Your First Virgin Voyages Cruise: Step-by-Step Planning Guide for First-Timers
My husband and I recently got back from our first Virgin Voyage Cruise (and our first relaxing vacation in over 10 years), and we are HOOKED. We took off with zero plans and low expectations, and we were blown away. We spent 5 nights relaxing on the balcony, dancing on the pool deck, watching fun shows, and devouring some of the most delicious meals. I mean…is it too soon to book a 10-day Mediterranean cruise?!
I did go into this cruise with full intentions to write about it and give you my full and honest review to help you plan your own trip. So, below you’ll find EVERYTHING you need to know about planning your first Virgin Voyage Cruise.
| Booking Through My Link (Perks Included!!!) If you choose to book your Virgin Voyages cruise using my link, I’ll be listed as your travel advisor at no additional cost to you. That simply means I earn a small commission from the cruise line, and you gain access to me as a resource before your sailing. Perks of booking through my link may include: 1. $50-$200 in Bonus Sailor Loot (on board credit) 2. Access to any eligible promotional offers 3. Help with questions before your trip (you’ll have direct access to me) 4. Complimentary Outside Insurance Quote (to compare pricing) 5. Before and After port itineraries (app or PDF format) 6. VIP Pre-Cruise Planning Guide and Helpful Checklists 7. Hotel Recommendations (for before or after) You’ll pay the same price you would if you were to book directly (and still have full control over the booking), but you’ll have an experienced traveler in your corner. As always, thank you for supporting my small business 🤍 Click HERE to browse all available Virgin Voyage Cruises! |
Table of Contents
Planning your First Virgin Voyage Cruise
Step 1: Is Virgin Voyages Right for You?
Before you dive into planning, let’s make sure Virgin Voyages is actually your vibe. First and foremost, this is an adults-only cruise line (18+), which immediately changes the atmosphere. Think relaxed mornings, wellness classes, elevated dining, nighttime parties, and zero splash pads and crying babies.
There’s no traditional buffet, and instead of one main dining room, you’ll find multiple specialty restaurants, all included in your fare (and they were all SO.GOOD). The overall feel is modern and design-forward, not stuffy luxury, but definitely not cheesy cruise energy either.
Virgin Voyages is ideal for couples, friend groups, and especially 30–50-somethings or busy professionals who want a fun but elevated getaway without kid-centric chaos (sign this teacher up!)
Step 2: Choose the Right Itinerary
This is where a lot of first-time cruisers get overwhelmed, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Start by asking yourself three simple questions: How far do I want to fly? What month am I hoping for? And how many PTO days do I realistically have?
A. Caribbean vs Mediterranean vs. Transatlantic Sailings
Caribbean sailings (typically 4–5 nights from Miami or San Juan) are perfect if you want something easy, warm, and low-commitment. You’ll get beach days, crystal-clear water, and often a stop at the Beach Club at Bimini. These shorter itineraries are ideal if you’re testing out cruising for the first time or don’t want to burn a full week of PTO.
Mediterranean itineraries (usually 7+ nights) are more immersive and port-heavy. Think Barcelona, the French Riviera, Italian coastlines, or Greek islands. These cruises feel like a multi-country European trip, without packing and unpacking in five different hotels.
Transatlantic sailings are another option if you want an experience as the destination. These repositioning cruises typically happen in spring and fall as ships move between the Caribbean and Mediterranean. They’re longer (often 10–15+ nights) and spend more days at sea, which means more relaxation, deep sea views, and a chance to really disconnect from real life. They’re great if you love slow travel and don’t mind fewer port stops in exchange for big ocean days and unique itinerary patterns.
B. Best Cruise Length for First-Time Cruisers
If you’re unsure how you’ll feel about cruising, a 4–5 night sailing is the sweet spot. It’s long enough to experience everything, dining, shows, port days, relaxation, but short enough that it doesn’t feel overwhelming. Our first one was a 5-nighter, with 2 port days, and it was the perfect intro.
If you’re flying internationally, however, a 7-night itinerary makes much more sense. You’re already committing to the long flight, so you may as well maximize your time.
For busy professionals with limited PTO, many 4–5 night sailings only require 2–3 days off work, which is part of why they’re such a smart option.
