Virgin Voyages Restaurants: Guide, Dining Tips and More (2025)

One of my favorite things about sailing with Virgin Voyages is the incredible food. With their “no buffet, no main dining room, no set times” approach, Virgin Voyages restaurants redefine cruise dining. This guide shares my experiences aboard the Valiant Lady across three cruises, with tips for reservations, menu highlights, and solo dining strategies.

The most recent sailing I enjoyed was extra special as I brought my mom and my aunt on one of the first sailings of The Brilliant Lady. We sailed the Fall Leaves to Miami Scenes 13 day itinerary from Quebec City to Miami.

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How Virgin’s New “VoyageFair Choices” Change Your Dining Reservations

Before we dive into the delicious details of dining onboard Virgin Voyages, there’s a major update you need to know about. Starting October 7, 2025, Virgin Voyages is launching a new fare system called VoyageFair Choices. This is the single biggest change to how you book your dining, so understanding it is crucial for planning your perfect foodie voyage.

The goal is to give sailors more flexibility and transparency. Instead of one standard fare, there are now three tiers for Sea Terrace cabins and below. The tier you choose directly determines when you can book your dinner reservations.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Fare Tier	Dining Window	WiFi Included	Flexibility	Who It’s For
Base	15 Days Before Sailing	Basic (1 device)	Non-refundable, no changes allowed.	The budget-conscious sailor who has firm plans and is happy to book dining closer to the sail date.
Essential	45 Days Before Sailing	Classic (1 device)	Can change voyage dates for a Future Voyage Credit.	The classic Virgin experience, balancing value with the flexibility to book popular spots well in advance.
Premium	60 Days Before Sailing	Premium (2 devices)	Most flexible, includes a Bar Tab & priority support.	The planner who wants the earliest access to dining, the best WiFi, and included drinks.

For RockStar & Mega RockStar Sailors: 
Your experience gets even better. Your dining reservation window now opens an incredible 120 days before sailing, giving you first dibs on everything.

This new system makes planning ahead more important than ever. If having your top restaurant choices locked in is a priority, you’ll want to consider the Essential or Premium fare.

A Fresh Take on Cruise Dining at Virgin Voyages Restaurants

Virgin Voyages has completely transformed cruise dining, focusing on fresh, high-quality meals and a seamless dining experience. Their innovative approach prioritizes variety, inclusivity, and elevated flavors for every sailor onboard.

• Menus Crafted by Michelin-Starred Chefs
  Virgin Voyages partnered with some of the best chefs in the world to curate extraordinary menus. Each dish reflects a blend of culinary expertise and bold, creative flavors that make every meal onboard unforgettable.
  
  
• Round-the-Clock Dining and In-Room Service
  Cravings don’t follow a schedule, and neither does Virgin Voyages. The Galley offers dining options 24/7, while the Ship Eats menu lets you enjoy delicious meals in the comfort of your cabin for a modest $9.95 service fee.
  
  
• No Buffets for a Cleaner, Fresher Experience
  Virgin Voyages has done away with buffets, ensuring a more hygienic dining environment. With no hovering over shared trays, sneezing, or coughing near the food, everything is freshly prepared to order, using top-notch ingredients for a healthier and tastier experience.
  
  
• Complimentary Non-Alcoholic Beverages
  Unlike many cruise lines, Virgin Voyages includes non-alcoholic beverages like sodas, machine filtered juices, and coffee in the cruise fare, offering added value without surprise charges.
  
  
• No Extra Fees for Specialty Dining
  With over 20 incredible dining venues onboard, you’ll never pay a cover charge for specialty restaurants. While most dishes are included, some venues feature premium selections available for a small additional cost.
  
  
• No Traditional Drink Packages
  Virgin Voyages skips the unlimited drink package concept, opting instead for the Bar Tab system, which allows sailors to prepay for drinks at a discount.
  
  
• Accommodations for Dietary Needs
  Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, Virgin Voyages strives to cater to your preferences. While crew members are ready to assist with special dietary requests, it’s worth noting that the kitchens are not allergen-free environments.
  
  
• Easy Restaurant Reservations
  Book your favorite restaurants effortlessly using the Virgin Voyages app. Reservations open 45 days before your sail date, and additional availability is offered onboard for last-minute planning.
  
  

This modern approach to dining ensures that every sailor enjoys high-quality meals, exceptional service, and thoughtfully curated options, all included in your fare.

