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Virgin Voyages is Redefining Cruising

Lisa S.

Updated: Jun 5, 2024

5 Ways the Virgin Voyages is Shaking Things Up


Richard Branson is known for innovative thinking and going against "the norm." 


A large cruise ship sails on the open sea during a colorful sunset, with multiple decks visible and lights illuminating the exterior of the ship.

When he decided to bring that philosophy to cruising, I'll admit I was a bit lackluster in my enthusiasm. After all, he's known for being hip and cutting edge—not words I'd use to describe myself. 


Therefore, I really didn't pay much attention to this new brand in cruising.


However, as I dug into the training to redeem my complimentary cruise, I became more excited at the thought of giving this brand a try. 


Since its inaugural sailing 2 years ago, it has received numerous awards from guests and cruise critics alike. 


A new, loyal following has emerged, and I believe I'm starting to see why.


In addition to being adults-only, here are some ways that they're shaking things up.


1. Inclusions


I love that the price tag includes Wi-Fi, gratuities, and fitness classes. Basic beverages such as still and sparkling water, drip coffee, tea, non-pressed juice, and soda are also included.


For anything that does cost extra, the philosophy is to keep it reasonable. Bye-bye inflated drink pricing. Therefore, many beers are $6-$7, cocktails are $10, and 40% of wines are under $11 per glass. 


AND, tips are included! 


There is an afternoon tea offered on sea days. In the philosophy of keeping it reasonable, the surcharge is $19 for a non-alcoholic experience or $35 with cocktails. 


That's a high-value experience for a low-price tag.


2. Dining Options


I'm not a foodie, but I've found myself talking about the dining options onboard more than anything else. There are 20 eateries onboard—no buffets, everything cooked to order, and no dining surcharges. 


Read that again, as it's incredibly unique within the industry. Dining reservations ARE available for some of the venues, but you may wait and join a walk-up list onboard if you're feeling spontaneous.


Restaurants include Italian, Mexican, Korean BBQ, Mediterranean, and Steakhouse. Casual eateries include food court and food truck style menus with pizza, ramen, sushi with bento boxes, a taco bar, an American diner, a bakery, and ice cream. 


Oh, and don't forget the Social Club and its fairground food such as pretzels, hotdogs, cookies, and more. 


With so many options onboard, my biggest challenge is going to be how to sample all of them in only 5 nights!


3. Loyalty Match


If you are an avid cruiser, it can be hard to give up your loyalty perks and start fresh with another cruise line. 


Virgin Voyages is making that easier with their loyalty match program. You may apply to their Deep Blue Rewards program if you have reached certain loyalty levels with other cruise lines (for example, after 1 cruise on Disney, Diamond with Royal Caribbean, or Platinum with Princess or Norwegian Cruise Line).


The benefits of being matched are priority embarkation, premium Wi-Fi, a free bag of laundry, a $10 specialty coffee credit per day, and a $100 free bar tab. 


These ideas have been crowdsourced from guests, and they make up a really nice list of amenities. Wow!


4. Culturally and Community Enriching Shore Excursions


Virgin Voyages goes beyond the normal cruise excursion to provide culturally immersive, community-enhancing experiences for guests. Locals are encouraged to propose excursion options to be developed with assistance from the cruise line. The ideas must be environmentally responsible and contribute to the local economy. 


This way, the local economy is boosted while the environment is preserved. Cruise guests benefit from the enriching experiences, and it's refreshing to have new, exclusive shore excursions available. 


PLUS, keeping with the theme of reasonable extras, the excursions are offered at a more reasonable price tag than on many cruise lines. 


I look forward to seeing this program in motion in the Dominican Republic.


5. Entertainment


So long traditional stage shows and Broadway productions. Virgin Voyages has a music festival vibe with pop up musicians, circle in the round entertainment, and a whole host of unique experiences. The ship transforms for Scarlet Night with storytelling, karaoke, interactive games and a dance party.


On another night, one venue transforms into a supper club with a host, live music, comedy, and exclusive performances.



Many details of the entertainment are left unspoken, as the goal is for guests to be surprised and delighted. I'll definitely look forward to sharing more about his when I return!


Again, please follow along on my social media to see how all of this translates into 5 days of good food, fun, and pampering. I'll share my review when I return, but I'd love to have you follow along in real time.


Perhaps you'll be inspired to give Virgin Voyages a try, also.



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