Embarking on my Unforgettable Virgin Voyages Adventure

Embarking on My Unforgettable Virgin Voyages Adventure

After obtaining my Virgin Voyages First Mates Certification, I was thrilled to sell a cruise to one of my clients. To my surprise, Virgin offered Infinity Fun and Travel a chance to experience a FAM (familiarization) cruise, and Ada and I couldn't resist the experience.

Our destination was the beautiful Scarlet Lady, sailing from Miami to Cozumel and Virgin's private island in the Bahamas. This time, it was strictly a working cruise, so we had to leave our husbands behind.

As "Golden Agers," Ada and I were a bit hesitant about Virgin Voyages, which is known to be Adult Only. We assumed it was geared towards young adults and might not be the right fit for us. But, oh boy, were we mistaken!

From the outset, it was evident that Sir Richard Branson's vision for a different kind of cruise line had come to life. Virgin Voyages embodied an edgy, fun, and refreshing experience, free from traditional annoyances like Formal Night and nickel-and-diming practices. Instead, it offered a simple, refined, and enjoyable journey.

One of the first delightful surprises was the presence of hammocks onboard—talk about relaxation goals! And who would've imagined a dance party with everyone dressed in scarlet in front of a massive octopus? It was unique, entertaining, and unlike anything we had experienced on other cruises.

Perhaps the best part was the absence of dining halls with assigned seating. Finally, we could dine wherever we pleased, without the constraints of pre-assigned tables. But let me tell you about the rest of our Virgin Voyages adventure.

Embarking on the Scarlet Lady was a breeze, thanks to the welcoming and excitingly decorated cruise terminal. The boarding process, organized through reserved time slots, was efficient and prompt.

Our cabin was spacious and equipped with a lovely balcony—our favorite spot. Watching the waves from the hammock on the balcony was incredibly soothing. The room had ample storage, and the bathroom's shower was pleasant and convenient. The views of the sunrise and sunset, depending on the side of the ship, were absolutely breathtaking.

Virgin Voyages took dining to a whole new level. With over 20 unique eateries, there was something to satisfy every palate. The variety and quality of the food surpassed any cruise we had been on in years. The best part was that all the restaurants were included in the fare, from the delicious veggie dishes at Razzle Dazzle to the innovative Korean BBQ experience at Gunbae, the enticing Mexico City-inspired menu at Pink Agave, the creative and interactive dining at The Test Kitchen, and the delectable options at The Galley, where you could enjoy bento boxes and scrumptious ramen.

Our favorite hangout spot was The Dock, offering a range of seating options and a stunning view. Sipping on a cold drink and relishing the Grilled Shrimp and Hanger Steak Pitas made it the perfect spot to unwind.

Though the Scarlet Lady lacked the typical family-oriented amenities found on other cruise ships, it didn't feel dull or lacking in any way. In fact, the multitude of venues where passengers could enjoy music and performances created an electrifying atmosphere. From solo musicians to DJs popping up in unexpected places, the ship felt alive with entertainment.

One of the highlights was the signature Scarlet Night party, where everyone dressed in red, and the ship was adorned with vibrant decorations, including a giant red octopus overlooking the pool. It was a visual spectacle to remember!

Virgin Voyages also offered some adult-only and risqué shows, and while they might not appeal to everyone, they added an element of excitement and choice to the cruise experience. The Never Sleep Alone show was so risqué that it was cancelled due to complaints.

One standout show was the Duel Reality, a captivating performance blending elements of a Romeo and Juliet-style narrative with Cirque du Soleil-type acts. The performers showcased awe-inspiring acrobatics, juggling, hula hooping, and breathtaking gymnastics. The audience was split into two factions, represented by red and blue bands, symbolizing the different families like in the famous play. The show took place in the Red Room, and sitting on one of the top-tier seats offered a splendid view of the captivating performance. It was a one-hour spectacle performed twice throughout the 5-day sailing.

Indulge in Retail Therapy aboard Scarlet Lady

For those who find shopping a delightful form of entertainment, Scarlet Lady has you covered. The ship's shopping experience is inspired by the trendy high street shops in the UK, designed with the storefronts facing the corridor for easy browsing. Although there are only a few physical shops, they offer a diverse range of products to cater to different tastes.

Step into the Tattoo Parlor, Grooming Salon, or the exquisite jewelry store. Find yourself surrounded by high-end bags, luxurious cosmetics, stylish shoes, and fashionable clothing in various shop fronts. Each store specializes in different types of goods, providing a diverse selection for the discerning shopper.

Music lovers will be thrilled to discover the Vinyl Record shop, where a skilled DJ curates and spins the records, creating a unique shopping ambiance.

Keep in mind that luxury comes with a price tag, and the goods offered aboard Scarlet Lady are no exception. The prices may be higher due to the exclusivity and quality of the items. While you might find tax savings on the ship compared to land-based purchases, availability can be limited in terms of sizes and designs. Nevertheless, overall, the prices may still be more attractive than those on land.

Overall, my Virgin Voyages experience was nothing short of extraordinary. I'm already eager to embark on another voyage and, this time, bring my husband along for the thrilling adventure. Virgin Voyages truly lives up to its promise of providing an edgy, fun, and unforgettable cruising experience for all adults.

 ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Meet Susan McCall, the creative force behind our captivating     travel blog.  Susan is not only a travel advisor but also a compassionate advocate for seniors and  individuals with special needs.  As a member of esteemed travel organizations and armed with     certifications in travel Susan has a boundless passion for making travel accessible and enjoyable  for all shines through in every crafted itinerary.  Get ready to experience the joy of travel with a  purpose through the eyes of  remarkable travel agent.