Things I Wish I Knew Before My First Virgin Voyages Cruise

Intro: What I Really Thought Before My First Virgin Voyages Cruise

Virgin Voyages Terminal V In Miami at night

When I booked my first Virgin Voyages cruise, I knew it was different. I’ve been cruising since 1993 and have sailed on over 30 cruises—including two so far with Virgin Voyages—so I was curious about how different it would be, and more importantly, if I’d actually like their version of “cruising differently.” Their motto is “An Epic Sea Change For All,” and I was eager to find out if it lived up to that promise.

I’ll admit, I was also a little nervous. I’d heard some wild gossip—rumors about over-the-top parties and an atmosphere that might not match my travel style. I’m not into anything too crazy, and I wasn’t sure what to expect.

But what I found was something else entirely.

Virgin is bold, cheeky, and totally adults-only. But it’s also incredibly welcoming, inclusive, and refreshingly judgment-free. It’s a cruise line that embraces individuality—whether you’re dressed to the nines for Scarlet Night or wearing shorts and flip-flops to dinner.

That said, there were a few things I definitely wish I’d known before boarding my first Virgin Voyages cruise. So if you’re a first-time Virgin sailor (or on the fence about booking), here are 7 things I wish I had known before my first Virgin Voyages cruise—from theme night packing tips to a secret 80s playlist in your cabin, and even how not to stress about getting off the ship.

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.

1. The Virgin Voyages App is Your Cruise Planning BFF

Before you even step on the ship, download the Virgin Voyages app. It’s how you’ll check in for your cruise, make dinner reservations, book shows, sign up for fitness classes, and check the daily schedule once onboard.

Shore excursions can be booked on the app and they open up 120 days before your cruise, and some of the best shore excursions sell out fast.

Pro tip: If you’re waiting at the terminal on embarkation day, try logging into the ship’s Wi-Fi. Sometimes you can sneak in and grab last-minute reservations before you officially board!

More tips and tricks here: 7 Awesome Things to Do on a Virgin Voyages Cruise

virgin voyages valiant lady in san juan puerto rico

2. You Can Drop Off Your Bags, Explore, Then Come Back to Board

Virgin Voyages makes embarkation feel like part of the vacation, not a chore. If you're staying in Miami the night before your cruise (which I highly recommend), you don’t have to rush to board right when the terminal opens.

You can drop off your luggage early (usually around 9AM), go enjoy brunch or explore Wynwood, and come back later to check in and board the ship. There’s no massive crowd or chaotic boarding rush—just a smooth, flexible process that sets the tone for your entire voyage.

Curious what others say about the process? This Reddit thread gives some firsthand insights from fellow sailors.

3. You’re Allowed to Bring Wine or Champagne Onboard

Don’t worry that Virgin Voyages doesn’t offer a traditional beverage package (for now-they are testing out drink packages). It actually works out really well, and they do allow you to bring two 750ml bottles of wine or champagne per cabin, as long as they’re in your carry-on.

With so many included beverages on board—like sparkling water, soda, drip coffee, and teas—you don’t need a drink package. But if you love a specific wine or bubbly, this perk is worth using.

More helpful advice on what’s included here: How Virgin Voyages Turns “No” Into the Ultimate Yes

4. Your Cabin Tech is Smart—And There’s No Shortage of Outlets!

When you enter your Virgin Voyages cabin, prepare to be impressed. The tablet next to the bed controls everything: lighting, temperature, curtains, even the TV. You can switch to “Zen Mode,” “Photo Shoot,” or “Hangover” lighting depending on your vibe.

But here’s the hidden gem:
Go to the Entertainment section > Voyage Map. There, you’ll not only see where your ship is sailing, but you’ll also find a radio-style 80s music playlist that plays through your cabin TV. It's the ultimate throwback soundtrack while you're getting ready for Scarlet Night.

And if you're wondering about charging your devices—Virgin's got you covered. Cabins come with multiple USB ports and standard power outlets near the bed and desk. Unless you're bringing a ton of gadgets, you likely won’t need that extra power strip.

