virgin yacht cruise

Adults-only voyages. Luxuriously designed. Most 5-star reviews.

Explore over 100 dreamy destinations.   Featuring 20+ eateries with Michelin star chef-curated menus .  Relax and live it up in our modern, super-yacht inspired cabins.

Pick up where you left off…

Your vacation awaits — don’t let these voyages sail away.

Make plans to fall in love — with dreamy voyages sailing across the world. From new Caribbean destinations to our arrival in Australia later this year, lean into the romance of February, because you’ll get 55% off 2nd Sailors and up to $600 in free premium drinks when you book by Feb. 28th, 2023.

An epic, one-of-a-kind sailing. The Limitless Voyage.

Where inspiration meets well-being — we’ve been working with our Chief Entertainment & Lifestyle Officer, Jennifer Lopez, to curate a special, one-time voyage on April 14th - 19th — celebrating women who are making ship happen in business and the world at large.

Virgin Voyages Adults Only Cruises

People don’t need more choices. they need a better option..

Exceptional value will always be included in our sailings.

Always Included Luxury

We’ve taken care of all the details — so all you have to do is kick back and have the relaxing vacation you deserve. Everything below is included.

From refined dining to relaxed casual, all of our 20+ eateries featuring menus curated by Michelin star chefs are yours to enjoy.

Essential Drinks

Stay hydrated with still and sparkling water, non-pressed juices, sodas, teas and even drip coffee.

Browse, post, and stay connected with wifi — whenever you want, and wherever you are on the ship.

We've taken care (of taking care) of your servers, so we cover the gratuities for your onboard experiences.

Group Fitness Classes

Yoga, meditation, cycling, HIIT classes, and more — all your group fitness classes are covered.

Shows & Entertainment

Developed by the world’s most-talked-about producers and artists, you have a ticket to all of our awe-inspiring shows.

Sea Terrace

The ultimate go-to for relaxation, our Sea Terraces stand out for their clever design, flexible furnishings, Roomy Rainshowers, sensory mood lighting, and the hand-woven terrace hammock that almost all of them have.

For solo Sailors looking for quiet moments with a view (and a super large single bed) and duos ready to make eyes with the ocean while perched on our nautically-inspired window seats. Gazing out at the waves every morning, this is the closest you can get to the water without the windblown hair. 

Friend groups, solo Sailors, and duos alike can get in on the Insider action. Roomy Rainshowers and mood lighting punctuate our cozy escapes — giving you the space to recover today and prepare for tomorrow.

RockStar Quarters

If you’re into exclusive access throughout the ship, RockStar Agents at your beck and call, marble-clad bathrooms with premium amenities and spaces conceptualized by world-renowned designer Tom Dixon, then let’s talk suites.

MICHELIN DINING

20+ foodie-approved eateries designed by a Michelin-starred chef collective

With incredible menus and unique experiences designed by a hand-picked Michelin-starred chef collective, all of our 20+ cruise restaurants use fresh ingredients to create made-to-order, always included food to crush any craving — from decadent steakhouse dining and trendy Mexican to our first-to-sea Korean BBQ grilling and fresh market-inspired fare.

Incredible Drinks

Essential Drinks Included. Or grab a Bar Tab package.

Grab a Bar Tab for an all-inclusive cruising experience. It's our elevated and fairer drinks package that lets you revel in craft cocktails from top mixologists, an unrivaled selection of wines, your favorite spirits, and specialty coffee. No Bar Tab, no problem — as all premium beverages are fairly priced. And your voyage fare includes soda, filtered and sparkling water, drip coffee, and non-pressed juices.

Entertainment

Lights. Camera. Action at sea.

We’re swapping classic Broadway productions for a festival-like lineup featuring first-to-sea entertainment, pop-up acts, and immersive experiences created by the world’s most-talked-about directors, choreographers, and artists.

From outdoor yoga and high-intensity workouts to spa days and blowouts

We're giving a Virgin-style makeover to cruise spas and fitness programming.

Group getaways.

Get up to $800 in onboard credit when you bring your crew

Great experiences are even better when shared with friends — especially when you can earn up to $800 in onboard credit to splurge throughout your vacay. So fire up that group chat; you’re all going on a voyage.

The most 5-star cruise reviews

Cruise Critic’s Best New Cruise Ship in 2021. And Condé Nast Traveler’s Best New Cruises in the World in 2022.

What an amazing cruise concept!

"We loved the ship and everything about it. We tried all the restaurants and it is difficult to select one as a favorite - as all had exciting menus and sooooo good food - freshly made of high-quality ingredients."

Virgin delivers cruising as only Virgin can

"This cruise was literally the best vacation we ever went on. Our cabin was spacious and the crew was amazing. The shows were unique and entertaining. The drinks were delicious and it was awesome every bar had different main cocktails so you could try new things. I highly recommend it!"

What a great time!

"This was my first cruise, and what an amazing time it was! The crew was amazing. The food was amazing! I love the places scattered around the ship to eat. Especially The Galley. Great vibe onboard. You can do as much or as little as you want to."

10/10 would recommend

"Overall everything was an amazing experience; the staff always made sure we were good and super helpful. I would recommend anyone to this cruise line over any other one. I think that you are definitely getting your money’s worth in value, in every aspect of the meaning."

Book Now. Pay Later.

Sail with the flexibility you need

Don’t defer your dream voyage. We have low and flexible payment options for almost every budget, with interest-free financing available.

Reserve now. Pay later.

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Virgin Voyages

History, review, itineraries, ships, deck plans, news.

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Virgin Voyages fleet

Brilliant lady.

Resilient Lady

Valiant Lady

Scarlet Lady

Review of Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages (formerly "Virgin Cruises", VirginVoyages.com) is a new cruise line company headquartered in Plantation (Florida USA). Virgin Voyages was created as a joint venture between Virgin Group Ltd (British multinational holding company) and Bain Capital LP (multi-asset investment company), with the latter having a majority (51%) shareholding. The establishment of Virgin Cruises was announced by Virgin Group on December 4, 2014. The new cruise line is scheduled to start operations in 2020.

Company History

Bain Capital (1984-founded) is based in Boston (Massachusetts USA) and specializes in private equity, venture capital, credit, public equity, life sciences and real estate, with assets (under management in FY2018) ~USD 105 billion. Virgin Group Ltd (1970-founded by Richard Branson and Nik Powell) is based in London (England UK) and specializes in global investments and branding through numerous fully- or partially-owned subsidiary companies in businesses like travel (cruises, hotels, tours, airlines, trains), hospitality, health, banking, retail, communications, entertainment, publishing, charity.

Virgin Group's best-known brands are Virgin Holidays, Virgin Voyages, Virgin Megastores, Virgin Hotels, Virgin Care, Virgin Trains USA (Brightline), and Virgin Airlines (Australia, Atlantic, Connect, and Galactic/spaceflights).

Virgin Voyages operates a fleet of four fully-owned cruise vessels constructed by the Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri SpA (at Sestri Ponente shipyard/ Genoa ).

In FY2018, Fincantieri reported revenue of EUR 5,4 billion. Currently ranked Europe's largest shipbuilding company, Fincantieri has 8 shipyards (all in Italy), in 2013 acquired VARD (Norway-based company with 9 shipyards) and in 2018 purchased 50% of STX France (Chantiers de l'Atlantique Shipyard in St Nazaire ). Fincantieri builds both commercial and naval ships.

In 2020, Virgin Cruises officially started operations (from Miami Florida USA ) with the 2800-passenger Scarlet Lady . Three more sisterships were inaugurated in the following years - Valiant Lady (2021), Resilient Lady (2022) and Brilliant Lady (2025).

The announcement (initially for 3 ships) was made on June 23, 2015, in Miami, during a press conference (media event "making waves") for Virgin Group's new cruise travel brand. For the event, Richard Branson arrived on a helicopter, landing near Miami's Museum Park. He announced that the total building cost for the 3 ships is USD 2,13 billion (US$710M per unit). The announcement for the 4th ship was made on October 31, 2018, with order value ~EUR 700 million.

The company's current President and CEO is Nirmal Saverimuttu (1979-born in Zambian, raised in Australia), who in September 2023 succeeded Thomas Michael McAlpin (1959-born American). McAlpin joined DCL-Disney Cruise Line in 1995 (as VP of Finance, Business Development & Shore Travel Operations) overseeing the construction of the first Disney ships ( Magic /1998 and Wonder /1999) and the development of Walt Disney's private Bahamian island Castaway Cay . In 2004, he became DCL's President. Prior to heading Virgin Cruises, McAlpin served as CEO of The World Residences at Sea (in the period 2009-2014). Following his retirement from CEO and President, Tom McAlpin continued to serve Virgin Voyages as Chairman of the Board of Directors.

Earlier in 2016, Virgin settled US$300M lawsuits filed by Colin Veitch (former NCL-Norwegian CEO), who claimed Virgin had stolen his ideas and moved on with the cruise line concept without him.

Tom McAlpin commented that the company is not to be considered a big player in the cruising industry, but rather "a small boutique line that will offer different experiences". McAlpin and Branson hinted that those experiences might take some cues from other successful Virgin ventures, like Virgin Hotels. The hotel chain is popular for offering free WiFi, minibar drinks at street prices, privacy doors allowing guests to go on about their business while room service brings requests, pet-friendly amenities with no weight or size restrictions.

In October 2016, "Virgin Cruises" was rebranded as "Virgin Voyages". At the time it was first announced, the company's founder Branson said his goal was to create a brand cruising experience that is more likely to appeal to millennials and other people who don't normally take cruise ship vacations.

In regard to onboard gratuities, the company has "No Tipping" policy, which means all gratuities are included in the base cruise fares. Also included in basic fares are beverages, all eateries, group fitness classes. The company also doesn't charge penalties or change fees. Customers are able to hold staterooms for 24 hours with no money down once they've placed a 20% non-refundable deposit. They also have a 7-day grace period allowing them to change bookings for any reason. Cruise departure date and names on bookings can be changed without fees or penalties. Shortly before opening the bookings on Scarlet Lady (Feb 14, 2019), Virgin announced all-inclusive deal policy by which cruises are sold "by cabin price". Fares are also inclusive of dining (shipwide / 20 options, some 24-hour), unlimited WiFi, all fitness classes. Cabin pricing only varies by the number of occupants. For 5-day itineraries, fares start from ~USD 250 pp per day (excluding taxes-fees).

Virgin Cruises' "non-commissionable policy" allows travel agents to earn across customer's entire transaction, including on add-ons (hotels, flights, travel insurance, spa treatments, tours/excursions, premium packages, onboard credits, taxes, fees). Travel agents receive 16% base commission on the transaction (increased from 10% by the expanded "Brilliant To Do Business With" program). "Red Hot Bonus" program additionally offers annually paid revenue up to 6% (in case certain production thresholds are met) in addition to 10% commission on everything sold prior the cruise (excepting taxes and fees).

Company changes 2019 (pre-inauguration)

In early-April 2019, Virgin Voyages signed an exclusive 7-year partnership deal with OSW (OneSpaWorld Holdings Ltd) - a provider of health-and-wellness services and products on cruise vessels and in destination resorts worldwide. OSW provides all the wellness staff, services and products onboard Virgin ships, including yoga and gym trainers, massages, medispa treatments, salon (manicure-pedicure-hairdresser) services. Each ship has a 29-person OSW-employed professional staff. The served facilities include Crow's Nest (outdoor yoga studio), Redemption Spa, Dry-Dock (blowout bar), B-Complex (Fitness Center).

In April 2019, Virgin and Intelligentsia Coffee signed a deal to provide Intelligentsia coffee (Virgin Voyages Blend) and made-to-order beverages at all venues, including the specialty coffee bars ("Ministry of Ground" and "Ministry of Ground Too") served by expert baristas.

In June 2019, Virgin expanded the list of RockStar Suite-only perks with RockStar Agents (dedicated butlers per stateroom), specially dedicated hair and makeup crew (upon request), complimentary laundry service, complimentary Thermal Suite access (Redemption Spa), all-inclusive premium drinks (in all shipboard eateries and bars), personalized bottomless in-room bar (free of charge), option to curate in-port activities.

In late-October 2019 was approved the agreement for Brightline Miami to be rebranded "Virgin Trains" and Virgin Group to build a train station (Virgin Trains PortMiami) at the cruise port. The new station serves high-speed trains and connects PortMiami directly with the USA's intercity railway system and Orlando International Airport.

