Virgin Voyages: A Luxury Experience with Pros and Cons

The Highs

• From the moment I stepped aboard, it was clear that Virgin Voyages has redefined luxury cruising. The ship radiated an opulent, contemporary vibe that felt less like a traditional cruise liner and more like a sleek, 5-star resort. The cleanliness and intentional design of every space—from the grand lobby to the cozy nooks—created an ambiance of sophistication and relaxation. If you’re a fan of luxe living, this ship will make you feel like royalty.

• One of the standout features was the all-inclusive nature of the cruise. No hidden fees or nickel-and-diming here! Once you book, the price covers almost everything except for alcohol and excursions. Gone are the days of stressing over wifi charges or being ambushed by on-ship sales pitches. It’s a refreshing approach that lets you focus on enjoying your vacation rather than fretting over unexpected costs.

• The ship’s technology was a game changer. From smart elevators to a seamlessly integrated booking app, everything was designed to maximize ease and comfort. The lighting and music in the room were so perfectly curated that they enhanced the overall sense of relaxation. This tech-savvy approach really stood out as a favorite feature of mine, simplifying everything from navigation to entertainment.

• Dining was another highlight. With an impressive array of formal dining options, there was something to satisfy every palate. The variety of cuisine available, all included in the price, meant that our group had plenty of choices. The ease of booking these restaurants through the app was a breeze, making it simple to secure a table at our preferred spots.

• Our itinerary included stops in Roatan, Honduras; Costa Maya, Mexico; and Bimini, Bahamas. Each port was easily accessible, and booking excursions through the Virgin Voyages app was a smooth process. The efficiency of the embarkation and debarkation procedures meant that we spent more time exploring and less time in lines.

• Customer service on board was exceptional. From the warm greetings to the quick and efficient embarkation, the crew was consistently attentive and helpful. The positive attitude of the staff really added to the overall enjoyment of the trip.

The Lows

• While the formal dining options were top-notch, the a la carte choices fell short. Breakfast, in particular, was rather lackluster. Late-night snacking options were even more disappointing, with only a pizza place open and often facing long wait times. If you’re someone who likes to graze throughout the day or has late-night cravings, this could be a letdown.

• Here’s where things got a bit rocky. The entertainment, which started off strong with engaging bingo and thrilling acrobatics, soon became monotonous. We found ourselves seeing the same shows and jokes repeated, which quickly became tiresome. Additionally, advertised events sometimes didn’t materialize, and when they did, there wasn’t enough space to accommodate everyone. My advice? Book your entertainment early and consider bringing along some games or cards to fill in the gaps.

• The pool area was a sore spot. The limited space and lack of monitoring for chair reservations led to a frustrating experience. Many chairs were reserved but left empty for long stretches, making it difficult to find a spot. However, asking the staff for help did improve the situation, so don’t hesitate to get their assistance if you’re struggling to secure a lounger.

Virgin Voyages delivers an undeniably luxurious cruising experience with a fresh, modern twist. The ship’s design, the all-inclusive pricing, and the tech-savvy amenities are impressive and enhance the overall voyage. However, there are a few areas in need of improvement, such as food options, after hours, entertainment variety, and pool chair management. If you’re prepared for these quirks, you’re in for a genuinely enjoyable and relaxing adventure at sea.

Happy sailing! 🌊✨

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Bahamas. In need of further inspiration? Check out Kelsey Parry's guide, What to Know about the Adults-only Virgin Voyages Beach Club at Bimini.