Why should we cruise with Virgin Voyages?
We asked Virgin Voyages why you should cruise with them, here's what they said...
Where superyacht design and your dream destinations meet. Welcome to how Virgin does cruise ships. With Richard Branson at the helm, Virgin Voyages is redefining what a luxury cruise ship means by combining premium elements from favorites on land with the freedom and simplicity of a life well lived on the open ocean. With with cool interiors filled with chic bars, city styled eateries, clever accommodation and rock star suites Virgin offers Sailors a new onboard experience, from wellbeing activities, fresh to order eateries and original boundary read more breaking entertainment without the formalities and traditions of other contemporary cruise lines.
What destinations are Virgin Voyages exploring this season?
Alaska Bahamas Caribbean MedVirgin Voyages snapshot
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The low down on Virgin Voyages from our expert team of advisors at Global Journeys...
Virgin Voyages is an adults-only cruise line designed for those looking for child-free atmosphere, elevated nightlife and a more resort-style experience at sea. Unlike many mainstream cruise lines, Virgin includes Wi-Fi, group fitness classes, entertainment, and dining across 20+ eateries - without traditional buffets or dining packages - helping reduce common onboard add-ons. Virgin also replaces the standard unlimited drinks package model with an optional prepaid Bar Tab credit. For couples, friends, and solo travellers who want contemporary design, flexible dining, and a grown-up vibe, Virgin Voyages is a standout alternative to traditional read more family-focused cruise lines.
Who cruises with Virgin Voyages?
Adults of all ages, particularly couples, friends and solo travellers seeking an adults-only, social and contemporary cruise experience.
What are Virgin Voyages known for?
Adults-only cruising, contemporary entertainment, nightlife, more than 20 included dining venues, no traditional buffets or main dining room, complimentary group fitness classes and a relaxed, casual-luxury atmosphere.
Are Virgin's fares all-inclusive?
Semi-inclusive. Fares include accommodation, all standard dining, basic WiFi, essential non-alcoholic drinks, group fitness classes and most entertainment. Shore excursions, alcoholic drinks, premium beverages, spa treatments and service gratuities are additional.
What extras will we need to pay for, on top of the cruise fare?
Additional costs include service gratuities, shore excursions, alcoholic drinks, specialty coffees, cold-pressed juices and other premium beverages, premium WiFi, spa and salon treatments, personal training, selected dining and entertainment experiences and laundry.
Are gratuities included?
No.
Are shore excursions included?
No. Shore excursions, known as 'Shore Things', are purchased separately.
Is there WiFi on board?
Yes. Basic WiFi is included in the cruise fare. Premium WiFi suitable for higher-bandwidth use is available at additional cost or through selected loyalty and fare benefits.
Does Virgin Voyages have a loyalty program?
Yes. The Virgin Voyages Sailing Club automatically enrols guests after one eligible completed voyage, with Blue Extras available from the third eligible voyage and Deep Blue Extras from the fifth.
Is Virgin Voyages a family friendly cruise-line?
No. Virgin Voyages is exclusively for guests aged 18 and over.
Are any onboard activities included?
Most entertainment is included, including original shows, live music, parties and immersive performances. Group fitness classes such as yoga, HIIT, barre, cycling and bungee workouts, gym facilities, sports areas and many social activities are also included.
Are there casinos on board your ships?
Yes. Every Virgin Voyages ship has a casino with slot machines and table games.
Are there any onboard activities that cost extra?
Yes. Additional charges apply to selected entertainment and dining experiences such as Another Rose, food and drink classes, spa and beauty treatments, tattoos, personal training, casino gaming and other premium experiences.
Are there specialty restaurants on board Virgin's ships?
Virgin Voyages does not use the traditional specialty-restaurant model. More than 20 dining venues are included in the fare, including restaurants such as The Wake, Extra Virgin, Gunbae, Pink Agave and Test Kitchen, although selected premium menu items and dining experiences cost extra.
Are there dining packages for purchase?
No. Standard dining across more than 20 eateries is already included, so there is no traditional specialty dining package.
Are non-alcoholic beverages included?
Yes. Still and sparkling water, sodas, non-pressed juices, teas and drip coffee are included. Specialty coffees, cold-pressed juices, energy drinks and some other premium beverages cost extra.
Are alcoholic beverages included?
No. Alcoholic beverages are charged separately.
Do Virgin Voyages sell any beverage packages?
No traditional unlimited beverage package is offered. Guests can pre-purchase a Bar Tab, which provides onboard credit for alcoholic and premium non-alcoholic beverages and can include bonus credit.
Do Virgin Voyages offer room service?
Yes. ShipEats provides 24-hour food and drink delivery to cabins. A USD $10 delivery fee applies unless the order includes at least USD $10 of chargeable items, and the fee is waived for RockStar Quarters.
Are spa and salon services available?
Yes. Redemption Spa, salon, barber, nail and medi-spa services are available for an additional charge, including paid access to the Thermal Suite.
Are there gyms onboard Virgin's ships?
