Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady & First Impressions
From the moment I stepped onboard Virgin Voyages’ modern and minimalist ship, I knew this was going to be different. The fresh, sleek design paired with hopping music and warm greetings from the crew created an upbeat, fun vibe right off the bat. It felt like a breath of fresh air compared to more traditional cruises.
The Vibe: Fun, Relaxed, Adults-Only
Virgin Voyages has mastered the art of blending high-energy fun with laid-back relaxation. While the experience does lean toward a younger, fun-loving crowd, age doesn’t really matter here. It’s less about numbers and more about mindset—if you’re someone who wants to enjoy yourself without taking cruising too seriously, you’ll feel right at home. And the adults-only policy? A total game-changer. Without kids running around, the vibe is elevated, calm, and just plain enjoyable.
Ship Design & Spaces
The ship’s layout was a standout feature for me. There was no claustrophobia or crowding; instead, there were plenty of seating options and hangout spots, each with its own personality. Whether you wanted to socialize, grab a drink, or simply relax, there was always a perfect spot to land.
The Cabin Experience
We stayed in a balcony cabin, and while the bathroom was a bit tight (though manageable), the real showstopper was the hammock on the balcony. Seriously, you can take the most relaxing naps out there! The balcony had plenty of space to enjoy a drink while staring out to sea, with two chairs and a small table to complete the vibe.
The room itself had some great modern touches: mood lighting, auto-closing curtains, and everything from the TV to the lighting and curtains controlled via a tablet. It felt sleek, high-tech, and so easy to customize the atmosphere for any mood. Oh, and the room attendant? Amazing—friendly, helpful, and always ensuring we had a great experience.
Dining: No Buffets, All Deliciousness
Let’s talk about the food—because it was fantastic! Virgin Voyages takes a completely different approach, ditching the typical buffet for made-to-order meals at a variety of unique restaurants, and it’s all included. This means no long lines or subpar buffet experiences, just fresh, delicious food every time.
Two of my absolute favorites were Pink Agave and The Wake. Pink Agave offered an upscale, modern twist on Mexican cuisine, with bold flavors and beautiful plating that made every dish feel like a work of art. Meanwhile, The Wake was pure classic elegance, serving up incredible steaks and seafood in a gorgeous setting with ocean views that made it feel like a special occasion.
Another standout was Gunbae, a lively communal dining experience that brings people together over interactive Korean BBQ. While the energy and shared seating may not be for everyone, it’s a great way to meet fellow travelers.
What really impressed me overall was the abundance of healthy options and the attention to detail. Everything felt thoughtfully curated, and there was no shortage of variety—from indulgent dishes to light and fresh meals.
Entertainment: Bold, Inclusive, Unforgettable
Virgin Voyages completely redefines cruise entertainment. There’s no single “cruise director” calling the shots; instead, the Happenings Cast keeps the energy alive. From drag bingo to Scarlet Night, every event brought something fresh and fun to the table.
Entertainment Highlights:
- The Resident Drag Queen: Unmatched entertainment and personality at sea.
- Dual Reality: An absolute must-see show—think circus-style performances with a modern, edge-of-your-seat twist.
- 80s VHS Aerobics Workout: Quirky, nostalgic fun led by the energetic crew.
- Variety: There was always something happening, and activities rarely repeated. Whether you wanted high-energy shows or low-key fun, the lineup delivered.
While Virgin’s entertainment isn’t for everyone (it’s bold and unconventional), for me, it was a perfect fit.
Ports & Shore Experiences
We visited Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic and Virgin’s private Bimini Beach Club in the Bahamas.
- Bimini Beach Club: A standout! This sprawling beach club offered plenty of space to relax, whether by the pool or on the crystal-clear beach. Food was included, and it felt luxurious without being stuffy.
- Puerto Plata: We explored the historic downtown, which was charming and walkable. Beach and adventure excursions were available, but we opted to explore independently.
Wellness & Fitness
For those who like to stay active on vacation, Virgin has you covered.
- The Running Track: A huge plus! Separate from common spaces, it allowed for distraction-free runs.
- Fitness Options: Tons of equipment, outdoor spaces, and classes, including quirky ones like the 80s VHS Aerobics workout.
I didn’t try the spa this time around, but the ship’s wellness options were top-notch overall.
Top Pros: Why I Loved It
- No Kids: The adults-only policy completely changes the cruise vibe for the better.
- No Buffets: Made-to-order meals and restaurant-quality dining without the lines.
- Entertainment: Fun, fresh, and inclusive—it’s unlike anything else at sea.
- Great Service: The crew was friendly, engaged, and genuinely seemed to love their jobs.
- Modern, Spacious Design: Plenty of room to relax without feeling crowded.
Any Cons?
Honestly, I have very few complaints. If I had to nitpick:
- Bathrooms: They’re a bit small, but manageable.
- Not for Everyone: The bold entertainment style might not be for ultra-conservative travelers or those expecting a “classic” cruise experience.
Who It’s For (and Who It’s Not For)
Perfect For:
- Open-minded travelers looking for something different.
- Couples, solo travelers, and friend groups wanting a fun, adults-only vibe.
- LGBTQ travelers—Virgin is one of the most inclusive cruise lines I’ve experienced.
- Multi-gen adult families (leave the kids at home and enjoy!).
- Anyone who “hates traditional cruises.” This isn’t your typical experience.
Not Ideal For:
- Families with kids.
- Ultra-luxury travelers expecting white-glove service.
- Traditionalists who prefer a classic cruise with a buffet and formal nights.
- Conservative folks who may not vibe with Virgin’s modern and inclusive approach.
Final Thoughts: A 10/10 Experience
I’m giving my Virgin Voyages cruise a solid 10/10. It’s exactly what I want in a cruise: fun entertainment, no kids, no buffets, and a relaxed yet elevated atmosphere. Virgin has found a sweet spot—touches of luxury without being stuffy or over-the-top.
Would I sail again? Absolutely—I’m already booked for a transatlantic in April and can’t wait!
Final Tip: If you think cruising isn’t for you, Virgin Voyages might just change your mind. This is a game-changer for adults who want fun, freedom, and a fresh take on cruising. Trust me: you just have to try it.
