Cruise – Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady – Ultimate Guide

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Why Virgin Voyages Might Be Your Perfect Cruise — Even If You’ve Never Sailed Before

It’s safe to say that after my very first Virgin Voyages Cruise on The Valiant Lady, I’m obsessed! We had an incredible time on our 5-night cruise from Miami to Mexico and back, and I can’t stop talking or thinking about it. I want everyone I know to experience it, and here is everything you need to know! 

If you’ve ever thought cruising wasn’t for you—maybe too crowded, too family-focused, or too cookie-cutter—me too, but let me introduce you to Virgin Voyages: the adults-only, design-forward cruise line that’s redefining how to sail.

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Whether you’re a cruise skeptic or a seasoned traveler looking for a fresh experience, this guide will walk you through why Virgin Voyages stands out, what’s included (spoiler: a lot), and how to make the most of your time on board with the Virgin Voyages app. And as your travel advisor, I’m here to help you book the perfect itinerary, room category, and extras without the stress.

Virgin Voyages 101: What Is It, and Who Is It For?

Virgin Voyages is Richard Branson’s adults-only cruise line, created with a rebellious spirit and a love of the unexpected. Think modern yachts, Michelin-level dining (without the upcharge), sleek technology, and a commitment to both wellness and wild fun.

This cruise line is strictly 18+, so the vibe is completely different from family cruises—think romantic getaways, friendcations, solo adventures, and luxe relaxation without worrying about kids splashing in the pool or tantrums during dinner.

What’s Included in Your Fare (And What Makes Virgin Different)

One of the most frequently asked questions I receive is: What’s included? 

Unlike many cruise lines that start with a low fare and nickel-and-dime you onboard, Virgin Voyages includes a ton of value:

• All dining at over 20 eateries (no buffets, no extra charges)
• Tips and gratuities
• Wi-Fi for the entire voyage
• Group fitness classes like spin, yoga, HIIT, and more
• Basic drinks (still/sparkling water, soda, juices, teas, and drip coffee)
• Entertainment that’s cool and edgy

You will pay extra for alcohol, spa treatments, excursions, or upgraded dining extras (such as wine pairings or raw bar items), but there are no hidden fees. And unlike most mainstream cruise lines, there are no assigned dining times or formal dress codes. Eat when you want, wear what you want, and plan your days your way.

The Ships: Chic, Smart, and Made for Grown-Ups

Each Virgin Voyages ship (Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, Resilient Lady, and Brilliant Lady) has its own flair, but they all share some signature features:

• The Dock House: A beach club-inspired lounge for tapas and cocktails
• The Manor: A two-story nightclub with glam mirror tunnels
• Redemption Spa: A luxurious thermal spa with a mud room and hydrotherapy pool
• Aquatic Club: A modern pool deck with shaded daybeds and a see-and-be-seen vibe
• Razzle Dazzle & Test Kitchen: Two of the most innovative restaurants at sea

There’s also a tattoo studio (yes, really), karaoke rooms, a record shop, and plenty of quiet nooks if you want to unplug.

Where Can You Sail with Virgin Voyages?

Virgin offers a range of itineraries designed for both adventure and relaxation. Here are some popular routes:

• Caribbean & Mexico (from Miami): Featuring Bimini Beach Club, a private island-style escape
• Mediterranean (from Barcelona or Athens): Think Ibiza, Mykonos, and Santorini
• Australia & New Zealand: Launching with Brilliant Lady
• Transatlantic Journeys: For the traveler who loves sea days and long-haul romance

Many of these cruises are 4–7 nights, making them perfect for a quick getaway or a honeymoon with flair.

Tech-Savvy Cruising: The Virgin Voyages App

One of my favorite features? The Virgin Voyages app streamlines everything, from check-in to making dining reservations and booking entertainment. 

Use it to:

• Check your daily itinerary
• Reserve dining times or fitness classes
• Chat with your crew or travel companions
• Order food and drinks from your lounger
• Track your bar tab in real time

You can even shake your phone to summon Champagne anywhere on the ship (yes, it’s called “Shake for Champagne”). Iconic.

Let’s Talk About Bar Tabs: A Better Way to Sip at Sea

Instead of traditional drink packages, Virgin Voyages uses a Bar Tab system, and honestly—it’s a game changer.

Here’s how it works:
You can pre-purchase a Bar Tab in $100 increments, and Virgin will often give you a bonus. For example, if you add a $300 Bar Tab before your voyage, Virgin will usually add an extra $50—so you get $350 to spend on drinks!

