Virgin Voyages has completely reimagined the traditional cruise experience, bringing Richard Branson’s signature rebellious spirit to cruise industry.
Here’s why this adults-only cruise line stands out from the crowd in remarkable ways based on what we’ve seen onboard.
Adults-Only Paradise (18+)
Unlike mainstream cruise lines catering to families, Virgin Voyages creates an exclusively adult atmosphere. No kids’ clubs, no pool full of children running around – just chill, sophisticated spaces designed for adults. This adults-only policy allows for more mature (some say risqué) entertainment, elevated dining experiences, and a consistently upscale ambiance.
No “Nickel and Diming” Philosophy
Perhaps the most refreshing difference that we’ve noticed so far, is Virgin’s inclusive approach. Your fare includes:
- All restaurants (no upcharge dining venues)
- Basic beverages (water, coffee, tea, soft drinks (yes unlimited soda fountain use))
- Gratuities
- One device free WiFi (there may be a rant post about this)
- Group fitness classes
This transparent pricing model eliminates the constant reaching for your cruise card that’s common on other lines.
Rebellious Luxe Design
Virgin’s ships break away from traditional cruise aesthetics. Instead of gaudy carpets and brass railings (Ok maybe those might be hard to find on a lot of newer ships), I’ve found:
- Modern, yacht-inspired design
- Instagram-worthy spaces created by world-renowned designers
- The first tattoo and piercing parlor at sea (Squid Ink)
- Transformational spaces that shift from day to night and even go all out on Scarlet Night.
- Red accents that pay homage to Virgin’s signature brand color
- No main dining room or traditional main theater
Innovative Dining Concepts
Instead of a main, multi deck dining room, each one of their Lady’s (how they refer to their ships) have:
- Over 20 distinctive eateries
- No set dining times or assigned seating
- Restaurant-style service at every venue
- No buffets – everything is made to order
- Creative concepts like Test Kitchen, a laboratory-themed restaurant
Entertainment That Breaks the Mold
Virgin ditches Broadway shows and cruise director-led activities for:
- Immersive theatrical experiences
- Pop-up performances throughout the ship, sometimes randomly appearing
- Interactive dance parties
- Cabaret shows
- Late-night festival-style events
Sustainability and Wellness Forward Initiatives
Virgin Voyages takes environmental responsibility seriously. This commitment to wellness and sustainability is shown through a series of forward-thinking initiatives aimed at reducing its environmental impact and enhancing guest experiences. The company has implemented a ban on single-use plastics and utilizes smart technology to optimize energy consumption in cabins and around the ship. Their sustainable sourcing practices ensure that materials and products are responsibly sourced, while advanced waste management systems help minimize environmental waste.
When it comes to wellness, the traditional spa concept is reinvented with the Redemption Spa featuring a modern thermal suite, and the Athletic Club offering an innovative space with a boxing ring and outdoor training zone. Sailors can also enjoy the B-Complex, which includes facilities for strength training, spin, yoga, and cardio. Additional wellness offerings include recovery hangover treatments and the Mudroom social spa experience, promoting both physical and social well-being.
Tech-Forward Experience
The cruise line embraces modern technology throughout the ship. Every sailor is given a wearable bracelet for everything. From opening up cabin doors to paying for everything onboard, the RFID bracelet is all you need.
Each cabin has a dedicated tablet to use to change room temperature, control the LED lighting, control the automated curtains, as well as requests to make up the room, or change the bedding configuration.
Their dedicated smartphone app is used for all shipboard communication as well as viewing the happenings or messaging Sailor Services.
Casual Luxury Approach
Virgin also eliminates cruise formalities that are found in many other places. They refer to this as casual luxury but I’d say it’s just pretty ‘chill’.
The key differentiators are:
- No formal nights or dress codes
- No assigned seating or set dining times
- No traditional cruise director
- No forced gratuities
- No onboard announces trying to court you to the duty-free stores
- No waiters putting drinks in front of you hoping you’d buy them
To Wrap Things Up
Virgin Voyages isn’t just different – it’s deliberately different. By challenging every cruise industry convention, they’ve created an experience that appeals to travelers who might have never considered a cruise before. It’s modern, sophisticated, and ahs been described as “refreshingly unbuttoned.” It really is an excellent choice to take along that friend that doesn’t think they’d like a cruise.