On November 12, 2019, Richard Branson announced that the second Virgin ship ( Valiant Lady ) will be seasonally homeported in Sydney (NSW Australia) . Branson was in Sydney to launch a partnership between Virgin Australia Airlines and Virgin Voyages and promote affordable Australian and Caribbean fly-cruise deals on Scarlet Lady.

On December 13, 2019, was officially released the "Ship No. 1" perfume (aka "the fragrance of Scarlet Lady"). The sea lavender-based perfume was created by Air Aroma - a company specializing in scent marketing and fragrance systems (diffusers, Aropromo sale scenting devices). Virgin's Ship No. 1 is infused throughout Scarlet Lady. The perfume can be also purchased (only online - via ItSmellsLikeShip.com) for USD 50 per bottle. All net proceeds from these sales go to Ocean Unite (non-profit foundation of 30+ political leaders and business tycoons).

On December 19, 2019, was announced the "Sailor Loot" (OBC/onboard credit) program. These promotions offer OBC (per cabin) for shipboard spending during the current voyage. The OBC is based on the stateroom category and ranges from US$ 100 (interior and oceanview) to US$200 (balcony) and up to US$ 400 (suites).

Now each Virgin cruise ship offers 50+ activities and events. The onboard programming features live performances (by the company's Hapenings Cast) and is managed by Richard Kilman (Virgin's VP of Entertainment).

Company changes 2024

In February, Steven Worling (Senior Director of Infrastructure & Security) announced that Virgin Voyages would roll out fleetwide an improved connectivity (Internet/Wi-Fi package) with SES Cruise mPOWERED + Starlink PRO (satellite service), with onboard connectivity 1,5 Gbps (max per ship). The Internet is provided via MEO and LEO satellites (Medium Earth Orbit and Low Earth Orbit). Shipboard Wi-Fi access is unlimited and for multiple devices per guest.

Virgin Red Rewards Card

In August 2024, Virgin Voyages partnered with Virgin Red (rewards card) and in November is planned for launch the Synchrony-issued Mastercard "Virgin Red Rewards".

By using the Virgin Red Rewards card (annual fee US$99), customers earn 3x points per US$1 (spent on purchases made with Virgin Voyages, Virgin Hotels, Virgin Atlantic Airways), 2x points per US$1 (spent on dining, shopping, travel, select streaming services, EV car charging) and 1x point per US$1 (spent on all other Mastercard-made purchases). Virgin Points are redeemable for 200+ rewards through Virgin Red and Virgin Atlantic Flying Club (flights, cruises, hotel stays, and other).

Virgin Red cardholders can choose from 6x exclusive perks twice a year, selecting one after US$15K spent and another after US$30K spent. Perks include 1x Flying Club voucher (companion seat or cabin upgrade), 1x complimentary overnight hotel stay, 1x hotel suite upgrade. With Virgin Voyages, you can receive max US$300 bar tab and Blue Extras Perk Package (laundry service, cocktail party, coffee credits daily).

Cardholders also receive World Elite Mastercard rewards (travel, shopping, wellness) and Mastercard security protections.

Company changes 2023

In February, Virgin replaced Harding UK (Bristol-based global travel retail business) with Starboard Cruise Services (Doral Florida-based company). As of 2023, Starboard was contracted by 11 cruise lines and operated on 90+ ships worldwide.

In March was announced an expansion of onboard entertainment fleetwide. The announcement mentioned new cabaret and game shows, new parties (80s Party, We Fancy), and more live music (by the hosted in The Red Room and The Manor program Festival Stage Acts/comedy shows rotating every 2 to 4 weeks). The list of new productions includes three fleetwide game shows (Duel Reality, Untitled DanceShowPartyThing, Miss Behave), the cabaret show Lola’s Library (fleetwide), as well as 3 new productions debuting on Resilient Lady (Persephone, Mind Mangler, Another Rose/Supper Club Series).

In April Virgin signed a partnership deal with WPT/World Poker Tour (2002-founded, internationally televised gaming and entertainment brand). The premium poker experience is offered on Scarlet Lady during all 4-5-night Caribbean itineraries. The ship's new WPT at Sea Poker Room is fitted with 8 poker tables and served by professional dealers. The new gaming venue hosts beginner training sessions, as well as cash games and WPT Prize Package poker tournaments with buy-ins between US$80-320. The US$320 buy-in WPT Prize tournament is held once per cruise. The prize (US$5000) can be used on any future voyage or WPT tournament.

In September, Nirmal Saverimuttu succeeded Michael McAlpin as the company's President and CEO. Along with the new appointment was announced a capital raise of USD 550 million (~EUR 512M/~GBP 440M) with funds managed by Ares Management's Private Equity Group. As of 2023, Ares had ~US$49,2 billion of AUM/assets under management.

In October 2023, Michelle Bentubo was appointed COO/Chief Operating Officer. In 2016-2023 she served the company as VP of Technology & Operations. Previously, she has held executive positions at Walt Disney World (Director of Experience Development), DCL-Disney Cruise Line (Director of Disney's Magical Express) and Bank of America (SVP Technology/2013-16).

In November 2023, Peter Hunt was appointed CFO/Chief Financial Officer. He previously served as CFO for Service King Collision Repair (1976-founded automotive company) and before that was in the leadership team of Virgin America Inc (2004-founded/2018-merged with Alaska Airlines).

Company changes 2022

In March 2022 was announced a partnership with Jennifer Lynn Lopez (1969-born American actress and singer) via her brand company "JLo Beauty and Lifestyle LLC". Jennifer Lopez joined Virgin Voyages as an investor and chief of entertainment/advisor/lifestyle officer. As part of the partnership, fleetwide was introduced "JLo Beauty" (onboard shop) selling the superstar's products at sea for the first time. In June 2023, she was appointed as Virgin's Chief Celebrations Officer.

In September 2022 debuted Virgin's loyalty program "The Sailing Club" by which repeat customers are provided with two main complimentary perks - "Deep Blue Extras" (premium WiFi, invitations to onboard cocktail parties, laundry services) and "Red Hot Booking Bonus Months" (discounted booking with additional OBC/onboard credit).

In September 2022 Virgin partnered with RSB/Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (an independent global membership organization). Virgin also signed long-term agreements with three providers of waste-based sustainable fuels (Argent Energy, GoodFuels, Twelve) to supply the fleet's bunker fuels.

Company changes 2021

In mid-November 2021 was announced an investment in Virgin Voyages by Patricof & Co (1969-founded by Alan Patricof, specializing in venture capital investments). The company is part of Apax Partners LLP (London UK-based equity firm) that also includes Multinational Management Group (1972-founded) and Saunders Karp & Megrue (1988-founded).

In December 2021 was announced the partnership with the House Spirits Distillery () for the fleetwide presence of the brand "Aviation American Gin" (aka Aviation Gin/alcohol volume 42%, produced in Portland Oregon since 2006). Signature cocktails (based on the Aviation Gin) available for ordering at each Virgin ship include "The Double Agent at SIP", "Razzle Dazzle's Electric Fizz", "Stella's Groove at The Manor", "Gunbae's French 75".

Company changes 2020

On April 1, 2020, the company launched its "Jet Transfers Direct to Ship" service. The exclusive "fly-cruise" deal is for RockStar Suite passengers only, allowing them to arrive and depart the boat via chartered or private aircraft. The planes land at The Runway - a top-deck open space (Deck 17 aft) surrounded by a raised Jogging Track.

Virgin cruise ships

On June 23, 2015, Virgin announced it had signed a Letter of Intent with Fincantieri (shipbuilder based in Trieste Italy ) for the construction of 3 ships scheduled for deliveries in 2020-2021-2022 (entering service in 15-month increments).

The shipbuilding order was officially finalized on December 21, 2016. The boats are of the so-called "Lady-class", mid-sized (volume 110000 GT-tons), max passenger capacity 2860 (1410 cabins/90% with balconies), 1150 crew-staff.

The shipbuilding contract was valued at ~EUR 2 billion. The first unit's construction (Scarlet Lady) started with the steel-cutting on March 22, 2017. For the vessel design and construction, Virgin contracted the marine architecture and naval design companies "Roman and Williams" (NYC), Concrete Amsterdam, Tom Dixon's Design Research Studio (London UK), Gem Srl (Italy), Softroom (London UK), WORKac (NYC), Knibb Design, HL Studio (UK), HKS Architects (Dallas USA), PearsonLloyd (London UK).

The first ship's ( Scarlet Lady ) keel-laying ceremony was held on October 31, 2017, and attended by Sir Richard Branson, Tom McAlpin, and Boy George (UK singer, songwriter, fashion designer) who performed as superstar DJ. During the ceremony were also revealed the ship design and hull art of the future Virgin "Lady Ships".

The next image shows the ship's stern (aft) and the signature funnel shape - designed to be a major part of its exterior design. The aft of the superstructure also shows the Promenade Deck and 7 decks of cabin balconies towering above.

Each boat has 86% balcony staterooms and 93% oceanview (outside) cabins. These newbuilds greatly differ from other passenger liners (as design) and target younger and more adventurous travellers (called "sailors").

Virgin's ships are adults-only (passengers under 18 yo/teenagers and kids are not allowed) and Bahamas- flagged (registered in Nassau ).

Dining on Virgin Voyages ships is ticket price-inclusive - no extra charges are applied to any of the 20-plus onboard dining options. The cruise company doesn't believe in "paying more for great food", so it ditched traditional surcharges levied in specialty restaurants. All eateries offer "exceptional made-to-order eats" - complimentary.

As part of the company's sustainable travel policy, Virgin banned single-use plastics and there is no buffet food on the ships. All shipboard food is made-to-order - to reduce waste and lower energy consumption and emissions. Savings are reinvested into fresh (locally sourced) top-quality products, exotic ingredients, highly trained staff, and clean technologies. In April 2019 was signed a partnership with Emerald Brand to supply the fleet with "Tree-Free" (disposable) paper products, including facial-bath tissues, paper towels, napkins, hot cups. Those are made from 60-100% Tree-Free materials via technologies that use by-products of agricultural crops usually wasted or burned.

The company doesn't follow any traditional cruise dining concepts. Virgin ships don't have a main dining room, buffet restaurant, dress code (formal wear policy), assigned dining times or seating. All these concepts were replaced with intimate (boutique hotel-type) eateries offering 20+ dining options - all of which are included in cruise fares.

Virgin ships' signature facilities and venues include:

• Athletic Club (training center) is an outdoor gym area with a boxing ring and gym club equipment) located top-deck aft. Part of the Sports Deck is also the raised jogging track (Runway track, red-white colored), sundeck with open-air lounge (furnished with double daybeds and semi-circular loungers), triple netting area (overlooking below decks), 10 private cabanas (cushioned bed, low table, 2 lounge chairs), beverage service (from the outdoor Sports Bar), foosball tables, swimming pool, showers.
• MyBeast is an outdoor playground / poolside gym area.
• The Crow's Nest (aft sundeck) offers 360-degree views and is furnished with loungers and mats colored in Virgin's signature red. Here are also hosted sunrise and sunset outdoor yoga classes.
• The B Complex in an indoor fitness center with Technogym ARTIS equipment, floor-ceiling windows and separate rooms (studios) for cycling, yoga, cardio and spinning classes.
• Gym and Tonic Bar serves cold-pressed fresh juices.
• Pink Agave is a Mexican restaurant with porthole windows, metallic lighting fixtures, large tables, an elongated curved area (intimate seating with 2-seat tables), separate bar (in the Lobby), private dining room (can be booked for parties and other private events).
• The Manor is ship's 2-deck high Disco Nightclub with a large dance floor.
• The Dock is an outdoor lounge (aft on Deck 7) with cushioned wooden furniture (loungers, deckchairs, daybeds).
• Test Kitchen restaurant features lab-like design (metallic furniture, beakers, test tubes),
• Richard's Rooftop is a top-deck VIP area (Suite passengers-only sundeck) furnished with daybeds, deckchairs, circular loungers, large umbrellas, colored crystals.
• Redemption is the ship's Spa complex (on Deck 5) consisting of a Reception, Mud Room, Salt Room, Hydrotherapy Pool, cold plunge pool, Jacuzzi, Thermal Suite (indoor spa with porthole windows, plunge pool and Jacuzzi), treatment rooms (for massages and treatments) with quartz-mattress beds, Dry Dock Salon (hairdressing services), Stubble and Groom (barbershop), Blow Dry Bar, Male pedicure Spa, Mani-pedi Spa. At night, the wellness complex transforms into a dancing lounge with live DJ music.
• Razzle Dazzle is the vegan-vegetarian restaurant. Part of Razzle Dazzle is Red Bar - juice bar for fresh-squeezed juices and tonics, as well as crafted cocktails from a menu that varies every night. In two days per voyage, at Razzle Dazzle are hosted Drag Brunches featuring live entertainment by "sassy drag queens".

