Cruising: 7 Ways Virgin Voyages Is Making A Big Splash
Richard Branson was known to say he was never interested in cruising.
Branson also suspected there were tons of people who agreed with him, until the day he changed his mind. Challenge accepted. He began making plans to create a Rockstar Experience for the seven seas.
His actual quote said, “It’s time to bring the Virgin brand to life on the sea and disrupt the travel industry.”
Being a virgin in the record business in the 70s was just the beginning of the Virgin empire. And when Sir Richard set out to revolutionize the cruise industry, you bet people paid attention.
I honestly don’t think I have ever responded to an email so fast as the one inviting me to RSVP for a tour of Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady in Miami, Florida. With tons of cruise experience in my repertoire, I know what to look for onboard. The anticipation alone was thrilling; I told my friends I have a (work) date with Richard. No, he wasn’t there, but his people were. Click here to book your cruise now !
Think you know cruising? Think again.
What were my first impressions?
The energy aboard was electric, like walking into a rock concert. Big happy faces welcomed 1000+ travel agents ready to see, taste and feel the Virgin style. Think about it, the crew’s sole purpose (after safety) is your happiness.
It’s was no doubt a party vibe, but as I roamed the ship, I could also picture myself napping in one of the cushy circular loungers, dipping in the spa’s thermal plunge pool awaiting my next OMG experience. I saw one of their signature pop up gigs as the entertainment crew (called Happenings) hosted a very adult trivia game at an outdoor bar. Everyone was folded over with laughter. I sampled velvety eggs benedict, pan seared sea bass, melt in your mouth pasta and an espresso gelato sundae that took me straight back to Rome.
Food quality is a huge part of the brand’s lure with menu creations from top chefs around the world.
Exactly how are these voyages different?
Their heart is all Green
First cruise line to commit to being carbon neutral from Day 1
Their ships decrease fuel needs with machinery that converts heat to energy
Diesel engines that can switch to alternative fuel sources when cleaner technologies are available
Cabin sensors automatically close curtains, turn off lights and lowers AC when rooms are unoccupied
Reduced waste with a ban on single use plastics, most disposable items, onboard recycling, no buffets, no straws, no plastic water bottles
Only partners with companies who share their must be good for people, animals & planet philosophy
Use of products with purpose: sustainable seafood, direct trade coffee,
Balcony cabins hammocks are sourced from women empowerment community
Room key bracelet (The Band) is made entirely from recycled ocean plastic
Work with local communities and entrepreneurs in port to create economic opportunity and growth for each destination.
“There is nothing more important in this world than our oceans, and we’re on a mission to protect them and set an example” -Richard Branson
Crystal Clear Transparency
Upfront pricing, no nickel and diming surprises
Wifi & basic beverages included
20 plus restaurants included
Tips included
No upcharge for solo sailors
Fair pricing: 42% of wines by the glass are under $10.
Beers $5-$6, cocktails $9 and specialty cocktails $14
Bar tab $300 purchase comes with $50 bonus
Free fitness classes (small groups)
If you do pay extra for an experience, you bet there’s an extraordinary reason for it
Lingo with a Twist
You’re on a voyage, not a cruise
You’re a sailor, not a passenger
Excursions are called Shore Things
Suites are called RockStar Quarters
The Spa is called Redemption
The tattoo parlor is called Squid Ink
Karaoke room is called The Groupie
Outdoor running track is called The Runway
Well Being The Virgin Way
Dress up or dress down, come as you are – no formal dress code
Lots of vegan and veggie friendly menu choices
Fresh pressed juice bar
Spa mud room, salt room, steam rooms
Spa thermal zone plunge pools
State of the art exercise equipment, many in outdoor areas
Free fitness classes, personal trainers
Outdoor yoga/meditation space
Onboard barbershop, blow out bar, mani-pedi and med spa!
Eat & Drink
Dining experiences created with Michelin starred chef collective
20 plus restaurants that crush any craving
Servers come to you, no buffets
The Test Kitchen Experience – Part cooking school, part restaurant
Vegetarian only restaurant called Razzle Dazzle
Complimentary ice cream parlor
Adults Only Vibe
Yacht like design features
In room mood lighting, including a “get it on’ mood with music
Tap that hot/ cold beverage stations
Bonfire party in Bimini, longer stays in port (with some over-nights too!)
Instagram worthy nooks everywhere
Lick Me Till I Scream is the name of the ice cream parlor
Retro Arcade & record shop
Your Quarters
Solo cabins available
Hand woven hammocks on all terraces
Many cabins include “The Seabed”. It converts to a sofa giving you more room
Suites come with tons of perks
USB ports / plugs everywhere
Glam station, fridge, large flat-screen HDTV
Roomy Rainshower
Who will love this cruise?
You’re a fan of all around eco practices and sustainability
You’re a FOODIE
You’re intrigued about a new concept in sailing
You embrace wellness and diversity
You love the Virgin brands and lifestyle
Who might not enjoy this cruise?
You want to cruise with kids
You’re not cozy with technology (apps and tablets) (Most planning is done in the app)
You prefer traditional cruise dining styles
You enjoy dressing formal for dinner
Would I sail with Virgin Voyages Again?
Yes. Yes. Yes. Over 71% of the Earth’s surface is water just waiting to be explored.
Click here to book your cruise now !
Virgin Voyages has ships sailing to dazzling destinations in the Caribbean, Europe and the Mediterranean. With the goal of turning you from a virgin to a cruiser, this is your ticket to do just that. Remember, it costs you nothing to work with me to book your next voyage and giving you first hand personal service.