Virgin Voyages Restaurants: Reservation Tips (Updated for VoyageFair Choices)

This is where planning truly matters now. Getting a table at The Wake for sunset or a prime-time spot at Pink Agave depends entirely on your booking strategy.

When to Book

• Pre-cruise (The Most Important Step!): Your booking window is now tied to your fare.
  Premium Fare: Book restaurants 60 days before sailing.
  Essential Fare: Book restaurants 45 days before sailing.
  Base Fare: Book restaurants 15 days before sailing.
  RockStar/Mega RockStar Suites: Book restaurants 120 days before sailing.
  
  
• First day on board: If you were unable to book all of your dinner reservations, make sure to reserve the remaining dinners as soon as you board the ship. Check if there will be Virgin Voyages crew members at Razzle Dazzle helping with dinner reservations.
  
  During my Halloween sailing, they had 5 dedicated crew members to help sailors sort out dinner reservations. This was the first time I experienced this on any of my 3 sailing so far.
  
  On my 4th sailing, they had a designated time at Sailor Services where they would help you book your reservations.
  
  If you are experiencing issues booking dinner reservations, make sure to take advantage of this dedicated time and place to find assistance with your dinner reservations.
  
  
• During cruise: Check app at 7-8 AM for same-day cancellations. Stop by the restaurant to see if there is an opportunity to snatch a reservation. People will change their mind about restaurants or dinner times every day.
  
  
• Late-night: Walk-in availability often improves after 8:30 PM
  

AN IMPORTANT UPDATE TO GRATUITIES

As part of the push for transparency, Virgin Voyages now lists gratuities as a separate line item when you book. The total cost of the voyage doesn’t change, but you can now see exactly where the money goes. 

You can pre-pay at a discounted rate of $20 per sailor, per night, or settle onboard for $22 per sailor, per night. Once paid, that’s it—no other tipping is expected anywhere on the ship.

Priority Bookings

1. The Wake if you are a steakhouse lover. Very popular and also fills quickly.
   
2. Pink Agave (fills quickly)
   
3. Gunbae (shared seating)
   
4. Extra Virgin (popular early dinner times)
   
5. The Test Kitchen (limited seating). Least popular dining BUT amazing gastronomic experience.

Restaurant Reviews

Pink Agave ?️

Cuisine: Modern Mexican 
Dress Code: Smart Casual 
Reservation Required: Yes

Menu Highlights:

• Freshly made guacamole
  
• The ugly looking BUT delicious ribeye steak (Bistec Marinero en Escabeche)
  
• Corn esquites (spicy and delicious)
  
• Sip and Savor $25 (cocktail pairings with food)
  
• Milhojas is my favorite dessert here but many love the chocolate tacos.
  
• Expanded menu offering Tequilas and Mezcales, but you can also order a wine glass at this restaurant if preferred.

Tips for an Exciting Night at Pink Agave:

• Request a Booth for Intimacy: The booths offer a more secluded and cozy dining experience, perfect for a date night or special evening.
  
  
• Order Multiple Starters: Mexican cuisine shines with variety! Sharing multiple starters, like the papas con chorizo and esquites, lets everyone try a bit of everything.
  
  
• Don’t Miss the Guacamole: This isn’t just any guacamole—it’s freshly made and absolutely delicious, setting the tone for the rest of your meal.
  
  
• Capture the Entrance: Pink Agave’s stunning entrance is Instagram-worthy and sets the mood for your dining adventure. Arrive a few minutes early to snap some great shots.
  
  
• Try the Lotería Gigante Experience: For an added cost, Lotería Gigante brings a lively Mexican bingo game vibe with multiple rounds of tequila and tequila-based cocktails. It’s an entertaining add-on for those who enjoy a fun, interactive tequila sampling experience. This is a separate event and not offered at night.
  

I visited Pink Agave during my first and second sailing (May and July 2024 respectively) but I missed out on dining here during my Halloween 2024 Sailing. Luckily, I was able to dine here during my 4th sailing in October 2025.
This is one of my favorite restaurants onboard Virgin Voyages ships.

I recommend Agave After Dark. The DJ plays Latin Music starting at 10:30. The event starts with a free shot of a tequila-based drink. Please note that the music will get loud and some people (like me) will inevitably end up dancing and having a great time. All menus are the same during this event and there is no charge to attend the Agave After Dark event.