Via the Sailor App (when your phone is shaken), a secret Champagne button allows you to order Moet-Chandon Champagne (Brut Imperial, 750 ml bottle) delivered in an ice bucket and with two glasses. The service is called "Shake for Champagne" and provided anywhere on the ship. The premium wine can be also enjoyed at The Sip - the ship's wine lounge (Virgin's champagne house).- where also is available traditional British Afternoon Tea service.

Virgin cruise passengers are offered complimentary water (filtered and sparkling) at all onboard bars and restaurants. Throughout the ship, there are also complimentary water stations.

Virgin ships' hull art designs are Mermaid-themed (by different artists) and Inspired by traditional figureheads mounted on the bows of historic wooden ships. The designs symbolize the vessels' feminine spirit.

Ship technology

One of the cruise ships' features is the advanced clean energy system provided by the Swedish company Climeon Ocean. The new technology allows reducing CO2 emissions by converting the generated by diesel engines' heat into electricity for shipboard use. Each of the newbuilds has 6 such Climeon units, saving ~5400 tons of carbon dioxide annually. The ship's waste processing system is provided by Scanship.

On April 30, 2018, Virgin Voyages signed with Wartsila (marine technologies Finnish corporation / former shipbuilder) a 10-year "Optimised Maintenance Agreement" giving the corporation extensive and exclusive responsibility of the fleet's technical maintenance. Wartsila's "Dynamic Maintenance Planning" system allows maintenance works to be scheduled based on remotely (real-time) monitored and analyzed vessel performance data. This allows extending service intervals (when onboard equipment doesn't require maintenance).

The Virgin-Wartsila deal includes Remote Operational Support Services, Specific Fuel Oil Consumption, spare parts, engines technical advisory services, comprehensive technical support, personnel training. Wartsila-made ship equipment includes 46F diesel engines, Hybrid Scrubber System, SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction/exhaust gas cleaning) and NACOS Platinum series (navigation and automation control systems).

• Each Virgin ship is powered by two 8-cylinder plus two 12-cylinder "Wartsila 46F" marine diesel engines. Wartsila's Hybrid Scrubber System operates in both open and closed-loop and uses seawater to remove SOx from the ship's exhaust. It also significantly reduces NOx emissions.
• Propulsion is based on ABB Azipod XO system (electric drive motors with off-hull submerged azimuth thrusters / 360--degree rotating propellers). These units provide best maneuverability (allowing in-port navigation without tug assistance) and minimal vibrations/noise. By placing the propulsion units outside the hull, the Azipod system frees up space for more lower-deck staterooms.
• ABB Ability technology is based on a network using real-time data transferred to remote centres monitoring and analyzing the propulsion system data and also offering remote technical support.
• In July 2017, was announced that Wartsila (marine technologies Finnish corporation / former shipbuilder) is the provider of vessels' power plants. Among Wartsila's core products are large diesel engines for cruise ships and ferries .

In April 2019 was contracted V-Ships Leisure USA (ship management company) which is part of V-Group Ltd (vessel management and support services provider, industry's first with a dedicated cruise ship division). V-Ships Leisure is responsible for Virgin ships' technical support/management and crew sourcing.

Virgin cruise line's staff and crew uniforms were designed by Gareth Pugh and manufactured by Cintas Corporation (via the "Design Collective by Cintas" division).

• Cintas Corporation (1929-founded, based in Cincinnati, Ohio USA) specializes in businesses products (both for rental and direct purchase) and services, including uniforms, mats, water coolers, cleaning/restroom supplies (chemicals, mops, microfiber towels, disinfectant sprays, hand sanitizers), first aid/safety products, fire extinguishers (also testing and repairs), employee courses (safety, training, compliance). In 2020, Cintas had 40,000+ employees and total revenue USD 7,09 billion (~EUR 6,12B / ~GBP 5,21B).
• Virgin Voyages Crew apparel collection is based on sustainable fabrics and garments specifically designed according to job functions, body types and climates. Unlike the traditional cruise ship uniforms, Virgin's lack the officers' epaulettes (ornamental shoulder pieces that designate his/her rank), as well as ties and waistcoats.

The project was led by Gareth Pugh (British fashion designer) and supervised by Dee Cooper (Virgin Voyages' SVP Design and Customer Experience).

Next image shows one of the initial (train-like) Virgin ship designs.

Virgin cruise bookings on Scarlet Lady were opened on February 5, 2019 (for customers with pre-sale deposits) and on February 14 (for the general public). Beginning February 5, 2019, at FirstMates.com (dedicated website), the cruise company offers all booking tools and information for travel agents (called "First Mates"), including downloadable and digital materials, interactive learning and more. For February 6th was planned the learning campaign "Cabin Fever" on Scarlet Lady staterooms as they went on sale. The website allows travel agents to make bookings on inaugural cruise season 2020 deals (from February 14) and to contact company's Sailor Services (from February 5) in case they have customers with pre-sale deposits.

Bookings for Valiant Lady cruises (Mediterranean 2021) opened on December 19, 2019.

In February 2020 was announced "The Band" - smart wearable technology to be introduced on Scarlet Lady (April 1). The device is made from recycled marine plastic (sustainability initiative) and developed via partnership with The Bionic Company. The lightweight device (RFID wristband) is mailed to all passengers and is complimentary (keepsake). The Band is activated upon boarding the ship and used for onboard purchases and payments (beverages, Casino gaming), booking tours, cabin access (room key), room service ordering (points guest's current location), VIP pass (for Richard's Rooftop).

Virgin's private island resort "Bimini Beach Club" (Bahamas)

The liner Scarlet Lady is the first cruise ship to stop at "Bimini Beach Club" (Virgin Group's private island resort in Bimini Bahamas ). The exclusive destination allows Virgin's Sailors to enjoy world-class entertainment from a rotating cast of DJs led by Mark Ronson. Virgin's Bimini Beach Club offers premium food with locally sourced ingredients and traditional Bahamian favourites like banana leaf-wrapped queen snapper, conch and mango salad, Bahamian rum cake. The complex has 6 bars, outdoor lounge areas with hammock groves, beach loungers, watersport activities, (optional/at extra cost) private poolside and beach-side cabanas for rent.

RockStar Suite passengers benefit from complimentary food service, exclusive bar and outdoor terrace lounge, VIP beach cabanas. The 7-mile (11-km) long island offers extraordinary activities like boating, snorkeling, wreck diving. The partially sunk wreck of SS Sapona (concrete-hulled steamship that ran aground in 1926) is located just a few miles off the island's southern coast.

Virgin's private resort is located on North Bimini Island and at a short bus transfer from the docking pier. It was built via partnership with Resorts World Bimini. This is a 750-acres (3 km2 / 1,2 mi2) beachfront resort-casino-marina-hotel complex operated by Genting Group (Malaysia-based multinational corporation). North Bimini is approx 68 km (42 mi) east of Miami .

Resort's building cost is USD 220 million. Virgin's Bimini Beach Club overlooks the sea and features a large lagoon-style swimming pool. The "resort experience" also features morning open-air exercises (yoga and meditation), afternoon DJ poolside parties, night beach bonfires and live musical performances.

(Coronavirus crisis) passenger shipping pause 2020-2021

Due to the COVID pandemic, Virgin Voyages postponed the cruise brand's in March 2020 inauguration (Scarlet Lady ship's Showcase Tour / media event in PortMiami) for July 15th (4-day "Richard's Birthday Bash"), with the maiden voyage departing on August 7th from Miami. The ship's originally planned inauguration was for March 29th, 2020 (3-day "Sneak-A-Peek Cruise").

All the scheduled between March 26-August 7th (a total of 29) departures were canceled. In mid-May 2020 were canceled 15 additional departures (through October 15). The 4-night "Richard Branson's 70th Birthday Cruise" (originally planned for July 15, 2020) was rescheduled for July 14, 2021. In late-September 2020 were canceled all Scarlet Lady's November itineraries, and in late-October - the remaining (December 2020) departures. The brand's inauguration was rescheduled for 2021 (January 3, then for May 9). In mid-December were cancelled more itineraries.

The brand's inauguration was rescheduled for August 6, 2021 (Scarlet Lady's Maiden Voyage from Portsmouth England). Valiant Lady's inaugural cruise program was also postponed (Maiden Voyage rescheduled from Nov 14, 2021, to March 18, 2022) and revised.

All affected bookings were provided with the option to cancel with a 125% refund (100% monetary refund) plus 25% in FCC (future cruise credit) or rebook with 200% refund in FCC. As a promo offer, all bookings made by June 30, 2020, received up to USD 500 per person in OBC (onboard credit). A full (100%) monetary refund was optional for cancellations made between May 21-December 31, 2020.

All rebookings made with the 200% FCC were fully refunded (200%) and additionally received 25% in FCC (to be used on another booking). Virgin Voyages also introduced the "Smooth Sailing Program" which allows for itineraries in 2020 (through December 16) the final payment dates to be moved to 60 days (previously 120 days) prior departure. Smooth Sailing also allows cancellations up to 48 hours (prior departure) with receiving a full (100%) refund in FCC.

Itinerary of Virgin Voyages

In 2016, Virgin cruise line's itinerary program was not detailed yet, but Branson mentioned one destination that was on the list - the Caribbean. When asked about Cuba being a potential port destination, he immediately replied "Yes!". This also meant roundtrip departures from a Florida port.

In 2017 was announced that the first Virgin cruise ship ( Scarlet Lady ) will be initially homeported in PortMiami for 7-day Caribbean itineraries departing on Sundays. During the inaugural season 2020-2021, the liner was scheduled to visit Cuba. The company's decision was influenced by conducted customer and travel agency research in the UK and North America. All Virgin cruises to Cuba had to offer an overnight stay in Havana , allowing passengers ("sailors") to explore the country's capital and its unique nightlife.

• 5-day "Mayan Sol" itinerary visits Havana (overnight) and Costa Maya (Mexico) . In Mexico, shore excursions include scuba diving (coral reefs) and Mayan ruins.
• 5-day "Dominican Daze" itinerary visits Havana (overnight) and Puerto Plata (Dominicana) where shore tours include trekking, surfing, shopping.

The second Virgin ship ( Valiant Lady ) is homeported in Miami during 2022-2023 winter season.

On November 28, 2018, Richard Branson and Tom McAlpin announced in Miami the company's plans to build a new (Virgin-exclusive) cruise terminal in PortMiami. "Virgin Voyages Terminal" is sized 100,000 ft2 (9300 m2) and is on the seaport's northwest side.

Virgin Voyages passengers benefit from an impressive variety of cruises to choose from in the inaugural 2020 season of the line's new build . The 4- or 5-night "Havana After Dark" itineraries allow Sailors to explore the Cuban culture and include an overnight stay in Cuba's capital city.

• The 5-night "Mayan Sol" itinerary visits Costa Maya Mexico . The Mayan ruins are just a short distance from the port and colorful coral reefs lie just off-shore. Virgin Voyages partnered with ITM Group for the land tours.
• The 5-night "Dominican Daze" itinerary visits Puerto Plata . On the island are offered trekking, surfing and handicraft shopping tours.

All Virgin Caribbean cruises depart from homeport Miami Florida . Virgin ships are also seasonally deployed in Europe (via Transatlantic crossings), with planned visits to several major Mediterranean and UK ports (including Dover and Liverpool ).

However, following the 2019s (June 5 issued) US Government restrictions on USA to Cuba travel, Virgin Voyages revised all scheduled itineraries to exclude Havana . The new itineraries offer late-night call port departures (including a midnight departure) on all revised Caribbean voyages.

• 5-night "Riviera Maya" itinerary visits Playa Del Carmen (across Cozumel Island), with opportunities to explore archaeological and ecological sites or touring the neighbouring Tulum (walled Mayan city).
• 4-night "Fire and Sunset Soirees" (short-breaks) visit Key West Florida (sunset departure) and Bimini Bahamas (with a late-night beach bonfire party and midnight departure). The line's sailors can experience the cultural paradise of Key West, paired with an exclusive late-night beach bonfire soiree. The artistic fire installation draws inspiration from the fireball sculptures on Branson's Necker Island.
• 7-night itineraries (for 2020 Xmas holidays) include the themed cruises "Holidaze and Nights" and "New Year's Ahoy" visiting Puerto Plata Dominicana with Bimini Bahamas and San Juan Puerto Rico.

