Why I Chose a Virgin Voyages Adults-Only Cruise Through the UK (And What Makes This Itinerary So Unique)

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From London to Scarlet Lady: My Upcoming Cruise Adventure

This summer, I’ll set off on my longest cruise ever — a 13-night, adults-only sailing on Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady through the British Isles. Virgin Voyages is a modern, adults-only cruise line known for its chic design, unique restaurants, and inclusive perks. I’ll spend a few days in London before boarding, and I’m beyond excited to explore new places, try new tours, and experience Virgin Voyages in a whole new way.

I’ve been cruising since 1993 and have taken over 30 ocean cruises across major lines like Royal Caribbean, Princess, MSC, Norwegian, and Virgin Voyages. I’ve also helped dozens of first-timers plan their very first sailings — so I know what it’s like to be excited, nervous, and curious all at once. That’s why I love sharing real-world, experience-based advice here on Shore to Cruise.

I've taken many cruises over the years — with family, with friends, and with groups I’ve helped introduce to cruising — but this one feels extra special. It’s a unique itinerary, a different vibe, and a chance to test out some onboard extras I’ve never tried before.

Why I Chose This Itinerary (and Why It's So Unique)

There were a few reasons this cruise jumped out at me. First, it includes an overnight in Amsterdam — something I’ve never done before on a cruise! I’m also excited about the long port days. Most of the stops on this itinerary allow for full days in port — no noon departures or early evenings. We’re talking 8 or 9 a.m. arrivals and sail-aways around 6 or 7 p.m., which means more time to really experience each destination.

Another reason? Fewer tender ports. If you’ve ever had your day disrupted because a tender couldn’t run in rough seas, you know why that’s a big deal — especially in northern waters. On this route, Dublin (technically Dún Laoghaire) is the only port where we’ll tender. The rest? Dock and walk off. If you’re not quite sure what a tender port is or how it works, I’ve got a full Cruiser’s Guide to Tender Boats to help you know what to expect and how to prepare.

And finally, the ports themselves are a huge draw. I’m especially excited about:

• Kirkwall – one of the most northern ports in Scotland, located in the Orkney Islands
• Stornoway – a unique and less-visited port in the Outer Hebrides
• Greenock – a gateway to Glasgow, Edinburgh, or even staying local for scenic exploration

This itinerary might be a one-time thing for Scarlet Lady, so it felt like a chance I couldn’t pass up.

Why Adults-Only Cruising Just Works for Us

Now that my husband and I are officially empty nesters, we’re ready to see more of the world — and we’re craving a different kind of cruising experience. We’ve done the Caribbean (many times), and we love it dearly, but we’re excited to go further. And honestly? Cruising with adults — especially like-minded, curious, fun-loving adults — makes a big difference.

I’ve taken plenty of cruises with mostly adults, but sailing on a ship designed for adults from the ground up? That’s something I’ve come to appreciate more and more. Less chaos, no splash zones, and entertainment that’s designed with grown-ups in mind. If you’re curious about the best options out there, I’ve put together The Ultimate Guide to Adults-Only Cruise Lines to help you explore all the grown-up getaway possibilities.

Here's Where I'm Headed

The full itinerary includes:

• London
• Portsmouth (embarkation)
• Amsterdam (overnight!)
• Bruges (Zeebrugge), Belgium
• Kirkwall, Scotland
• Stornoway, Scotland
• Greenock, Scotland
• Belfast, Northern Ireland
• Dublin (Dún Laoghaire), Ireland
• Portsmouth (disembarkation)
• London

Want the Tea? Let’s Talk Shore Excursions 🍩☕

Okay, I’ll spill the tea — literally. I’m kicking off the trip with a Doughnut & Tea Walking Tour in London, and I cannot wait. (You know I couldn’t resist booking something that involved doughnuts and tea!)

I’ve got all of our excursions booked, and here are a few I’m especially excited about:

• A private tour in Greenoch with Tartan Tours that includes an authentic Scottish lunch and a serenade by a bagpiper!
• A quirky Doughnut & Tours Tea Experience
• A private luxury tour in Belfast that’ll give us a more personal view of Northern Ireland and a stop at Giant's Causeway!
• A post cruise stay just outside of London to visit Hampton Court Palace

You can bet I’ll be reviewing all of these once I’m back, so stay tuned if you’re wondering whether these are worth booking.

A Few Extras I’m Testing Out

This will be my first time trying Virgin Voyages’ Blue Extras, which is an added perks package. I also added Splash for Your Bash, which is Virgin’s celebration add-on. I’ll be sure to let you know what those include, how they actually feel onboard, and if I’d recommend them for future sailings.

I’m also excited to check out the new Lucky Lotus evening experience, which takes over Razzle Dazzle at night. If you love trying new food at sea, don’t miss my roundup of Top 10 Must-Eat Foods on Virgin Voyages.

Want Me to Check Something Out for You?

If you’re Virgin Cruise Curious, this is a great one to follow along with. I’ll be posting a full recap when I’m back, including highlights from the ship, my thoughts on the itinerary, and what surprised me the most.

And hey — if there’s something you want to see from Scarlet Lady, or a port you’re curious about, send me a message or leave a comment! I’ll do my best to check it out for you while I’m there.

If you're curious what it's really like to sail Virgin Voyages, check out what I wish I knew before my first cruise. Want a peek at the top drinks to try onboard? That one’s a fun read. And if you're still learning the ropes, my Virgin Voyages Cruise Lingo 101 will help you feel like a pro before you even board.

We’ll Be Back with the Tea

Once I’m back from this epic adults-only adventure, I’ll be sharing what lived up to the hype, what surprised me, and what I’d change next time.

Until then — I’m off to see the world, and I’ll be spilling the (English) tea as soon as I return.

We’re with you from Shore to Cruise — always. ⚓

Featured image via Unsplash by Nikhilesh Boppana.