Gunbae ?

Cuisine: Korean BBQ 
Dress Code: Casual 
Reservation Required: Yes

Menu Highlights:

• Korean BBQ selection
  
• Bibimbap
  
• Kimchi sampler
  
• Soju shots
  
• Korean fried chicken

Tips for an unforgettable experience:

• Book for Groups: Gunbae is best enjoyed with a group of 4-8 people. If your party is smaller, you’ll likely be seated with others, adding a social twist to the experience.
  
  
• Arrive Hungry: Portions are generous, so bring your appetite! This is a meal to savor, not rush.
  
  
• Embrace the Atmosphere: Gunbae’s lively vibe includes drinking games and communal toasts, with everyone yelling “GUNBAE!” (cheers!). This adds a fun, interactive element you won’t find in typical cruise dining.
  
  
• Dive into Korean Culture: The servers here are often ready to share insights about Korean dining customs. Don’t hesitate to ask them questions—your experience will be even richer when you understand the traditions behind the dishes.
  
  
• Family-Style Sharing: If the table agrees, order family-style, especially for the BBQ, so you can try a variety of flavors and textures. Korean BBQ is meant to be a communal feast, and sharing enhances the experience.
  
  
• Discuss Spiciness Preferences: Korean food can be spicy! Let your server know your preferences, especially if anyone in your group has a low tolerance for heat.
  
  
• Plan for Leisurely Dining: This meal is a whole experience, not just a quick bite. Set aside about two hours to enjoy the full Gunbae experience.

Extra Virgin ?

Cuisine: Italian 
Dress Code: Smart Casual 
Reservation Required: Yes

Menu Highlights:

• Fresh, handmade pasta that can be ordered in half portions
  
• Oxtail Agnolotti is delicious and so is the Gnocchi
  
• Charcuterie boards are a great shareable appetizer
  
• If you are more adventurous, the smoked chicken liver mousse was delicious!
  
• Affogattos are prepared table side
  
• Italian wine selection
  
• Antipasti platters

Tips for a Memorable Meal at Extra Virgin:

• Order Family-Style: Italian dining is all about variety. Opting for family-style allows everyone to taste a bit of everything—from savory antipasti to rich pastas.
  
  
• Save Room for Dessert: Extra Virgin’s dessert menu is worth every calorie, especially the table-side affogatos, which add a touch of Italian flair to finish your meal.
  
  
• Wine Pairing Advice: The sommelier can guide you through the Italian wine list and recommend pairings to match your meal choices. This adds a sophisticated touch to your experience.
  
  
• Request Window Seating: If you’re hoping for a romantic dinner, ask for a table by the window. The ambiance, paired with ocean views, makes for an unforgettable evening. There’s no guarantee that you will be accommodated but if it does happen, it is a little extra touch.
  
  
• Perfect for a Special Date Night: Extra Virgin’s cozy yet upscale setting and flavorful Italian cuisine make it an ideal spot for a romantic evening onboard.

The Test Kitchen ?

Cuisine: Experimental Gastronomy
Dress Code: Smart Casual 
Reservation Required: Yes

Menu Highlights:

• Five or Six-course tasting menu
  
• Wine pairing option
  
• Molecular gastronomy style dishes
  
• Seasonal ingredients
  
• Interactive elements

Tips for Enjoying The Test Kitchen Experience:

• Set Aside Time: The Test Kitchen is designed to be an immersive, 2.5-hour dining experience. Block out the evening and allow yourself to savor each course at a leisurely pace.
  
  
• Add Pairings for Depth: Enhance each course by booking the wine or cocktail pairing option. The curated pairings complement the dishes and add to the overall experience.
  
  
• Come with an Open Mind: This isn’t traditional dining. Be ready for creative food presentations, unexpected textures, and interactive elements that challenge the senses. Embrace the adventure!
  
  
• Celebrate in Style: Ideal for special occasions, The Test Kitchen’s unique concept makes it a memorable choice for marking milestones or treating yourself.
  
  
• Solo-Friendly Dining: Unlike some tasting experiences, The Test Kitchen caters well to solo diners. It’s a great choice if you’re looking to enjoy an introspective, culinary adventure.
  
• Menus may change: On longer voyages (8+ nights), they may feature two or even three different menus! Make sure to taste them all.

Razzle Dazzle ?

