The First-Timer’s Guide to Virgin Voyages

If you’re looking for a cruise holiday that’s a little different, Virgin Voyages could be exactly what you’re after. With its adults-only ships, award-winning dining, stylish design and refreshing approach to cruising, the cruise line has quickly become one of the industry’s most talked-about brands.

Unlike traditional cruise holidays, Virgin Voyages has reimagined almost every aspect of life at sea. From replacing buffets with made-to-order eateries to including many extras within the cruise fare, the experience is designed to feel more like staying in a luxury boutique hotel than sailing on a conventional cruise ship.

Whether you’re completely new to cruising or simply looking for a more contemporary experience, here’s everything you need to know before booking your first Virgin Voyages holiday.

Why Choose Virgin Voyages for Your First Cruise?

Virgin Voyages has challenged many of the traditions associated with cruising. Instead of formal dress codes and fixed dining times, guests enjoy a relaxed atmosphere where they can holiday exactly as they choose.

The ships have been designed with modern travellers in mind, featuring stylish cabins, contemporary entertainment, wellness facilities and more than 20 unique dining venues. The atmosphere feels vibrant without being overwhelming, making it an excellent choice for couples, groups of friends and solo travellers.

If you’re looking for a cruise that’s less focused on family activities and more centred around exceptional food, entertainment and relaxation, Virgin Voyages offers a refreshing alternative.

Before booking, it’s worth exploring Odysia’s collection of Virgin Voyages cruises to compare itineraries, ships and departure dates.

An Adults-Only Cruise Experience

One of the biggest differences between Virgin Voyages and most other cruise lines is its adults-only concept. If you’ve been wondering are Virgin cruises adults only? The answer is yes. Every sailing is exclusively for guests aged 18 and over.

Without children’s clubs, waterparks or family-focused entertainment, the atmosphere onboard feels noticeably different. Days are generally more relaxed around the pool, evenings have a sophisticated yet lively feel, and restaurants are designed with adults in mind rather than catering to younger travellers.

That doesn’t mean the ships are quiet. Virgin Voyages is known for its energetic nightlife, live music, immersive performances and stylish bars, but it all feels contemporary rather than formal. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to unwind, the adults-only concept is one of the cruise line’s biggest attractions.

What’s Included in Your Cruise Fare?

Many first-time cruisers want to know: Are Virgin cruises all inclusive? While not fully all-inclusive in the traditional sense, Virgin Voyages includes far more in the cruise fare than many other cruise lines.

Your accommodation, all dining across more than 20 restaurants, essential drinks such as water, soft drinks, tea and coffee, Wi-Fi, entertainment, group fitness classes and all gratuities are included as standard.

Unlike many cruise lines, there are no large buffet restaurants. Instead, guests can enjoy made-to-order meals across a diverse collection of eateries serving everything from Korean barbecue and upscale Mexican cuisine to Italian favourites and fresh seafood.

Optional extras include alcoholic drinks, premium coffees, spa treatments, shore excursions and shopping, but many guests find they spend considerably less onboard because so much is already covered by the fare.

No Hidden Service Charges

Budgeting for your first cruise is much easier with Virgin Voyages because gratuities are already included. If you’ve been asking are gratuities included on Virgin Voyages, you’ll be pleased to know there are no daily service charges added to your onboard account.

This transparent pricing approach is one of the reasons Virgin Voyages has become so popular with first-time cruisers. While you’re welcome to leave an additional tip for exceptional service, there’s no obligation to do so, helping you avoid unexpected costs during your holiday.

A Different Approach to Drinks

Unlike many cruise lines that offer unlimited beverage packages, Virgin Voyages has taken a different approach. If you’re wondering, do Virgin Voyages do drinks packages? The answer is no, not in the traditional sense.

Instead, guests can purchase a Bar Tab, which works like prepaid onboard credit specifically for drinks. It can be used on cocktails, wine, beer, premium coffees and speciality beverages throughout your voyage.

For many travellers, this flexible system offers better value than paying for an unlimited package, especially if you only enjoy a few drinks each day rather than drinking throughout the holiday.

Meet the Fleet

Another common question from first-time cruisers is how many ships do Virgin Voyages have? Virgin Voyages currently operates four ships, each sharing the same modern design while offering different itineraries around the world.

Scarlet Lady launched the brand and introduced Virgin’s bold new vision for cruising, combining contemporary interiors with innovative dining and entertainment.

Valiant Lady expanded the fleet with Mediterranean and Caribbean itineraries while maintaining the same award-winning onboard experience.

Resilient Lady sails to destinations including Greece, the Mediterranean and Australia, offering guests even more opportunities to explore.

The newest addition, Brilliant Lady, introduces exciting new itineraries while continuing the stylish, adults-only experience that has become synonymous with Virgin Voyages.

Whichever ship you choose, you’ll enjoy the same exceptional dining, contemporary accommodation and relaxed atmosphere across the fleet.

Sailing from the UK

For British travellers, one of the biggest advantages is that Virgin cruises do sail from the UK.

Selected no-fly voyages depart from Portsmouth, making it possible to begin your holiday without the need to fly overseas.

These itineraries focus on Northern Europe, offering a fresh perspective on some of the region’s most exciting destinations. Depending on your sailing, you could enjoy overnight stays in Amsterdam or Hamburg, giving you extra time to experience the cities after the daytime crowds have disappeared. Virgin Voyages also offers sailings to Iceland, where dramatic volcanic landscapes, powerful waterfalls and geothermal wonders create an unforgettable adventure.

For guests looking to explore further afield, Virgin Voyages also operates fly-cruise itineraries from ports including Barcelona, Athens and Miami, opening up Mediterranean, Caribbean and transatlantic adventures.

Life Onboard

Life onboard Virgin Voyages feels different from the moment you step aboard. The ships feature chic interiors, stylish social spaces and a relaxed atmosphere that encourages guests to enjoy their holiday however they choose.

Dining is one of the biggest highlights, with more than 20 restaurants replacing the traditional buffet and main dining room. Every restaurant is included in your fare, allowing you to sample everything from premium steakhouses and Korean barbecue to vegetarian cuisine and fresh sushi without paying additional cover charges.

Entertainment is equally distinctive, combining live music, comedy, immersive performances and late-night parties with yoga classes, wellness programmes and luxurious spa facilities. Whether you prefer lively evenings or peaceful afternoons by the pool, there’s plenty of flexibility to create the perfect holiday.

Is Virgin Voyages Right for You?

If you’re looking for a cruise that breaks away from tradition, Virgin Voyages is an excellent choice for first-time cruisers. Its adults-only atmosphere, stylish ships and transparent pricing remove many of the common concerns people have when booking their first cruise.

With dining, Wi-Fi, fitness classes and gratuities already included, you’ll spend less time worrying about hidden costs and more time enjoying your holiday. Combined with exceptional service, award-winning restaurants and exciting itineraries, it’s easy to see why Virgin Voyages has become one of the industry’s most highly rated cruise lines.

Ready to experience cruising differently? Browse Odysia’s collection of Virgin Voyages cruises and discover why so many first-time sailors return for another voyage.