Have you ever returned from a cruise needing a vacation from your vacation? I know I have. Traditional cruising, with its crowded buffets, assigned dining times, and sometimes cheesy entertainment, just wasn’t cutting it for me. After four voyages with Virgin Voyages, I can confidently say they’ve completely redefined my idea of what a cruise vacation can be. From the moment I first laid eyes on the sleek, sexy design of the ship, I knew this was going to be a different experience. What struck me just as much as the stunning vessel was the incredible diversity among both the Sailors (that’s what Virgin Voyages calls its passengers) and the crew. It’s truly a welcoming and inclusive environment for people of all genders, races, and ages. Now, I can share 5 compelling reasons why I only cruise with Virgin Voyages—and why I think you should too! This isn’t just a cruise; it’s a completely reimagined experience, starting with the stunning vessel itself and the wonderful community on board.
1. A Culinary Revolution at Sea: Ditch the Buffet on Virgin Voyages!
Forget everything you think you know about cruise ship food. Virgin Voyages has completely revolutionized dining at sea. Instead of massive, often underwhelming buffets, they offer an incredible array of over 20 distinct eateries, including five specialty dining restaurants—all included in your voyage fare! This means you can indulge in a variety of culinary experiences without worrying about racking up a huge bill.
One of my personal favorites is Extra Virgin, their trattoria-inspired Italian restaurant. The pasta is made fresh daily, the menu features authentic regional dishes, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. It’s like stepping into a charming Italian eatery, but with stunning ocean views. From handmade pasta dishes to flavorful antipasti and delectable desserts, Extra Virgin offers a truly authentic Italian dining experience.
But the culinary delights don’t stop there. With over 20 different dining options, you can explore a world of flavors without ever leaving the ship. Whether you’re craving Mexican cuisine at Pink Agave, experimental dishes at Test Kitchen, or a casual bite at The Galley (their food hall concept), there’s something to satisfy every palate. And for those with a sweet tooth, there’s “Lick Me Till Ice Cream,” their whimsical ice cream shop serving up a variety of delicious flavors. I’m particularly fond of their Brown Butter ice cream—it’s the perfect sweet treat to end any meal (or enjoy any time of day!). The sheer variety and quality of the dining options, from gourmet meals to delightful desserts, are a major reason why I only cruise with Virgin Voyages.
2. Entertainment That Actually Entertains: Beyond the Typical Cruise Show
Say goodbye to predictable cruise ship entertainment. Virgin Voyages offers a lineup of innovative, immersive, and often boundary-pushing shows and performances. Think interactive theater experiences, dazzling acrobatic performances, live music ranging from intimate acoustic sets to high-energy bands, and late-night dance parties under the stars. The entertainment is curated to appeal to a sophisticated and discerning audience, offering a refreshing departure from the usual cruise fare. It’s not just about filling time; it’s about creating memorable experiences.
One of my absolute favorite shows is Duel Reality. This high-flying, adrenaline-pumping performance combines incredible acrobatics, dramatic storytelling, and impressive athleticism. The performers’ skill and energy are truly captivating, and the show’s unique blend of circus arts and theatrical elements makes it unlike anything I’ve seen on a traditional cruise. It’s a must-see for anyone sailing with Virgin Voyages.
But the entertainment extends far beyond scheduled shows. One of the most unique and unforgettable experiences on Virgin Voyages is Scarlet Night. This is not just a single performance; it’s a whole-ship takeover where the entire vessel transforms into a sea of red. Sailors (that’s what Virgin Voyages calls its passengers) are encouraged to dress in their finest red attire, and the ship comes alive with pop-up performances, themed events, and a vibrant, festive atmosphere. It culminates in an epic pool party under the stars. Scarlet Night is a truly immersive and unique experience that you won’t find on any other cruise line.
3. An Adult-Only Oasis: Escape the Chaos and Rediscover Relaxation
For those seeking a child-free getaway, Virgin Voyages’ 18+ policy is a game-changer. It creates a sophisticated and relaxed atmosphere where you can truly unwind and reconnect. No screaming kids by the pool, no crowded kids’ clubs—just a peaceful and tranquil environment perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers seeking a sophisticated escape. But the benefits of an adult-only environment go beyond just peace and quiet.