C. Best Time of Year to Cruise
As with any vacation, timing can impact both your experience and your budget. We took our Caribbean cruise in February, and we were met with sunny and warm mornings (~75ish F) and some afternoon clouds and showers (at 3pm every day!)
- Hurricane season (June–November) can bring lower prices in the Caribbean, but it also carries weather risk. Cruise lines are experienced at rerouting when necessary, but flexibility in your schedule and mindset helps (and insurance is SO important).
- Shoulder season (late spring and early fall) often offers the best balance of good weather and fewer crowds, especially in the Mediterranean.
- Peak summer brings lively energy and warm water, but also higher prices and busier ports for Med cruises.
- December-April is the best time for Caribbean cruises because you’ll enjoy warm, sunny weather with lower humidity and minimal hurricane risk during the region’s dry season. Virgin Caribbean cruises depart from Miami or San Juan, which will lead to much higher winter temps than some other departure ports.
If you’re flexible with dates, you can often find better pricing outside peak holiday windows. And if weather matters most to you, aim for late spring or early fall sailings for a sweet spot of sunshine and fewer crowds.
Browse all available Sailings HERE!
Step 3: Pick the Right Cabin
Your cabin choice can completely shape your cruise experience, and it’s one of the biggest pricing differences you’ll see when booking. The good news? Virgin Voyages doesn’t have bad cabins. The key is choosing the one that matches your travel style and budget.
We chose a Central Sea Terrace, and it was 1000 percent worth the $300 difference.
A. Insider vs Sea Terrace vs Rockstar
Insider Cabin (Budget-Friendly Option)
If you plan to spend most of your time exploring the ship, dining, and on deck, an Insider cabin is a perfectly smart choice. These interior rooms don’t have a window, but they’re modern, comfortable, and typically the most affordable way to sail. For shorter Caribbean cruises, especially, this can be a great starter option.
Sea Terrace (Balcony Cabin)
This is Virgin’s most popular category (over 85% of the total rooms have a balcony) and for good reason. A Sea Terrace gives you a private balcony (complete with their signature red hammock), floor-to-ceiling glass doors, and a bit more breathing room. Morning coffee with an ocean view or sunset wind-downs on your hammock? Sign me up!
Rockstar & Mega Rockstar (Luxury Upgrade)
If you have a bit more wiggle room in the budget and want the bougiest experience, Rockstar cabins come with larger suites, premium perks, and extra service touches. Think priority boarding, curated bar setups, and more space to spread out. This is where you splurge for special occasions, anniversaries, milestone birthdays, or just because.
There are different levels of upgrade, and you can even bid on these rooms after booking for the chance of snagging one at a lower price.
B. Where NOT to Book a Cabin (noise tips)
Location matters more than people realize. And, if you know me, you know I love some goooood sleep. We were actually very impressed at how quiet the rooms were, but if you’re sensitive to noise, you could avoid cabins:
- Directly below the pool deck or above nightclubs
- Near elevators and high-traffic corridors
- Close to late-night venues or music spaces
Instead, aim for a cabin sandwiched between other cabin decks, not directly under public areas. Mid-ship locations can also help if you’re concerned about motion. We stayed mid-ship on floor 11 and had zero complaints.
You can choose your cabin with the essential or premium fares right on the website, OR contact me for help (as long as it’s not a Lock-in rate).
A little attention to cabin placement now can mean better sleep later, andddddd that’s always worth it on vacation.
Step 4: Understand What’s Included (and What’s Not)
This is one of the biggest differences between Virgin Voyages and traditional cruise lines, and it’s especially important for first-timers. The pricing may look higher upfront, but much more is bundled into your fare. Knowing what’s included (and what isn’t) helps you budget confidently and avoid surprises.
What’s Included in Your Fare
- All specialty restaurants — There’s no main dining room or buffet. Every restaurant onboard is included, from upscale Italian to Korean BBQ (my fav) to late-night bites in the Galley.
- Basic beverages — Still and sparkling water, soda, drip coffee, tea, and juices.
- Group fitness classes — Many fitness classes are complimentary, not an upcharge.
