Virgin Voyages FAQs: 10 Real Questions Answered by a Cruiser Who Keeps Coming Back
If you've ever Googled “Is Virgin Voyages for me?” — you're not alone. As someone who's sailed Virgin Voyages multiple times (from Miami, San Juan, and soon Europe!), I get asked a lot of the same questions. So I’m breaking down the most frequently asked questions and common things people want to know — with honest answers, helpful tips, and a few insider insights along the way.
👀 VVCC (Virgin Voyages Cruise Curious)? You’re in the right place.
Fun fact: On every Virgin cruise we’ve taken, we’ve ended up buying an MNVV — which stands for My Next Virgin Voyage. It’s basically a deposit for your next cruise, and yes… we’re already planning the next one. Learn more about MNVV here.
Table of Contents
Please remember that I may receive a commission when you click on my links to make a purchase. This, however, has no bearing on my content, reviews and comparisons. I will do my best to keep things fair and balanced to assist you in making the best decision for you. You can find more information about my Privacy Policy here

1. Where does Virgin Voyages sail?
Virgin Voyages cruises to some of the most popular — and up-and-coming — destinations in the world:
- Caribbean (from Miami and San Juan)
- Mediterranean (Barcelona, Athens, and beyond)
- UK & Northern Europe (from Portsmouth, UK — I’m doing this one myself!)
- Transatlantic crossings
- NEW: Brilliant Lady will bring voyages to Los Angeles, Alaska, the Panama Canal, and more.
Example itineraries:
- Sunny Miles of Tropical Isles: San Juan, St. Maarten, Barbados, St. Lucia, Martinique, St. Kitts
- Glacier Blues and Coastal Views (Alaska): Roundtrip Seattle, Sitka, Tracy Arm Fjord, Prince Rupert
Explore Brilliant Lady’s upcoming voyages here.
2. Is Virgin Voyages worth the money?
YES — if you like value, you'll love Virgin. I’m a value traveler, and Virgin actually beats out mainstream cruise lines like Carnival once you factor in:
- All dining (no specialty dining fees!)
- Gratuities (included — and the crew is well-compensated and genuinely happy!)
- Wi-Fi
- Group fitness classes
- Basic beverages (soda, still & sparkling water, coffee, tea, juice)
- Adults-only environment (a feature other cruise lines charge extra for)
It’s a premium experience that often costs less when you compare apples to apples.
Learn more: Ways Virgin Voyages Turns No Into the Ultimate Yes
Also see: Cruise Critic’s review of Virgin Voyages

3. What’s included — and what’s not?
Included:
- All restaurants and dining (no buffet food!)
- Wi-Fi
- Group fitness classes
- Gratuities
- Entertainment
- Still & sparkling water, sodas, basic coffee, tea, and juices
Extra cost:
- Bar Tab (their version of a drink package — here’s how to maximize it)
- Shore Things (excursions)
- Spa treatments
- Premium drinks
- Shake for Champagne 🍾
4. Do I need a Bar Tab — and how much should I get?
You don’t need one, but if you enjoy cocktails, mocktails, cold-pressed juices, specialty coffee, or want to try experiences like bottomless brunch or afternoon tea, it’s worth it.
We always pre-purchase Bar Tab and take advantage of the bonus credit (starting at $200 = $25 bonus). And we’ve never left money on the table — there are so many ways to use it!
Learn more: 10 Surprising Ways You Can Use Your Virgin Voyages Bar Tab

