Latest news with #ScarletLady
Times
2 days ago
- Times
I've discovered the most fun trip to take with my grown-up daughter
'Yeehaw!' I yell as I whip along at about 20mph looking at endless skinny-skyscraper trees and lush greenery below, my stomach lurching and every nerve ending standing to attention. Although I dislike heights, I've agreed to this zip-line adventure on the island of Roatan, just off the coast of Honduras, and can feel the adrenaline pumping around my body, creating a sense of terror and excitement. 'Well done, Mum,' laughs my 20-year-old daughter, Lara, as I whizz onto the platform where she is waiting for me. She is beaming broadly and clearly having the time of her life. But there is no time to bask in her praise as she is already being clipped on to the next high wire, which stretches deep into the jungle ahead, and seconds later is leaping into the air, yelling 'See ya!' behind her. Over the course of 90 minutes, Lara and I and some 15 or so other passengers on Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady undertake a lengthy course of ten zip lines through the tropical rainforest. It's an exhilarating excursion and worth the cost (£80pp) — Lara and I can't stop chatting about it as we take the minibus back to the ship. We're drenched to the skin and splattered with mud as there has been heavy tropical rain all morning, but such was the buzz that we scarcely noticed the downpour. And that is exactly what I'd been hoping to get from sharing this six-day voyage with Lara, who is on a reading week during her final year of university — that it would give us some precious mother-and-daughter time. Lara had not set foot on a cruise ship before and was thrilled at the prospect of visiting four countries — the US, Mexico, Honduras and the Bahamas — on this six-day Western Caribbean Charm itinerary, though I was slightly concerned that she might find herself surrounded by people much older than her. I needn't have worried. Compared with the few other cruises I've taken, Scarlet Lady's 2,770-capacity crowd is very diverse. Yes, it's adults only and the majority are Americans, with a smattering of Brits and other Europeans, but their ages span from twenties to sixties and there is a mix of ethnicities, sexualities, shapes and sizes. And we're far from alone in being a parent-and-child combo. While Lara's pick of the excursions is ziplining, as a history-lover I'm in my element when we visit the Mayan ruins of Chacchoben in Mexico, dating from AD700 (£78pp). Despite another drenching during this outing — unseasonal cloudbursts during what is supposed to be the country's dry season — the rain doesn't dampen the cheery and brilliant commentary of our guide, Diana Garcia, who suggests that 'perhaps we could perform a human sacrifice or two to keep the gods happy and bring out the sun', like those of the ancient civilisation. Her explanation of the Mayan pyramids, how they were built on top of previous structures and used as places of worship, makes for a fascinating few hours. To dry ourselves off and warm up when we're back on board Lara and I head for a three-hour session in the thermal suite of the Redemption spa (£61pp). Drifting between the salt and steam rooms, sauna and various hot and cool pools proves very relaxing, and I fall fast asleep when I lie down on the heated marble hammam bench. I only come to when Lara shakes me awake, as she doesn't want to miss out on the final part of the experience — slathering ourselves with 'healing' mud. The 15-minute coating in brown gloop while sitting in steam is more appealing than it sounds — or at least the clean and pleasantly tingly feeling once it's showered off makes it worthwhile. It's not our only visit to the spa as, during one of our two sea days, I treat us to a 75-minute massage each in the recently launched extra-large treatment room (£220pp). My request for a 'full-throttle pummelling' and Lara's for 'gentle pressure' are heeded and we glide back to our cabin afterwards, all muscular tension having been skilfully worked away. The treatment room is one of several additions from which Scarlet Lady, launched in August 2021, has recently benefited as part of its 'glow-up'. Others include 24 new suites, six swish poolside cabanas, a Chinese-inspired menu in the Razzle Dazzle restaurant and a revamped coffee shop. What's more, the risqué 'participatory' show Never Sleep