Top Five Things You Need to Know About Virgin Voyages Cruises in 2024

I had such a great time on board the Valiant Lady, it changed my perspective on cruises. Now I'm always talking up Virgin Voyages to my friends and family interested in cruises. Below I’m highlighting the features that make Virgin Voyages so awesome and well worth it!

What’s included in your Virgin Voyages fare

When you book a cruise with Virgin Voyages, you’re not just booking a vacation. You’re booking an elevated, more all-inclusive experience. Here’s what’s included in your cruise fare:

Accommodation: Stay in your stylish and modern cabin with all the comforts you need to feel at home at sea.

• Dining: Enjoy a variety of world-class dining options, with no additional charges for meals at any of Virgin Voyages’ included restaurants. From gourmet meals to casual bites, all food on board is included.

• Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Unlimited access to a range of non-alcoholic beverages, including water, soda and specialty coffee.

• Wi-Fi: Stay connected with free Wi-Fi throughout your voyage, so you can share your experiences in real-time.

• Fitness Classes and Activities: Participate in a variety of fitness classes, group activities and access to the onboard gym, all included in your fare.

• Entertainment: Experience world-class entertainment, including live performances, shows and other onboard activities.

• Tips & Service Charges: All gratuities and service charges for dining and housekeeping are included, so you can simply relax and enjoy your trip.

• Group Fitness & Wellness Classes: Whether you’re looking to unwind with yoga or break a sweat in a spin class, these group wellness experiences are included in your fare.

View of the Valiant Lady in Puerto Plata, DC

I had my coffee here every morning well before my mom woke up

You might have noticed that Virgin Voyages doesn’t offer a traditional drink package. But before you write it off, let me explain why that’s actually a great thing.

Instead of a drink package, Virgin Voyages uses a system called Bar Tab. Before you board, you set a budget for your onboard drinks and extras then pay with your bracelet that acts as both your wallet and room key. If you reach your limit, you can always pay with your card on board. Here’s why this works in your favor:

• Better Cocktails: The cocktails on Virgin Voyages are fantastic — no watered-down drinks here. The bartenders are true pros, and the drinks are reasonably priced, especially compared to what you’d pay on land. You get exactly what you pay for.

• A Healthier Approach: This system also encourages more mindful drinking. Since you’re paying for each drink, it gives you a moment to think, "Do I really need another?" It’s a nice way to avoid overindulging and feeling sluggish later.

• No Surprises: You set your budget upfront, so there are no shocking bills at the end of your trip. And if you run out of funds, it’s easy to add more with your card.

So, while Virgin Voyages doesn’t have the standard drink package, the Bar Tab system offers more flexibility, better drinks and a more intentional drinking experience.

The food

One of the biggest reasons I decided to book a Virgin Voyage was the food. I had heard rave reviews about the dining experience onboard, and I couldn’t wait to see if it lived up to the hype. Spoiler alert: it absolutely did. Not only is the food incredible, but almost everything is included in your fare (aside from a few select menu items at each restaurant). This makes it even more enticing.

Virgin Voyages has completely reimagined cruise dining. Forget the traditional buffet or set dining times — on these ships, you’ll find over 20 unique dining options, each offering a fresh and innovative culinary concept. Whether you’re looking to indulge in bold flavors, try something adventurous or stick to familiar classics, there’s something to satisfy every craving.

One of many dishes from The Test Kitchen

Take The Test Kitchen, for example. This adventurous dining venue is part restaurant, part culinary lab, where you can enjoy multi-course meals that excite your taste buds and push boundaries. Or step into Pink Agave, a vibrant and upscale spot inspired by the streets of Mexico City. Serving elevated Mexican dishes paired with a curated mezcal and tequila menu.

For those looking for something more casual, there’s The Galley. It's a food-hall-style space with a variety of stations offering everything from ramen to tacos to classic diner-style burgers. And let’s not forget Gunbae, the lively Korean BBQ restaurant where you can grill your meal tableside while playing interactive drinking games with the staff and fellow sailors.

Another standout is Razzle Dazzle, where indulgence meets healthy eating. Its menu features creative plant-based dishes alongside comfort food classics (hello, rainbow churros!), catering to vegetarians, vegans and meat lovers alike.

No matter where you choose to dine, you’ll notice a few things that set Virgin Voyages apart: no buffets, no main dining halls and no extra charges for specialty dining here. Instead, you get to enjoy gourmet meals in thoughtfully designed spaces, made fresh, which are included in your cruise fare. For me, the dining experience alone was worth the trip. From start to finish, every bite felt like a celebration of bold flavors and creativity.

Entertainment

Virgin Voyages offers an exciting variety of entertainment options, ensuring there’s always something to keep you engaged throughout your journey. From laugh-out-loud comedy shows and captivating musical theater performances to tranquil stargazing at the aft of the ship and live music around every corner, the ship truly comes alive with energy and creativity.

The crown jewel of the onboard entertainment, however, has to be Scarlet Night — an unforgettable, ship-wide celebration. Guests are encouraged to don their best red attire, grab a drink and explore the ship, where surprises await at every turn. From pop-up performances and whimsical decor to unexpected encounters with the lively crew, the night was packed with excitement and adventure.