You can use your Bar Tab on:

• Craft cocktails, wine, beer, and premium spirits
• Smoothies and specialty juices
• Coffee shop upgrades like lattes and cold brew
• Drinks at The Beach Club at Bimini (yes, even on land!)

Pro tip: If you’re traveling with friends or a partner, only one of you needs to load the Bar Tab—it can be used across your cabin or group!

Unlike other cruise lines, there’s no daily limit, no watered-down drinks, and no pressure to “get your money’s worth” every day. You use it like a gift card at any bar, lounge, or eatery that serves drinks.

Dining on Virgin Voyages: No Buffets, No Upcharges, Just Incredible Food

Virgin Voyages completely reimagined cruise dining. Gone are the buffets and bland banquet-style meals—every eatery on board is included in your fare, and each one feels like a trendy, land-based restaurant.

There are no buffets, no main dining rooms, and no upcharges for specialty restaurants.

Instead, you’ll enjoy 20+ unique eateries, each with its own vibe and menu, curated by award-winning chefs. Here are the incredible options on Valiant Lady:

• Razzle Dazzle – A glam, veggie-forward brunch spot with bold design and “naughty or nice” menus.
• The Wake – Virgin’s elegant take on a classic steakhouse with gorgeous views and an indulgent brunch.
• Gunbae – A lively Korean BBQ restaurant where you’ll make new friends around the grill (and maybe take a soju shot or two).
• Pink Agave – Upscale Mexican cuisine with mezcal tastings and shareable dishes in a moody, modern setting.
• Test Kitchen – A multi-course experimental dining adventure that feels like a lab-meets-fine-dining experience.
• Extra Virgin – Classic Italian with fresh pasta, antipasti, and indulgent desserts.

With no set dining times, you can book your reservations in advance or via the app once on board. You can even do walk-ins if you’re feeling spontaneous.

Bonus: The service is relaxed but elevated, and all food is made to order. You’ll never have to stand in line with a tray or juggle a buffet plate again.

Stateroom Options on Valiant Lady: Which Cabin is Right for You?

Whether you’re all about sea views, staying on budget, or living the Rockstar lifestyle, Valiant Lady has a stateroom that fits your vibe. Here’s a rundown of each category:

The Insider

The Insider (No Windows, Just Cozy Vibes – Sleeps 1-4)

Best for: Budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind skipping the view.

• No windows, but cleverly designed for restful sleep.
• Room features adjustable lighting and a 43” HDTV.
• Rainfall shower, high-end linens, and a smart layout.
• Same access to all ship amenities and dining.

Pro tip: Ideal for solo travelers or those who plan to spend the day exploring the ship.

The Sea View

The Sea View (Porthole Perfection – Sleeps 1-3)

Best for: Guests who want a real window and a touch of ocean calm without springing for a balcony.

• Large porthole window with built-in window seat.
• Same modern features as The Insider, but with natural light.
• Stylish touches and sleek tech controls (lights, TV, air) all managed via tablet.

The Sea Terrace

The Sea Terrace (Balcony Life! Sleeps 2-4)

Best for: Most cruisers—it’s the most popular room type and offers the signature Virgin Voyages experience.

• Private balcony with a hand-woven red hammock (iconic for Instagram and ocean naps).
• Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors.
• Configurable bed (can be arranged as a queen or two twins).
• Mood lighting that changes with the time of day.
• Plenty of storage, sleek bathroom with rainfall shower, and blackout curtains.

Sea Terrace Subtypes: There are several Sea Terrace categories depending on location—some are forward, some aft, and some are “XL” with more space.

RockStar Quarters

RockStar Quarters (Suite Life with VIP Perks) Suites from 570 sq ft to 2147 sq ft Sleep 2-4

Best for: Travelers who want luxury, priority access, and a bit of rock-and-roll flair.

• Larger balconies with loungers and upgraded outdoor furniture.
• Glamorous bathrooms with marble tiling and larger showers.
• Bottomless in-room bar (set up to your preferences before you board).
• Early boarding, priority reservations, and access to Richard’s Rooftop (an exclusive sundeck and bar for suite guests).

RockStar guests also have a dedicated concierge team, wardrobe assistance (including steaming and styling), and elevated room service.

Mega RockStar Quarters

Mega RockStar Quarters (Top-Tier Suites for the VIPs) Suites from 570 sq ft to 2147 sq ft Sleep 2-4

Best for: Honeymooners, splurgers, and those who want the ultimate experience.

Includes lavish options like:

• Massive Suite – With a private Jacuzzi, dining area, full bar, and living space.
• Gorgeous Suite, Posh Suite, and Fab Suite – All with expanded square footage and major wow factor.