- Gratuities (tips) — No awkward end-of-trip tipping calculations.
- Entertainment — Unique shows, live music, comedy shows, themed parties, and events like Scarlet Night.
- Beach Club at Bimini access — Transportation, food, lounge chairs, and pool access are included when your itinerary stops there.
👉 For a full breakdown, see: What’s Included on Virgin Voyages?
👉 And if you’re stopping in the Bahamas, check out my Bimini Beach Club guide for tips on how to plan your day.
What Costs Extra
- Alcohol & specialty drinks — Cocktails, wine, and premium coffee are not included (though you can pre-purchase a bar tab with bonuses). We spent $750 for our bar tab and recieved $225 extra! Each drink averages $11 to $17.
- Shore excursions — Port activities and guided tours cost extra.
- Spa services — Massages, thermal suites, and treatments are additional.
- Some specialty food — We didn’t buy any of this, but I noticed some options on the menus (ex: oysters). The included food was all SO delicious.
Understanding this balance helps you see the real value of the cruise and plan ahead for the extras that matter most to you.
Step 5: Download the App + Pre-Book Like a Pro
Virgin Voyages runs almost everything through its app, and downloading it early is one of the smartest moves you can make. Once your sailing is confirmed, the app becomes your control center for dining reservations, shore excursions, event bookings, and even selecting your embarkation (boarding) arrival time.
Dining reservations open 12-120 days before your cruise (depending on the fare you purchased), and the most popular restaurants fill up quickly, especially on shorter sailings. I was only able to book my reservations 15 days prior, and did so right at midnight when they opened. I did secure reservations for each restaurant, but the times were a bit crazy (but doable).
You’ll also be able to browse and book shore excursions, reserve spots for select onboard events, and choose your preferred arrival window at the port.
Pro tip: As soon as reservations open, prioritize booking high-demand spots like Gunbae (Korean BBQ experience) and Extra Virgin (Italian). You can always adjust plans once onboard, but securing those early gives you peace of mind and a much smoother first cruise experience. If you are unable to secure a reservation, you can try again once onboard or try to walk into some of the restaurants.
Step 6: Plan Your Port Days
Port days are where your cruise starts to feel like a multi-destination trip, and a little planning goes a long way. The key question for first-timers isn’t “What should I do?” but rather, “Do I even need to book something?”
For our first Virgin cruise, we did ZERO shore excursions (we really just wanted to relax with no plans), AND it was still so much fun. However, shore excursions can definitely add a bit of adventure to your vacay.
A. Do You Need Shore Excursions?
Not always.
When to book a shore excursion:
- You’re visiting a bucket-list destination and want a structured experience.
- Transportation from the port is complicated.
- You prefer guided tours and zero logistics.
- You’re short on time and want to maximize the day.
When DIY makes sense:
- The port is walkable (many Caribbean stops are).
- You just want beach time.
- You’re comfortable navigating public transportation or taxis.
- You prefer flexibility and lower cost.
For first-time cruisers, booking at least one organized excursion can remove stress, but not every port needs a packed itinerary. Sometimes wandering, grabbing a drink by the water, or exploring at your own pace is the better move.
B. What to Expect at Bimini Beach Club
If your itinerary includes Bimini, this stop is unique. Instead of booking a traditional excursion, most passengers head to Virgin Voyages’ private Beach Club.
Here’s what to expect:
- Party pool vs. chill beach: One pool has DJ energy and a livelier vibe, while the beach and other areas feel much more relaxed.
- Food situation: Complimentary lunch is served (think fresh, beachy, casual fare...I mean, look at that picture. We definitely tried one of everything on the menu).
- What’s included: Transportation from the ship, lounge chairs, umbrellas (first come, first served), pool access, and food.
If you want a full breakdown of where to sit, when to go, and how to plan your day, check out my complete Bimini Beach Club guide for insider tips before you sail.
Check out Port Excursions before you book!
Step 7: What to Pack on Your First Virgin Voyage Cruise
Packing for Virgin Voyages is a little different than traditional cruises, a little less formal, more fun, and definitely more expressive. The vibe is elevated resort wear with personality, so you don’t need ball gowns or tuxes, but you do want to plan ahead for themed nights and stylish dinners.
