How Are Virgin Voyages Ships Different To Other Cruise Lines?

• Adult-focused, modern cruising: Virgin Voyages offers a child-free, contemporary cruise experience emphasising casual luxury, innovative design, and eco-conscious amenities.

• Unique entertainment & lifestyle: Onboard activities include festival-style shows, live music, karaoke, tattoo parlours, and private beach clubs, catering to adult fun and immersive experiences.

• Flexible dining & inclusive offerings: Guests enjoy over twenty dining options with no assigned times or extra charges, plus WiFi, soft drinks, and fitness classes included in the fare.

How Virgin Voyages is Making Waves in the Cruise Industry

In more recent years, the cruise industry has been evolving away from its age-old stereotype of dress codes, formal dinners and ballroom dancing, as cruise lines seek to attract a wider audience with a more relaxed approach. However, Virgin Voyages, has set out to significantly alter the traditional market with their alternative approach to cruising.

Tom McAlpin, president and CEO of Virgin Voyages, describes their cruise experiences as “rebellious luxe,” or a casual sophistication, with over 100 destinations to explore across their fleet consisting of four 'lady' ships: Brilliant, Resilient, Scarlet and Valiant Lady. 

But what exactly can you expect when stepping onboard a Virgin Voyages ship? We've got the low-down on the latest cruise line shaking up the industry!

A Different Look

Virgin Voyages has stepped away from the 'traditional' cruise ship design that we have all become accustomed to. 

Instead, they have engaged high-end hotel and restaurant designers to give their interior décor a more contemporary feel. With an eco-friendly focus, they have also adopted planet-friendly products and energy-conserving appliances; an appealing factor for eco-conscious travellers. 

The cabin design is influenced by superyachts, where swanky designs meet unrivalled relaxation. Marvel at mood-matching lights, nifty tech gadgets and your very own hammock on the balcony, providing the perfect spot to chill out while you watch the world go by.

Child-Free Cruising

To sail, you must be at least 18 years old. But this doesn't mean that you can't re-discover your inner child onboard a Virgin Voyages cruise ship! 

The Virgin Voyages fleet truly is an adult's playground: with immersive and impeccable entertainment on offer, including game shows, festival acts and casinos, allowing your soul to run wild and free.

Adult-Focused Fun

Although the cruises are child-free, as mentioned above, Virgin Voyages whole-heartedly encourage their guests to bring their “inner-child”, offering a range of activities for adult fun.

You won't see any Broadway-style shows on these ships! Instead, entertainment is cutting-edge, encompassing a festival-style line-up with impressive names performing. And why not get in the mood with their ‘shake for champagne’ delivery service; an innovative, on-demand phone feature that brings the bubbles to you- well, you are on holiday after all! 

Visit The Manor: a two-storey, three-bar venue named after Branson’s first recording studio. Here, you can indulge in fine wine, craft beer and cocktails while enjoying live music shows until the space incredibly transforms into a nightclub for its late-night vibe.

For the wannabe popstars, there’s even a karaoke loungencalled the 'Groupie', where you can sing along to your favourite tracks. And for a retro music experience, head to the vinyl shop, created as a nod to Virgin Records.

Selected Virgin Voyages cruises stop off at Virgin’s private beachfront club- an exclusive Beach Club at Bimini, in the Bahamas. This private oasis offers Sailors the chance to dance the night away with headline acts, and is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is not to be missed!

If you’re seeking a lasting memento of the holiday, take a trip to Squid Ink; the first-ever-at-sea tattoo parlour. Here, you can have your design colourfully created in vegan ink or opt for a piercing. Now this definitely will be a memory to last a lifetime!

Dining Redefined

Many cruise lines are now leaning away from traditional cruise dining. However, Virgin Voyages has completely stepped away from the old clichés. On their ships, there is no main dining room, no buffet and no strict rules on when and where to eat.

Instead, you can choose from over twenty dining venues, where almost all items are included in the fare. This is a significant departure from most other cruise lines, where many speciality restaurants incur a surcharge. Dining options onboard Virgin Voyages include a steakhouse, Korean barbeque, elevated Mexican cuisine, and even a veggie-focused restaurant. 

As there are no assigned dining times, no time of day is off-limits for a snack! Got the midnight munchies? Grab a bite from their 24/7 diner, which is always ready to oblige to your late-night cravings.

So, What's Included?

As well as all dining, Virgin Voyages have included a variety of other enticing elements in their cruise fare, such as WiFi, soft drinks (including juices, sodas, teas and coffees) and even group workout sessions, like yoga, cycling and HIIT classes. 

With Virgin, there are no drinks packages available to purchase for your holiday. However, for alcoholic drinks, passengers can add money to a bar tab in advance to receive a discount.

Frequently Asked Questions: Virgin Voyages

Is Virgin Voyages really adults‑only?

Yes. All guests must be at least 18 years old to sail. This policy creates a relaxed, adult‑focused atmosphere.

What is included in the cruise fare?

Almost all food venues, Wi‑Fi, soft drinks (tea, coffee, juices, sodas), and group fitness classes like yoga and HIIT are included. Alcohol is not included, but you can pre‑pay a bar tab for discounts.

Are traditional buffets or main dining rooms offered?

No. Virgin Voyages has eliminated buffets and main dining rooms in favour of more than 20 distinctive eateries, most included in the fare.

Do I need drink packages?

There are no drink packages. For alcoholic beverages, guests can pre‑load a bar tab to receive a reduced rate.

What is the cancellation or refund policy?

Policies depend on when you booked and the fare type. Generally, earlier cancellations (e.g. 120+ days out) may qualify for partial refunds or future voyage credit; closer cancellations typically convert to credit rather than cash.

How do shore excursions work?

Shore excursions, called “Shore Things,” are optional activities at ports and are booked separately through the Virgin Voyages app or Sailor Services.

What is a “Bar Tab”?

A Bar Tab is pre‑purchased onboard credit you can spend on premium beverages. Buying in advance adds extra credit as a bonus.

What health checks or documentation are required before sailing?

Guests must complete a health questionnaire before boarding. Specific requirements, such as pregnancy documentation or other health screenings, may apply depending on individual circumstances.

How do I contact customer service?

Support is available through the Virgin Voyages website, app, live chat, email, or by phone.

Are cabins and upgrades flexible?

Cabin change policies vary with fare type and booking date. Some fare types allow changes up to a set number of days before departure, while others are fixed once booked.