As you prepare for your Virgin Voyages Cruise, get ready for an exciting trip filled with unique experiences and delicious cuisine. To maximize your cruise experience, here is a list of insider tips for Virgin Voyages that will guide you to sail like a pro! This massive list of tips keeps growing, but it will help you maximize your Virgin Voyages cruise experience from impressive to extraordinary!
Pay the Best Price For Your Cruise
I suggest that before you pay for your cruise, you should perform a cost comparison,
- Find a free quote directly from Virgin Voyages: click here and find a cruise you want to book. Get a quote but don’t purchase it just yet.
- Get a second free quote for a comparison: if you are looking for a great price and/or extra perks, like Sailor Loot (onboard credit), dinner reservations made for you, make sure to contact Jason Carter to get a free quote.
- Compare and book: Choose the better pricing. Jason can typically beat the prices you find on the Virgin Voyages website.
Why?
Jason is a top 100 Virgin Voyages travel agent and can get better pricing and perks for you, yes even better than the Virgin Voyages website.
You don’t have to take my word for it, compare prices and perks and make your choice.
Please note that I am not receiving affiliate pay and am not sponsored to write this. I want you to get the best price possible on your Virgin Voyages cruise.
Download and Master the Virgin Voyages App
Your cruise begins before you even step foot on the ship. The Virgin Voyages app is your key to unlocking a world of possibilities:
- Early Access: As soon as you’re able to do so after booking your voyage, log into the app and start exploring. Choose from the available arrival times. General Boarding Starts at 2:00 PM.
- Check-In Early: Do the 7-step check-in process.
- Dinner Reservations: Book your dinners at the ship’s diverse eateries ASAP. Popular venues like Test Kitchen and Gunbae fill up quickly.
Rockstar Quarters have access to book dinner reservations 60 days prior to sailing, everyone else 45 days.
If you you miss the pre-voyage window, don’t panic. You can book dinner reservations once onboard BUT you should do this as soon as you board. This means that the earlier you board the ship, the easier it will be for you to get your desired dinner times.
If you book your cruise with Jason Carter, his team will book all of your dining for you. This takes a load off of your shoulders and ensures that your experience is even more hassle-free. - Specialty Classes: From mixology sessions to dance workshops, secure your spot in specialty classes early. You MUST do this as soon as you board the ship. Otherwise you have a 50/50 chance of being included into a full class and this highly depends on how many people are in your sailing.
- Events: Don’t miss out on signature events like Loterìa Gigante and the Grog Walks (Bar Crawls) – book these through the app as soon as they become available once onboard.
Take Advantage of Inclusions
Virgin Voyages includes many perks in your fare:
- All Restaurants: There’s no additional charge for any dining venue on board unless there is an upgraded dining experience called “Treat Yourself”. Example: Adding truffle to pasta at Extra Virgin.
- Fitness Classes: Most group fitness classes are included.
- Basic Beverages: Non-alcoholic beverages like soda, tea, and coffee are complimentary.
- WiFi: Basic WiFi is included for all Sailors. If you are planning to do remote work during your sailing, make sure to upgrade to the Premium Wifi.
- Gratuities: No need to budget extra for tips – they’re included in your fare. However we left a bit extra for our cabin crew.
Maximize Your Eating Experience
Virgin Voyages has reimagined cruise dining with 20+ restaurants, flexible eating schedule and :
- Dinner Reservations: Make any missing dinner reservations as soon as you board the ship!
Make sure to schedule your dinner reservations and keep them. If you miss out on your reservation to restaurants like Gunbae or Test Kitchen, you may not have the chance to rebook it. It is preferable to speak to the host/ hostess to change a reservation than to miss it completely.
If you missed the window during pre-voyage to book the dinner reservations, make sure you book these as soon as you board the ship. This especially applies if you have a celebration involving a larger party.
During my last sailing, there was a woman who was very loudly upset that she did not research this before her cruise and missed booking her large party celebration. Unfortunately, there may not be a lot to do if your heart is set on a particular restaurant and they are fully booked.
If you book your cruise with Jason Carter, his team will book all of your dining for you. This takes a load off of your shoulders and ensures that your experience is even more hassle-free. - Reservation Frequency: On Virgin Voyages, guests are allowed one dinner reservation per restaurant on sailings of 1-5 days and two reservations on voyages lasting 6 or more days. Reservations can be made through the Virgin Voyages App.
Those staying in RockStar and Mega RockStar Suites can book their dining reservations 60 days before departure, while other cabin guests can start booking 45 days in advance. If you can’t secure a reservation ahead of time, don’t worry—only 30% of seats are available for pre-booking, with more becoming available once you’re on board.
Additionally, most restaurants may accept walk-ins, so feel free to stop by even without a reservation but keep in mind that being seated is not guaranteed! - Try Everything: With no additional charges for dining, sample as many restaurants as possible.
There are some dining experiences where you can upgrade for a charge but overall it is not necessary to do so unless you really want the upgrade or the experience. - Share Plates: Many venues encourage sharing. This is a great way to taste more dishes.