All Virgin Caribbean cruises visit Bimini Bahamas as a private island destination.

In April 2022 was announced that in winter 2023-2024, Resilient Lady will be deployed in Australia and New Zealand (Virgin brand's debut in the region). With homeporting in Melbourne , the roundtrip itineraries ranged between 2-14 nights. Some voyages also visited ports in Tasmania (Hobart, Burnie).

Brilliant Lady's inaugural cruises (2025-2026)

Virgin's Brilliant Lady inaugural cruise season (October 2025 through April 2026) is largely based on homeporting in San Juan Puerto Rico . Initially, from Puerto Rico were scheduled 7-night roundtrip itineraries themed as "Sunsets In The Lesser Antilles" (Oranjestad Aruba, Willemstad Curacao, Fort de France Martinique, Basseterre St. Kitts) and "Southeastern Caribbean Isles" (Tortola BVI, Pointe-a-Pitre Guadeloupe, Bridgetown Barbados, Castries St Lucia, St Johns Antigua).

Brilliant Lady's Maiden Voyages commence from NYC New York , and visit destinations in Bermuda/King's Wharf and Canada/Quebec City . Follows a deployment in the Caribbean, then West Coast USA (California, Alaska), with a relocation itinerary traversing the Panama Canal.

The rescheduled 2025-2026 (October-April) Caribbean program of Brilliant Lady lists islands like Grand Turk/Cockburn Town , Antigua/St John's , Grand Cayman , and Jamaica/Ocho Rios (first-time port for Virgin Voyages). In March 2026 there is a 16-night Panama Canal repositioning itinerary (Miami to Los Angeles) visiting Costa Rica, Antigua, Guatemala, and Mexico (Los Cabos). For April-May 2026 are scheduled California Coastal voyages out of LA, followed by Alaskan cruises out of Seattle WA (May-September 2026).

Valiant Lady's inaugural cruises (2022)

Virgin's second ship ( Valiant Lady ) starts its inaugural season (2022/Maiden Voyage departs March 18th) with roundtrips leaving from Portsmouth England .

• 3-night "Long Weekender" to Zeebrugge Belgium
• 11-night "Coast the Canary Islands, Spain and Portugal"/UK to Iberia
• 12-night "Late Nights in Portugal and Spain"/UK to Iberia

Follows a Western Mediterranean deployment (May thru October 2022) based on homeporting in Barcelona and 7-day roundtrips (Sunday departures) visiting large port cities in France, Italy and Spain. Valiant Lady's Caribbean program is based on homeporting in Miami Florida USA and includes 2-week Transatlantic crossings on repositioning between Europe and USA (RepositionCruises.com).

• 8-night Eastern Caribbean itineraries (Miami roundtrips) are priced from USD 188 per night and visit Puerto Plata (Dominicana) , San Juan (Puerto Rico) , St Croix Island (USVI) and Bimini (Bahamas) .
• 6-night Western Caribbean itineraries (roundtrips from Miami) visit Roatan Island (Honduras) , Costa Maya (Mexico) and Bimini. Fares start at USD 192 per night.
• Special ( Christmas and New Year's ) itineraries and Atlantic Ocean crossings/relocation voyages are priced from USD 102 per night.

In the Caribbean, Virgin boats are homeported in Miami and all itineraries visit Bimini Bahamas as a private island destination.

Resilient Lady's inaugural cruises (2022)

Virgin's third ship ( Resilient Lady ) started its inaugural season (2022/Maiden Voyage departed on August 14th) with roundtrips leaving from Piraeus-Athens (Greece) .

• The 7-day roundtrip "Greek Island Glow" itinerary visits the Greek islands Santorini, Rhodes, Crete (Chania) and Mykonos.
• The 7-day roundtrip "Adriatic Sea and Greek Gems" itinerary visits Croatia (Dubrovnik), Montenegro (Kotor), and Greece (Kerkyra/Corfu Island, and Argostoli/Kefalonia Island).
• The "Greek Isles" program (scheduled between August 14 - October 23) ended with the 11-day Transatlantic crossing from Europe to the Caribbean (from Lisbon to San Juan/departure November 1st).

The inaugural Caribbean season 2022-2023 (Nov 12 - April 15) was based on homeporting in San Juan Puerto Rico and 7-day roundtrips.

• The "Southeastern Caribbean Isles" itinerary visits Tortola Island BVI (Road Town), Guadeloupe (Pointe-a-Pitre), Barbados (Bridgetown), St Lucia (Castries) and Antigua (St Johns).
• The "Sunsets In The Lesser Antilles" itinerary visits St Kitts (Basseterre), Martinique (Fort-de-France), Curacao (Willemstad) and Aruba (Oranjestad).

In 2023-2024 (December-March), Resilient Lady was deployed in Australia. The program included three relocation itineraries from Europe to Asia and Australia (RepositionCruises.com) - 14-day from Athens to Dubai (Oct 22), 15-day from Dubai to Singapore (Nov 5) and 15-day from Singapore to Sydney NSW (Nov 20).

Itineraries 2024-2025

Virgin's 2024-2025 (April) schedule lists 19 maiden/new ports and 27 different itineraries in the UK, Australia/NZ, and the Caribbean. Among these are the "Seachange Series" (ship relocation voyages) providing extended sea travel opportunities.

Resilient Lady is homeported in Piraeus-Athens Greece (May through July 2024) for Aegean and Adriatic itineraries. In the summer (August through September 2024) Resilient Lady visits Bordeaux ,  La Coruna , and  Bilbao on the relocation voyage to England.

On February 26, 2024, Virgin Voyages canceled Resilient Lady's 2024-2025 Australian program, citing security concerns (due to the Red Sea war crisis) impacting the ship's scheduled repositioning voyages through the Suez Canal (between Europe and Australia/RepositionCruises.com). Virgin also announced that Resilient Lady (after completing the Mediterranean season on October 20th/2024) will be deployed in the Caribbean and homeported in San Juan (Puerto Rico) offering 7-8-10-11-night roundtrips to St Maarten, St Vincent, Colombia, and Dominica.

Valiant Lady (from  PortMiami  and  San Juan Puerto Rico ) offers Caribbean roundtrips (winter 2023-2024) and in April 2024.

Scarlet Lady in summer 2024 is deployed in the Mediterranean and has scheduled two repositioning voyages - from Barcelona to Civitavecchia-Rome, and a Transatlantic crossing to Miami for a new Caribbean deployement.

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Bring the bikini, leave the kids: 4 things to know about sailing with Virgin Voyages

As soon as you check in on a Virgin Voyages cruise, you’re given an electronic bracelet. And once you step on board, you’re greeted by big smiles, neon lights and Top 40 pop music. 

It feels like an upscale PlayPlace for adults. In the best way possible. 

The line went all-in on the fun aspect, going as far as reimagining the cruise director role. On Virgin, an entire team is dedicated to making the passenger – or sailor, as the line calls them – experience the best it can possibly be for their unique needs. 

"The Happenings cast is our reimagination of the cruise director you will find on other cruise lines,” said Richard Kilman, Virgin Voyages VP of entertainment. “Everyone is cast individually based on different, authentic passion points (i.e. wellness, food/drink, performing, art, games/competitions, etc.) and their ability to help us create the unique vibe you can only experience on board Virgin Voyages. They all lead a vast array of events (many aligned with their personal passion points) that take place throughout every voyage."

With a plethora of Instagram-ready spots, photo booth setups, sparkling wine happy hours, more than 20 eateries, gratuities, Wi-Fi, essential drinks and unlimited group fitness classes all included, Virgin is aiming for the modern traveler looking for easy, personalized experiences.

USA TODAY recently participated in a Virgin Voyages press trip aboard its Resilient Lady vessel on its Adriatic Sea & Greek Gems itinerary. Here are four things that make a Virgin Voyages cruise different. 

It’s an over-18 cruise

The adults-only cruise sounds more salacious than it is. Mainly, you’re reminded it’s an 18-plus sailing during the entertainment portions. It caters to an adult audience while keeping it tongue-in-cheek and tasteful – for the most part.

Shows like "Persephone" and "Another Rose" definitely lean into sensuality, while "Miss Behave" and "Mind Mangler: Member of the Tragic Circle" lean into absurdist humor. These are not the typical cruise shows. Many of the sailors on the line’s Resilient Lady ship commented on the Broadway quality of the performances. 

Scarlet Night, Virgin’s response to a formal night, might just be the epitome of what the line aims to do. Described as “an immersive celebration” where sailors are encouraged to dress in red, it’s a night when the entire ship is buzzing with excitement. 

“Through pop-up circus performances, interactive games, karaoke, myth-telling, and live music, come pay tribute to a love that washed the world scarlet − culminating in a drenched-in-red pool and dance party unlike anything you've ever seen,” the line says on its website.

There’s no buffet

Just because there’s no buffet doesn’t mean you’ll go hungry. With more than 20 eateries on board, the most difficult part of meal times will be deciding whether you want to try something new or stick with that yummy dish you found the first night. 

Don’t worry, at The Galley − Virgin’s alternative to a buffet − sailors can find several “shops” akin to a food court where they can order at leisure or wait for a server to come to their table. But do keep in mind that not all those spots are open 24/7, nor do they offer a full menu throughout the day. 

For the main event, or dinner, it’s also sailor’s choice. Rather than an assigned dining time, sailors can book reservations at any of the five restaurants on board just as they would on land.

Here’s a snapshot of the restaurants:

• The Wake: Steakhouse presented as “a modern twist to the classic chophouses of the mid-20th century.”
• Razzle Dazzle: Comfort food with a twist. Also, boozy brunch. No need to say more.
• Pink Agave: Elevated Mexican cuisine with “the largest selection of tequila and mezcal at sea,” and a DJ. 
• Extra Virgin: Italian restaurant with “regionally inspired food punctuated by our handmade pasta.”
• Gunbae: Korean BBQ cooked at your table. Prime spot for solo cruisers to meet others at the communal tables or for large groups to get the night started.
• Test Kitchen: A pre-fixed tasting menu (with accommodations for allergies and preferences) that only presents you with a list of ingredients. You can do a wine or cocktail pairing with each course. (Do this one on the first night.)

The vast majority of items on the menus are included, but each of the restaurants offers one or two indulgent options at an extra cost.

There’s no drink package

Just because it’s an adults-only cruise doesn’t mean the drinks are unlimited – unless you want them to be. 

Alcoholic drinks and specialty coffees cost extra on board. Soft drinks, juices and drip coffee are included in the voyage fare. Virgin Voyages has a pre-boarding Bar Tab offer where sailors can deposit $300 into their “Wallet” to get an additional $50. Much like other lines, the offer is available only before boarding, but sailors can add money to the Bar Tab as they see fit. 

Don’t be alarmed. Drinks are moderately priced, from $6 to $15, with higher-end beverages around $29. On a seven-day cruise, $300 could equal about five drinks a day. 

All restaurants on the ship have unique drink menus, so make sure to leave room for those. You can view your Wallet balance on the Virgin Voyages app and add more to it during the trip – more on that below.

Free, stable Wi-Fi

Everything from dinner and performance reservations to shore excursions, to keeping track of your tab and purchases is on the app.

With that, however, comes one of the best perks for those of us who need to be connected with the outside world at all times: free Wi-Fi. Good, stable Wi-Fi. A faster, premium Wi-Fi package is available for those who need to work and hold video calls, but if you just need to check email and social media, the basic free plan works great.

The app can be a little frustrating when it freezes, but no one in our group found it limiting. Simply closing the app and reopening seemed to solve the problem.

Overall, sailing aboard the Resilient Lady felt like one of those experiences you can’t really describe. How do you write down “it had good, fun vibes”? Maybe just like that. But, different from other lines, Virgin’s vibe was engaging, and knowing that passengers were all there without kids, all looking to have a good time, changed the atmosphere. 

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Table of Contents

About Virgin Voyages cruises

Virgin voyages cabins, virgin voyages cruise prices, how many ships does virgin voyages have, what’s included, virgin voyages loyalty program: sailing club.

Virgin Voyages is an adults-only cruise line with various destinations throughout the Caribbean, Europe, Australia and more.

Virgin Voyages says it is a luxury-inclusive experience. This means passengers won’t pay more for Wi-Fi, gratuities, soda or specialty restaurants. Here's a look at Virgin Voyages, what the cruise line offers and other details about this newcomer.