Cuisine: Vegetarian-Forward
Dress Code: Casual
Reservation Required: No

Menu Highlights:

• Variety of plant-based dishes
  
• “Naughty” meat add-ons available
  
• Impossible Burger
  
• Freshly pressed juices
  
• Healthier dessert options

Tips for a Delicious Experience at Razzle Dazzle:

• Ideal for Brunch: Razzle Dazzle’s fresh, vibrant dishes and juice options make it a top choice for a flavorful, healthy brunch. Also serves dinner.
  
  
• Indulge in the Razzle Cake: For dessert lovers, the Razzle Cake is a must-try, especially if you’re a fan of ganache. It’s the perfect sweet treat.
  
  
• Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly: With a focus on plant-based dishes, Razzle Dazzle is a dream for vegetarians and vegans, but the “naughty” add-ons mean everyone can find something to love.
  
  
• Explore the Secret Menu: Don’t forget to ask about the “secret” menu items. These off-menu treats add a fun element of surprise to your meal.
  
  
• Great for a Light Dinner: If you’re looking for a lighter meal option, Razzle Dazzle’s nutritious and satisfying menu makes it the perfect choice for dinner without overindulging.

The Wake ⚓

Cuisine: Steak & Seafood 
Dress Code: Smart Casual 
Reservation Required: Yes

Menu Highlights:

• Premium steaks
  
• Fresh seafood tower
  
• The bread basket!! OMG…
  
• Extensive wine list
  
• Signature desserts

Tips for an Unforgettable Experience at The Wake:

• Book Sunset Seating: For the best dining experience, request a table with a sunset view. The stunning views make the meal even more memorable, perfect for a relaxed evening.
  
  
• Order Steaks One Temp Lower: To ensure your steak is cooked perfectly to your liking, order it one temperature lower than your usual preference.
  
  
• Don’t Miss the Seafood Tower: The seafood tower is a standout, offering a luxurious selection of fresh, high-quality seafood that is not to be missed. This experience has an additional cost.
  
  
• Perfect for Celebrations: Whether it’s a special occasion or just a treat-yourself moment, The Wake’s elegant atmosphere and exceptional cuisine make it ideal for celebrating.
  
  
• Best Wine Selection Onboard: The Wake boasts an impressive wine list, so don’t hesitate to ask the sommelier for recommendations to perfectly complement your meal.
  
  
• Brunch at The Wake: If you’re craving a more relaxed, yet indulgent start to your day, The Wake also offers a fantastic brunch menu. Expect a variety of dishes that combine classic breakfast items with a premium twist, perfect for fueling up before a day of adventure. Be sure to make a reservation as brunch can fill up quickly!

Rojo by Razzle Dazzle

• Cuisine: Spanish & Tapas
• Dress Code: Smart Casual
• Reservation Required: Yes

Note: This restaurant is an exclusive new venue found only on the Brilliant Lady.

To be honest, this is my new favorite restaurant onboard. The vibrant red atmosphere transports you straight to Spain, and the menu is built around authentic tapas and larger, shareable plates.

Menu Highlights:

• The Chuletón: A massive, bone-in ribeye steak cooked to perfection. It was DELICIOSO! I am dreaming of that steak right now.
  
• Authentic Tapas: A wide selection of classics, perfect for sharing. Think gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), patatas bravas, and jamón ibérico.
  
• Paella: A classic dish perfect for sharing with the table. It includes lots of lobster and other seafood but it does have an additional cost of $75.
  
• Spanish Wine & Sangria: An extensive list to perfectly complement the meal.

Tips for the best Experience:

• Book It First: As a new restaurant on an equally new ship, this will be one of the hottest reservations at sea. Book it the second your dining window opens.
  
• Order the Chuletón: If you are a steak lover, you simply must order it. It’s a true showstopper. If you love it as much as we did, order more than one.
  
• Dine Family-Style: The best way to experience Rojo is to order a variety of tapas for the table to share before your main courses. It’s a social, vibrant, and incredibly flavorful way to dine.

The Galley on Virgin Voyages: NO BUFFETS – Casual Dining

The Galley is an informal dining spot featuring numerous food stations (eateries) that satisfy all preferences and desires. It doesn’t matter if you crave a traditional burger, a hearty bowl of ramen, flavorful tacos, or a healthy salad, The Galley offers everything.