Yes. Ships have extensive fitness facilities including the B-Complex gym, Training Camp, outdoor exercise areas and a running track.
Are fitness classes available onboard Virgin's ships?
Yes. Group fitness classes including yoga, HIIT, barre, cycling, meditation and bungee workouts are included in the fare.
Do Virgin Voyages offer personal training?
Yes. Bookable personal training is available for an additional charge.
Are there self-service laundry facilities?
No. There are no self-service laundrettes onboard.
Do Virgin Voyages offer a laundry service?
Yes. Full laundry and pressing services are available for an additional charge, with complimentary laundry included in selected Sailing Club benefits.
Recent Virgin Voyages reviews
From our very first enquiry through read more to departure, Grace was attentive, knowledgeable and genuinely invested in making sure everything was perfect. When we had questions about upgrading our cabin, she explored every option for us. When we queried the price difference and asked about sailor loot credits, she went straight to the Virgin Voyages representative on our behalf — even when the answer wasn't what we hoped for, her honesty and effort were truly appreciated. And when Virgin Voyages updated our disembarkation terminal in Barcelona to Terminal C at the last minute, Grace had already forwarded us the details before we even had a chance to wonder. That kind of proactive communication is what sets a great travel agent apart.
The Scarlet Lady herself was absolutely stunning. The vibe is unlike any cruise we've been on — adult-only, beautifully designed, and with a dining and entertainment experience that genuinely surprised us. The Band (that clever little wearable made from recycled ocean plastic) served as cabin key, wallet and bar tab all in one — such a clever touch that really set the tone for the whole experience.
Now, we'd be fibbing if we said there were zero hiccups. One of the highlights we'd been most looking forward to was our stop in Casablanca, Morocco — so we were genuinely disappointed to learn the port was closed and we wouldn't be making that call. It was the destination we'd been most excited about, and missing it was a real letdown. However, Virgin Voyages handled the situation beautifully. The communication was prompt, clear and empathetic, and in place of Casablanca we were rerouted to the gorgeous Cádiz in southern Spain. What a silver lining! Cádiz turned out to be an absolute gem — one of Europe's oldest cities, full of character, stunning architecture and warm locals. It genuinely softened the blow and left us with memories we wouldn't trade. The seamless way Virgin Voyages managed the change really impressed us and showed the professionalism of their operation.
September was a brilliant time to travel this route. The weather across Portugal and Spain was warm but not overwhelming, and the mix of destinations made for an incredibly rich itinerary. Our fellow sailors were a wonderfully diverse, warm and sociable group, and the kid-free environment meant a relaxed, grown-up atmosphere throughout.
Would we travel with Virgin Voyages again? Absolutely - without hesitation. Would we book through Global Journeys again? Without a doubt. Grace made the entire process smooth, stress-free and enjoyable from start to finish. If you're considering a Virgin Voyages cruise, do yourself a favour and reach out to Grace - you won't regret it.
Thank you Grace, and thank you Global Journeys. You helped make a truly unforgettable trip. 🌊⚓
Virgin's most popular trips this month...
Why should we cruise with NCL?
We asked NCL why you should cruise with them, here's what they said...
No schedules. No stipulations. Just award-winning entertainment and diverse dining options from the only cruise line built for versatile vacationing. NCL's award-winning ships are designed for you to enjoy as you choose while cruising to beautiful destinations around the world. Add a wide range of superb dining options and spectacular entertainment and you'll experience your best holiday ever.
What destinations are NCL exploring this season?
Alaska Asia Australia & New Zealand Canada & New England Caribbean Central America & Panama Europe & Med Greek Islands More...NCL snapshot
Total No. CruisesDeparturesAvg. cruise lengthNo. of ShipsAll-Inclusive levelOnboard currencyOur thoughts...
The low down on NCL from our expert team of advisors at Global Journeys...
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) stands out for its relaxed “Freestyle Cruising” style - more flexibility, fewer formalities, and a resort-like onboard vibe. NCL’s Free at Sea inclusions can add strong value for travelers who want drinks, some specialty dining, Wi-Fi and shore credits bundled into their booking, helping to make their total trip costs easier to predict. If you want a cruise that feels casual, choice-rich and good-value, Norwegian is often an excellent option; if you want the most family attractions, a more traditional cruise atmosphere, or a more premium “quiet luxury” feel, competitors like Royal Caribbean, Princess, Holland America read more or Celebrity may be a better match.
Who cruises with NCL?
Couples, solo travellers and families; freestyle cruisers who like to holiday on their own schedule.
What are NCL known for?
Freestyle Cruising with no fixed dining times, award-winning entertainment and top-deck innovation including racetracks at sea.
Are NCL's fares all-inclusive?
No.
What extras will we need to pay for, on top of the cruise fare?
Guests need to pay for shore excursions, WiFi, specialty dining, spa and salon services, selected onboard activities, some entertainment and certain beverages and services.
Are gratuities included?
Gratuities are included for Australian and New Zealand passengers. They are not included for North American passengers.
