Are you dreaming of a vacation at sea but unsure if Virgin Voyages is the right fit for you? Me too, to be honest. So as I write this blog post, I’m also figuring out if Virgin Voyages is right for me. With so many cruise lines offering different experiences, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect one.
Virgin Voyages, founded by Sir Richard Branson, has shaken up the cruising industry with its bold, modern approach. Let’s dive into what sets Virgin Voyages apart and whether it’s the right cruise line for you.
1. Adults-Only Atmosphere
One of the most unique aspects of Virgin Voyages is its adults-only policy. All passengers must be 18 years or older, making this cruise line ideal if you’re looking for a child-free cruise holiday. If you crave a more sophisticated, relaxing environment, this might be a great match for you. This is a huge part of Virgin Voyages’ marketing so I can’t see this changing any time soon.
However, if you’re looking for a family-friendly trip or traveling with children, Virgin Voyages won’t be the right choice. They won’t even be allowed to board!
Would I like this? Yes! I think I’m at the point in my life where I don’t have children, and I don’t vacation with people who do. So an adults-only cruise line would definitely appeal to me.
What you might like instead: Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line
2. The Vibe: Chic, Edgy, and Fun
Virgin Voyages has created an ultra-modern and stylish onboard experience. From stunning contemporary design to state-of-the-art amenities, the entire vibe is chic and youthful. They even have a tattoo studio onboard (wtf)! Entertainment ranges from immersive theatrical performances to late-night parties, offering a mix of quirky, high-energy fun and sophisticated relaxation.
If you enjoy a trendy atmosphere with plenty of social activities, this might appeal to you. But if you prefer traditional or more conservative cruising experiences, the bold and edgy nature of Virgin might not align with your style.
Would I like this? I’m not sure. Potentially? It feels a little out there, and whilst I love the idea of something chic and contemporary, I am a little bit more reserved, and surprisingly, I’m not that social!
What you might like instead: Cunard, Azamara
3. Dining: No Buffets, Just World-Class Restaurants
Forget about traditional cruise buffets! Virgin Voyages focuses on gourmet dining with over 20 different restaurants and eateries onboard, all included in your fare. From experimental molecular gastronomy to classic steakhouse dishes, the dining experience is all about variety and quality.
If you’re a foodie or enjoy trying new cuisines, you’ll likely appreciate the culinary diversity. But if you prefer the familiarity of cruise buffets or casual dining, you may miss those options here.
Would I like this? Yes, i think so. I tend to avoid buffets due to how crowded they get, and I loved the Indulge Food Hall onboard Norwegian Viva.
What you might like instead: I guess any other cruise line to be honest, they usually all have buffets!
4. Wellness and Fitness-Focused
Virgin Voyages puts a significant emphasis on health and wellness. There are daily fitness classes, modern gyms, and even outdoor yoga spaces. They also offer a range of spa services for those looking to indulge in relaxation. The fitness and wellness focus appeals to active travelers who want to stay fit while enjoying their vacation.
If your ideal cruise involves balancing indulgence with wellness, Virgin Voyages could be perfect for you. But if fitness isn’t a priority, this aspect may feel less significant.
Would I like this? Hmm, maybe? I’m not really into the gym as I get too intimidated, but I do want to level up my fitness, so maybe this could work for me?
What you might like instead: Same, again. Most cruise lines have gyms! Maybe not to the level of extent that Virgin do.
5. All-Inclusive Perks
One of the standout features of Virgin Voyages is the nearly all-inclusive nature of its pricing. All dining, essential drinks (water, soft drinks, tea, and coffee), fitness classes, and Wi-Fi are included in the base fare. You won’t have to worry about extra charges for many standard activities and services.
This transparent pricing model is excellent if you hate surprise fees and want a more straightforward cruise experience. However, luxury services like alcohol, spa treatments, and shore excursions are still an additional cost.