The Gally features choices such as all-day breakfast, and decadent desserts, it’s an ideal spot for a relaxed, tasty meal at any hour. Every station provides delicious, fresh meals that are guaranteed to please all members of your party.

During a themed or specialty cruise, The Galley is where you will see much of the theme in its food offerings and desserts. For example, Mom and I sailed during Halloween, and The Galley was one of the 3 locations where we found the most themed pastries and desserts.

In July, I also sailed Virgin Voyages on a trip that had an Asian Night Food Market and The Galley transformed itself. The signage was different and I was able to taste so many delicious Asian dishes and desserts for this theme.

Come walk with me through The Galley on this IG video below. Para verlo en Español, haz click aquí

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mari | Travel Content Creator | Entreprenuer (@thequeenoftrips)

The Galley Stations Overview:

Diner & Dash:

A classic spot for quick, comforting favorites that hit the spot. Here you can grab everything from burgers to fries, satisfying those cravings for a hearty, all-American meal. It’s fast, convenient, and delicious – perfect for when you want something classic but still want to enjoy the lively vibe of the food hall.

All-day Breakfast: Start your day (or any time of day) right with a variety of breakfast options. From pancakes and eggs to savory hash browns and breakfast sandwiches, you can indulge in your morning favorites at any hour.

Noodle Around:

Dive into a world of Asian-inspired comfort foods at the Noodle Around station. Here, you’ll find a selection of noodle dishes, including ramen, stir-fries, and Asian soups. Perfect for those craving rich flavors and satisfying bowls of noodles, whether you prefer them in a soup or stir-fried with fresh veggies and proteins.

For those who love a steaming bowl of savory broth, this station serves up authentic ramen dishes with a variety of toppings like pork, tofu, and vegetables. A perfect choice for warming up or getting a taste of Japan’s iconic noodle dish.

Let’s Taco About It:

This station is where taco lovers can indulge in an array of Mexican-inspired dishes. From crispy tacos and breakfast burritos to vibrant Mexican bowls, it’s the place to be for those craving bold flavors and a fresh take on Mexican cuisine.

Tacos:
Fish, Al Pastor or Fried Avocado as a vegetarian option.

Burritos:
The chorizo breakfast burrito is delicious! If they offer the chorizo Benedict, DO.NOT.MISS.IT!!

Sweet Side:

This station caters to your sweet tooth with a variety of desserts and pastries. Each treat is prettier than the next. I love stopping by to see what dessert is the special of the day. My favorite sailing to visit this station was during the Halloween sailing. The amount of beautiful desserts that were ready to be enjoyed was surreal!

Desserts:
Indulge in a variety of classic desserts, from rich chocolate cakes and creamy custards to sweet tarts and even vegan chia puddings. Perfect for those who love to end their meal on a sugary note.

Well Bread

Pastries:
Freshly baked and golden brown, the pastries station serves up a range of sweet and savory pastries, perfect for a light snack or a delicious breakfast bite. Croissants, danishes, and other delights are available to enjoy, all made with flaky, buttery perfection. These can also be found at The Grounds Coffee Bar on the 7th Deck.

Other Items:

2-3 different types of flatbread or focaccia with veggies.

The Daily Mix:

Fresh, crisp, and customizable, the salad bar lets you build your perfect salad. Choose from a variety of greens, veggies, nuts, seeds, and dressings for a refreshing and healthy meal or side dish. It’s the perfect stop for those seeking a lighter, veggie-packed option to complement any meal.

Hot Off The Press:

Paninis, sandwiches and open toasts is what you will find at this station. They have a variety to choose from. This is the dedicated sandwich bar, serving up a consistent menu of favorites throughout the day. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you can indulge in options like creamy avocado toast, nostalgic PB&J (with banana if you would like), or a timeless turkey sandwich. This station is great for a quick bite or a casual meal, this spot delivers simple yet satisfying flavors.

Bento Baby:

Bento Baby specializes in grab-and-go bento boxes, featuring fresh fruit options during the day and sushi selections in the evening. Many sailors rave about the berry bento box, complete with Greek yogurt and granola, as a standout favorite.

Pops & Bubs:

A popsicle cart right in the middle of The Galley. This popsicle cart offers 3-6 different flavors of delicious popsicles AND you can also order a glass of bubbles (either Champagne or Prosecco) for an additional charge. Popsicles are included in your sailing. They have delicious and refreshing flavors. During our Halloween sailing, there was one popsicle created like a candy corn and while it was cute, I don’t know if it tasted the same as the candy.

