Preparing for your Virgin Voyage

Congratulations on your recent Virgin Voyages booking! You are going to love this experience! To help you get ready for your voyage, I’m going to guide you through this journey! As you go through these resources, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me with your questions. You are welcome to text, call, or email me (rocky@thiscruiselife.com)

Quick Links


Virgin Voyages Website

I am first going to take you on a tour of the Virgin Voyages website to ensure that you’re maximizing what you’re seeing and how to make edits/changes if necessary. You’ll want to get started by signing into your account on https://virginvoyages.com (opens in a new window so you can flip between this window and the website). Click on the little guy with a suitcase next to “Book,” sign in, and then select “Go To Your Account” to access your booking(s).

If you scroll down on the next screen that comes up, you’ll see “Your Upcoming Voyage” listed. The easiest thing to do here is click the big red button that says “Go To Voyage Home.” This will open up a screen with a navigation tab that should look like the image below:

An example of what you will see. The voyage date and description should match your booking.

Clicking into “Home” you’ll see all of the main details for the voyage including booking reference number, the voyage dates, and a spot for add-ons. If you click the “Add-ons” button, it will pop out a side bar that shows all of your inclusions which may include Bar Tab, Sailor Loot, and more! I’ll go over what those are further down on this page.

If you click the second tab labeled “Discover”, you’ll find ways to add in extra Bar Tab to your voyage, and if you scroll further down, you can purchase Shore Things (shore excursions – things to do when the ship docks in port).

The last tab that I’ll bring to your attention is “My Voyage” which I believe is one of the most important tabs. Here you’ll see several actionable items including the option to “modify my booking” – please do not click that; if you need to make any changes to your booking, let me know first so I can help you out!

When you scroll down on that page, you’ll see a window that looks similar to the on pictured to the right. You’ll see what your cabin number is, the deck it’s located on and the type of cabin you’re in. I’ll break down the different cabin types below in another section for you. The first clickable link in this section is “Bid to Level Up!” This is one of my favorite links. If you are interested in moving to a better cabin category, you can click this link and offer some money to change your cabin type. You’ll be taken to another page where you’ll enter your information to see if you’re eligible. If qualified, you’ll have the opportunity to tell Virgin Voyages how much you’re willing to pay to upgrade to a different type of cabin (downgrades are not available at this time). A word of caution: if your bid is accepted for the amount you proposed, you cannot back out. The reservation will be changed and you will be assigned a cabin in the category awarded. Again, if you are interested in the upgrade and would like my assistance, please let me know! I’m ready to help you out!

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What to Expect

You’ll want to download the Virgin Voyages app from your smartphone store. If you haven’t done it already, please make sure you have checked in for your voyage. You will receive an email from Virgin Voyages the week before you set sail informing you of your adjusted boarding time. If you’d like, you can drop your luggage off at the cruise terminal (Terminal V in Miami) as early as 10am the day of the cruise and then head back out into Miami to explore and experience the city vibes. Boarding time for your group should begin at 2pm and it’s a super fast and easy process. You will need to bring with you your passport (preferred) or birth certificate and your mobile device with the boarding information pulled up (in the app).

Once on board, dining is open on deck 15 at The Galley. You can also drop off your personal carry-on items at your cabin right away. If you haven’t done it already, you’ll want to make plans on the shows you wish to catch during the voyage. Before the ship can set sail, there’s one more step you’ll need to complete: the Muster Process. With Virgin Voyages, you can complete this from the tablet in your stateroom or in the Virgin Voyages app. This explains what to do in the unlikely event of an emergency and is a Maritime requirement.

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The Schedule

Dining reservations open up for your sailing 45-days before your voyage. This will be accomplished in the Virgin Voyages App. Simply open the app, log in, and scroll to down to the section titled “Get Ship Ready…” In here, you’ll see a spot called Restaurants where you can go in and plan out your entire voyage. The nice thing is that the Line-up schedule will also be available at the same time so you can plan accordingly.