Alone has been quietly dropped. • Read our full guide to cruises The party spirit, though, is as strong as ever. There's just time for a quick rest and delicious takeaway from the Pizza Place (included, as are all the restaurants) because we need to get dressed and made up for the midweek highlight of the cruise: Scarlet Night. We've brought our glad rags specifically, and I'm happy we did — when we leave our cabin we're faced by a sea of other passengers all dressed, like us, top to toe in red. It may sound gimmicky, but putting our scepticism and British reserve aside it's great fun seeing a whole ship of people wearing the same colour and obviously up for a party. The mood is gloriously upbeat. A couple of excellent espresso martinis under our belt in the Grounds Club bar (£11 each) and we're ready to hit the dancefloor in the aptly named Red Room, and we don't stop for the next three and a half hours as the DJ keeps everyone happy with a soundtrack of hits from the past four decades. I manage to notch up no fewer than 14,500 steps with my disco moves, which my daughter may find hilarious, but there's no shortage of fellow passengers willing to boogie with me. • 10 of the best cruise lines for first-timers Mind you, the next day I feel the aftermath with a few new aches and pains in my limbs, and wonder whether signing up for a bungee fitness class — something neither of us has done before — is the best idea. Fortunately, it's so much fun bouncing in a harness fixed to the ceiling while trying everything from push-ups to squat jumps that my dancing twinges are soon forgotten. Lara and I even manage to follow the instructor into an upside-down hold — possibly not the perfect position with a hangover, but the class is over before any serious consequences occur. During our voyage we also try out spin classes and high-intensity interval training — both included and as good as any I've attended in the UK. The gym also impresses with the quality of its machines and the number of them — there's never a need to queue. Not that we focus excessively on the body beautiful during the voyage. Our enthusiasm for the gym is largely driven by the need to work up an appetite, as there's a plethora of restaurants from which to choose. Our favourites are Extra Virgin, an Italian with authentic pasta dishes, and the Wake, so called because it's at the back of the ship. Not only does the latter look uber stylish, with cream leather seating, plush carpets and crisp table linen, but the food and service are akin to a Michelin-starred dining room. Lara's herb-stuffed chicken and my hanger steak — with sides of brown-butter-roasted wild mushrooms, twice-baked potato with caramelised onions and asparagus with guindilla sauce — are flawless. Yes, there are dishes on the menu that come with additional price tags, such as lobster and oysters, but it's no hardship opting for those that are included. Another of our on-board highlights is the show Duel Reality, a jaw-dropping dance and acrobatic spectacle loosely based on the story of Romeo and Juliet. The cast truly earn their standing ovation and, had time allowed, we would happily have gone to see it again. • 19 of the best Caribbean cruise lines for 2025 Indeed, the only disappointment of our week is that freak weather conditions mean our day at Virgin's beach club on Bimini, in the Bahamas, is positively chilly. High winds result in our longed-for swimming with stingrays excursion being cancelled at the last minute (£93). Still, we go for a dip in the turquoise ocean and jump the waves for a while. And that we don't see a single stingray gets me off the hook with a half-promise I made Lara — to get matching stingray tattoos at Scarlet Lady's Squid Ink Tattoo Parlor as a reminder of our trip (£155pp). It would have been my first inking. 'It's always worth saving something for next time,' I say, consoling her yet scarcely disguising my Huddart was a guest of Virgin Voyages, which has six nights' full board on its Western Caribbean Charm itinerary aboard Scarlet Lady departing on November 9 from £1,415pp, including soft drinks, wi-fi, gym classes and crew tips ( Fly to Miami
The Independent
23-04-2025
- Business
- The Independent
Virgin Voyages boss: Why no children is key to a successful cruise
