Virgin Voyages, a cruise line founded by Richard Branson’s Virgin Group, has taken the cruising world by storm with its fresh and innovative approach to sea travel. This relatively new entrant in the industry has introduced a host of unique features and amenities that set it apart from more traditional cruise lines. We recently cruised with Virgin Voyages across the Caribbean to explore the key aspects that define the Virgin Voyages cruising experience and here’s why it’s worth considering for your next vacation at sea.
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Virgin Voyages has carved a niche in the cruise industry by adopting an adult-only approach. With a minimum age requirement of 18, the cruise line creates a tranquil and mature environment, ideal for passengers seeking a break from the family-oriented cruise experience found on other ships. No children or young teenagers onboard means a more peaceful and sophisticated voyage.
The Valiant Lady: A Floating Work of Art
The Valiant Lady, is Virgin Voyages’ second ship and a stunning vessel designed to turn heads. Its iconic red funnel, sleek exterior, and chic interior spaces make it a true maritime icon. With its modern and trendy aesthetics, the ship offers a fresh and vibrant cruise experience. The Valiant Lady serves as a testament to Virgin Voyages’ commitment to providing a unique and stylish cruise environment.
Family Time: Making Memories With Your Loved Ones
While Virgin Voyages isn’t geared towards young families, their ships do feature many areas suitable for passengers of all ages 18 and above. The ship also offers certain activities and entertainment suitable for a broader age range and while the itineraries are not typically family-focused, they include stops at beautiful tropical destinations, ideal to enjoy for adults of all ages. We thoroughly enjoyed cruising with my mother-in-law who is in her 60s and it was also her first ever cruise experience. Exploring various stunning locations, in the Bahamas, Mexico and the Caribbean as a family allowed for us to create memories that will last a lifetime. The destination and the offerings onboard the ship provided an excellent opportunity for quality family time and adventure on land, whilst having the ability to relax on a more peaceful adults only voyage.
Inclusive Fare: Worry-Free Cruising
Virgin Voyages has revolutionised the pricing model of the cruising world with its inclusive fare structure. In contrast to traditional cruise lines, which often tack on additional charges for dining, beverages, fitness classes, and gratuities, Virgin Voyages simplifies things. Most of these items are included in the cruise fare, providing passengers with peace of mind and convenience while they enjoy their cruise.
Culinary Delights: A World of Choices
Virgin Voyages offers an array of dining options, from on board Korean BBQ restaurant Gunbae to steak and seafood restaurant The Wake, along with an Italian eatery and Mexican – the ship offers over 20 dining outlets – all included in each guest’s fare. What sets it apart is the absence of a traditional main dining room, allowing passengers to dine when and where they please. This flexibility empowers guests to explore a diverse range of culinary delights, from casual bites to fine dining experiences, enhancing the overall dining experience onboard.
Wellness and Fitness Focus: Stay Active at Sea
For health-conscious travellers, Virgin Voyages is a haven. The ship is equipped with a state-of-the-art gym and a spa for rejuvenation. The “B-Complex,” featuring a boxing ring and yoga studio, caters to those seeking an active and healthy lifestyle during their cruise. A variety of fitness classes are also available, making it easy for passengers to stay in shape while at sea.
Entertainment and Nightlife Extravaganza: Never a Dull Moment
The cruise line knows how to keep passengers entertained. With a diverse lineup of entertainment options, the ship offers a dynamic nightlife scene. From immersive theatre experiences to dance clubs and themed parties, the cruise line ensures there’s never a dull moment. Whether you’re seeking live music, comedy shows, or themed costume parties, the evenings on a Virgin Voyages cruise are full of energy and excitement.
Destinations and Itineraries: Exploring Tropical Paradises
While enjoying the Virgin Voyages experience, passengers also have the opportunity to explore beautiful destinations. Our particular voyage focused on Caribbean itineraries, with stops at popular ports of call such as the Bahamas, Mexico, and Honduras. These tropical paradises offer the perfect backdrop for a memorable cruise vacation, allowing guests to soak in the sun and immerse themselves in different cultures along the way.
In conclusion, Virgin Voyages has redefined the cruising experience, offering a modern and stylish atmosphere tailored to adults, all-inclusive fares, a diverse range of dining options, a strong focus on wellness and fitness, and an exhilarating entertainment and nightlife scene. With exciting itineraries to tropical destinations, Virgin Voyages provides a fresh and unique approach to cruise travel, making it a compelling choice for those looking for something different in the world of cruising. So, if you’re seeking a cruise experience that’s both refreshing and contemporary, set sail with Virgin Voyages and embark on a voyage like no other.
KeiKei is a London-based award-winning journalist and videographer with a degree in Broadcast Media and Journalism from the University of the West of Scotland and an extensive reporting background in news, entertainment, travel, and lifestyle.
KeiKei has travelled the globe interviewing, reporting and reviewing. Her work has been published in worldwide media outlets including, The New York Post, The Guardian, The Mirror, The Daily Mail, National Geographic and Conde Nast publications.