Dining

  • The Wake (RESERVE) – this is the onboard steakhouse serving salmon, filet mignon, and many more delicious bites. You won’t want to miss this spot on board. It has great views of… the wake! Make reservations for brunch AND dinner here!
  • Gunbae (RESERVE) – if you like Korean BBQ, then this is the perfect spot for you! Depending on the size of your group, you may get seated with others. Don’t worry, though, there are some great ice-breakers for your dining experience, including a spirited game of “Gunbae!” To make this experience even better, you won’t do any of the cooking yourself, it’s handled by a team of talented chefs in the restaurant right there at your table.
  • Pink Agave (RESERVE) – the Mexican infused dishes are calling your name at this restaurant. Step outside of your comfort zone and try a couple of dishes you never thought you’d enjoy. You might be surprised! You’ll think you’ve left the ship for an authentic Mexican restaurant, where the flavors are rich and the atmosphere is perfect!
  • Extra Virgin (RESERVE) – craving a little Italian food? You’re out of luck here. Extra Virgin dishes out family-sized plates of food that your group is sure to enjoy. From the anti-pasti to the dolce, you’re going to find savory dishes around every turn. This is a dining experience not to be missed, and make sure you save room for affogatto!
  • Test Kitchen (RESERVE) – throw everything you think you know about food out the window. This dining experience covers 5 courses and presents experimental dishes to taste. The menu is very basic here, but the dishes are unforgettable! If there’s something you won’t eat that’s on the menu, just let your server know, however you may be missing out on a great opportunity to try something new!
  • Razzle Dazzle (RESERVE) – let your vegetarian/vegan side run loose in this restaurant. You’ll be wow’ed and amazed at how tasty some of these dishes can be! And if you like some meat with your dish, you can always order from the “cheat” menu that features selections with lamb, steak, and chicken. If you’re sailing on Scarlet Lady in 2025, you’ll be experiencing Lucky Lotus at Razzle Dazzle which is a carry forward from the annual Asian Food Festival hosted onboard the Lady ships. Make reservations for bunch AND dinner here.
  • Galley – Virgin Voyages doesn’t believe in buffets, so here you’ll find 8 small counter-service dining options. No reservations necessary, just show up hungry! The Galley is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late night. You can find tacos, pho, sushi, burger, paninis, salads, sweets, and a 24-hour diner. You have two options, you can walk up to the counter and place your order, or take a seat at a table and rase the flag on your table stand for a server to get your order.
  • Pizza Place – this is your pizza spot on board. No need to get reservations to dine here, either. They are open from late morning through midnight to help you get to sleep better. Their pizza offerings are not to be missed, plus there’s a rotational daily special! Be aware that all pizzas are made-to-order, there may be some wait times late at night.
  • The Dock House – a great place for small snacks throughout the day, and don’t miss out on Opa! Hour which happens every afternoon with the service of great Mediterranean bites.
  • The Social Club – stop in for a warm pretzel with beer cheese, or one of their delicious hot dogs. It’s a great place to find community as you watch the sports on the TV screens or participate in the unique trivias onboard.
  • Sun Club Cafe – offering light snacks throughout the day, don’t miss the opportunity to try their carrot maple hummus. There are other offerings available here that you’ll want to check out.

Entertainment

There’s a huge champagne toast sail away party that takes place on the upper decks that you won’t want to miss! Here’s some of the other offerings that you’ll want to consider for your voyage

  • Scarlet Night – this is the headlining event that happens on every Virgin Voyage! It starts inside the ship and culminates in this large deck party that’s not to be missed. My recommendation for dinner this evening is to choose something early (6pm) or consider eating dinner in the Galley.
  • The Miss Behave Show – throw out everything you know about a cruise ship variety show. Approach this with an open mind and be prepared to become part of the entertainment! Every show is a different experience and you never know what you’ll end up seeing fellow sailors do (or even yourself)!
  • It’s a Ship Show! – while we’re talking about wild a crazy, this is one show that gives a nod to the supper club experience, providing entertainment while you dine. Reservations are recommended. You’ll want to pay close attention to the acts on stage, you might find yourself wowed by the performance!
  • Duel Reality – think Romeo + Juliet meets West Side Story, only there’s no singing (well, okay, maybe one song at the very end). The audience is split up and you are rooting for your color (Medieval Times style) for your team to win in this acrobatic performance. There isn’t a bad seat in the house – except on the losing team.
  • Get Ready to Rock – break out your best singing voice because the biggest Rocky Show-ke is on board the Scarlet Lady. You’ll get the chance to belt out your favorite tunes with the live band in this concert-style experience.
  • Pop-up Shows – from live musicians to an onboard magician, there will be fun acts to catch during your voyage. Just keep your eyes peeled to the Virgin Voyages app to stay up on the latest trivia, games, and entertainment on board.
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Blog and Video Resources

Mark and I have sailed with Virgin Voyages twice now and we keep coming back for more! We’ve had a few great experiences with the brand and love sharing our excitement with others. Below are some links that will help get you ready for your upcoming voyage! All links open in a new window.

  • The Boarding Process – Mark did a fantastic job documenting the boarding process for Virgin Voyages at Terminal V in Miami.
  • First 24 Hours on board – we recorded our thoughts 24-hours after we boarded the ship for the first time in 2023.
  • Valiant Lady Full Review – after sailing on the ship for more than a week, we shared our thoughts on the experience and brand. We mention the things we loved, what we didn’t love, and a couple of things that we hated.
  • The Wake Steak and Seafood – we’ve dined in this steakhouse on board a couple of times and it is absolutely delicious! Curious about the menu and dining experience? Check out this video. No formal wear required!
  • Limited View Sea Terrace Cabin – we stayed in one of these unique cabins on board. Find out what make this cabin so unique!
  • The Sea Terrace Cabin (11098Z | 12018Z) – we’ve stayed in two Sea Terrace cabins. Get the full tour of the cabins and check out our thoughts on each.
  • Mega Rockstar Gorgeous Suite – we were invited to tour one of the posh suites on board the ship. The accommodations are quite lavish.