Here’s a quick overview of a few key features of Virgin Voyages cruises.

Cabin types: Virgin Voyages cruise ships feature up to five types of cabin: Insider rooms, Sea View rooms, Sea Terrace rooms, RockStar Quarters and Mega RockStar Quarters.

Main U.S. routes: Virgin Voyages main U.S. routes head to the Caribbean and leave from Miami. 

Loyalty program: Virgin Voyages has a Sailing Club with two levels of status based on when you’ve cruised with the line. 

Virgin Voyages cruise destinations

Generally, Virgin Voyages sails throughout the Caribbean, Europe, the Mediterranean, Australia and New Zealand. Its longest trips max out at 16 nights and often include repositioning from one port to another. Its shortest journeys are a quick two nights, though you’ll also find four-night adventures.

» Learn more: The best ways to book a cruise

Cabins range from 105 square feet to 2,167 square feet. The cheapest cabin is the Insider Cabin, while the Mega RockStar Quarters Cabin is the cruise line's most luxurious option, which comes with several added perks.

Insider Cabin : Ranges from 105-177 square feet, insider cabins are the most basic rooms on the ship. There are no windows.

Sea View Cabin : Ranges from 130-190 square feet and includes either a window seat or a porthole window.

Sea Terrace Cabin : Ranges from 185-225 square feet and includes a balcony generally with a built-in terrace hammock.

RockStar Quarters Suite : Ranges from 352-857 square feet and includes a balcony with a hammock, table and loungers. This cabin also includes a curated in-room bar, priority access to bookings, and a large marble bathroom.

Mega RockStar Quarters Suite : The largest available room on the ship, these range from 570-2,167 square feet. Added amenities include bottomless in-room bar, priority access, daily spa access, premium Wi-Fi and more.

As with most cruise lines, the cost of a cruise depends upon when you’re traveling. You’ll find the most expensive cruises during periods of high demand such as summer and spring break.

For bookings open from March 2024 to October 2025, the five-night Dominican Daze sailing out of Miami ranges from around $1,700 to $2,500 plus taxes and fees for an interior cabin. The seven-night French Daze and Ibiza nights sailing out of Barcelona ranges from around $2,100 to $2,500 plus taxes and fees for an interior cabin.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

Because Virgin Voyages is new, it has three ships in its fleet: Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady and Resilient Lady.

The oldest ship, Scarlet Lady, started sailing in 2021. As far as the onboard experience goes, they’re pretty similar. Each ship has more than 20 eateries (reservations are required for some), provides live entertainment and has plenty of locations to grab a drink.

What is the newest Virgin Voyages ship?

The newest (and fourth) Virgin Voyages ship, the Brilliant Lady, will have a home port in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Although originally expected to launch in early 2024, it was delayed with no date set for the new first voyage.

All meals, including specialty dining.

Gratuities, including service at restaurants and housekeeping.

Wi-Fi, though premium Wi-Fi is available for a fee.

Fitness classes.

Soda, juice, coffee, tea.

Live entertainment, including shows and other events.

Gym and pool access.

Beach access on eligible sailings. 

» Learn more: Are cruises all-inclusive?

Sailing Club levels

The Sailing Club levels are Sea-Blazers and Sea-Rovers.

Sea-Blazers

How to earn: Sea-Blazers earned status by sailing once during 2021. 

Best benefits: Deep Blue Extras through 2024, extra $125 for every $300 bar tab purchased for life. 

How to earn: Sea-Rovers earned status by sailing twice between Jan. 1, 2022, and Dec. 31, 2023. 

Best benefits: Deep Blue Extras through 2024.

For those who missed those dates, the Virgin Voyages Sailing Club will announce new ways to join at some point in 2024.

Deep Blue Extras

If you're a Sea-Blazer or a Sea-Rover, you're entitled to perks called Deep Blue Extras. This includes expedited boarding, a $100 bar tab credit, unlimited premium Wi-Fi, dedicated sailor services, an exclusive cocktail event, laundry service and a $10 daily specialty coffee credit per cabin.

Virgin Voyages offers free Wi-Fi to all travelers as part of its package. However, those with elite status who qualify for Deep Blue Extras are eligible for complimentary premium Wi-Fi, as well as those staying in select suites.

Virgin Voyages cruises are more inclusive than those at many other cruise lines. The cruise cost includes traditional and speciality dining, juice, soda, Wi-Fi, gratuities and group fitness classes. You’ll still need to pay for alcohol that you drink.

Virgin Voyages doesn’t offer any all-inclusive drink packages. Instead, you have the option of purchasing a bar tab up to 24 hours before sailing or paying per drink on board. If you have Sailing Club elite status, you’ll be eligible for a $100 bar tab credit. Certain promotions also offer onboard credits with the purchase of a bar tab.

No, Virgin Voyages doesn't require any COVID test or vaccine to board.

Unlike many other cruise lines, Virgin Voyages is available exclusively to adults. This means that those under the age of 18 aren't able to board a Virgin Voyages ship.

Virgin Voyages has a few locations from where it sails. In the U.S., it takes off exclusively from its terminal in Miami.

For its Mediterranean cruises, departures are from Barcelona, Spain, or Athens, Greece.

Finally, for cruises in Oceania, cruises can start in Auckland, New Zealand, or Melbourne, Australia.

Note that Virgin Voyages repositions its ships each year, which means there will occasionally be some interesting itineraries as these ships cross oceans. These include sailings with stops in Dubai, Thailand, India, Singapore, Indonesia and more.

(Top photo courtesy of Virgin Voyages)

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Introducing Resilient Lady: Virgin Voyages’ third ship is an ode to womankind

It’s International Women’s Day today (8 March) and Virgin Voyages is introducing a very special new lady to its fleet. Resilient Lady is the cruise line's third ship and is due to set sail in 2022.

The past year has been filled with adversity and adaptation for everyone – but it’s no secret that women have been challenged to rise up more than ever during the pandemic. Virgin Voyages is announcing Resilient Lady on International Women’s Day to symbolise the spirit of its Lady Ships, and to celebrate women and their achievements, strength, leadership and resilience.

Resilient Lady has a bright future ahead of her, as Virgin Voyages’ second ship to sail the Mediterranean (after her sister ship Valiant Lady).

“Sailing in the Med is such an extraordinary experience, and we’re so excited to bring the adventure of a Virgin Voyage to this beautiful place,” said Richard Branson, founder of Virgin Group. “I’m so proud of the incredible work the team has accomplished to introduce Resilient Lady.”

Virgin Voyages will offer two different voyages on Resilient Lady in the Med:

Greek Isles Itinerary: Sailors will get the opportunity to immerse themselves in Greek history and culture in Athens before island-hopping to Santorini, Rhodes, Crete and Mykonos. The Greek Isles itinerary will feature an overnight stay in Mykonos, offering Sailors a premier location and access to the picturesque promenade

Adriatic (with Greek Isles) Itinerary: Sailing out of Athens, Sailors will spend their second day at sea before docking in Dubrovnik the following morning. With a 2am departure from Dubrovnik, Sailors will have plenty of time to experience the rich history of Croatia during the day and take part in the active nightlife along the Adriatic Sea, before scenic sailing to Kotor, Corfu and Argostoli

“Welcoming Resilient Lady to our fleet and revealing these amazing itineraries sets the tone for the most memorable summer voyage,”  said Tom McAlpin, CEO and President of Virgin Voyages. “We know the time to travel is on the horizon, and Virgin Voyages is here so that we can keep dreaming of irresistible vacations ahead.”

Resilient Lady is due to set sail in summer 2022. Head over to Virgin Voyages to find out more and sign up for updates.

Check out some of Virgin Voyages’ onboard restaurants

Five dreamy destinations to visit with Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages reveals second ship and destinations

Why Richard Branson Launched an Adults-Only Cruise Line, Virgin Voyages

The Virgin Group founder talks to Town & Country about his latest travel venture.

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“I’ve never been interested in going on cruises,” Sir Richard Branson tells me on the first day of a cruise of the Greek Islands on the Virgin Voyages ship Resilient Lady in early September.

“I asked myself many years ago, why? And I just thought, there are a lot of people like me,” he says. “Ninety - five percent of the population hasn’t been on cruises, and what I love and what the team at Virgin love to do is try to challenge ourselves to create something that caters to people who don’t like what currently exists.”

With Virgin Voyages, the cruise line Virgin launched in 2020, Branson has done that. Although Virgin Voyages’ three boats (and a fourth set to launch in 2024), look like traditional mid-sized cruise ships, there is nothing traditional about them. There are no buffets, no children, and no dress codes. Branson, who tends toward casual style like linen shirts, shorts, and Hoka sneakers on the cruise, embraces the lack of formality—an extension of the atmosphere at his Necker Island retreat in the British Virgin Islands, where he spends much of his time.

No Kids and No Buffets

The 20 restaurants onboard, which include a stylish steakhouse and a Korean barbecue spot where diners are encouraged to take part in drinking games (to facilitate participation, complimentary soju is provided along with non-alcoholic beverages), are designed to resemble hotspots in New York and London.

“My image of cruises was buffets and people queuing up, and it didn’t appeal to me,” Branson, who is distinctly soft-spoken, says. “I didn’t enjoy flying on other people’s airlines before we started Virgin Atlantic, and it was the same thing. I think we’ve managed to create the kind of airline I would like to fly on and my friends would like to fly on, and we try to do that in any sector we move into.”

A Younger Crowd Embraces Cruising

Virgin is entering the cruise industry at an opportune moment. According to a survey by the industry trade group Cruise Lines International Association that was first cited by the New York Times , there is more interest than ever in cruising among millennials and Gen-X travelers.

Seventy-seven percent of millennials and 73 percent of Gen-X travelers reported being interested in taking their first cruise. Of the 4,500 respondents who took their first cruise, 88 percent of millennials and 86 percent of Gen-X respondents said they plan to go on another one.

It's easy to see why. Aside from the ease of simply unpacking once and visiting multiple destinations throughout the trip, cruising is fun, especially with elements that distinguish Virgin’s ships from other cruise lines’.

The brand’s ships are inspired by yachts, Virgin Voyages CEO Nirmal Saverimuttu tells me. “Our ships are like a big yacht, with a lot of small, intimate spaces,” Saverimuttu says. “On traditional cruise ships, you’re looking at dining spaces that seat 1,000 to 2,000 people. Our biggest eatery seats 200, and each restaurant has a dedicated kitchen and executive chef.”

And unlike other cruise ships–both large and small–all the food is made to order, so sailors (as Virgin Voyages passengers are called) never have to queue up for a buffet.

The audience, Branson says, is the young at heart. As an adults-only cruise line, the minimum age is 18, but passengers in their 70s and 80s were also onboard the Greek Islands cruise. The core age groups are travelers in their 40s, 50s, and 60s. Branson himself celebrated his 72 nd birthday onboard a Virgin cruise in July 2022.

A Delayed Launch for Virgin Voyages

Branson admits the cruise line’s launch did not go as planned. In February 2020, the first ship was set to make its debut in the U.K. port city of Dover.

“The Spice Girls, who were once on Virgin [Records], were meant to come launch it and never turned up,” Branson says. “I talked to Posh Spice and she said, ‘We’re being told, best not to go onto cruise ships.’”

After Dover, the ship sailed to New York, where Jennifer Lopez was set to turn up for the American launch. J. Lo also didn’t show.

“It made me wonder what it was that was worrying them so much,” Branson says, “and then we realized this thing called Covid seemed to be worrying enough people for us to then send both ships back to Italy and mothball them for 18 months back in the shipyard.”

The Virgin founder says that despite the inauspicious start, he and his team would not give up. “We had two beautiful ships and a wonderful team of people,” he says. “We just had to sweat it out. We got through it and here we’ve come out stronger for it.”

The Cruise Line's Accolades—One Especially Loyal Customer

Virgin Voyages has been racking up awards, including sweeping all five awards in Cruise Critic's large-ship category in 2023: Best Overall Cruise Line, Best Cabins, Best Dining, Best Service, and Best Value-for-Money. It was also named the Best Large Cruise Ship cruise line in the Condé Nast Readers' Choice Awards earlier this year.

And it has fervent fans, like Chris DeSalvo , who was on his 41st voyage in less than a year. In July, the mobile app developer celebrated his 40th birthday on another Virgin ship, Valiant Lady. He signed up for his first Virgin Voyage while living in Miami and saw Virgin ships in port there.

