When Virgin Voyages launched its inaugural ship, the Scarlet Lady, in late 2021, the line promised a different kind of cruise experience: elevated dining with no buffets, bold and irreverent entertainment, an inclusive adults-only atmosphere, and playful amenities like an onboard tattoo parlor. Since then the brand has added two sister ships, the Valiant Lady and the Resilient Lady, with the Brilliant Lady expected to join the fleet in 2024.
Before you step aboard this Richard Branson–backed Caribbean playground, here are eight tips to help you make the most of your sailing.
© Kelly Magyarics
Spring for a Cabin with a Terrace
These cabins cost more than an interior room, but many include a table, chairs and a distinctive red hammock. If you enjoy quiet afternoons reading, napping or watching the ocean, that hammock becomes a favorite spot. For comfort, privacy and memorable sea views, the terrace cabin is worth the upgrade.
Be Strategic About Your Dining
Reserve restaurants early via the app—walk-ins are sometimes possible but seating is limited. Think about which venues shine on sea days and which work better in port. For example, The Wake sits at the ship’s stern and offers dramatic views of the ship’s wake, making it most impressive on a sea day. Razzle Dazzle has fewer windows and its breakfast and lunch offerings are often more appealing than dinner. Test Kitchen is a prix-fixe, experimental tasting menu loved by adventurous diners but potentially less suited for picky eaters. Gunbae, the onboard Korean barbecue, is social and lively with communal round tables and tabletop grills; expect to share a table with other guests unless you book as a large group. It’s a fun option for the first night if you want to meet people you might hang out with later in the cruise.
Pink Agave © Kelly Magyarics
Sample Must-Try Dishes at Each Restaurant
Dining aboard Virgin Voyages is playful, inventive and well executed. At Razzle Dazzle, the rainbow churros with ube ice cream and strawberry caramel sauce make a colorful, shareable dessert, while a mushroom-based trompe l’oeil tartare with tarragon salsa verde and crostini is a clever vegetarian highlight. Test Kitchen’s tasting menu presents courses named for single ingredients — think Egg and Scallops — showcasing focused technique. At The Wake, creamy clam chowder is poured tableside and pan-roasted Ora King salmon with roasted beets, grilled leeks, caviar and lemon yogurt offers a standout seafood option. Pink Agave’s roasted duck with black mole over sweet potato purée is a signature dish, and at Extra Virgin the oxtail agnolotti with tangerine conserva and beef tendon crisps is a pasta worth ordering.
… and Hit This Spot for a Quick Bite
Although there are no traditional buffets, The Galley serves as an all-hours food hall with plenty of choices: bento boxes with sushi, salads, all-day breakfast, burgers, ramen, tacos and pressed sandwiches. There are many tables, but for a relaxed experience grab something to go and find a quiet deck nook or take it to the pool.
© Kelly Magyarics
Here’s How to Drink Well On Board
Virgin Voyages does not offer a traditional beverage package, but drink prices are reasonable and cocktail programming varies by venue. Pink Agave showcases an extensive tequila and mezcal list, Razzle Dazzle features inventive serves like a popcorn-infused old fashioned, and The Dock offers a menu of spritzes and lower-alcohol options. You’ll also find canned wines, ready-to-serve cocktails and ciders for casual sipping.
Remember to Pack Something for Theme Nights
Scarlet Night is a shipwide celebration centered on a red theme, with pop-up performances and a big poolside dance party—packing at least one red outfit ensures you won’t feel out of place. The line also stages PJ Night, a relaxed dance event where pajamas, onesies or playful nightwear are not only accepted but encouraged. A few themed pieces will make these evenings more fun.
Head to This Spot, Arguably the Prettiest on Deck
The Dock, located at the ship’s aft, is a favorite for its unobstructed views of the wake and relaxed alfresco vibe. It serves Mediterranean-style meze from lunch through the afternoon—order several small plates to share and enjoy them on a daybed or at a table. The Dock is also an excellent place for morning coffee or a late-night pizza while watching the stars.
© Kelly Magyarics
Get Outside of the Gym
Classes at VHS (Videotapes, Headbands, Simmons) embrace an ’80s aesthetic with retro instructors, era-appropriate music and playful equipment. Other onboard fitness and activity options include dance classes—recent offerings have taught choreography to ’90s pop hits—and aerial acrobatics. These structured, social classes are often more engaging than solo time on the treadmill in the well-equipped B-Complex Gym.
If Your Budget Can Swing It, Book a Rockstar Suite
Rockstar Suites provide elevated perks: access to Richard’s Rooftop (a VIP top deck with loungers, daybeds, hot tubs, its own bar and complimentary Champagne during happy hour), priority boarding, and exclusive spaces at the Bimini Beach Club. RockStar service includes dedicated agents to assist with arrangements, and suites may be outfitted with private bars, turntables, guitars, expansive outdoor terraces and Jacuzzis depending on category. For travelers seeking a more indulgent, concierge-style cruise experience, a Rockstar Suite delivers.
With thoughtful planning—selecting the right cabin, booking restaurants strategically, trying a few standout dishes and joining themed evenings—you’ll get the most from a Virgin Voyages sailing and enjoy a cruise that feels fresh, modern and deliberately different.