Child-free cruises have been hailed as a key factor in the success of Virgin Voyages. The adult-only cruise brand reported a record wave season – the industry's new year sales period – in the first quarter of 2025. The cruise line said it has been buoyed by record bookings and revenues as passengers seek premium kid-free sailings. Sir Richard Branson's cruise brand revealed it has seen 34 per cent growth in bookings, with revenue up 45 per cent globally and 30 per cent in the UK. Nirmal Saverimuttu, chief executive of Virgin Voyages, said: "These outstanding results demonstrate the tremendous momentum our brand has established in the market. 'Our kid-free, award-winning experience has successfully positioned us as a true premium alternative in the cruise industry.' Virgin Voyages launched its first ship, Scarlet Lady, in August 2021, with an aim to make waves in the cruise industry and appeal to a younger audience. The fleet has since been joined by Resilient Lady and Valiant Lady. A fourth ship, Brilliant Lady, is due to launch with a maiden voyage from New York this September. It has ditched dress codes and main dining rooms for a mix of specialty restaurants such as the Gunbae Korean barbecue and the six-course Test Kitchen, all included in the cruise fare. There is even a tattoo parlour and record shop onboard. Virgin Voyages says the median age of its passengers falls between 43 and 47, which is below the cruise industry average of 55. There are plenty of photo opportunities around the ship with colourful backdrops, and passengers will find unique takes on entertainment onboard such as a 1980s style VHS workout and a drag bingo event called Bingo With The Diva. Virgin Voyages also has a Scarlet Night, where passengers are encouraged to dress in red. There is a party atmosphere with acrobats and performances across the ship, with the night culminates in a poolside disco. You may even be invited to its secret bar below deck. It wasn't all smooth sailing at the start though as some Virgin Voyages passengers initially questioned the bland cabin décor and small pool size, while there were some eyebrows raised by an 'adult toy box' that could be purchased in the rooms. Cabins have since been improved, with pictures, wood panelling, throw pillows and more storage. The adult toy box has been removed and some of the more risqué entertainment has been changed. Never Sleep Alone, a headline show that gave out condoms and featured a sex therapist advising passengers on chat up lines and bedroom antics, is no longer on the ships and there is more of a focus on comedy, cabaret and wellness onboard. For example, passengers can book a comedy cruise hosted by Jack Whitehall aboard Scarlet Lady from Portsmouth this August. Saverimuttu said the brand is appealing to those who are looking for a more relaxed environment without kids. and some sailings are made up of 60 per cent of repeat cruisers. He added: 'Our vessels' deliberate size delivers the perfect balance of intimate, elevated experiences with exceptional variety that resonates strongly with consumers. The impressive repeat booking rates we're seeing validate our business model and product-market fit, with initial sailings consistently converting to long-term customer relationships. 'We're not just changing how people cruise – we're redefining what a vacation at sea can be. And we're doing it with our signature mix of style, substance, and innovation that only Virgin can deliver, including exciting new itineraries, new entertainment, new food and of course Brilliant Lady 's debut.' There are plenty other adult-only brands. A recent Which? cruise passenger survey ranked over-50s line Saga as the best cruise brand, while other options include Ambassador and Viking. Cruise lines such as P&O Cruises and Marella also have adult-only ships. Alternatively, there are lots of family-focused cruise lines offering waterslides, entertainment and top kids' clubs such as Norwegian Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises and Disney. Carnival Corporation, which owns P&O Cruises and Princess Cruises as well as Cunard, also reported record revenues during wave season. Josh Weinstein, chief executive of Carnival Corporation, said: 'We are delivering amazing vacation experiences every day in a time when people all over the world are placing increasing importance on experiences, particularly those spent with family and friends. Our value for money is truly a strength when people look to make their vacation dollars go further.'