I wore dresses each night, but it’s definitely not required. There were some people who were much more dressed up than me and that A LOT wearing jeans, shorts, or even sweatpants to dinner.
Here’s what to prioritize:
- Scarlet Night outfit – Bring at least one bold red look for Virgin’s signature party night. Think red dress, jumpsuit, button-down, or even just fun red accessories.
- Resort casual dinner outfits – Nice sundresses, linen sets, dressy sandals, button-downs, or elevated casual pieces work perfectly for the onboard restaurants.
- Theme night outfits – Check your sailing for themed events (pajama party, 70s disco vibes, etc.) and pack accordingly if you want to participate.
- Swimsuits (at least two) – For pool days, hot tubs, and Bimini Beach Club.
- Travel documents – Passport (if required), boarding documents, ID, and any pre-cruise paperwork.
- Motion sickness meds or patches – Even if you don’t think you’ll need them, it’s better to have them on hand.
- Portable charger – For long port days and full days exploring the ship.
- A comfy pair of sandals: This one I regretted BIG TIME. My feet were so sore from the cutesy sandals I packed.
Virgin is relaxed but stylish, so pack pieces that feel comfortable, breathable, and photo-ready.
👉 For a complete checklist (including embarkation day essentials and what NOT to pack), see my full Virgin Voyages packing list guide.
Step 8: Protect Your Trip
No one likes thinking about worst-case scenarios before vacation, BUTTTTTT protecting your trip is one of the smartest moves you can make, especially when cruises have strict departure times. Ships don’t wait. If something goes wrong, you’re responsible for catching up at the next port, and that can get expensive fast.
What happens if your flight is delayed?
If you’re flying in on the same day your cruise departs and your flight gets canceled or severely delayed, you could miss embarkation entirely. That’s why I always recommend arriving at least one day early and considering travel insurance for added protection.
We flew in on the same day (extra early), but it could definitely get stressful quickly.
What if you miss the cruise?
Unlike a hotel stay, you can’t just “check in late.” Missing the ship may mean paying out-of-pocket for last-minute flights, hotels, and transportation to meet the cruise at its next stop…if that’s even possible.
Medical emergencies abroad
Your regular health insurance may not fully cover medical care outside the U.S., and emergency evacuation from a ship or foreign country can be extremely expensive. Cruise lines do have medical facilities onboard, but serious situations may require off-ship treatment.
Why third-party travel insurance may be smarter than cruise insurance
Cruise-line insurance often focuses primarily on the cruise fare itself. Third-party providers typically offer broader protection, including flight delays, trip interruption, medical coverage, and emergency evacuation. It’s often more flexible and not tied solely to the cruise portion of your trip.
If you want a deeper breakdown of what’s covered (and what’s not), read my full Cruise Travel Insurance Guide and my honest Faye Travel Insurance review to help decide what makes sense for your trip.
A little preparation upfront can mean a lot less stress if something unexpected happens, and that peace of mind is worth considering.
Want a COMPLIMENTARY Faye Insurance Quote?! Fill out this form, and I’ll send the quote in 24 hours (or less). No pressure to book it, but you can compare prices then!
What a Typical Sea Day Looks Like Onboard
If you’ve never cruised before, sea days can feel mysterious. Are you bored? Is it chaotic? Do you need a plan? The truth is, sea days are what you make them. They can be slow and relaxing or packed with activity. Each day, you’ll be able to check out the full schedule right on the app!
Here’s what a realistic, balanced sea day might look like on Virgin Voyages.
Morning
Sea days usually start quietly. You might grab coffee at The Galley and head to the top deck to watch the ocean roll by. It’s surprisingly peaceful.
Some people:
- Take a sunrise deck walk
- Hit the gym
- Join a complimentary fitness class
- Enjoy a slow breakfast without rushing
There’s no pressure to “do it all.” You’re not trying to beat crowds at a port, you’re just easing into the day.
Afternoon
This is when the ship feels lively.
You could:
- Claim a lounge chair by the pool
- Read a book with ocean views
- Join a wellness or fitness class
- Play trivia or onboard games
- Grab lunch at The Galley (think made-to-order stations instead of buffet chaos)
Sea days are perfect for that mix of social energy and personal downtime. You can be as involved or uninvolved as you want.