Here are a few Packing Resources for you to use as you get ready for the cruise!

  • Packing List – this is the common packing list that we use whenever we go on a cruise. It is interactive so please feel free to save it and use it how you see fit. Feel free to add or cross items off if they do not pertain to you. Don’t forget to pack your outfits for:
    • “PJ Party” – that’s right! Break out those pajamas for this fun deck party. We’ve seen people show up in onesies, flannels, and just their boxers at this nighttime event.
    • “Scarlet Night” – bring red everything! From shirts to pants, even swimwear. The entire ship glows red from the inside out and you’ll want to be part of the festivities!
    • “We Fancy” – dress as nice as you want for this evening of elegance. Of course, it isn’t a requirement to sail, but there’s a fun event that happens in The Manor as part of the fancy celebration.
  • Our Essential Must Have Items – whenever we go on a cruise, these are what we consider essential items that we take. Many of these items are listed on the “Packing List” above, they are just conveniently linked on this page for easy access. (No need to print/pack/purchase luggage tags for this cruise, it’s all handled at the cruise terminal.)
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Virgin Voyages Lingo

You’ve heard me say things like Bar Tab, Sailor Loot, Sea Terraces and more. But what does it all mean? Here’s a short list of things to be aware of when sailing with Virgin Voyages:

  • Social Insider – these are the hang-out type of rooms. There’s enough space to sleep 4 sailors and the flat screen TV is in a great location!
  • Insider – these are standard inside cabins suited to sleep 2 sailors on the voyage. They’re cozy and the perfect place to sleep at night.
  • Limited View Sea Terrace – located on deck 8, these cabins have a balcony outfitted with those amazing red hammocks. Their views are obstructed by the life boats but the cabin and balcony are the same as The Sea Terrace cabins.
  • The Sea Terrace – these are a popular cabin on a Virgin Voyage ship. They feature well appointed cabins and the balcony that’s comfortable with the signature hammock.
  • Central Sea Terrace – if you prefer to be closer to the action, then these sea terraces are perfect for you! They’re the same size as the standard Sea Terrace, just in a more optimal location.
  • XL Sea Terrace – looking for extra space in your cabin? Here’s the perfect solution so you don’t have to squeeze past your bed.
  • Rockstars and Mega Rockstars – these are the suites on board. Massive in size and they come with a dedicated butler and minibar. You’ll feel like royalty staying in these cabins.
  • Bar Tab – this is money that can be used to purchase drinks (bevvies) on board. Soda, tea, coffee and basic juice (from machines) are all included. You’d use Bar Tab to purchase alcohol, fresh pressed juices, and specialty coffee on board. Currently, Virgin Voyages is running a promotion where they’ll add extra bar tab credits when you purchase bar tab ahead of your cruise. You’ll find that link on the “Discover” tab for your voyage. You’ll see some options to add in extra bar tab. If you need help or would like me to do this for you, just let me know! Drink prices are very reasonable on board, so do keep in mind that you won’t be getting a refund for unused funds when the cruise ends.
  • Sailor Loot – this is money that can be spent on any onboard expenses. Been eyeing that awesome new shirt? Buy it! Want to get a new tattoo while at sea? Yeah, that’s a thing! Lookin to try the Tomahawk Steak when you dine at the Wake? You’ve got the money! Sailor Loot can also be used towards your purchase of drinks onboard, in case you run dry on Bar Tab. You will still be linking your credit card to your reservation in the event that you spend more than you have in credits, but Sailor Loot is same as cash on board. It is non-refundable and can be as bar tab.
  • The Band – this stylish wearable device is your all-access pass to everything on board. Virgin Voyages issues wristbands that can be adjusted to fit your wrist. You’ll use these to access your cabin, pay for goods on board, and scan on/off the ship in ports.
  • Happenings Cast – a group of 10-12 crew members who will guide you through the various events on board. The make ship happen all across the voyage and are people you’ll want to get to know. Find them at trivia, karaoke, pop-up events, and more!
  • Forward – the front of the ship. It’s also the main direction in which the ship travels.
  • Aft – this is the rear end or back of the ship.
  • Starboard – as the ship travels, this is the right side of the vessel. You’ll find cabins with the letter ‘Z’ at the end of them on this side of the ship.
  • Port – this is the left side of the ship. Cabins on the Port side are labeled with the letter ‘A’ at the end. An easy way to remember Port versus Starboard is the word ‘left’ has 4 letters, and so does ‘port’.
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Don’t Want it to End?

If you’re having a great time on the cruise and want to experience the totally awesome environment again, head on over to the Future Voyage Sales Lounge on deck 7, midship. You’ll have the opportunity to book another Virgin Voyages cruise or you can purchase up to 4 MNVV (My Next Virgin Voyage) vouchers (see details below). The great news is that I’ll be informed of the purchase and will still be along your side through your booking and sailing process!

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