Virgin Voyages Fire & Sunset Soirees: 4-Night Couples Getaway on the Scarlet Lady

The ship

The Scarlet Lady, Virgin Voyages' flagship, is a modern marvel designed to redefine the cruising experience. It boasts a sleek, contemporary design and is divided into several distinct zones, each offering unique experiences. Some of our favorite spots included:

• The Dock: A serene outdoor lounge area with Mediterranean vibes, offering daybeds and a fantastic selection of small plates and drinks. It is one of my favorite spots for enjoying an afternoon cocktail.

• Aquatic Club: The main pool area, where you can relax in a serene setting with comfortable loungers and beautiful ocean views.

• Red Room: A transformational theater space that hosts immersive performances, including shows and interactive experiences.

• Sea Terrace Cabin: The cabins on Virgin Voyages are amazing. The Sea Terrace (balcony) cabins have a red hand-woven terrace hammock on the balcony, which are amazing for escaping for an afternoon break with a cocktail in hand! The mood lighting is a fun and unexpected feature.

Virgin Voyages breaks away from traditional cruise dining with over 20 unique eateries, all included in your fare. It is so nice to have the option to select where you want to eat, when you want to eat (you do want to get your reservations in early though). Options include:

• Razzle Dazzle: A vibrant restaurant offering a menu filled with plant-based delights and comfort foods with a twist. Don’t miss their inventive cocktails!

• The Wake: An elegant, upscale restaurant with stunning wake views, specializing in steak and seafood. Perfect for a romantic steak dinner while enjoying views of the wake! We enjoyed a romantic dinner here with a view of the wake on the first night of our sailing.

• Gunbae: A lively Korean BBQ spot where you can grill your own food at the table. It’s a fun and interactive dining experience.

• Pink Agave: An elevated Mexican restaurant offering a rich selection of authentic dishes and tequila-based drinks in a chic setting.

• The Test Kitchen: A laboratory-like dining venue where experimental and molecular gastronomy come together for an unforgettable culinary adventure. It is a truly unique experience, but maybe not the best spot if you do not have an adventurous appetite.

• The Galley: The go-to spot for a quick meal or snack. The Galley features a mix of food shops and food-truck-style carts. You can get grab-and-go sushi, made-to-order sandwiches salads and many other great options. It even has a 24-hour American diner. Insider tip: as you are walking out of The Galley onto the aft deck, check out the cooler, which is usually stocked with tres leches cake. It was my go-to for a late night treat!

Every corner of the ship is designed to offer a unique experience. No matter what your vibe is, you will find the perfect spot. Here is a sampling of some of the unique and memorable experiences offered on a Virgin Voyages cruise:

• Redemption Spa: A luxurious, tranquil spa offering a range of treatments, a hydrotherapy pool, mudroom, salt room and more. It’s the ultimate relaxation haven.

• B-Complex: The fitness center with distinct areas for different types of workouts, including yoga, cycling and strength training. There’s also an outdoor running track for those who prefer to exercise with a view.

• The Casino: A sleek, modern casino where you can try your luck at various games, from slot machines to poker and roulette.

• Squid Ink: The first-ever tattoo studio at sea. Get some new ink to commemorate your voyage!

• The Groupie: Private karaoke rooms for you and your friends to belt out your favorite tunes in style.

• Athletic Club: An outdoor area with a large net for sunbathing, daybeds and even a boxing ring. It’s a great spot for both relaxation and fun.

• Social spaces: Numerous lounges and bars are scattered throughout the ship, each with its own unique vibe. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to read or a lively spot for a cocktail, you’ll find the perfect place.

• Cutting-edge entertainment that pushes the boundaries of traditional cruise shows.

• Scarlet Night: This signature event is a ship-wide party where everyone is encouraged to wear red. It’s an unforgettable evening filled with music, dancing and surprises around every corner.

With such a diverse range of entertainment and activities, every day on the Scarlet Lady promises new adventures and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re looking to relax, get active or simply be entertained, there’s something for everyone on this innovative ship. You can do as little or as much as you please!

The itinerary

This four-day itinerary with stops in Key West and Bimini Beach Club was the perfect itinerary for a quick, relaxing couples getaway. Here’s a glimpse into how special each of these ports are.

Key West

Ah, Key West: where vibrant culture meets laid-back island vibes. Here are some highlights of the port.

