Tips for First-Time Virgin Voyages Sailors: What I Wish I Knew Before Boarding

After sailing with several cruise lines over the years, I thought I knew what to expect when Josh and I boarded our first Virgin Voyages cruise. I was wrong. In the best possible way.

Virgin Voyages is unlike any other cruise line we have experienced. It’s adults-only, stylish, and refreshingly relaxed. There are no buffets, no kids, and no formal nights. Instead, you get incredible food, high-energy entertainment, and the freedom to do your vacation your way.

Since our sailing on the Scarlet Lady, I have had a lot of people ask what it is really like and what to expect on their first cruise. These are my best tips for first-time Virgin Voyages sailors to help you make the most of your experience.

If you want to read a full review of our itinerary and my honest take on who Virgin Voyages is really for, check out my post Who is Virgin Voyages Really For? A First-Timer’s Honest Review.

1. Download the App Before You Board

The Virgin Voyages app is your lifeline from the moment you check in. It is how you make dining reservations, schedule activities, and even order food to your cabin.

Before boarding, use it to:

• Upload your passport and complete your health form.

• Choose your dinner reservations as soon as they open (they go fast).

• Check in and choose your arrival time at the port.

Once on board, you will use the app constantly, so make sure your phone is charged and your Wi-Fi connection is strong. Virgin Voyages includes Wi-Fi, but if you want extra security while traveling, I recommend using NordVPN.

2. Book Dining as Soon as You Can

One of the biggest differences between Virgin and traditional cruises is that all dining venues are included, but you need to reserve tables. Restaurants like The Wake, Extra Virgin, and Pink Agave are incredibly popular, and prime times fill quickly.

You can always adjust your reservations once on board, but it is easier to start with a solid plan. Even if you do not book every restaurant in advance, do it for the ones you absolutely want to try.

3. Forget Everything You Know About Cruise Dining

There are no buffets and no main dining rooms on Virgin Voyages. Instead, you will find a mix of restaurants, bars, and grab-and-go spots.

Each restaurant feels like a standalone venue with its own menu and style. The quality of food rivals many land-based restaurants, and every meal feels special. The best part is that it is all included in your fare.

My personal must-tries:

• The steak and seafood at The Wake

• Handmade pasta at Extra Virgin

• The tasting menu at The Test Kitchen

• The tacos and mezcal at Pink Agave

4. Pack for Comfort and Style

Virgin Voyages has no formal nights. You will see everything from sundresses and sandals to chic resort wear. The key is to wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident.

If you want to lean into the ship’s signature party, pack something red for Scarlet Night. It is their biggest event of the cruise, and the entire ship joins in.

Shoes you can walk in are a must, especially if you plan to explore ports like Roatán or Costa Maya on excursions booked through Get Your Guide or Viator.

5. Try the Fitness Classes

I have never seen a cruise ship so dedicated to wellness. The gym and fitness studios are huge, and classes are included. Whether you like yoga, spin, or HIIT workouts, there is something for everyone.

You can sign up for classes through the app, and they fill quickly on sea days. If you prefer a slower start, there are sunrise meditations and stretching sessions that are surprisingly popular.

6. Understand What Is Included

Virgin Voyages is more inclusive than most cruise lines, but it is still good to know what you are getting.

Your fare includes:

• All dining and restaurants

• Wi-Fi

• Basic beverages (water, coffee, tea, juices, and sodas)

• Tips and gratuities

• All fitness classes

What is not included:

• Alcoholic beverages

• Specialty coffee drinks

• Spa treatments

• Shore excursions

You can pre-purchase a “Bar Tab” for a discount if you plan to enjoy cocktails on board.

7. Don’t Miss the Scarlet Night Party

Scarlet Night is the signature event of every Virgin Voyages sailing. Everyone dresses in red, and the entire ship transforms into a floating dance party.

It starts with smaller pop-up performances throughout the ship and ends with a giant poolside party. Even if you are not a big dancer, it is worth attending just for the spectacle and energy.

8. Visit the Private Beach Club in Bimini Early

Bimini was one of our favorite stops. The Beach Club at Bimini is exclusive to Virgin Voyages sailors and feels like a mix between a luxury resort and a tropical lounge.

Get there early to claim a lounger by the water before it fills up. The DJ sets start in the afternoon, and the vibe builds throughout the day. If you prefer quiet, head to the beach area farther down where the music is softer.

If you want to see more of the island, you can also explore local tours and transfers through TripAdvisor.

9. Expect Non-Traditional Entertainment

Do not look for Broadway-style shows or comedians. Virgin Voyages focuses on immersive, unexpected experiences. One night might feature acrobatics, and the next could involve a pop-up karaoke battle in the roundabout.

It helps to go in with an open mind and a sense of humor. You will get more out of it if you join in rather than sit back and watch.

10. Bring an Open Mind

Virgin Voyages is designed for travelers who want something different. The vibe is modern and a little cheeky, and the experience is focused on flexibility and fun.

It is not about luxury in the traditional sense but about comfort, design, and freedom. Whether you are sipping cocktails at Sip Lounge, taking a nap in a hammock on your balcony, or joining a spontaneous dance party, the goal is to relax and enjoy yourself without rules.

11. Take Advantage of the Wi-Fi (But Disconnect When You Can)

The free Wi-Fi worked well throughout our sailing, but it is always smart to have backup connectivity when traveling. I use Airalo eSIMs for international travel so I can stay connected when we visit ports like Roatán or Bimini.

That said, one of the best parts of the trip was unplugging. There is something about sitting on the balcony, watching the sunset over the Caribbean, and realizing you have nowhere you need to be.

12. Relax and Let Go of Expectations

If you are used to the structure of other cruise lines, Virgin Voyages might surprise you at first. There are fewer announcements, no fixed dinner times, and a lot of freedom to do what you want.

Once you adjust, it is incredibly freeing. You can sleep in, skip formal dining, and create a day that fits your mood instead of following a schedule.

Final Thoughts

Our first Virgin Voyages cruise was refreshing, stylish, and fun in ways we did not expect. It broke all the rules of traditional cruising, and we loved that about it.

If you are planning your first sailing, keep an open mind, try everything at least once, and be ready to relax. Whether you are exploring tropical beaches or dancing under the stars on Scarlet Night, Virgin Voyages is designed for travelers who want something different and a little daring.

For more details on what makes this cruise line unique, read my companion post Who is Virgin Voyages Really For? A First-Timer’s Honest Review for a deeper look at dining, entertainment, and who this cruise line best fits.