Having only been on a handful of cruises before, DeSalvo says that the red woven hammocks on the ship's balconies (86 percent of cabins come with balconies, and their hammocks are created by Yellow Leaf , an organization that promotes women's empowerment and community transformation in rural Thailand) first attracted him to Virgin Voyages. The free WiFi was another plus, since it would allow him to work from the ship. DeSalvo had such a great time that he booked another cruise, and another one, and so on—adding up to around 220 nights onboard. He's also booked a spot on a six-week crossing from Dubai to Sydney later this year.

As for Branson, he's planning to join another Virgin cruise in the Caribbean next summer, if not before.

"I like to learn and I love starting things," Branson tells me. "I love learning about industries I know little about, and I love trying to change things for the better."

With Virgin Voyages, that's what he's done.

Sam Dangremond is a Contributing Digital Editor at Town & Country, where he covers men's style, cocktails, travel, and the social scene.

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10 things about cruising on an adults-only ship that might surprise you

This isn't the giant, buffet-filled, kiddie playground you're used to

Whether you’re an empty nester, a childless millennial or a parent who wants a breather, sometimes you need an adults-only escape. That’s where Virgin Voyages comes in. The cruise line set out to flip traditional cruising on its head—starting with its 18-and-over age requirement—and what they’ve accomplished is a perfect paradox: a superyacht-designed, adults-only cruise that appeals to a range of grown-ups, welcomes solo travelers as much as huge group celebrations, and encourages foodies and fitness lovers to thrive side by side.

I’ve sailed on a number of cruise lines over the years but only recently did I get to experience an adults-only ship, cruising through the Caribbean on Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady. It was an eye-opening experience as far as cruises go—adults-only sailings are way different.

Some of what I learned: If you’re considering booking a Virgin Voyages cruise, you should definitely expect more R-rated activities, like risqué shows and drag performances, and plenty of sexy innuendoes—their scoop shop is called Lick Me Till Ice Cream. You can also look forward to perks like on-demand Champagne delivery. For more about the new and very different world of adults-only cruising, here’s what surprised me the most about my experience.

1. Cruise food can be just as good and varied as what you find on land.

Every Virgin cruise includes dining at all 20-plus of their eateries, free Wi-Fi, gratuities, essential drinks (AKA non-alcoholic) and unlimited group fitness classes as part of their standard voyage fare. Those eateries include six specialty restaurants (which is more dinners than we could cover on our five-night sailing!) so you can have a different dining experience each night instead of heading to the same massive Main Dining Room. Options include a stunning oceanview steakhouse to a plant-forward comfort food restaurant and a vibey Mexican sharing plates spot.

2. Virgin has bypassed buffets in favor of a gourmet food hall.

Don’t go searching for a standard buffet on Virgin’s pool deck. Instead, you’ll find a food hall with a taco shack, a sushi bar serving bento boxes, a noodle bar, a soup-and-salad stand, a burgers counter, a bakery and a 24-hour diner. Save yourself the mistake of wandering around to browse all the options, like we did the first day of our sailing. When you get to The Galley, all you have to do is grab a table, scan a QR code to see the menus for all of the food booths and flag down a server—by literally raising the red flag attached to the QR menu stand. Then you can place your order from multiple food stations at once, and the plates will be brought out fresh by your server, as they’re prepared. At times, we missed the convenience and speed of self-service from a buffet, but there’s also a refrigerated grab-and-go shelf with options like cold breakfast items and sandwiches for when you’re really in a pinch throughout the day.

3. There’s more to the onboard shopping and entertainment than high-end watches and duty-free alcohol.

There are plenty of exceptional amenities onboard Virgin’s adult-only ships as well as some firsts: a tattoo parlor, a record store, a dry bar, a barber shop, private karaoke rooms and, on the Scarlet Lady ship we sailed on, the first poker room at sea. Virgin recently partnered with World Poker Tour to add a new standalone poker venue called WPT at Sea, featuring eight poker tables staffed with professional dealers. There are tournaments every sailing, including a $320 buy-in main event with prizes valued at up to $5,000.

4. There are no kids in sight, but the ship is basically a playground for adults.

There might not be any winding water slides or wild roller coasters on a Virgin Voyages ship, but don’t expect an adults-only cruise to be boring . Virgin Voyages cruises are like a free-spirited, adults-only playground that’ll bring out the kid in you. Guests will find a four-way adult seesaw, a life-size game of Twister and seaside swings, alongside an arcade with retro games and a Social Club with air hockey and foosball tables. Classic carnival eats like hot dogs with funky toppings (including Philly Cheese and Reuben) plus boozy floats and milkshakes are also served on board.

5. Skip the formalwear and pack accordingly for themed nights, including PJs and something red.

When was the last time you got to go to a Pajama Party? Well, that’s one of the themed nights on the cruise. Aside from PJs, you’ll also want to pack red instead of formalwear for Virgin’s headlining Scarlet Night pool deck party. Virgin is all about immersive entertainment, and the night unfolds with pop-up circus performances, karaoke, interactive games, dancing flash mobs and live music.

6. Reservations are required for basically everything, so book what you can before you even set foot on the ship.

Everything from restaurant brunches and dinners to theatrical performances and free fitness classes require reservations. Much of that is due to venues that were designed to feel more intimate–but that means limited capacity. All of the restaurants are included in your cruise fare—from a Korean BBQ spot where drinking games are encouraged to a Michelin-style tasting menu concept. But if you don’t plan ahead, you might miss out on your favorite. Dinner reservations can be booked before you board (similar to when you book specialty restaurants that charge a cover on other cruise lines), which we highly recommend doing if you want to dine at reasonable hours. Walk-ins are possible, but who really wants to wait?

7. You can order on-demand Champagne delivery, almost anywhere on the ship.

What’s more luxurious than Champagne bottle service? On-demand bottle service, of course. A fun adults-only feature, Shake for Champagne lets you have a bottle of Möet Chandon Impérial delivered to wherever you are on the ship—bars, restaurants, lounges, cabins and open decks—with the tap of one button. Just shake the Virgin Voyages phone app and a secret screen appears, urging you to Push Me to summon champagne. Suddenly, you’ll see a bottle of Möet on ice and two Champagne glasses in a Virgin red bucket make its way over to you.

8. Room service is available right from your phone.

Virgin offers food delivery to your room with a service called ShipEats that you can order through the app or in-room iPad (think of it as the UberEats of cruising). We aren’t talking about standard room service here. Your food comes in stackable containers delivered in what almost looks like a laundry bag to make it easily portable and save space in your stateroom. Snacks, meals and basic beverages are complimentary as always. Still, there is a delivery fee if everything you ordered was free (pro tip: order a coffee or beer so you don’t have to pay the delivery fee and get a drink instead!). Once you’re done, tap a button in the app or iPad to have it picked up.

9. Most cruises might be the epitome of over-indulgence, but Virgin Voyages is a wellness wonderland.

Virgin Voyages ships let you detox and retox all on the same day. It’s easy to indulge in all of the aforementioned dining options, but if you're serious about having a healthier getaway, smaller portion sizes compared to the industry standard (for both health and sustainability purposes) and bars serving Skinny Piñas and fresh smoothies in cocktail glasses can keep you on track. Plus, the ship’s three upper fitness decks are so comprehensive it's like an Equinox at sea. There are two separate cardio and strength complexes, a CrossFit-style training center with a seaside boxing ring, a sunrise yoga terrace, and a standalone running track (meaning no tripping over other cruise passengers walking by).

It’s clear they’ve strived to make wellness super accessible to anyone: Virgin includes unlimited group fitness classes as part of their standard fare (on Caribbean itineraries, SUP Yoga at their private beach club in Bimini is one of those free classes!). Browse the schedule in the app to make fitness class reservations as soon as you get on board so you can make the most of your vacation. We did notice that some late-night partiers regret booking early-morning workout classes and will cancel last minute (there’s a no-show fee that gets donated to ocean conservation if you don’t cancel), so even if everything is booked, you can hold out hope and check the app late at night or early in the morning for any spots that open up.

10. There’ll be a hammock on your balcony, and you probably won’t want to leave it.

Virgin Voyages worked with a group of interior designers, artists and architects who’ve designed some of the most stylish hotels, resorts and superyachts (but never cruise ships) to bring a boutique luxury feel to its guests at sea. Of all the distinctive design features and first-at-sea amenities on board the ship, it surprised us that our favorite was right in our cabin: a hammock. Nearly 90 percent of the ship’s staterooms feature a balcony, all of which come with vibrant Virgin-red handwoven hammocks created by artisan weavers from Yellow Leaf, a business that fosters women's empowerment and community transformation in rural Thailand.

Read a book, take a nap, and order ShipEats to your hammock. Whatever you choose, there’s truly nothing like swaying in the ocean breeze with a front-row seat to the deep blue sea—making it absolutely worth the upgrade to a Sea Terrace from an Inside or Oceanview cabin. If you’re like us and your balcony hammock becomes the thing you’ll miss most about your adult-only cruise, the good news is you can take one home with you (for a price) from the gift shop.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

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US Virgin Islands

A USVI yacht charter is a perfect blend of laidback relaxation, sophisticated shopping and dining, quaint towns, turquoise waters, stunning beaches and landscapes full of adventure.

Virgin Island Sailing® can help you book the ideal USVI yacht for your sailing vacation.

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Easy Wind Bareboat Charter in US Virgin Islands

• 35.3 Length Total
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• Yacht Age: 2023
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• Model: Dufour 37 - 2 cab.
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MY IRISH LADY Bareboat Charter in US Virgin Islands

• 38.4 Length Total
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Infinite Blue Bareboat Charter in US Virgin Islands

• 38.5 Length Total
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TOLKIEN II_DB Bareboat Charter in US Virgin Islands

• 39.3 Length Total
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• Model: Bali 4.0 - 4 cab.

NOBLE SHADOW 2 Bareboat Charter in US Virgin Islands

• 40.0 Length Total
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• 40.4 Length Total
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• 12 Max. Guests
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SADALBARI _DB Bareboat Charter in US Virgin Islands

• 40.8 Length Total
• Manufacturer: Beneteau
• Model: Oceanis 41.1

CALYPSO Bareboat Charter in US Virgin Islands

• 41.0 Length Total
• 5 Cabins Total
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SeaSea Bareboat Charter in US Virgin Islands

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Seabreeze Smile Bareboat Charter in US Virgin Islands

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KRUZEN Bareboat Charter in US Virgin Islands

• 42.0 Length Total
• Yacht Age: 2021

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• Manufacturer: Lagoon
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• Yacht Age: 1999

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Terms and conditions, charter experts, llc terms & conditions.

PLEASE READ THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS (“ Terms ”) CAREFULLY AS THEY CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS, REMEDIES AND OBLIGATIONS AS WELL AS A SECTION GOVERNING THE JURISDICTION AND VENUE OF DISPUTES. THESE TERMS ALSO CONTAIN A LEGALLY BINDING RELEASE, WAIVER OF LIABILITY, AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK. By creating a username, a login, clicking submit, using the services of Charter Experts, LLC d/b/a Virgin Island Sailing® (“ Broker ) or by accessing Broker’s website, you agree that you have read, and acknowledge your acceptance of these Terms. The Terms are subject to change at any time without notice at Broker’s sole discretion. Additionally, any transaction for which you have made payment shall be governed by the form of Terms in effect at the time of such payment notwithstanding any subsequent changes hereto.

If you are obtaining a quote, information, booking travel for and/or securing or procuring a Charter (as that term is defined in Section 1 below) for more than just yourself, all references below to “Charterer” or “you” (and derivations thereof) shall be read to mean you on behalf of yourself and each individual within your group for whom you are obtaining a quote, information, booking travel for and/or securing or procuring Charter.

These Terms shall be read together and construed, to the fullest extent possible, to be in concert with any other agreement by or among Broker and Charterer. To the extent they cannot be so construed, then in the event of any direct conflict between these Terms and any other agreement by or among Broker and Charterer (including but not limited to the agreement executed by Charterer for a Charter Reservation (as that term is defined in Section 1 below), these Terms shall prevail.