• Explore the colorful streets: Stroll through the vibrant streets lined with quirky shops, unique art galleries and charming historic homes. Don’t miss Duval Street, the heart of Key West, bustling with energy and local flavor.

• Iconic landmarks: Hop on a bike and pedal your way to some of Key West’s most iconic landmarks. Visit the Southernmost Point buoy for a quintessential photo op and explore the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum to get a glimpse into the life of the famous author.

• World-famous Conch Tour Train: This tour is a fun and informative way to see the island. It takes you through Key West's historic district and to the Southernmost Point, giving you an entertaining overview of the island’s history and culture.

• Culinary delights: Indulge in fresh seafood at local shacks, enjoy some rum punch and treat yourself to the best key lime pie you’ll ever taste. Be sure to try a conch fritter or two!

Bimini Beach Club

Our visit to the Bimini Beach Club was the perfect beach day. The beach club offers some of the most stunning white sands and crystal-clear waters you’ll ever see. It’s the perfect setting for a day of relaxation and sunbathing.

We lounged in a private cabana with a fruity cocktail in hand, letting the gentle sound of the waves and the swaying palm trees enhance our relaxation. For the more adventurous, the Beach Club offers an underwater playground perfect for exploring the vibrant marine life and the beautiful coral reefs just off the shore. The Beach Club features an expansive pool where you can take a refreshing dip, enjoy poolside service, and soak up the lively atmosphere.

Costs

Virgin Voyages is known for its innovative "everything included" concept, but there are still a few additional costs to be aware of. Here’s a breakdown of what’s included in your cruise fare and what you might need to budget extra for:

What’s included in the cruise fare

Virgin Voyages provides a hassle-free experience by including many essentials and perks in the cruise fare:

• Dining: Access to over 20 unique eateries with no additional cover charges. This includes specialty dining venues, casual spots, and everything in between. All food, from gourmet meals to late-night snacks, is included.

• Basic Beverages: Water, non-pressed juices, sodas, teas, and drip coffee are all included in your fare.

• Gratuities: Tips are included, so you don’t have to worry about extra charges for excellent service.

• Wi-Fi: Stay connected throughout your voyage with complimentary Wi-Fi.

• Group Fitness Classes: Join various group fitness classes such as yoga, cycling, and strength training without extra charges.

• Entertainment: Enjoy all the onboard entertainment, including shows, live performances, and themed parties, without any additional fees.

Additional costs

While most amenities are included, there are some extras you may want to budget for:

• Alcoholic beverages: Alcoholic drinks and premium beverages are not included. You can purchase a bar tab in advance for convenience.

• Spa services: Treatments and services at the Redemption Spa — such as massages, facials and access to the thermal suite — come at an additional cost.

• Shore excursions: While you can explore ports on your own, organized shore excursions and activities offered by Virgin Voyages are extra.

• Specialty fitness classes: Some specialized fitness classes or personal training sessions might have additional fees.

• Retail purchases: Any items purchased in onboard shops — such as souvenirs, clothing or duty-free goods — are not included.

• Tattoo services: Getting inked at Squid Ink, the ship’s tattoo studio, is an extra cost and appointments can be booked in advance.

• Laundry services: Laundry and dry-cleaning services are available at an additional charge.

• Room service: While most food options are included, there might be a small delivery fee for late-night room service orders.

With so much included in the fare, you can enjoy a luxurious and hassle-free experience, indulging in the extras that matter most to you, without worrying about the bill at the end of the cruise.

Tips for first-time cruisers

The Caribbean is a year-round destination, but for optimal weather and smooth sailing, the best time to cruise is between November and April. This window offers the perfect blend of sunshine and warmth in the Caribbean.

Give yourself the luxury of arriving at least a day before embarkation. This not only ensures a stress-free start but also allows you to explore your departure city at your leisure.

Embrace the casual chic vibe with your wardrobe choices, adding a splash of red for Scarlet Night and donning your most stylish pajamas for the onboard Pajama Party.

Remember to bring essentials like sunscreen, a reusable water bottle and any necessary medications.

Take time on your first day to acquaint yourself with the ship. From the array of dining options to the top-notch amenities, familiarize yourself with all the ship has to offer. There are so many hidden spots throughout the ship — don't wait until the last day to find your favorite spot!

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to the Caribbean. In need of further inspiration? Check out Stephanie Stevenso’s guide, Unlocking the Caribbean's Best-Kept Secrets: A 5-Day Retreat to Saint Kitts and Nevis.