You get all RockStar perks, plus:

• Daily spa access
• Private transfers to/from the port
• Priority everything on the ship

Room Tech & Comforts (All Cabins)

No matter which stateroom you choose, you’ll enjoy:

• Mood-matching LED lighting and blackout shades
• Tablet-controlled ambiance (lights, A/C, music, and TV)
• Rainfall showers with eco-friendly bath products
• Room service via app or tablet
• European-style outlets, USB ports, and super comfy bedding

Entertainment & Nightlife on Valiant Lady: Daring, Immersive, and Always Unexpected

If you’re tired of cheesy cruise revues and forced formality, Virgin Voyages is your vibe. Valiant Lady offers a bold mix of entertainment that’s part avant-garde, part interactive, and 100% unforgettable. The ship was built for nightlife, storytelling, and spontaneous fun.

Original Productions & Must-See Shows
World-class artists and troupes curate Valiant Lady’s entertainment lineup from The 7 Fingers, House of Yes, and more. These are not your average cruise ship shows:

• Duel Reality – A jaw-dropping, acrobatic retelling of Romeo & Juliet with a modern, physical twist.
• UNTITLED DANCESHOWPARTYTHING – A club-style dance experience that breaks the fourth wall and blends performers with the crowd.
• Miss Behave Show – A wild, unscripted comedy game show that’s delightfully chaotic and adult in the best way.
• The Magnets – A powerhouse a cappella group from London’s West End, mixing vocals and beatboxing with serious swagger.

And don’t forget the pop-up acts—from mentalists and magicians to spoken word and live musicians performing in unexpected places around the ship.

Parties, DJs & Themed Nights
Virgin Voyages throws the kind of parties you thought only existed in Ibiza:

• Scarlet Night – A ship-wide bash where everyone wears red and the whole vessel transforms into a surreal, sultry celebration.
• PJ Party Under the Stars – Think: rooftop club meets slumber party.
• We Fancy, Studio 72, and other DJ-led dance nights—each with its own decade or genre flair.

Whether you’re sipping cocktails in The Manor (a glittery, two-story nightclub) or letting loose on the pool deck, nightlife here is anything but ordinary.

The Casino: High-Stakes Energy Meets Low-Key Fun

When the sun goes down, the casino lights come up. Valiant Lady’s sleek, modern casino is full of opportunities to test your luck:

• 115 slot machines, including fan favorites like Wheel of Fortune and video poker.
• Table games like blackjack, roulette, craps, poker, and Ultimate Texas Hold ’Em.
• Casino lessons are offered at the beginning of your voyage—perfect if you want to learn in a no-pressure environment.
• Join in on slot and blackjack tournaments, or relax at the stylish Casino Bar and people-watch.

Whether you’re a casual spinner or a table shark, the casino is a thrilling way to unwind after dinner.

Things to Do: Play, Chill, Connect

Day or night, Valiant Lady offers something for every kind of traveler:

Games & Retro Vibes

• The Social Club – Grab a hot dog and hang out in this retro arcade with Pac‑Man, air hockey, and vintage board games.
• Gamer’s Lab – A quieter spot for puzzles, cards, and analog fun.

Art & Culture

• Voyage Vinyl – Flip through records or spin your own soundtrack in this sleek onboard record shop.
• Interactive pop-up acts, such as the whimsical Phantom Folktales, bring surprise storytelling to hidden corners of the ship.

Chill & Recharge

• Stargaze from The Perch, nap in a deck hammock, or catch a low-key acoustic set at The Dock.
• Indulge in a tattoo at Squid Ink, sip bubbles in Sip Lounge, or relax in your hammock with an ocean breeze and no agenda.

Why It Matters
Unlike traditional cruises, Virgin Voyages doesn’t just schedule activities—it creates an atmosphere. Entertainment is immersive, adult-centric, and ever-changing. Whether you’re partying in The Manor, laughing your way through a trivia night, or soaking in the sounds of a surprise string quartet on deck, you’ll be living the moment, not just watching it.

Why Book With a Travel Advisor?

Sure, you can book direct—but working with a travel advisor (hi, that’s me!) gives you access to:

• Personalized itinerary matching
• Guidance on cabin selection (Sea Terrace? Insider? Rockstar Suite?)
• Exclusive perks and promos
• Help with flights, pre/post-cruise hotels, and insurance
• Stress-free planning, so all you have to do is pack

Ready to Set Sail?
If you’re craving a different kind of escape—one with style, substance, and zero stress—Virgin Voyages might be your perfect match. Whether you’re curious about a specific sailing or just starting to dream, I’d love to help you plan the ultimate sea-cation.

Message me today to find the perfect itinerary!