• Prepaid Charter Reservations . Typically, Broker negotiates charter rates in advance with the yacht owner or charter company (“ Charter Provider ”) to obtain cost-effective rates, and facilitate reservations and availability for yacht charters, excursions and travel (the “ Charter ”). Broker also provides services to you by facilitating the booking of reservations for consideration and receives a commission from the Charter Provider (the “ Broker Fee ”). The Broker Fee is included in the pre-negotiated Charter rate provided to you, plus taxes and other fees where applicable. You agree that your payment is for the total amount set forth in the applicable Charter agreement (which Charter Provider may refer to as a Charter Contract, Charter Agreement, Booking Terms & Conditions, Instructions and Terms for Accommodations, as well as other derivations) provided to you by Broker (“ Charter Agreement ”). Upon execution of the Charter Agreement and receipt of the applicable deposit, you will have made a reservation for the Charter that authorizes Broker to facilitate the Charter on your behalf (“Charter Reservation”), including making payment arrangements with the Charter Provider. You further agree that Broker is a third-party beneficiary to the Charter Agreement and shall have the right to enforce such agreement to the extent it deems such enforcement necessary or advisable to protect its rights hereunder or under the Charter Agreement.

  Broker retains the Broker Fee as compensation in arranging your Charter Reservation. The Broker Fee varies based on the amount and type of Charter and/or services provided by Broker.  By making a Charter Reservation, you accept and agree to the relevant cancellation and no-show policy of the Charter Provider set forth in the Charter Agreement. Cancellation and no-show policies vary for each Charter. Carefully read the Charter Agreement and additional information provided to you by Broker. It is expressly agreed by Charterer that the Broker Fee is earned at the time the Charter Reservation is made. Late payment, wrong credit card or debit card details, invalid credit or debit cards, or insufficient funds are for your own risk and account, and you will not be entitled to any refund of any prepaid amount unless the Charter Provider expressly agrees otherwise under the Charter Agreement or in some other signed writing.

• Charter Rules and Restrictions . Additional terms and agreements will apply to your Charter Reservation and any purchase or rental of equipment or other items, supplies, provisions and travel you may select. Please read those additional terms carefully. In particular, if you have purchased airfare, please ensure that you read the full terms and conditions of carriage issued by the supplier. You agree to abide by the terms of purchase imposed by any supplier with whom you elect to deal, including but not limited to payment of all amounts when due and compliance with the supplier’s rules and restrictions regarding availability, charges, fares, and use of products and services.
• Payment . All payments must be made by personal check, bank/wire transfer, ACH payment and/or with a major credit card unless otherwise expressly stated. The total price for the Charter Reservation will be billed in U.S. Dollars unless otherwise stated. Some banks and credit card companies impose fees for international transactions. If you are making a reservation from outside of the United States on a US credit card, your bank may convert the payment amount to your local currency and charge you a conversion fee. This means the amount listed on your credit or bank card statement may be in your local currency and therefore a different figure than the amount provided by Broker for the Charter Reservation. In addition, a foreign transaction fee may be assessed if the financial institution that issued your credit card is located outside of the United States. Booking international travel may be considered to be an international transaction by the financial institution or card company. The currency exchange rate and foreign transaction fee is determined solely by your financial institution on the day that it processes the transaction. If you have any questions about these fees or the exchange rate applied to your booking, please contact your financial institution. Broker shall not be liable to you for any such service, conversion, or exchange fee.

  Broker expressly reserves the right to cancel your Charter Reservation if full payment is not timely received as set forth in the Charter Agreement.

• Cancellation and Rescheduling . You may cancel or change your Charter Reservation as set forth in the Charter Agreement by and among you, the Charter Provider and/or Broker. Please note that some Charter Providers do not permit changes to or cancellation of reservations after they are made, or after a certain date, as indicated in the Charter Agreement. You agree to abide by the terms of the Charter Agreement with respect to your Charter Reservation. Broker will not be responsible for reimbursing Charterer for any previously tendered deposits or payments by Charterer and disclaims all liability for the failure of a Charter Provider to refund or return any such funds.
• Credit Card Transactions and Chargebacks . If for any reason, any Charter Provider is unable to provide the Charter, or any part thereof, for which you have contracted, your remedy lies against the Charter Provider, and not against Broker. However, Broker will use reasonable efforts to assist you and Charter Provider in reaching a resolution to a dispute between you and the Charter Provider. In the event that your payment has already been transferred from Broker to Charter Provider or to an escrow account, you agree that you will not seek a chargeback against Broker for such amounts transferred. You further agree to indemnify and hold Broker harmless from and against any liability, loss, damage or expense (including without limitation, reasonable attorneys’ fees) that Broker may incur in connection with chargebacks against Broker or under the Charter Agreement and your performance thereunder. If Broker incurs any costs, including but not limited to attorneys’ fees, to recover any payments charged back by your credit card company or other financial institution, you agree that you will be liable for these costs. If your payment is declined for any reason, you agree to settle any amounts owed to Broker via money order, cashier’s check, personal check or bank/ACH transfer immediately.
• Broker Responsibility . Broker makes arrangements with the Charter Provider. Broker additionally makes additional arrangements with other suppliers for the various components and other services that comprise your Charter (“Charter Suppliers”). Broker is not an agent of these Charter Providers or the Charter Suppliers (and the Charter Providers and Charter Suppliers are not agents of Broker). Broker expressly disclaims any liability for the actions or omissions of the Charter Provider and the Charter Suppliers. The Charter Providers and the Charter Suppliers reserve the right to refuse service to you at their sole discretion. Broker assumes no liability for the acts of the Charter Provider or the Charter Suppliers in refusing service. Broker is not responsible for schedule changes and does not offer compensation for those changes. Broker is not responsible under any circumstances for any injury or damages you may suffer, in connection with sea, air or ground transportation, hotel accommodations, or other travel or excursion services arranged by Broker.

  You understand Broker is not the source or supplier of the Charter or other travel services you requested and acts solely as a broker for the Charter Provider and the Charter Suppliers. You agree that the Charter Provider and Charter Suppliers whose names appear in the information supplied to you are those who are solely responsible for providing the Charter you purchase. You consent to and request the use of the Charter Provider and the Charter Suppliers and agree to not hold Broker responsible should any of them: (i) fail to provide the Charter or travel services you purchased, whether or not such services are listed in the Charter Agreement or otherwise, (ii) fail to comply with any applicable law, or (iii) engage in any negligent act or omission that causes you any sort of injury, damage, delay or inconvenience.

By using Broker’s services, you waive and release any claim against Broker, its affiliated and subsidiary companies, and their respective officers, directors, employees, contractors, and agents, arising out of or in connection with any loss of or damage to property or injury to any person caused by reason of (i) any defect, negligence, or other wrongful act or omission, or any failure of performance of any kind, by any Charter Provider, Charter Suppliers, or any other provider of sea, airline, hotel, ground transportation or any other travel provider connected to or otherwise associated with the Charter, (ii) any claim for inconvenience, loss of enjoyment, mental distress or other similar claim, (iii) any delayed departure, missed connection, substitute accommodation, termination of service or change in fares or rates, and (iv) overbooking, flight or other travel cancellation, lost or misconnected personal property, or any claim arising out of the air transportation portion of your travel, and (v) or any other claim arising out of or otherwise related to the Charter Agreement or services provided by the Charter Provider and the Charter Suppliers.

Excepting only liability that directly arises from the gross negligence or willful misconduct of Broker, you will not hold Broker responsible for any injury, damage or loss you may suffer while on a Charter, whether incurred on the Charter or in connection with any other rental, purchase, excursion or activity, regardless of the relationship of any of the foregoing with the Charter Provider or the Charter Suppliers.

• Your Responsibility . By booking a Charter with Broker, you agree to defend and indemnify and hold harmless Broker, Charter Provider, Charter Suppliers, and each of their respective officers, directors, employees and agents, from and against any and all claims, causes of action, demands, recoveries, losses, damages, fines, penalties or other costs or expenses of any kind or nature, including but not limited to reasonable legal fees, arising out of or in connection with: (i) your breach of these Terms or the documents referenced herein; (ii) your violation of any law or rights of a third party; or (iii) your use of the Broker website.

You will review your Charter Agreement and travel documents for accuracy upon receipt. You understand that it is your responsibility to review the accuracy of all details in the Charter Reservation provided to you, and that you may contact Broker if you have any questions.

You assume full and complete responsibility for checking and verifying any and all passport, visa, vaccination, or other entry requirements of your destination(s), and all conditions regarding health, safety, security, political stability, and labor or civil unrest at such destination(s).

You understand that Broker recommends purchasing travel insurance to cover certain risks inherent in travel such as supplier bankruptcy and the inability to travel due to a medical or personal emergency.

• No Warranties . All Charters, products, services, advice and information is provided on an “as is” and “as available” basis without warranties of any kind, either expressed or implied to the fullest extent permitted under the law, including but not limited to, warranties of title or implied warranties of merchantability, satisfactory quality or fitness for a particular purpose. Without limiting the above, no warranty or guarantee is made (i) regarding the acceptance of any reservation request or Charter Reservation; (ii) regarding the availability of Charters, or any other product and/or services through Broker; (iii) that the use of Broker’s website will be error-free; or (iv) regarding the completeness, accuracy, reliability or quality of any information, content, data, service, advice or merchandise provided by Broker or through Broker’s website.

Broker has no special knowledge regarding the Charter Provider’s or Charter Supplier’s financial condition, unsafe conditions, health hazards, weather hazards, or climate extremes at locations to which you may travel during or otherwise in connection with your Charter.

• Limitation on Liability . In no event shall Broker, Charter Provider, Charter Suppliers, and/or their respective affiliates, or any employees, agents, officers, directors, members or managers of any of the foregoing (“Broker and Charter Releasees”), be liable for any direct, indirect, punitive, incidental, special or consequential damages arising out of, or in any way connected with, your access to, display of or use the Broker’s website, the Charter or services provided to you in connection with the Charter (including, but not limited to, your reliance upon opinions of the Broker), whether based on a theory of negligence, contract, tort, strict liability, consumer protection statutes, or otherwise, and even if Broker and/or any other of the Broker and Charter Releasees have been advised of the possibility of such damages.

If, despite the limitation above, Broker or the Broker and Charter Releasees are found liable for any loss or damage which arises out of or in any way connected with any of the occurrences described above, then Broker, Charter Provider, Charter Supplier and the Broker and Charter Releasees will in no event exceed, in the aggregate, the greater of (a) the Broker Fee, and (b) One-Hundred Dollars (US $100.00).

The foregoing limitation of liability reflects the allocation of risk between the parties. The limitations specified in this section will survive and apply even if any limited remedy specified in these Terms is found to have failed of its essential purpose. The limitations of liability provided in these Terms inure to the benefit of Broker and/or its providers.

The foregoing does not affect any liability which cannot be excluded or limited under applicable law.

• Limitation on Time to File Claims . ANY CAUSE OF ACTION OR CLAIM YOU MAY HAVE ARISING OUT OF RELATING TO BROKER’S SERVICES OR THE WEBSITE MUST BE COMMENCED WITHIN ONE (1) YEAR AFTER THE CAUSE OF ACTION ACCRUES, OTHERWISE, SUCH CAUSE OF ACTION OR CLAIM IS PERMANENTLY BARRED.
• Waiver . No waiver by Broker of any term or condition set forth in these Terms shall be deemed a further or continuing waiver of such term or condition or a waiver of any other term or condition, and any failure of the Broker to assert a right or provision under these Terms shall not constitute a waiver of such right or provision.
• Severability . If any provision of these Terms is held by a court or other tribunal of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable for any reason, such provision shall be eliminated or limited to the minimum extent such that the remaining provisions of the Terms will continue in full force and effect.
• Governing Law and Mandatory Venue . The laws of the State of Florida govern the rights and obligations of the parties to this Agreement and the interpretation, construction and enforceability thereof. You agree that any action or proceeding initiated by Charterer against Broker shall be brought solely in the federal and state courts of Hillsborough County, Florida, and you submit to the jurisdiction of those courts and waive any objections to the exercise of personal jurisdiction over you by those courts. In the event any action or proceeding is initiated by Charterer in a court outside of Hillsborough County, Florida, Charterer agrees to pay Broker’s costs and reasonable attorneys’ fees associated with defending such action or proceeding and waives any and all defenses to the transfer of said action or proceeding, whether jurisdictional or otherwise, to a federal or state court in Hillsborough County, Florida.

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Caribbean cruises

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A true tropical paradise, a cruise around the Caribbean Sea is an experience you’ll treasure forever. Explore the beautiful beaches and coral reefs and fall for the cheery charm of the locals across the ports and islands.

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At Emerald Cruises, your enjoyment comes first. Sail with the small cruise ship experts and benefit from our attentive service as you dock in the heart of exciting destinations that larger vessels cannot reach.

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Emerald Cruises specializes in providing the small yacht cruise experience . You’ll notice how a limited number of guests, an excellent staff-to-guest ratio, and the purpose-driven design and layout of our luxury yachts offer you a comfortable and luxurious cruise experience.