The festivities culminate in a massive, high-energy pool deck party that’s not to be missed. Dance under the stars, soak up the electric atmosphere and don’t be surprised if you leave a little wet — it’s all part of the fun! Scarlet Night is truly a one-of-a-kind experience that perfectly captures the playful and daring spirit of Virgin Voyages.

The staff

A key ingredient that made my trip unforgettable was the incredible staff. From the moment I boarded, everyone was welcoming, helpful and genuinely excited to make the experience special. The standout for me, though, was the Happenings Cast — a vibrant and diverse ensemble of 12 talented individuals who bring energy and personality to every moment onboard.

Each member of the Happenings Cast has a unique role, adding a fun and interactive layer to the voyage. Whether it’s The Diva captivating the crowd with her charisma, The Hostess with great storytelling and singing voice or The Foodie sharing insider tips and culinary secrets who also hosts various culinary classes and activities, there’s always someone enhancing the experience in a memorable way.

This concept is such a refreshing and creative twist on traditional cruise entertainment. Instead of a cruise director, you get to engage with these dynamic personalities, making the journey feel more personal and immersive. It’s one of those touches that truly sets Virgin Voyages apart.

The vibe

Virgin Voyages’ Valiant Lady creates a unique and vibrant atmosphere, thanks in part to its Happening Cast — a dynamic crew dedicated to keeping the energy alive throughout the ship. But the vibe isn’t just about the people. It’s also about the thoughtful nautical-themed decor. Expect chic furniture and decor in deep blues, whites and pops of Virgin’s signature red, creating a playful yet sophisticated aesthetic.

Each restaurant and bar onboard boasts a distinct theme, offering guests an immersive dining and entertainment experience. The Dock and Dock House, is a Mediterranean-inspired venue that features elegant yet cozy lounge furniture. It creates the perfect setting to enjoy small plates and live music during the day. It’s a relaxing escape that feels like a sunlit seaside retreat.

For something completely different, The Social Club brings retro nostalgia with its 1960s diner-inspired design. This space is brimming with fun activities, including foosball, shuffleboard and board games, making it a lively hub for guests of all ages. The menu here is pure indulgence, offering fairground favorites like hot dogs, popcorn floats and other nostalgic treats. It’s the ultimate spot for a laid-back afternoon or late-night snack with friends.

Valiant Lady seamlessly blends stylish design, thoughtful details and diverse experiences, ensuring that every corner of the ship offers something memorable. Whether you’re enjoying Mediterranean bites at The Dock or playing games at The Social Club, the atmosphere is vibrant, welcoming, and undeniably Virgin.

The rooms

Virgin Voyages’ Valiant Lady, the terrace rooms offer a modern, stylish retreat at sea. Designed with contemporary travelers in mind, these cabins combine comfort, functionality and a touch of luxury that elevates your cruise experience.

The terrace rooms are sleek and thoughtfully curated, with a modern color palette and bold design accents. The standout feature is the full-length sliding glass doors, which flood the room with natural light and lead to your private outdoor terrace. Inside, the space is cleverly utilized, featuring Virgin’s configurable Seabeds, which transform into couches during the day, making the room feel both spacious and versatile.

Step onto the terrace, and it is a serene outdoor space complete with Virgin’s signature red hammock, which became my favorite lounge area when I needed a break from being social. This unique feature is perfect for lounging with a book, enjoying a morning coffee or simply soaking in the breathtaking ocean views.

Inside the room, you’ll find plenty of modern amenities designed to enhance your stay. From touchscreen mood lighting controls to a 43” flat-screen HDTV and USB charging ports, it seems as though every detail was considered. The compact yet chic bathroom includes a luxurious rainfall shower and eco-friendly toiletries. Since the bathrooms were so small, I used the desk in the room to get ready for most of the trip. Additionally, complimentary Wi-Fi and refillable water carafes emphasize Virgin Voyages’ commitment to sustainability and convenience.

If you're ready to experience a cruise unlike any other, Virgin Voyages is the way to go. From the incredible dining options and immersive entertainment to the relaxed, adults-only atmosphere. This cruise line offers a refreshing take on cruising that’s perfect for those looking for something fun, stylish and full of adventure. Whether you’re planning a getaway with friends, a celebration like a bachelor or bachelorette party or simply seeking a new way to travel, Virgin Voyages has something for everyone.

As a Fora Advisor, I’m here to help you plan the ultimate Virgin Voyages cruise, ensuring every detail is taken care of, plus you will get to be one of the first people to board the ship. Let me help you book the perfect trip, customize your experience and make lasting memories. Reach out today to get started — I can't wait to help you embark on your unforgettable journey with Virgin Voyages!

I highly recommend Virgin Voyages for groups of friends, especially bachelor and bachelorette parties, and for those who don’t have young children. The ship’s vibrant, social atmosphere encourages mingling, with plenty of opportunities to connect and have fun together. From stylish lounges and bars to exciting activities and live entertainment, the experience is tailored to those looking for a lively, adults-only environment. If you're after a fun, energetic and social cruise, Virgin Voyages is the perfect choice for your group getaway.

Additionally, VV is expanding to the West Coast and you can set sail to Alaska or Cabo, too!

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Miami page.