04/12/2024
Finally getting around to our review of our Virgin Voyages 4-night cruise last month that we were able to take prior to our National Conference cruise.
Virgin Voyages (one of Richard Branson's brands) is the new kid on the block as far as cruise lines, and they are definitely going for a different vibe as compared to other lines. No kids (18+ only), and more inclusive than most lines: all food venues and most non-alcoholic beverages are included in the price, as is Wi-Fi, gratuities and fitness classes. They are considered a premium cruise line, as are Princess, Holland America, Celebrity, and Disney.
We'd heard good things about them, but also heard they might not appeal to everyone, so we were happy for the chance to experience them in person. As with most cruise lines there were many things we liked, but also a few things not so much. Check out our PROS and CONS below and also the photos with comments to see if a cruise with Virgin is for you. We've also got some helpful video that we'll post later in some reels.
PROS:
- Great value considering all that is included at no extra cost
- Food is excellent, although there were some misses (see CONS)
- Caters to younger cruisers and average age is lower than other premium cruise lines, probably around mid-40's although plenty of 20+ and 30+ cruisers onboard.
- "Some" of the entertainment was among the best we've seen at sea - their unique, acrobatic performance and take on Romeo & Juliet was fantastic. But some of the shows.... ugh, not so much (see CONS)
- Great choice for fitness oriented cruisers, the gym(s) were awesome and fitness classes are included at no extra charge
- Has an irreverent, kind of Vegas-y vibe that may appeal to some
- We're not drinkers so no big deal for us, but we hear the way Virgin handles drink purchases/packages is more cost effective than other cruise lines
- The hammocks on every balcony (and most rooms are balconies) are wonderful! They might be reason alone for us to sail on VV again!
CONS:
- Their alternative to a traditional buffet (more like a food court, no self-serve) was hit-&-miss for us. It's not that it was bad, but the choices didn't vary much from day to day. And sometimes I just want to make my own dang salad!
- If you don't like to hear salty language from the entertainment performers (at any time of day, not just late night), VV is probably not for you.
- Speaking of entertainment, the performers were all very talented, but some of the shows were just really bizarre and not very enjoyable for us. Maybe we were too old or whatever, but we also noticed some other guests were pretty eager to leave some of the shows very early.
- May not appeal to older cruisers who like a more subdued, old-fashioned experience that you find with lines like Princess or Holland America.
We'd love to help find the perfect ocean or river cruise for you or your group. And best of all it won't cost you a thing!