USA Today
01-04-2025
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Nicky Jam at sea: Reggaeton star will perform during Virgin Voyages cruise
Nicky Jam at sea: Reggaeton star will perform during Virgin Voyages cruise Show Caption Hide Caption How to find the best price, perks when booking a cruise Find the cruise that works for your budget with these tips. Problem Solved Reggaeton artist Nicky Jam will perform a live show and DJ set on a Virgin Voyages cruise this May. The five-night Caribbean cruise will depart from Miami on May 4, 2025, aboard the adults-only Valiant Lady ship. Prices for the cruise start at $2,160 per person, based on double occupancy. Nicky Jam will stage a live show at sea this May. The reggaeton superstar will perform aboard a Virgin Voyages cruise ship during a Caribbean sailing as part of three new Celebration Voyages. The artist, who recently signed with Virgin Records, will also spin tunes at a special DJ set. "Joining the Virgin family feels like coming home," Nicky Jam said in a news release. "From Boston to Miami to Puerto Rico, my journey has always been about connecting people through music, just like Virgin does. This isn't just another performance for me – it's bringing together two worlds that are all about breaking boundaries. The energy on these ships is incredible, and I want to make sure everyone feels that authentic Latin heat.' When will Nicky Jam perform on Virgin Voyages? The five-night cruise will depart from Miami on May 4, 2025, aboard the adults-only cruise line's Valiant Lady ship. The vessel can accommodate around 2,800 guests. Where will the cruise sail? The round-trip cruise will visit Cozumel, Mexico, and Bimini in the Bahamas, with two days at sea. In addition to the Caribbean cruise, Virgin will host two other Celebration Voyages – sans Nicky Jam – from Athens on May 18 aboard Resilient Lady and Lisbon, Portugal, on July 22 aboard Scarlet Lady. The cruises will feature shore excursions (called Shore Things) hosted by cruise line leaders, fitness classes, behind-the-scenes tours and more. Inside Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Night: The adults-only party at sea where everyone sees red How much does the cruise cost? Cabins start at $2,160 based on double occupancy, according to the release. Virgin Voyages fares include meals at over 20 dining venues, drinks like soda and drip coffee, Wi-Fi and more. Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at ndiller@
USA Today
23-02-2025
- Lifestyle
- USA Today
I ate, drank what I wanted on this cruise without losing my routine or gaining weight
I ate, drank what I wanted on this cruise without losing my routine or gaining weight Show Caption Hide Caption How to find the best price, perks when booking a cruise Find the cruise that works for your budget with these tips. Problem Solved Virgin Voyages offers a cruise experience that combines indulgence with wellness, allowing guests to enjoy food and drinks while maintaining a fitness routine. The cruise line provides a variety of fitness classes, a well-equipped gym, and active shore excursions. Virgin Voyages focuses on made-to-order meals and offers low-alcohol and non-alcoholic beverage options. 'Only for Adults' is a six-part series showcasing the best experiences and destinations tailored for adults seeking tranquility, adventure and indulgence. If you'd like to contribute to our future reporting and share your experience as a source, you can click here to fill out this quick form. Cruises can often be synonymous with indulgence. With endless buffets, poolside cocktails, and sun-drenched lounging with little movement beyond a slow shuffle to the next meal, it's easy to overdo it. However, on my recent Virgin Voyages' Western Caribbean Charm sailing, it wasn't difficult to indulge while maintaining a fitness routine. After a week, I disembarked the Scarlet Lady without feeling sluggish and overfed. This wasn't just about working off the excess. Virgin's programming and dining are geared toward wellbeing without being prescriptive. 'We know that people are here to enjoy themselves, but that doesn't mean they have to compromise on their well-being,' said Nicole Huang, SVP Fleet Experience at Virgin Voyages. '(At Virgin) it's a choose-your-own-adventure kind of thing ... some come to detox, retox or both.' Travelers are increasingly looking to integrate wellness and fitness options into their trips. According to a 2022 Hilton survey, 50% of the 1,000 travelers surveyed said they seek experiences that align with their holistic wellness goals. Similarly, 55% of consumers expressed a willingness to pay more for wellness activities during future vacations, as reported by American Express. What happens when you bring your son on an adults-only vacation Cruise