100 Nights on Virgin Voyages: A Travel Advisor’s Honest Review from a Former Non-Cruiser

Is Virgin Voyages worth it? What’s actually included

Most people don’t realize how much value is built into the fare. If you compare Virgin to a traditional cruise or even a resort vacation, it becomes one of the best adult-only travel values out there.

Here’s what’s included:

• Over 20 incredible restaurants: All specialty dining is included, and there are no buffets. Think steakhouse, Korean BBQ, Italian, Mexican, vegan-forward, brunch spots, and grab-and-go options—all at no extra cost.

• Basic Wi-Fi: Enough to text, post, and stay connected without worrying about extra fees.

• Essential drinks: Still and sparkling water, soft drinks, drip coffee, teas, and juice. It’s easy and seamless.

• Group fitness classes: Yoga, HIIT, sound baths, cycling, and more. These would cost a fortune at home.

• Entertainment: Creative, elevated shows you won’t find on any other cruise line. From Untitled Dance Show Party Thing to Another Rose to Scarlet Night, everything is included.

• Adults-only atmosphere: No kids onboard. The vibe is relaxed, playful, and completely different from traditional cruising.

• Modern, stylish cabins: Cozy, comfortable cabins with smart storage, intuitive lighting, and Virgin’s signature red hammock on all Sea Terraces and all suites. It feels like your own little retreat at sea.

When people ask, “Is it worth it?” I remind them: If you add up what you’d spend on dining, tips, fitness, Wi-Fi, and entertainment anywhere else, Virgin is a huge value.

My personal memories that made it worth it

• Crossing the Atlantic with my sister after losing our dad
  We booked a transatlantic voyage from Miami to Europe during one of the hardest moments of our lives. Eight days at sea gave us room to breathe. We painted together onboard, got matching Squid Ink tattoos to honor our dad, spent long quiet hours at Redemption Spa and explored new places like the Canary Islands and Morocco. Virgin gave us space to heal while still feeling safe, cared for, and gently entertained.

• A solo sailing that turned heartbreak into joy
  I boarded the French Daze and Ibiza Nights itinerary alone for my 40th birthday after a painful breakup. I almost canceled, but I’m so glad I didn’t. The Happenings Cast and crew welcomed me instantly. The Solo Sailors group became lifelong friends. I won Loteria Gigante, danced on the pool deck, joined a catamaran in Ibiza, laughed my way through the Eat & Drink Festival and walked away more myself than when I boarded.

Meeting mentors and friends who changed my life

Over 100 nights, I’ve met incredible humans.

• Jana: A top-10 First Mate and true mentor—who became like family after we met playing beer trivia with David Tait, one of the people who helped Sir Richard Branson start Virgin Atlantic.

• Adam and Joey: Who I met by the pool over a Hydration Nation cocktail, and have since traveled Iceland, Amsterdam, and the Blue Lagoon with.

• And so many members of the Happenings Cast and spa team whose familiar faces make the ship feel like home the second I step onboard.

My first hosted group—and the moment I realized I was truly a travel advisor

Planning Eli’s 30th birthday voyage for her 27 friends was a nine-month project that I loved every minute of. Virgin pulled out magic: personalized check-in, prime seating at The Wake, private thermal suite time, an almost-private shore excursion, and the most dramatic birthday cake moment ever. I joined the sailing to make sure everything went smoothly, and it was the moment I knew I was meant to do this.

Things to do

• Untitled Dance Show Party Thing
  A mix of immersive dance, storytelling, and a party. It’s hard to explain but easy to love.

• Another Rose
  Dinner theater done extremely well. One of Virgin’s most impressive offerings.

• Bubbles and Bites
  Champagne and fried chicken. It’s quirky, delicious, and always a good time.

• Diva Bingo
  Camp, sass, and guaranteed laughs. Don’t miss “Around the World with the Diva.”

• Painting With The Artist
  Relaxing and surprisingly meaningful. Great solo, with friends, or with family.

• Redemption Spa—Ultimate Technology Facial
  My favorite self-care moment onboard. I book it every voyage.

• Octopus Garden
  A small Scarlet Night performance explaining the lore behind the celebration.

• Sea Horse Auction
  Champagne-fueled chaos and crew-led silliness. It’s so Virgin.

• Late Night Track Walk
  Pure peace on a moving ship. A must-do.

Places to eat & drink

• The Pizza Place: Barbecue chicken pizza
  I dream about this pizza. Fresh, hot, and perfect every time.

• The Wake: Lamb chops
  One of the best dinner dishes onboard.

• Pink Agave: Bread pudding
  The dessert that ruined all other bread puddings for me.

• Razzle Dazzle: Açaí bowl and bacon
  My go-to morning combo.

• Extra Virgin: Meatballs
  Comforting and rich. A must-order.

• Sip: Caviar deviled eggs and espresso martinis
  Elegant, cozy, and perfect for pre-show or late-night drinks.

• The Dock: Shrimp skewers and Golden Horizon
  The ultimate embarkation day moment.

• Test Kitchen
  A creative tasting menu that feels like a night out in a major city.

• Ship Eats: Breakfast in the hammock
  The perfect slow morning. Coffee, pastries, and ocean views.

Insider tips & tricks

These are the things I tell my clients that make their voyage even better:

• Pick your Scarlet Night outfits ahead of time—you’ll want something fun and red.

• Send out your laundry before the last night—coming home with clean clothes is bliss.

• Try the green juice at Juice Sea after Scarlet Night. It hits the spot.

• Connect with your cabin host—they’ll take amazing care of you.

• Head to The Dock immediately after getting settled—it sets the tone perfectly.

• Don’t skip the smaller events—trivia, painting, tastings, and workshops are some of the best ways to meet people.

• Talk to the crew—they’re the heart of the ship.

• Travel solo at least once—Virgin makes it easy and fun.

If you’re thinking about sailing with Virgin Voyages—or you’re curious if it’s worth it—I’d love to help you plan a trip that feels unforgettable. After 100 nights at sea, I know these ships inside and out and love sharing the insider tips that make a voyage feel seamless. Whether you’re celebrating something big, traveling solo, bringing a group, or just need a getaway, I’m here to take care of every detail. Let’s plan something amazing.

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