- Special Dietary Needs: Inform the crew about any dietary restrictions. They will typically ask you as they are asking you for your order every single time. They’re incredibly accommodating and can often create off-menu items.
- Half Portions: Extra Virgin serves half portions of some of their pasta dishes. This can help you taste more dishes.
- Don’t Skip Breakfast: The Galley offers an impressive array of breakfast options. Start your day right!
- If You Miss Breakfast, Don’t Miss Brunch: enjoy brunch at Razzle Dazzle (you MUST get the Razzle Cake) or at The Wake (and get the Clam Chowder).
- Feedback Matters: If a dish doesn’t meet your expectations, let the staff know. They’re often willing to replace it or offer alternatives.
Beverage Strategies
Quench your thirst wisely with these tips:
- Water Stations: Bring a reusable water bottle. There are filtered water stations throughout the ship, including flavored water options.
- Bar Tab: If you plan on drinking, consider pre-purchasing a Bar Tab. Virgin often offers bonus amounts when you buy in advance.
- Craft Beer: Beer lovers, rejoice! The Draught Haus pub offers a rotating selection of craft beers not found elsewhere on the ship.
- Coffee Lovers: For serious coffee aficionados, the specialty coffee at The Grounds Club is worth the extra charge.
- Mocktails: Try the mocktails at The Test Kitchen. One or more other restaurants may also offer mocktails.
- Bring 2 bottles onboard: You can bring 2 bottles of wine, or champagne, onboard in your carry-on.
Use the “Shake for Champagne” Feature
This unique Virgin Voyages feature is as fun as it sounds:
- How It Works: Open the app, shake your phone, and champagne will be delivered to you wherever you are on the ship.
- Perfect for Celebrations: Use this feature to add a touch of luxury to special moments during your voyage.
- Champagne Preferences: You can specify your champagne preferences in the app settings.
Embrace the “Sailor” Life
Virgin Voyages refers to its passengers as “Sailors,” and this spirit infuses every aspect of the experience:
- General Dress Code: Forget formal nights. The vibe is relaxed and chic. Pack versatile items that can transition from day to night. I am very festive and love a theme so I packed nautical-inspired thrifted items and also incorporated lots of red in my outfits. If you want to see what I wore, click here.
- Scarlet Night Dress Code: do not overcomplicate yourself for this night. There are 3 parts to the Scarlet Night. During my first sailing, I changed 3 times, on my second sailing I wore a bathing suit for the pool party along with a dressy skirt and then changed for the party at The Manor.
Some people dress to the nines, while others wear a Delta, Coca-Cola, or other red logo T-shirts and call it a day! The one thing I do suggest, make sure you are wearing red. I love participating in a theme!
Overall, don’t stress about having to buy a cocktail dress or anything too fancy. - Interact with the Crew: The staff, known as “The Crew” are encouraged to be themselves. Strike up conversations and get insider tips directly from them. Ask your cabin crew for a tour of the cabin. You will definitely learn a thing or two about your cabin.
- There Are Many Cruise Directors Instead of Just One: The “Happenings Cast” on Virgin Voyages is a unique team of crew members whose role is to enhance the onboard experience by engaging with passengers in a variety of interactive and entertaining ways.
Unlike traditional cruise directors, the Happenings Cast is made up of a diverse group of hosts, performers, and personalities who lead activities, workshops, and spontaneous events throughout the ship.
They might organize dance parties, lead workout sessions, host trivia games, or even conduct surprise pop-up performances. Their goal is to create a fun and inclusive atmosphere where passengers can connect and enjoy a more personalized cruise experience. The Happenings Cast is central to the vibrant, social, and unconventional vibe that Virgin Voyages aims to deliver. - Explore the Ship: Each Virgin Voyages ship is a floating work of art. Take time to discover hidden nooks, art installations, and Instagram-worthy spots.
- Greetings: You will be greeted with the word “Ahoy”. Make sure you respond back.
Leave the Guilt Behind – Enjoy Wellness Classes!
With so many food options, it is hard not to indulge. However, Virgin Voyages makes it easy for you to balance things out with many fitness options:
- Redemption Spa: Book a thermal suite pass early. Depending on the amount of people, the spa experience may either be relaxing or noisy. I did not experience the spa on any of my sailings but I have heard a mix of reviews from other sailors.
- Fitness Classes: Bungee, Barre, Yoga, HIIT, SoulCycle, Zumba, there’s something for everyone. Book these in advance through the app, as soon as you board.
- Running Track: Take advantage of the outdoor running track for a scenic workout.
- B-Complex Gym: This state-of-the-art gym is open 24/7. Try a late-night workout for a unique experience. This room along with the training room, has amazing AC. It is a great place to cool down for a few minutes if the sun feels extra spicy.
Would you like to save this?
We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later!
Fitness Beyond the Gym
Even more creative ways to stay active:
- VHS Workout: For a nostalgic sweat session, try the ’80s VHS workout. People really dress up for this workout. Hit up a nearby thrift store and find an 80’s outfit.
