What Makes Virgin Voyages Different? A New Kind of Cruise Experience
If you think cruising is just for retirees, families with young kids, or buffet-loving crowds, Virgin Voyages is here to flip the script. Launched by Richard Branson’s Virgin Group, this adult-only, lifestyle-forward cruise line is redefining what it means to set sail.
From included perks like Wi-Fi and gratuities to a ship design focused on wellness, nightlife, and modern dining, Virgin Voyages is cruising—but cooler. Here’s how they stand apart from the traditional cruise experience.
1. Adults-Only, 18+ Only Vibes
Perhaps the most talked-about feature: no kids allowed.
Virgin Voyages is strictly 18+, meaning the entire onboard experience is designed with adults in mind. That means:
🚢No kiddie pools or family-friendly shows.
🚢A vibe that feels more like a boutique hotel or music festival at sea.
🚢Programming that caters to young professionals, couples, solo travelers, and friend groups.
✅ Best For: Adults who want a kid-free vacation with a balance of relaxation, wellness, and nightlife.
2. No Nickel-and-Diming: Gratuities, Wi-Fi, and Dining Included
Virgin has simplified cruising costs by including many things other cruise lines charge extra for.
✅ Included with your fare:
🚢Gratuities (tips) – Already covered, so no daily surprise charges on your bill.
🚢Basic Wi-Fi – Stay connected for free; streaming Wi-Fi is available for an upgrade.
🚢All dining – 20+ eateries on board, and no upcharges for specialty dining.
🚢Group fitness classes – Yoga, spin, HIIT, and more, all included.
This upfront pricing structure removes the constant upsell pressure many cruisers dislike.
3. Elevated, Non-Traditional Dining
Forget buffets and traditional dining rooms. Virgin Voyages offers a “restaurant-forward” model:
🚢20+ onboard eateries—think trendy, Instagram-worthy spots.
🚢No main dining room, no formal nights, no set dining times.
Top venues include:
🔹Gunbae (Korean BBQ)
🔹Pink Agave (upscale Mexican)
🔹The Wake (elegant steak & seafood)
🔹Razzle Dazzle (plant-based with a twist)
✅ Bonus: No additional cost for specialty dining, and reservations are easy to make through the Virgin app.
4. Stylish Ships with Festival Energy
Virgin’s ships—starting with the Scarlet Lady—aren’t just cruise ships. They’re floating boutique hotels with edgy design and creative spaces.
🚢 Ship features include:
🔹A tattoo studio at sea (Squid Ink)
🔹Nightclubs, drag shows, and immersive performances
🔹Chic pool decks with DJ sets and daybeds
🔹The Manor, a two-story nightclub with speakeasy vibes
🔹Well-being zones including gyms, spas, and outdoor training areas
✅ Vibe Check: Think Ibiza meets upscale wellness retreat with a splash of New York nightlife.
5. Sailor App & Tech-First Experience
Virgin leans into technology to simplify your cruise:
🚢The Virgin Voyages app handles everything from check-in to dinner reservations and show tickets.
🚢Wristbands (aka “The Band”) replace room keys and credit cards.
🚢Contactless service and tech-savvy touches throughout the ship.
6. Focus on Sustainability and Wellness
Virgin Voyages is also one of the most eco-conscious cruise lines:
🚢No single-use plastics on board.
🚢Ships are designed to reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency.
🚢Water refill stations throughout.
🚢Emphasis on plant-based dining options and well-being programming.
7. Destinations & Unique Itineraries
Virgin’s itineraries are designed for both daytime relaxation and nighttime adventures:
🚢Caribbean sailings include stops at The Beach Club at Bimini—a private beach party with bonfires and live DJs.
🚢Mediterranean itineraries explore iconic coastal cities with overnight or late-night stays, allowing travelers to experience destinations after dark.
Final Thoughts: Is Virgin Voyages for You?
Virgin Voyages isn’t for everyone—and that’s the point. If you’re looking for a cruise that breaks all the traditional molds, it’s worth a serious look.
✅ Virgin is perfect for:
🚢Millennials and Gen Xers who want more vibe, less formality
🚢Solo travelers and couples who appreciate a social, curated experience
🚢Travelers who want modern design, clean eating, and nightlife
The Bottom Line
Virgin Voyages is shaking up the cruise world with an adults-only, all-included experience that feels more like a floating music festival or luxury resort than a traditional ship. If you’re ready to cruise on your own terms—with no buffets, no dress codes, and no kids—it might be time to become a “Sailor” and hop aboard.