Evening
Evenings are when Virgin Voyages really shines.
A typical night might include:
- Dinner at one of the included specialty restaurants
- A creative, immersive show
- Live music or themed events
- Dancing (if you’re feeling it)
- Late-night pizza before bed (trust meeeee, it’s SO good).
There’s always something happening, but you’re never required to participate. If you’d rather sit on your balcony with a glass of wine, that works too.
For first-time cruisers especially, sea days are often the moment you realize cruising isn’t chaotic, it’s actually one of the most relaxing ways to travel.
OKAY! I’m convinced and READY to book!
Common First-Time Virgin Voyage Cruise Questions
If you’ve never cruised before, or if this is your first time on Virgin Voyages, it’s completely normal to have questions. Let’s clear up the ones I hear most often.
Do you need a passport?
For most Caribbean sailings that start and end in the U.S., a passport is strongly recommended but not always legally required (a birth certificate + government ID may suffice).
However, if you’re sailing internationally (like the Mediterranean) or want maximum flexibility in case of emergencies, bring your passport. It’s the safest option. (I ALWAYS strongly recommend having it with you, no matter if it’s required or not).
Can you bring alcohol onboard?
Virgin Voyages allows each sailor to bring two 750ml bottles of wine per cabin at embarkation. Hard liquor and beer are not permitted. Otherwise, alcohol onboard is available for purchase, and you can pre-purchase a bar tab for savings.
Is WiFi free?
Basic WiFi is included for all guests. It’s sufficient for messaging, browsing, and social media. If you need faster speeds for work or streaming, upgraded packages are available for purchase
Is Virgin Voyages a party cruise?
It can be, but only if you want it to be. There are themed nights and DJ sets, but there are also quiet corners, wellness classes, and relaxed lounges. It’s more “grown-up social energy” than wild spring break vibes.
What’s the average age onboard?
Most passengers are typically in their late 20s to 50s, with a strong showing of 30- and 40-somethings. You won’t find college spring break crowds, but it’s also not a retirement cruise. The vibe feels modern and balanced.
Do you need cash?
Not really. The ship operates on a cashless system linked to your onboard account (right on your wristband). You may want small bills for certain port days, but onboard purchases are charged to your account
Is it for swingers or too “risqué”?
This is a common rumor, and no, it’s not a “swingers cruise.” The atmosphere is adults-only and modern, but not inappropriate. There may be playful humor, bold entertainment, and inclusive performances, but it’s more cheeky than explicit. If you’re comfortable in a fun, contemporary setting, you’ll be just fine.
What if I’m a picky eater?
You’ll likely be pleasantly surprised. With multiple specialty restaurants included, from Italian to Korean BBQ to steakhouse-style dining, there’s plenty of variety.
Even if you end up not enjoying the food in the restaurants, you can head to The Galley and order exactly what you want (burgers, pizza, breakfast, sushi, sandwiches, salads, etc).
Is there a drag queen onboard?
Yes, Virgin Voyages is known for inclusive, high-energy entertainment, and many sailings feature drag performances as part of the onboard shows or events. They’re typically playful, theatrical, and celebratory rather than over-the-top explicit. Participation is optional, and there’s always something else happening onboard if that’s not your scene.
Final Thoughts: Is Virgin Voyages Good for First-Time Cruisers?
For many first-time cruisers, especially adults who want something modern and low-stress, Virgin Voyages is actually one of the easiest cruise lines to start with. The adults-only environment removes a lot of the chaos people associate with cruising, and the included specialty dining means no buffet lines or rigid main dining schedules to figure out.
If you’re a couple looking for a fun getaway, a group of friends celebrating something, or a busy professional who just wants a vacation where most of the planning is handled for you, this style of cruising can feel refreshingly simple.
That said, it’s not for everyone. If you love traditional cruise structure, formal dining nights, classic ship activities, or you’re traveling with children, another cruise line may be a better fit. Virgin Voyages is best for adults who want a relaxed but elevated vibe, less cafeteria, more curated experience, and for first-timers who’d rather ease into cruising without the overwhelm.
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