- Boxing Ring: Challenge your travel companion to a friendly boxing match in the outdoor ring at The Athletic Club. You can also play pickleball, basketball, chess and so much more in this space.
- Dance Classes: Zumba and more at the Perch
Scarlet Night Secrets
Make the most of this signature Virgin Voyages event:
- Pack Red Clothing: Bring at least one red outfit for Scarlet Night, if you want to participate.
- Glam Station / Face Paint: Look for crew members offering red face paint before certain parties. It’s a fun way to get into the spirit and it is free. It is first come first serve and you need to sign up. The wait time can be long.
Insider tip: bring your own eco body glitter and face jewels. If you don’t make it on the list for the glam station, you have these as a backup. - Scarlet Night is 3 Separate Events:
The Show: Be at the Roundabout with a view of the stairs on Decks 6 or 7 at 9:00 pm. There will be a kick-off and the official start of Scarlet Night. There will be a performance there where the myth of Scarlet Night is explained. You will also witness the Scarlet Wedding.
There will be popup performances in this vicinity. Interact in a friendly manner (without being pushy or touching) with the cast and they might invite you to one or more secret performances.
The Pool Party: Be at the pool by 10:35 pm to grab a good spot. The pool party performance starts at 10:45 pm. After the performance the pool party begins and you can dance in the shallow areas of the pool or be a savage like me, and fully dip in to be refreshed. The pool party lasts until 12:00 – 12:30 a.m.
If you are too close to the pool, you might get soaked so if you don’t want to get wet, go to the 16th deck.
If it is raining, the pool party will be brought inside and the performance will be done in the Red Room.
The After Party: Once the pool party is done, make your way to The Manor for a night of partying! The pictures at the entrance are iconic! - Photo Booth: Because the ship is decked out in Red for Scarlet Night (yes, even the lights), it is really hard to get a good picture of yourself during Scarlet Night. The photobooth is a great way to get a picture with decent lighting. Don’t miss it!
- Don’t Want to Participate?: If you don’t want to participate, you are not obligated to do so. There is typically one show scheduled at the same time that the Scarlet Night festivities are going on. On my two sailings it was “It’s a Ship Show”, which is a dinner show.
Sustainable Sailing
Virgin Voyages is committed to sustainability:
- Eco-Friendly Practices: Participate in the ship’s sustainability efforts, like reducing single-use plastics.
- Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Bring reef-safe sunscreen. If you don’t have any, the ship sells reef-safe sunscreen. Please use it to protect marine environments.
- Refillable Water Bottles: Bring a reusable water bottle. There are filling stations throughout the ship.
Maximize Your Onboard Credit
If you have Sailor’s Loot, aka onboard credit, use it wisely:
- Spa Treatments: Sailor’s Loot can be used for spa treatments, which can be pricey but luxurious.
- Shore Things: Use your Sailor’s Loot to book exciting shore excursions.
- Retail Therapy: The onboard shops accept Sailor’s Loot , perfect for picking up souvenirs.
- Bar Tab Top-Up: You can add your Sailor’s Loot to your bar tab for more drinking credit.
Explore Ports Like a Pro
Virgin Voyages offers unique “Shore Things” (excursions) at each port:
- Book Early: Popular Shore Things (shore excursions) can sell out quickly. Reserve your spots as soon as booking opens.
- Mix It Up: Combine organized excursions with self-guided exploration for a well-rounded experience.
- Beach Club at Bimini: On cruises that stop at Bimini, don’t miss the exclusive Beach Club. It’s a slice of paradise.
- Return to Ship on Time: Take a picture of your return to ship time. This way you will avoid becoming the new resident of your port of call.
Your Virgin Voyages cruise is an opportunity to enjoy a wide range of experiences and activities. Use these tips to make the most of your time on board and ensure a memorable voyage. Explore the ship, enjoy the dining options, and take part in the unique events that make Virgin Voyages special.
Remember, part of the Virgin Voyages experience is about discovery and surprise. While these tips will help you navigate your voyage like a pro, don’t be afraid to explore, try new things, and create your own unique experiences. Every sailor’s journey is different, and that’s part of the magic of cruising with Virgin Voyages. Bon voyage and smooth sailing!
Resource List
Here is the list of resources for this blog post:
? Want to get a quote for a Virgin Voyages sailing direct from their website? Here is their link.
? Want to compare pricing to get a better deal than the Virgin Voyages website? Here is Jason Carter and Christine Lozada’s link to get a quote for the same cruise.
? Want to sail Virgin Voyages like a pro? Christine has over 50 videos on her YouTube Channel that will have you making the most of your Virgin Voyages Sailing!
? Want to see what I wore on my first Virgin Voyages Cruise? Click here.
If this is your first time on my blog, make sure to read Why Latinas Should Never Solo Travel.
If this topic interests you, I have an entire Guide to help you Solo Travel.
Make sure to subscribe to the blog for the next po
ES