The Galley’s Schedule:

The Galley offers a fresh twist on casual dining, resembling a high-end food hall with a variety of made-to-order options. We were able to enjoy all-day breakfast options and gourmet bento boxes to tacos, ramen, burgers, and salads, there’s something for every craving. With servers taking your order directly at your table or with walkup counters, it’s a quick and effortless dining experience that prioritizes quality and convenience.

The Galley is perfect for anyone wanting a flexible and diverse selection of meals throughout the day. The eateries at The Galley maintain a focus on dietary accommodations with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options clearly marked throughout the menu, while emphasizing a health-conscious approach to the various food options.

• Breakfast: 6:00-11:40 AM
  
• Lunch: 12:00 – 4:30 PM (some eateries close at 3:00 pm)
  
• Dinner: Starts at 5:00 PM
  
• Late Night

More Included Eateries: Pizza, Ice Cream & More!

Beyond the main restaurants and The Galley, Virgin Voyages has a few more must-try casual spots included in your fare.

• The Pizza Place ?
  • Cuisine: Made-to-order Pizza
  • Location: Deck 7
  • Details: A sailor favorite for a reason. Order a custom pizza with your favorite toppings or choose from classics like Pepperoni or the White Truffle and Egg pizza. It’s perfect for a late lunch, casual dinner, or a late-night snack (open till 2:00 am).
    
    
• Lick Me Till… Ice Cream ?
  • Cuisine: Artisanal Ice Cream & Sorbet
  • Location: Deck 7
  • Details: With a cheeky name and delicious, complimentary ice cream, this spot is a daily necessity. Flavors rotate throughout the voyage.
    
    
• The Social Club Diner ?
  • Cuisine: Carnival-style Snacks
  • Location: Deck 7
  • Details: If you’re craving a hot dog, pretzels with cheese sauce, or a boozy milkshake (extra cost), this is your spot. It’s located right next to the arcade, making it perfect for a snack while you play.

Solo Dining Tips

Best Virgin Voyages Restaurants for Solo Sailors:

• Razzle Dazzle
  
  • Hosts the first solo sailor meetup dinner of the cruise on the first night.
    
  • Many veggie options, including the impossible burger, but meat lovers can order from the “naughty menu”, which includes “fall off the bone” meat and boozy specialty cocktails.
    
  • Cool atmosphere
    
    
• The Test Kitchen
  
  • Bar seating available
    
  • Interactive experience
    
  • Social atmosphere
    
    
    
• Gunbae
  
  • Shared tables
    
  • Group cooking experience
    
  • Fun drinking games
    
    
    
• The Galley
  
  • Casual atmosphere
    
  • You can order from your table
    
  • Multiple options for multiple palates.
    
    

Solo Dining Strategies:

• Book bar seating when available. People tend to be chattier.
  
• Use the app’s chat to join group dinners
  
• Consider early or late dining times
  
• Join ship-organized dinner groups. Solo sailors can meet up and visit a restaurant per night as a group.
  
• Make friends at pre-dinner drinks at any of the many bars on the ship or the different activities.

Dietary Considerations at Virgin Voyages Restaurants: Vegetarian and Gluten-Free Options

Vegetarian / Vegan Options:

One of the things we noticed as we sat at every single restaurant was the question: “Do you have any food allergies?”.

All menus have vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options clearly marked. When in doubt, ALWAYS ask the servers.

• Razzle Dazzle: this restaurant offers a veggie-forward menu while still offering options for people who consume meat. I really liked the beat perogies.
  
• The Galley (multiple stations): The Daily Mix, where you can build your own salad. Most stations offer at least one vegetarian option but make sure to check the menu boards or ask.
  
• Pink Agave: The esquite is to die for if you like a spicy street corn dish… I am dreaming of tasting it while writing this.
  
• The Test Kitchen (special menu available)

Gluten-Free Choices:

• Available at all venues
  
• Many steak and fish options at The Wake
  
• Dedicated menu items marked
  
• Inform staff when seated

Allergy Considerations:

• Notify crew before sailing by submitting this form.
  
• Each restaurant will ask you when you are seated but make sure to let them know if the question is not asked. I’ve been on 3 sailings and they have asked at every restaurant I’ve sat at.
  