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Our ocean-going yachts are boutique floating hotels that provide guests with luxurious surroundings, a wealth of amenities, and unique innovations such as the Marina Platform for swimming in the sea and the Sky Bar for enjoying an evening drink as the sun sets.

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Emerald DISCOVERY is designed to take you far beyond the standard tourist experience, with a variety of exciting excursions . You’ll enjoy an included excursion nearly every day and have the option to join our Emerald PLUS , Emerald ACTIVE , and extra-special Discover MORE excursions^ to explore each destination in even greater depth.

A wealth of generous inclusions

Your cruise should also provide complete peace of mind. This is why we cover all port charges, provide all meals on board and with accompanying beverages, offer complimentary Wi-Fi, and cover all gratuities on board and onshore. You’ll also benefit from a first-class English-speaking crew, and enjoy tours led by knowledgeable, local guides.

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The US Virgin Islands are just a hop away from the mainland US, with direct flights daily from numerous US airports, but the minute you get off the plane you feel the island vibe. Beautiful white sand beaches, amazing snorkeling trails and reefs, coupled with sunny days and cooling tradewinds make this the perfect destination for easy access from the US. The bustling island of St Thomas boasts some amazing shopping experiences while the quiet island of St John is full of history, with an 18th century sugar plantation and ancient petroglyphs carved into caves in the hills. Most of St John is National Park and the underwater trail at Trunk Bay is spectacular. Further afield lies the large island of St Croix, with its own blend of shops, restaurants and National Parks to explore. Your dedicated crew on your luxury yacht will immediately make you feel “at home” and cater to your every whim, ensuring that they tailor-make your itinerary to suit your requirements. You are guaranteed the cruising vacation of a lifetime.

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12-year-old boy dies after falling over balcony on cruise headed for Texas

The boy has not been identified, article bookmarked.

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A 12-year-old boy has died after falling off a balcony while on board a Royal Caribbean cruise .

The young boy fell to his death on September 7 while on board the Harmony of the Seas as it sailed toward Galveston , Texas at the end of a week-long trip . He fell off a balcony on Deck 8, known as the “Central Park” area of the ship where there are many restaurants and stores, PEOPLE reports.

“We are deeply saddened to confirm the death of one of our guests,” a Royal Caribbean spokesperson said in a statement. “Our Care Team is providing support and assistance to the guest’s family during this difficult time.

“For the privacy of the guest and their family, we have no additional details to share,” the spokesperson added.

The boy has not been identified, and it is not yet clear what caused him to fall off the balcony.

Just last month, a British man reportedly fell overboard from Royal Caribbean’s Explorer of the Seas cruise near Croatia . The search was called off after nearly 40 hours.

“Since the man has been in the sea for over 40 hours, we are already losing hope,” Sanjin Dumanic, president of the Association of Croatian Sea Captains, said at the time.

“We would all like him to be found, but 40 hours is a very long time, and we are losing hope that this search will end successfully”.

Then, back in May, a passenger died after jumping overboard from Royal Caribbean’s largest cruise ship after it set sail from Florida .

The man reportedly jumped from the Icon of the Seas after it left a Florida port. He was rescued from the water and brought back on board before succumbing to his injuries.

The cruise company also issued a statement declining to provide details on his identity.

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The Love Boat 's Fred Grandy Says Lauren Tewes 'Was a Victim of Circumstance' Being Fired for Drug Addiction

The actor said during a cast Q&A on the Enchanted Princess that in the '80s, substance abuse "was not understood in the way it is understood now"

ABC Photo Archives/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty

• Love Boat  stars Fred Grandy, Bernie Kopell, Ted Lange and Jill Whelan reunited on Princess Cruises'  Love Boat  Celebration at Sea that left out of Brooklyn, N.Y. on Aug. 31 and stopped in New England and Canada throughout the seven-night sailing
• Lauren Tewes, who played cruise director Julie McCoy on The Love Boat , got written off the show due to her cocaine addiction
• Though Tewes did not participate in the cruise, Whelan said during a Q&A on board that Tewes "is a sister to all of us"

The Love Boat ran for 10 seasons, but cruise director Julie McCoy, played by Lauren Tewes, disembarked after season 7, being written off due to her public struggle with cocaine addiction.  

Tewes, 70, got sober, but she did not participate in Princess Cruises’ latest Love Boat at Sea Celebration, which saw stars Fred Grandy, Bernie Kopell,  Ted Lange  and  Jill Whelan reunite on the Enchanted Princess cruise ship for a seven-night sailing out of New York City beginning on Aug. 31. But fans didn’t forget about Tewes, and when one brought her up during the Love Boat : Behind the Scenes Stories panel on Friday, Sept. 6, the cast had nothing but kind words to say about her.

“We should talk about our pal, who is a sister to all of us,” Whelan, 57, told the crowd of Tewes. “She's just a very genuine, sweet human being, and by the way, a spectacular actress. I mean, I even look back at The Love Boat episodes and I just marvel at her and her ability to move so effortlessly between doing a dramatic scene and comedy. But she is one of our favorite people and we adore her.”

Grandy, 76, shared with the audience in the Princess Theater that Tewes came to see him, Lange, 76, and Whelan in the play I’m Not Rappaport  that they did together in Michigan earlier this year. “She came and watched two nights of the show,” the former politician, who played purser Burl "Gopher" Smith on The Love Boat , said. “It was lovely.”

Lange, a self-proclaimed “Shakespeare buff,” recalled doing a production of The Taming of the Shrew with Tewes. “We had a ball,” he said.

Whelan said she sees Tewes regularly. “She will fly to my house and we'll spend the weekend together cooking and just laughing and sharing stories all the time,” the former child star explained.

Michael Tran/FilmMagic

Grandy acknowledged that “the circumstances of her departure were not so lovely,” and he blamed the outdated understanding about drug addiction at the time for how everything played out with Tewes.

“This would've been the early '80s, substance abuse on a set in those days was a punishable offense. It was not a healthcare problem, and it was not understood in the way it is understood now,” Grandy said. “And to some degree, she was a victim of circumstance at the time because the attention and care and therapy she should have gotten was meted out in the form of discipline.”

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Grandy noted that Tewes “has recovered magnificently” and “even though she is not here, she is as much a part of the family as anybody else up on this stage.”

While speaking to PEOPLE on the Enchanted Princess, Grandy said that The Love Boat served as “a launching pad” for himself, Lange and Tewes.

“It allowed us to go on to do other things,” said Grandy, who went on to serve four terms as Republican congressman for his home state of Iowa. “I never would've won my first congressional election without this show. I wasn't sure when I first entered into the competition that it was going to pay off, but people ask me now, ‘What's the secret to winning a congressional seat?’ And I say, ‘First of all, raise a lot of money. You have to know the territory that you're covering extremely well. You have to be up to speed on the issues. You have to be somewhat articulate, and you have to be on a hit show.’"

Princess Cruises

Today, Grandy marvels at The Love Boat ’s “continued durability” and “its increasing popularity,” which already inspired another Love Boat Celebration at Sea, slated to leave from Galveston, Texas on the Regal Princess in November 2025.

“You can see the synergy between the popularity of the show and the enormous appeal of cruising, which has probably been one of the most harmonious business partnerships in the history of commerce,” Grandy said. “I find astonishing is that it's the show that refuses to die. It's like The Walking Dead with piña coladas.”  

ABC and TV critics alike didn’t think The Love Boat would take off. “Nobody gave this, what we used to say out in Iowa, a fart in a whirlwind's chance,” Grandy said. “But after about the third week, we thought, ‘Oh my God, we're onto something.’ Because our ratings were sky high. All of a sudden we were not just a cruise ship, we were a battleship. By the second or third year, we knew it was not only going to run, it was going to go around the world. It happened at warp speed.”

The PEOPLE Puzzler crossword is here! How quickly can you solve it? Play now!

Grandy and his castmates hosted meet and greets with fans throughout their time on the Enchanted Princess, but they also happily greeted guests and snapped selfies with them while meandering around the ship or its stops in Boston, Maine and Canada. Grandy even popped in for drinks with some fans at an Irish pub in Saint John, New Brunswick.

“I had been walking around town and was coming back to the ship and I passed this Irish pub called O'Leary's,” he recalled. “There were some very nice passengers in there getting totally hammered, and they came out and dragged me into that bar, and I spent another hour drinking with them.”

Along with show-themed activities like Love Boat trivia, a cocktail demonstration with Love Boat bartender Lange and a vow renewal ceremony hosted by Whelan, guests on board the Enchanted Princess from Aug. 31-Sept. 7 could also take advantage of the ship’s specialty dining experiences, including a meal of fresh seafood at The Catch by Rudi , a steak dinner at Crown Grill or an intimate, immersive seven-course meal at 360 , where Brooke Shields shares signature dishes from some of Europe’s most popular destinations while engaging all five senses. Additional entertainment on board the Love Boat Celebration at Sea sailing included comedy from Quinn Beasley, aka The Mighty Quinn, Gary Delena and Eric Buss, as well as a staging of the musical Rock Opera .

“I was surprised at how much of a culture it becomes for people,” Grandy said of cruising. “I've met people on these things that are on their 67th cruise. There are people that live to come on these. They're already anticipating doing another one of these out of Galveston next year, so I think as long as we're upright, they'll keep trying to do this.”

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THE VIEW FROM THE TOP

We’re setting sail in new waters — and new hemispheres.

We’re taking our time and exploring new parts of the world. And these new routes come with the same included luxury you’ve come to love.

We’re teeing up voyages from San Juan around the Caribbean, and from Portsmouth, UK, to Bilbao and Bordeaux. We’re throwing new perks into our Sailing Club loyalty program and jazzing up our onboard shows and entertainment — all while keeping Sailors’ favorite routes (like our timeless Med sailings), favorite sailings (Celebration Voyages, Eat & Drink Festival, and our wellbeing voyages), and favorite things on board (just about everything, if the 2023 Cruise Critics Awards are any indication).

SEA YOURSELF HERE

Our new destinations

New in: Basque in Spanish sunlight. Dance in Puerto Rican twilight.

We’re all about giving Sailors more. More customizable vacation lengths, starting at 3 and lasting up to 14 nights at sea. More places to sail from, whether it’s the southern end of the UK or our new home port in the historic city of San Juan, PR. More one-of-a-kind encounters with nature, from Marseille’s elegant calanques to underground caverns in Cozumel. And in every new place we go, we’re teaming up with the best local partners there to make sure you have an unforgettable time.

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From relaxing, idyllic islands to vibrant coastal cityscapes, we’re cruising serene, azure waters and painting the world (Virgin) red.

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North america cruises, europe cruises.

OUR LADY SHIPS ARE SHOW-ING OFF

New Shows, New Laughs

This year, we’re doubling down on the entertainment you love, bringing more comedy into our lineup, and even sending one of our shows to tour on land.

We’re already the Cruise Critic Editors’ Pick for Best Entertainment in the industry — but as usual, we’re not satisfied with stopping there. We’re staying “light-years ahead of the pack” (their words, not ours) and refreshing our onboard lineup, adding ship-specific options to round out our fleetwide array of shows. And we’re doing it all with your incredible feedback and preferences in mind. Scarlet Lady is welcoming the LOLz Supper Club for fans of stand-up comedy. And Duel Reality, a thrilling acrobatic retelling of Romeo & Juliet developed exclusively for Virgin Voyages, is so good, it’s starting a tour of the US — becoming one of the first ship shows ever to transfer over to land.

LOLz Supper Club

Duel reality: now on land, festival stage acts.

LOVE & LOYALTY

Virgin Voyages Sailing Club

The Virgin Voyages Sailing Club is getting an (even more) epic upgrade.

We love our Sailors — and in keeping with our award-winning service from sea to shore, we’re leveling up our loyalty program so that your future voyages will be more brilliant than ever. We’ve got updates about Deep Blue Extras, new ways to earn perks, and more surprises we can’t wait to share.

SPECIAL SAILINGS

More onboard celebrations to join in on

We’re changing things up — but we know when to leave a good thing alone. And our beloved flagship events aren’t going anywhere.

You know them. You love them. Our special sailings and themed months are back. Whether you’re looking to get hands-on cooking tutorials from an elite New York City chef or a really good meditation session, we’ve got a lineup of sailings for Sailors with any focus. Join us (or come back) for any of our below fleetwide events — you’ll be glad you did.

Celebration Voyages

Elevate voyages, eat & drink festival.