Would I like this? Hmm, no. I know that’s controversial, but I prefer to know how much I am paying, and the way they do their “bar tabs” throws me off. I would rather just pay £300~ for an all inclusive drinks package that feel like I constantly have to top up my bar tab.
What you might like: Either a six-star cruise, or the More at Sea package with NCL.
6. Unique Destinations
Virgin Voyages sails to some amazing and less conventional destinations, especially in the Caribbean and Mediterranean. Whether it’s docking at their private Bimini Beach Club in the Bahamas or exploring the vibrant coastlines of Europe, their itineraries tend to focus on more hip and trendy locations.
If you love discovering unique destinations with a mix of culture, adventure, and beach relaxation, Virgin’s routes will likely excite you. However, if you’re looking for more traditional ports or regions like Alaska or the Panama Canal, you’ll have to look elsewhere.
Would I like this? I mean yes, it doesn’t feel wildly different from what other cruise lines are doing. Especially those with their own private resorts/islands.
What you might like: The majority of major cruise lines have their own private island, but specifically Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, Carnival, or NCL.
7. For the Social Traveller
With its communal dining, group fitness classes, and social spaces, Virgin Voyages fosters a sense of community onboard. It’s great for solo travellers or social butterflies looking to make new friends while cruising.
But if you prefer a more private, reserved travel experience or don’t enjoy highly social settings, the Virgin Voyages style might not suit your needs.
Would I like this? Probably not. I am not the most social person, and generally, I enjoy staying in my own little bubble with a book, headphones, or partner. A cruise for me is a place to escape the world, so I wouldn’t love the social aspect of it all.
What you might like: I mean, you can always find someone to talk to on a cruise, so if that’s your thing any cruise line would work.
8. LGBTQIA+ Inclusive
Now, cruising can be a very inclusive experience depending on the right cruise line. You may not feel totally comfortable being out and proud at a more conservative cruise line. But at Virgin Voyages, your part of your identity is celebrated. You can be out and proud and no one will bat an eyelid.
Would I like this? Yes! Although there’s never been a time I’ve felt judged or had to hide my sexuality on a cruise, it’s great to see a cruise line loudly express this inclusivity.
What you might like: If this isn’t your thing, or you’re actively against this… Then maybe just close this tab and go to another blog.
What makes me apprehensive about Virgin Voyages?
Firstly, I think Virgin Voyages are quite expensive. And because you’re not able to just buy a drinks package all at once, it’s hard for me to budget for (give my partner a total cruise cost haha). Sure, I could buy a $200 bar tab, but then I would feel like I’m constantly checking my remaining balance? You know what I mean?
Secondly, the pools on Virgin are quite small. Pools for me are the centre of the outdoor areas, and only having one would feel there’s only one place to be, and I could just imagine it gets quite busy. I love on Royal Caribbeans there’s 3, 4, 5 pools sometimes and if you don’t like the vibe of one, you can just go to another…
I think I would only book a Virgin cruise if it was really cheap or maybe I was cruising with a large group of people.
Is Virgin Voyages Right for You?
Virgin Voyages is perfect for travellers who:
- Want an adults-only, sophisticated experience
- Enjoy trendy, high-energy environments
- Love gourmet dining and unique culinary experiences
- Appreciate health, wellness, and fitness offerings
- Prefer all-inclusive pricing with minimal surprises
- Want to explore trendy, less conventional destinations
- Thrive in social and communal settings
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more traditional, family-friendly cruise with classic amenities, Virgin Voyages may not be your ideal match.
At the end of the day, choosing the right cruise line is about finding what fits your style and preferences. Virgin Voyages offers a unique, modern take on cruising that stands out in many ways. If the idea of a stylish, adults-only, and social cruise sounds appealing to you, it might just be the perfect choice!
If you’re looking for advice from someone who absolutely loves Virgin Voyages, then check out my friend Robbie Watson on Instagram! He has so many reels and posts reflecting on his experience with Virgin Voyages – I’m sure he’ll convince you.
