to the PJ Party.

A Ship Show - An innovative entertainment extravaganza blending theater, music and acrobatics for an unforgettable onboard experience. Dinner is available during the show.

Redemption Spa - The thermal spa onboard offers a relaxing escape. Book a session early as slots fill up quickly, especially on sea days.

Scarlet Night - Pack something scarlet red for this themed night. Throughout the day, attend the storytelling sessions for insider tips on surprise events.

Untitled Danceshow Party Thing - A high-energy, immersive dance party that combines vibrant choreography, eclectic music and interactive fun for a thrilling night at sea.

Dining on the ship

Pink Agave - Authentic Mexican cuisine featuring dishes like cochinita pibil and elotes. Inspired by the rich culinary traditions of Mexico, the restaurant's decor is modern and chic, setting the stage for a memorable meal. Highlights include a variety of tacos with gourmet fillings, freshly made guacamole and a selection of mezcals and tequilas that perfectly complement the dishes. The lively ambiance makes it a great spot for a festive night out.

Extra Virgin - An Italian restaurant with homemade pasta and a gelato trolley. The menu boasts a range of homemade pasta dishes, each prepared with the freshest ingredients and traditional techniques. The meal is capped off with a visit from the gelato trolley, offering a selection of artisanal gelatos and sorbettos that are the perfect end to an indulgent dining experience.

Razzle Dazzle - A top restaurant offering vegetarian options and a "naughty" menu. Brunch here is highly recommended. Known for its plant-based dishes, the restaurant offers an array of vegetarian and vegan options that are both delicious and inventive. The "naughty" menu features fried chicken sandwiches and decadent desserts for those looking to indulge. The brunch menu is particularly popular, with options like avocado toast, smoothies and hearty breakfast bowls.

Gunbae - A Korean BBQ restaurant with communal tables and a great place to meet other sailors. The interactive dining style involves grilling your own meats at the table, creating a fun and social atmosphere. The menu includes a variety of marinated meats, fresh vegetables and traditional Korean side dishes like kimchi and pickled radishes.

The Wake - A seafood and steakhouse with stunning aft views that offers both dinner and brunch. The menu is a classic surf and turf affair, featuring expertly prepared steaks, fresh seafood and an array of sides that elevate the dining experience. The brunch menu is equally impressive, with options like lobster Benedict and steak and eggs, making it a great spot for a leisurely morning meal.

Test Kitchen - A molecular gastronomy restaurant with a menu that changes halfway through the voyage. The ever-evolving menu is designed to surprise and delight with dishes that push the boundaries of traditional cooking techniques. Expect to find creatively plated dishes that combine unusual flavors and textures, all presented with a touch of theatrical flair.

The Pizza Place - The best pizza at sea. The crust is perfectly crispy, and the toppings are generous and varied. The buzzer notification system allows you to explore the ship while waiting for your pizza, making it a convenient and tasty option for a quick bite.

Lick Me Til Ice Cream - Quality gelato with vegan and dairy-free options. Whether you prefer classic flavors like chocolate and vanilla or more adventurous options like lavender honey, you'll find it here.

The Galley - A food hall with quick-service stalls and table service. From sushi and ramen to burgers and salads, there's something to satisfy every craving. The stalls are designed to mimic a market-style dining experience, and the table service adds a touch of convenience. It's a great place for a quick meal or a casual dining experience, but be sure to plan ahead during busy times, especially in the morning before excursions.

The Dock House - Offers snacks and drinks with beautiful views from the back of the ship. The menu features a selection of Mediterranean-inspired snacks and small plates, perfect for sharing. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely lunch or an afternoon snack, the ambiance and views make it a memorable dining experience.

Bars on Valiant Lady

On the Rocks - The best bar on the ship and a go-to spot for craft cocktails and live entertainment. The bar offers an extensive menu of classic and innovative drinks expertly crafted by skilled bartenders. The live music adds to the lively atmosphere, making it a great place to start or end your evening.

Richard’s Rooftop - Exclusive to Rockstar and Mega Rockstar sailors, featuring a Moët Champagne happy hour (you can now get cocktails, beer and wine options as well). This exclusive lounge offers a serene escape with plush seating and stunning views.

The Dock House - A great cocktail selection and prime daybeds on sea days.

Grounds Club - Full-service barista coffee bars with snacks available.

Gym & Tonic Bar - This bar offers fresh juices and smoothies during the day and transitions to a pool bar in the evening.

Loose Cannon - A hidden bar with a calm vibe, offering beer and wine. The menu focuses on a curated selection of beers and wines, providing something for every taste.

Aquatic Club Bar/Sun Club Bar - Pool bars with short lines on themed nights.

Draught Haus - A beer haven with many drafts and bottled/canned options.

The Athletic Club - Aft on deck 16, this bar offers lounging near the overhanging net. Its unique setting and comfortable seating make it a popular spot both day and night.

Virgin Voyages' Fire & Sunset Soirées cruise on the Valiant Lady promises an unforgettable experience with its unique blend of vibrant destinations, luxurious amenities and immersive entertainment.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Florida. In need of further inspiration? Check out Amy LaGrow-Rogers’s guide, Pre-Cruise Hotel Guide in Miami & Fort Lauderdale.