Think about it: on a traditional family-focused cruise, you might find yourself navigating crowded buffets, vying for pool chairs next to splashing children, or struggling to find a quiet corner to enjoy a conversation. On Virgin Voyages, that’s simply not the case. The absence of children creates a noticeably different vibe. It’s more relaxed, more sophisticated, and more conducive to adult conversation and connection. You can enjoy the dining experiences knowing that everyone is practicing appropriate dining etiquette, creating a more pleasant and hygienic atmosphere.
This adult-only atmosphere allows for a different kind of experience. You can:
- Enjoy uninterrupted relaxation: Lounge by the pool with a cocktail without the constant splashing and noise. Even better, if you book a Sea Terrace cabin or higher, you can relax in your own private hammock on your balcony, swaying gently with the ocean breeze. This is the ultimate in relaxation at sea and one of my favorite places to be!
- Have meaningful conversations: Engage in deeper conversations with your travel companions or meet new people in a relaxed and mature setting.
- Participate in adult-focused activities: Virgin Voyages offers a range of unique activities designed specifically for adults. While many are included in the fare, you can also enhance your experience with options like the “Rice Rice Baby” sushi-making class, the indulgent “Let’s Get Choco-lit” chocolate-making class, or “Shot for Shot,” a fun and interactive mixology class. These add-on experiences provide opportunities to learn new skills, indulge your passions, and create lasting memories.
- Rediscover romance: If you’re traveling with a partner, the adult-only environment provides a more romantic and intimate setting.
4. Value That Goes Beyond the Price Tag: What's Included Matters
While Virgin Voyages might seem pricier than some traditional cruises at first glance, the overall value is exceptional. To truly understand the value proposition, it’s important to look beyond the initial price tag and consider what’s included.
As you can see in the image above, when compared to other luxury cruise lines, Virgin Voyages often comes out on top. This is because they offer a truly all-inclusive experience. With all restaurants, basic beverages (soda, juice, coffee), Wi-Fi, and gratuities included in the voyage fare, there are no surprise expenses or hidden charges at the end of your trip. This all-inclusive approach allows you to relax and enjoy your vacation without constantly worrying about budgeting for every meal or drink.
Think about it: on other cruise lines, those extra charges can really add up. Specialty restaurants, alcoholic beverages, Wi-Fi packages, and daily gratuities can significantly increase your final bill. With Virgin Voyages, these costs are already factored in, giving you greater peace of mind and making it easier to stick to your budget.
5. Navigating Towards a Sustainable Future: An Epic Sea Change for All
Traveling responsibly is crucial, and Virgin Voyages is committed to minimizing its environmental impact and protecting the oceans. They’re taking several key steps toward sustainable cruising, encapsulated in what they call their “Epic Sea Change for All” program:
- Fuel Efficiency: Their ships utilize advanced technology for greater fuel efficiency, reducing emissions. This contributes to cleaner air and a smaller carbon footprint.
- Waste and Water Management: They prioritize minimizing waste through innovative onboard systems and responsible disposal, along with water conservation measures throughout the ship. This reduces pollution and conserves precious resources.
- Sustainable Sourcing: Virgin Voyages aims to source food and supplies from sustainable partners whenever possible. This supports ethical practices and reduces the environmental impact of their supply chain.
- Shoreside Sustainability: They collaborate with local communities at their destinations to promote sustainable practices. This helps protect local ecosystems and support responsible tourism.
Through their “Epic Sea Change for All” program, these efforts demonstrate Virgin Voyages’ dedication to a more sustainable future for cruising. By sailing with them, you support a company working to protect our oceans and planet.
If you’re looking for a cruise experience that’s completely different from the norm, I highly recommend giving Virgin Voyages a try. From the sexy ship design to the incredible dining, unique entertainment, adult-only atmosphere, exceptional value, and commitment to sustainability—these five reasons are why I only cruise with them now. I’m confident you’ll feel the same way.
Ready to set sail? Visit https://bit.ly/adultcruising to book your next voyage or contact me, Kimberly Hall at (240) 888-1845 / email di*************@***oo.com.
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