I loved my sailing on Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady during their inaugural season, so I thought it would be the perfect new experience for our first trip as a family this summer with our adult kids and their spouses! Virgin Voyages is an adult only cruise line so those under 18 are prohibited. And I know what you are thinking…adult only, must be a party heavy environment, BUT one of my favorite things is while there is a ton of fun to be had, the pressure to party is not a thing. And there are tons of amazing shows, musicians, and outstanding culinary experiences so I thought this was a fun fit for this particular trip!
Our itinerary was the 5 Night Riviera Maya sailing, round trip from the port of Miami. This itinerary includes two days at sea mixed in with stops at Cozumel and Bimini Bahamas, home to Virgin’s private Beach Club. Personally, I loved the two days at sea on this sailing. Makes for a super relaxing cruise schedule. Lots of time to explore this beautiful ship and its ports of call. And the time at Bimini Beach Club is pretty close to a perfect day. With stunning beach access combined with swimming pools, lots of bar access, games, unique food and more, BBC is a great place to spend the day!
Having sailed other cruise lines, there are things that stand out with Virgin that secure its spot among the higher quality cruise lines, in my opinion. I have to mention the inclusions. Along with of course the entertainment, pools, fitness classes, and more, Virgin also includes its wifi services, beverages other than the essential water, tea, and coffee (they include sodas and juices as well), room service (including soda delivered to the room for no charge), and my personal favorite, the constant flow of both flat and sparkling water brought to your stateroom by your host. That is a game changer and you know why if you have cruised previously! If not, this is a HUGE convenience!! And just a note, gratuities are included in your cruise fare! Just one more factor to keep you in that stress free vacation state of mind!
Another standout on Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady is without a doubt, the food! You guys know that food is one of my favorite things about traveling. And the fare on Virgin does not disappoint. My kiddos and their spouses are some real foodies so I knew that VV would be a culinary home run for this bunch. Not your typical cruise food here. You won’t find buffets or boring chicken nuggets here. Virgin prides itself on its lighter options with HUGE and I mean HUGE variety. Each of their main dining venues has its own culinary blueprint, each super unique not to mention the Galley which is an entire area dedicated to quick service type meals that range anywhere from Ramen and Sushi on demand all the way to my ultimate favorite, the French Toast Burger! Not to mention various coffee shops, and fun but unique takes on staples like ice cream, pizza, and carnival eats! My opinion here….expect the unexpected. You will be seriously satisfied! A food adventure is to be had!
Again, the best way I can describe VV is unique. From it all included free fitness classes to a non smoking casino, live musicians in various venues, and themed nights and parties during your sailing, everyone can find something up their alley! And the value of a Virgin Voyages sailing is absolutely amazing. The quality of the product and experience for the price is literally amazing and out of this world. This is an absolutely fun filled vacation experience even for those on a budget! This was a great experience for my adult only crew and I would highly recommend giving Virgin Voyages a go!
