10 Virgin Voyages Mistakes to Avoid on Your First Cruise

If you’re planning your first Virgin Voyages cruise, you’ll want to avoid the most common Virgin Voyages mistakes that can cost you time, money, and experiences. I’ve sailed with Virgin Voyages a few times myself, and I’ve made a couple of these mistakes too (hello, overpacking and missing out on Shore Things 😅). I’ve also seen plenty of other cruisers make them — so this guide is here to help you skip the stress and sail smarter.

Virgin Voyages includes a ton of things other lines charge extra for — and they also say “no” to many of the things cruisers often dislike (buffets, photographers, strict dress codes). That combo is part of what makes sailing with them feel like a fresh take on cruising. Here’s how Virgin turns “no” into “yes” with their inclusive perks →

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1. Not Exploring the App Before Your Cruise

The Virgin Voyage's app is your cruise companion for booking restaurants, Shore Things, checking schedules, joining events, and even uploading your travel ID and documents. My advice is to download it as soon as you book to get familiar because you’ll also use it to check in and complete pre-boarding. Later, it will give you access to onboard perks like “Shake for Champagne.”

2. Forgetting to Reserve Restaurants

Dining reservations open before sailing — 60 days out for most Sailors and 90 for Rockstars. Popular times go quickly, so set an alarm to snag your preferred slots.
If you book late or miss out on your ideal time, more reservations open up once you are onboard. Also, if you are a couple, many times you can just walk up to the restaurant and be seated.

Curious about the food onboard? Check out my Must-Eat Foods on Virgin Voyages for can’t-miss dishes.

FYI: Reservations are no longer needed for shows. They are now first-come, first-served.

3. Not Booking Shore Things Early

Virgin Voyages' Shore Things are popular and often sell out fast. Rockstars can book 135 days out; all others, 120. Book early and adjust later (cancellations allowed up to 24–48 hours before). If sold out, check onboard with the Happenings Cast for last-minute openings.

4. Skipping the Splash of Romance Package

This limited package includes early boarding, a 3-hour Thermal Spa pass, sailaway champagne, and more. It’s not just for couples — it’s great for friends, too. If you don’t have Rockstar or Deep Blue Extras early embarkation, this is the next best thing. Read my honest and Full review here .

5. Not Pre-Purchasing Bar Tab (and Missing the Bonus!)

Virgin Voyages does not have a traditional cruise line drink package. They have a Bar Tab and if you pre purchase you can get bonus dollars (ie Free Drinks!) The bonus dollars begin with a $200 purchase, so be sure to check it out! If you wait until you are onboard, you’ll miss the bonus.

6. Thinking Bar Tab Is Just for Booze

Many people make the mistake of thinking that the Bar Tab is just for alcoholic drinks. That is just not the case! It also covers cold-pressed juices, boba tea, fresh smoothies, bottled water, espresso drinks, and cocktail tastings like those at The Test Kitchen. Learn more about making your bar tab go further.

7. Ignoring the Included Perks

Another common mistake when considering a Virgin Voyages cruise is not comparing apples to apples when cruise shopping. Virgin includes dining (no specialty dining upcharges), gratuities, Wi-Fi, soda, coffee, juice, and group fitness classes — and it’s adults-only. Cruise Critic’s comparison shows how much value this adds compared to other lines.

8. Overpacking

Virgin is come-as-you-are — no formal nights. Wear a fancy dress with a feather boa, 80s gear, or just shorts and a tee. They do have themed events that you are welcome and encouraged to participate in, the 2 biggest are the Pajama Party and Scarlet Night (the entire ship goes red) For trip and packing inspiration, check my Must-Do Experiences on Virgin Voyages.

9. Not Taking Advantage of Solo & Social Opportunities

From group dinners to bar crawls, you can cruise solo but not alone. Virgin Voyages is one of the most solo-friendly cruise lines out there. They have even made it easier with their Social Insider cabin — they’re limited, so book early.

10. Not Buying MNVV Onboard

Every sailing we have been on, we purchase at least one MNVV. My Next Virgin Voyage is a future cruise deposit that locks in savings for a future sailing and is only sold onboard or via a travel advisor. Note: These are no longer available after your cruise, so be sure to grab one if you are interested!

FAQs

1. What is the best time to book Virgin Voyages dining reservations?
   60 days before sailing for most Sailors, 90 for Rockstars. Book as soon as your window opens.
2. Can I cancel a Shore Thing after booking?
   Yes, up to 24–48 hours before the excursion for a full refund.
3. Is the Splash of Romance package worth it?
   Yes, especially for early embarkation and spa access if you don’t have Rockstar or Deep Blue perks.
4. Can I use Bar Tab for non-alcoholic drinks?
   Absolutely — it covers coffee, juice, smoothies, and more.
5. What’s special about Social Insider cabins?
   They’re designed for solo travelers, offering community while keeping your own space.
6. How do I buy MNVV?
   Purchase onboard or through your travel advisor during your cruise.

Ready to Avoid These Virgin Voyages Mistakes?

By dodging these common Virgin Voyages mistakes, you’ll cruise with more confidence, spend smarter, and pack in all the fun: from nabbing that perfect Shore Thing to sipping your way through every creative Bar Tab option. Virgin is about freedom, fun, and doing things your way… and I’m here to make sure you get every last drop out of it! Until then, I’ll be looking for the best tips and tricks, from Shore to Cruise, so you’re ready to sail like a pro.