Are shore excursions included?
No.
Is there WiFi on board?
Yes, charges apply or is included in NCL’s Free At Sea™ package.
Does NCL have a loyalty program?
No. Latitudes Rewards only.
Is NCL a family friendly cruise-line?
Yes. NCL are a popular family option with family-friendly accommodation, comprehensive youth programs and family-friendly amenities.
Are any onboard activities included?
Sports court games, outdoor pools and hot tubs, select onboard presentations, the ropes course and ziplining.
Are there casinos on board your ships?
Yes, except on Pride of America.
Are there any onboard activities that cost extra?
Specialty onboard seminars, go-kart sessions, laser tag, video arcade games and bowling incur additional charges.
Are there specialty restaurants on board NCL's ships?
Yes. Specialty restaurants are available and charges apply. Upgrade to NCL’s Free At Sea™ to add premium beverages, specialty dining, shore excursion credit and Wi-Fi.
Are there dining packages for purchase?
Yes. Upgrade to NCL’s Free At Sea™ to add specialty dining.
Are non-alcoholic beverages included?
No.
Are alcoholic beverages included?
No.
Do NCL sell any beverage packages?
Yes. Upgrade to NCL’s Free At Sea™ to add premium beverages, specialty dining, shore excursion credit and Wi-Fi.
Do NCL offer room service?
Yes. Complimentary 24/7 room service is available; charges apply for alcohol orders.
Are spa and salon services available?
Yes. Spa and salon services are available for an additional charge.
Are there gyms onboard NCL's ships?
Yes.
Are fitness classes available onboard NCL's ships?
Yes. Charges apply.
Do NCL offer personal training?
Yes. Charges apply.
Are there self-service laundry facilities?
No.
Do NCL offer a laundry service?
Yes. Charges apply.
Recent NCL reviews
I liked the variety of food at the buffet and at Indulge. Dined at Hudson twice, it was very nice, beautifully decorated, gracious service - no one ever made me feel uncomfortable as someone dining solo.
Shore Excursions - Belfast to the Giant’s Causeway (I was on a waitlist - which never “officially” cleared, but there were some available seats at the last minute so I got on. I’d recommend booking those excursions ASAP) Cork — ship had to skip that port of call b/c stormy weather. Halifax - I went on excursion to Peggy’s Cove - cute, very New England, enjoyed a delish lobster roll.
Service - Cabin steward was efficient, friendly, helpful. Staff at dining establishments also very nice. Buffet got crowded but seating could always be found in the Palomar. Some of the staff for booking excursions or dealing with wi-fi were somewhat disorganized so definitely follow-up on questions or issues.
Downside: Ehe upselling! Starting from when I booked, all through the cruise. e.g. I missed getting daily itineraries and notices on paper delivered to my cabin - encouraged to always check on-line, but that wasn’t always up to date. Yes, it saves paper, but somehow the promos for pricey spa services and “art” auctions etc *were* delivered on paper to the cabin. I could barely hear announcements from the Captain but the announcements from the cruise director about opportunities to buy buy buy were always loud and clear. A friend had sent me a gift for the cruise — a 12-pack of bottled (actually canned) water, which I never received. And then it took weeks to get a refund (alto NCL reps kept calling back — to try and sell her a cruise). The nickel-and-dime-ing is annoying, but it’s probably the same on many other cruise lines.
Overall, I’ve learned to ignore the upselling, and enjoyed the cruise. I’d do it again (if the price hadn’t tripled since last year). There is an active FB group for NCL passengers, lots of reviews pros/cons there.
The $450 for the Internet cafe was expensive and the cheap, food and beverage package at $900 American dollars was outrageous - but at least it saved us the compulsory tip of 20% on every drink purchased.. The food on the ship was plentiful and filling but nothing special and the specialty restaurants at an additional cover charge of $120 American for the one specialty we took, was overpriced and over valued. And $610 USD for simple medical services that in Australia would've cost about $30 was a rip off and a packet of common antibiotics which in Australia would cost $24, was on the ship, $240 that is 8 USD s a pill!
And the crowning disappointment was with the one shore excursion we decided to buy from Norwegian. Immediately we paid for it my knee gave way making it impossible to do the walking on that tour, but there was no chance of getting a refund, - so that was another $140 American wasted. The cruz director and his deputy were absolutely hopeless and at the morning television presentation they told us little about what we should be doing that day but comprised mainly banal chatter between the two of them that we only watched once because we couldn't believe how bad it was. We saw mention of a turndown Service which never occurred in our mini suite, and the movies offered were awful.
But on the positive note, their tender operations were better than other lines, and nearly all of their wait staff were helpful and friendly although some had very little understanding of English. The couple of production shows were very ordinary and most of the entertainment seemed to consist of single or duo artists, or the cruz director interviewing and embarrassing guests, or yet another Trivia, which of course would cost the cruz company next to nothing! We would only cruise Norwegian again if it was the only ship going where we wanted to go at the time we wanted.