5. Is Virgin Voyages a swingers cruise?
This question comes up more than you'd expect — and the short answer is: no, it’s not. Virgin Voyages is not marketed as a lifestyle or swingers cruise.
What it is is a modern, adults-only cruise line that prides itself on being inclusive, welcoming, and a safe space for everyone — no matter your age, relationship status, or background.
Like any cruise, you may encounter a wide variety of travelers, including solo guests, couples, and groups celebrating everything from birthdays to anniversaries. Virgin’s vibe is more “come as you are, be yourself” — not “anything goes.”
If you’re curious about themed lifestyle cruises, there are lines that cater specifically to that. Virgin Voyages isn’t one of them.
6. Is it just for partiers or young people?
Not at all. I’ve sailed with 20-somethings and chatted with Sailors in their 80s. Virgin attracts:
- Couples
- Friend groups
- Solo travelers
- Milestone celebrations
There are wild nights if you want them, but also tons of chill spaces, hammocks, low-key events, and early-to-bed options. It’s what you make of it.
7. Is it good for solo travelers?
Absolutely one of the best lines for solo cruisers. Here's why:
- Friendly Happenings Cast who foster community
- Organized solo meetups
- Easy-to-join group games and events
You can cruise solo, but you don’t have to be alone.
Also check out: Ways to Meet People on a Cruise (Even If You're Solo)

8. What are the cabins like — and what’s a Rockstar Suite?
Many Sailors book a Sea Terrace, which is a balcony cabin featuring Virgin’s signature red hammock — and yes, the hammock alone is worth it.
Learn more about Virgin’s cabin options here
Other cabin types include:
- Insider (interior cabin)
- Sea View (porthole window)
- XL Sea Terrace (extra space)
- Rockstar Suites (added perks, Richard’s Rooftop, priority boarding)
- Mega Rockstar Suites (ultra-luxe, upgraded amenities)
Want to learn the lingo? Cruise Lingo 101: Virgin Voyages Edition
9. What restaurants are included on Virgin Voyages?
Every single restaurant is included. That’s right — no extra charges for steak, sushi, or pasta. Here’s a quick rundown:
- The Wake – Steakhouse/brunch
- Gunbae – Korean BBQ with group drinking games
- Pink Agave – Elevated Mexican
- Extra Virgin – Italian
- Razzle Dazzle – Plant-forward, fun vibe
- Lucky Lotus– Razzle Dazzle at night turns into an Asian inspired restaurant
- Test Kitchen – Experimental, tasting menu format — I really enjoy this one! There are two menus currently with a third coming soon.
- The Galley – Food hall with burgers, ramen, bento, tacos, desserts
- The Pizza Place – Made-to-order pies
- Dock House & Sun Club Café – Mediterranean small plates & poke bowls
A few venues offer premium add-ons (like upgraded steak or caviar), but there’s no surcharge just to dine.
Related: Top 10 Must-Eat Foods on Virgin Voyages

10. What makes Virgin Voyages different from other cruise lines?
It’s hard to sum it all up — but these are a few of the standout differences:
- Adults-only (no kids!)
- All dining included (no specialty dining fees and no buffets!)
- Gratuities are included — the crew is well-compensated and genuinely happy
- No drink packages — instead, Bar Tab lets you buy what you want
- App-based experience (book restaurants, shake for champagne, etc.)
- Unique entertainment (immersive, edgy, unexpected)
- Sleek modern design, great beds, thoughtful touches
Want to compare Virgin to other grown-up cruise options? Check out my Ultimate Guide to Adult Cruise Lines
🌴 Let’s Connect & Cruise Smarter
Come say hi or get inspired:
Cruise planning made easier with tools I love:
Some links may be affiliate links. I only recommend what I use and love!
Still Curious?
You might also enjoy:
- 7 Things I Wish I Knew Before My First Virgin Voyages Cruise
- Virgin Voyages Cruise Lingo 101
- Top Must-Try Drinks on Virgin Voyages
What questions did you have before your first cruise — or which one is still on your mind? Let me know in the comments or tag me on TikTok @shoretocruise. I’m happy to share what I’ve learned from sailing (again and again).

Michelle Strawcutter is a cruise educator, group travel leader, and the creator of Shore to Cruise, where she helps adults cruise smarter — from embarkation tips to bucket list itineraries. With 30+ cruises under her belt (and counting), she shares real-world insights, favorites, and “wish I knew that sooner” advice to help fellow cruisers make the most of every port and sea day.
Connect with Michelle:
Pinterest | TikTok | Facebook Group