Sailor tip: Cruise Critic's cabin reviews break down layout and tech features with photos.

A colorful, yellow and red ice cream scoop sits on the deck of a cruise ship

5. Virgin Voyages Vibe: What First-Time Cruisers Need to Know

Virgin Voyages is adults-only (18+), but that doesn’t mean it’s wild and rowdy. Instead, it’s inclusive, laid-back, and unfiltered in the best way. You’ll find solo travelers, LGBTQ+ couples, honeymooners, friend groups, and first-time cruisers all mingling together in a relaxed, respectful atmosphere.

One of the things I appreciated most is how Virgin embraces the idea of “Come as you are.” Whether you're introverted or extroverted, dressed up or dressed down, there's room for everyone to be themselves onboard. It’s a cruise culture that doesn’t force fun—it invites you into it naturally.

Want a full breakdown of what makes this cruise line different? Check out my post on 7 Ways Virgin Voyages Turns “No” Into the Ultimate Yes.

Still skeptical? This Quora discussion gives a range of perspectives.

Dressed up for We Fancy Night on Virgin Voyages

6. Pack for the Theme Nights (If You Want to Join the Fun)

Theme nights aren’t required—but they’re so much fun. One of the main reasons to know about them in advance is so you can pack the right red and fancy outfits to match the vibes. When I took my second cruise on Valiant Lady last year, I saw how much more fun it was when people really leaned into the themes. I highly recommend checking your app or cruise docs in advance so you can plan ahead. Here are a few of the popular ones:

Scarlet Night: The biggest event of the cruise! Wear red, go bold, and prepare for dancing under the stars.
PJ Party: Wear your favorite or funnest pajamas for this party on the deck on embarkation night.
We Fancy (on Valiant Lady): Dress up in your glitziest glam and sparkle.
80s Workout Party: Think neon, leg warmers, and throwback fun (check your itinerary to see if it's happening).

Pro tip: Top 10 Must-Do Experiences on Virgin Voyages includes all of the experiences that you will not want to miss onboard.

Pool deck on Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady

7. Debarkation is Relaxed—It's OK to Book the Late Flight Home

Unlike other cruise lines that have you scrambling off the ship at the crack of dawn, Virgin Voyages takes a slower, more civilized approach. You can sleep in, enjoy a leisurely brunch, and still have time to say your goodbyes.

While you do need to be out of your cabin early, you don’t have to disembark the ship until around 10:30 AM, which is a game-changer when planning your post-cruise travel.

Just be sure to still allow time for clearing customs, collecting luggage, and getting through Miami airport traffic if you're flying home the same day.

You’ll find lots of helpful traveler advice in TripAdvisor’s Virgin Voyages forums.

Our first Virgin Voyages Cruise pic at Pink Agave Restaurant

Final Thoughts: Don’t Just Cruise—Voyage

Virgin Voyages surprised me in the best way. It’s not your average cruise—it’s cooler, calmer, and a whole lot more fun. Their motto, “An Epic Sea Change For All,” really holds true once you're onboard. With a little insider knowledge (and now you’ve got it!), your first Virgin Voyages cruise will feel effortless and exciting from start to finish. And remember, you're never navigating this alone—we're with you from Shore to Cruise.

In a hurry? Here’s a quick recap:

Download the Virgin Voyages app and book shore excursions early (they open 120 days out!)
Bring your wine—two bottles are allowed in your carry-on
Use the tablet and outlets in your cabin like a pro
Don’t overpack, but do pack for theme nights (red for Scarlet Night, glam for We Fancy)
Relax—debarkation is low-stress and you don’t need to leave the ship until 10:30 AM

Got questions about other things to eat or do onboard? Check out my other Virgin Voyages posts below:

Ready to cruise smarter? Drop your questions in the comments or join my Shore to Cruise Facebook Group for tips, planning help, and lots of friendly cruise chat.