• Special menus available that have no sugar and low sodium meals. Must be notified in advance.
  
• Special dietary requests must be submitted at least 45 days prior to sailing. Use this form.
  
• Virgin Voyages does not have allergen-free kitchens
  
• Virgin Voyages does not offer Halal or Kosher Dining options

Expert Tips for Dining Success on Virgin Voyages

Maximizing Your Dining Experience:

Choose Your Fare Wisely: The single most important decision for your dining experience now happens when you book your cruise. If specific restaurants and times are a priority, the Premium or Essential fare is your best bet.

1. Book with a Travel Advisor: Navigating these new choices can be tricky. An expert First Mate like Jason Carter and Christine Lozada at Bookwithcl.com can help you understand the differences and ensure you select the fare (like Premium) that gets you that coveted 60-day booking window.
   
   
2. Restaurants to Book First on Virgin Voyages
   
   • Book your preferred restaurant for any celebrations first, especially if the party is large.
     
     There isn’t much info per se about which Virgin Voyages restaurant is the hardest to get a reservation for but The Wake is usually busier during fuller sailings thus making it harder to get a dinner reservation for. This is my experience from 4 sailings.
     
   • Use app notifications for dinner reservation reminders
     
   • Check for cancellations if your heart was set on a restaurant and you were unable to make it.
     
   • Consider alternative times, maybe a really early or later dinner might give you the option of enjoying that restaurant.
     
     
3. Cost Savings
   
   • All restaurants are included
     
   • Special items are marked with their cost. Seafood tower at The Wake has an extra cost and so does adding freshly shaved truffle on your pasta at Extra Virgin.
     
   • Wine and cocktail packages called “Sip and Savor” are available and are usually priced between $25 – $45 per menu. They include one wine or cocktail beverage paired with each course.
     
   • Bar tab benefits can be used on these specialty upgrades.
     
   • All tips included. You can leave an additional tip if you want to show a nice gesture towards any of your servers but it is not necessary at all.
     
     
4. Timing Tips
   
   • Breakfast: 8:00-9:00 AM quietest
     
   • Lunch: After 1:30 PM less crowded
     
   • Dinner: Early or late for best service
     
   • Late Night: The Galley or Pizza Place after 11 PM
     
     
5. Special Experiences
   Check your sailing’s schedule for any of these special events.
   
   • Wine tastings
     
   • Chef’s table events
     
   • Cooking classes
     
   • Special occasion planning
     
     
6. Don’t Miss Special Food Events: Check your daily schedule for ticketed events like the Grog Walk (pub crawl), Shot for Shot (mixology class), Afternoon Tea at Sip, Lotería Gigante at Pink Agave, or special themed food markets in The Galley. You might also see ChocoLit, Cereal Killer or Flippin’ Delicious on your sailing.
   
   Read the description thoroughly and if interested, sign up as soon as you see these offered. They do have an additional cost but many sell out quickly.

Conclusion

Virgin Voyages’ dining program remains one of the best at sea, celebrated for its quality, variety, and flexibility. The new VoyageFair Choices model puts more control in your hands, allowing you to prioritize either savings or early planning.The key to a perfect culinary voyage is now understanding these options before you book.

Remember to:

• Choose the fare that matches your dining priorities.
  
  
• Book your priority restaurants the day your window opens.
  
  
• Use the app for last-minute availability.
  
  
• Try every venue at least once!

With proper planning and these insider tips, you’ll enjoy some of the best dining experiences at sea aboard Virgin Voyages.

If you didn’t get to taste each restaurant, remember that there’s always a next time!! It is almost impossible to do all of the Virgin Voyages things to do in a single sailing (unless you are on a Transatlantic).

Resource List

Here is the list of resources for this blog post:

? 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. Tell them The Queen of Trips sent you!

? Want to sail Virgin Voyages like a pro? Christine has over 100 videos on her YouTube Channel that will have you making the most of your Virgin Voyages Sailing! She has an amazing guide that will give you all the insider tips to sail like a pro in no time! Here’s the link to her Pocket Guide.

? Want to see what I wore on my first Virgin Voyages Cruise? Click here.

? Want to find out if sailing Virgin Voyages during Halloween was worth it? Read about it here.

?. Considering taking a cruise as your first solo trip? Here’s why you should choose Virgin Voyages as your first solo trip!!

?. 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.