lines, like AmaWaterways and Windstar Cruises, have recently announced wellness-focused sailings. Here's how Virgin Voyages' bet on wellness pays off for travelers who want to indulge and stay active. Do people really work out at sea? Yes. Very much so on a Virgin Voyages sailing. Most early morning HIIT (high-intensity interval training) and spinning classes were fully booked throughout the week. The wellness offerings ranged from relaxing to entertainment. There was sunrise yoga, bungee workouts, Zumba and dance classes, pickleball and even dodgeball. Playing dodgeball at sea was definitely a highlight. I play in a dodgeball league back home, but it's a different experience to do it in the middle of the ocean. It was competitive, ridiculous and fun. 'Before we even launched Virgin Voyages, we looked at what was missing in the cruise industry when it came to wellness. Traditionally, cruise fitness spaces have been small, tucked away, and often an afterthought. We wanted to change that,' Huang told USA TODAY. 'Our wellness spaces, from the B-Complex Gym to our Redemption Spa, are premium real estate onboard. We designed these areas to be inviting, with state-of-the-art equipment and inspiring classes that keep people engaged.' And they deliver on that promise. The B-Complex Gym had everything needed for full-body workouts as well as free weights and boxing bags. Huang said they even added heavier weights after guests requested them. Royal Caribbean International, Holland America Line and Celebrity Cruises also offer pickleball courts on their ships. Royal went a step further adding SeaPlex, an indoor, air-conditioned sports complex on its Quantum class ships. Does everyone gain weight during cruise sailing? It depends on what you want to focus on. Despite enjoying multi-course meals, desserts and the occasional cocktail, I didn't gain weight on this trip. "Everything is made to order, so portions are fulfilling,' Huang said. 'It's all-inclusive so no one will stop you from ordering more, of course!' Virgin doesn't do buffets, and all restaurants (which are included in the fare) offered alcohol pairings with low-ABV or non-alcoholic options, giving me a way to enjoy the flavors without overdoing it. 'One of the things we're continuously working on is enhancing our beverage program to include more wellness-focused options,' Huang added. 'We also know that many of our sailors are looking for lower-ABV and non-alcoholic beverage options, so we've made sure to include those in all of our restaurants and bars.' Note: Virgin Voyages does not offer drink packages; rather, passengers charge beverages to their cabins. Drinks are moderately priced, from $6 to $15, with higher-end beverages around $29. On a seven-day cruise, $300 could equal about five drinks a day. While the restaurants were great (shoutout to Extra Virgin), one of my favorite meals was an Indian-style butter chicken from The Galley. Even with a sweet tooth, I never felt the temptation to mindlessly grab a plate of pastries. By making brunch and dinner reservations at times I knew I wanted to eat, every meal felt intentional. Are there wellness options at the destinations? Yes. There were several shore excursion options for each of the stops. In Roatán, I hiked the mountains of Honduras and followed it with ATV rides. At The Beach Club at Bimini, there was the option for a guided meditation session on the sand before diving into crystal clear waters. There were active ways to explore each destination without feeling like I was skipping a workout. Is the cruise only focused on wellness? 'We're always looking at what's trending and how we can bring new, exciting wellness experiences onboard. For instance, we recently started talking about how K-pop dance classes are becoming really popular. We asked ourselves, 'Do we have the talent to offer that? Is it something our sailors would enjoy?'' Huang said. 'That's part of what makes us different — we're open to trying new things. And if something doesn't work, that's OK. We believe in experimenting, seeing what resonates, and making adjustments accordingly.' I know it sounds like I spent the entire sailing working out, but I promise it was only one hour of my day. Rest assured, most of the time, I was by the pool. I've returned from vacations before feeling like I needed another vacation just to recover. This time I felt refreshed, strong and balanced — as if I had just completed a wellness retreat disguised as a high-energy, indulgent cruise. I didn't lose strength, I didn't feel sluggish, and my routine back home picked up without missing a beat. The reporter on this story received access to this event from Virgin Voyages. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of content. Josh Rivera is USA TODAY's Travel Editor.
