18-03-2025
What's it really like going on a Virgin Voyages cruise?
When I told my mum that I was going on a cruise for the first time, she was the most excited she had ever been about a plan of mine. While I was also thrilled to be seeing the sun for a week when in England it was -1 degree, to say I was anxious was an understatement. I was nervous about the process of embarking, what would be on board, and who I might be likely to meet – is it like being on a cheesy all-inclusive holiday but on the sea, so you can't even escape with a long drive to explore a local supermarket? Will the communal spaces be crammed? What's the water pressure going to be like in the shower? You know, important things. So if like me, you have been cruise-curious for a while, allow me to talk you through my time on-board the Scarlett Lady; a Virgin Voyages Western Caribbean Charm cruise which heads to Honduras, Mexico and the Bahamas.
Getting on the ship, especially as a 'Rockstar' (I do cringe a bit when I say that but after a couple of days, you lean into it) is very seamless. We flew to Miami and then docked from there. As a 'Rockstar' (aka a VIP guest, which means it's slightly more expensive but you get access to more perks), you have a special entrance and a valet to pick up your bags, and you get to board ahead of other sailors. But having spoken to other guests the standard checking and boarding process is pretty painless too. It kind of reminded me of the process of boarding the Eurostar, with the mini passport control and security.
Without a shadow of doubt, the best thing about this cruise is the quality of the food and drink. As soon as you step on board, virtually all food is free (bar a few surcharge items like caviar, oysters and lobster, natch) and we aren't talking a standard buffet here, people. Yes, there are quick options available and we can get into that, but the most impressive (and tasty) meal options were the restaurants.
The ship boasts so many spots where you can book in and dine on a three-course, Michelin-inspired meal. On most ships, any dining outside of the centralised dining area is charged extra, so it did feel like a treat. The best restaurant IMO was The Wake (odd name but appaz it's because it's at the back of the ship and that's what the water's called back there. Still when you're saying 'Oh I'm looking forward to going to The Wake' it sounds odd). I could have happily stayed on board for two weeks eating and drinking my way up and down the ship. The main dining area was also such good quality food; I particular loved the ramen, tacos and burgers *drools*...
Our cabin, which was a Sea Terrace, was really sweet. Me and my bestie happily share a bed but you can split the double into two singles, easily. The cabin lights, curtains and entertainment are all controlled via a tablet which is simple to navigate.
There are only a few live channels but being that we are in the middle of the sea, I didn't expect them to have amazing signal for cable. The catalogue of movies and shows that were preloaded was more than enough for us to pop on when we were getting ready or winding down.
As ships go, this one's not the biggest but it has a lot of things to keep you occupied. It had a lil glow up last year and everything felt pretty shiny and new, but that could also be down to the fact that ship is for over 18s only. As the weather was not on our side throughout the trip, we really rinsed the entertainment schedule and had fun doing it. From the themed parties (the Pyjama Party was my fave) to the casino and karaoke rooms, if you're bored on this ship, then I would look inwardly, for real.
If a little quiet time and relaxation is needed, we loved the spa which can be booked on-board. A shoutout to bungee class too, because the amount we laughed at the fact that we were swinging up and down in the middle of the sea worked my abs better than any gym class ever has.
Unfortunately, due to bad weather, a few of our on-shore excursions were cancelled, but we did get to enjoy a tour of Mayan ruins when we docked in Mexico. It was amazing to see the history up close, even in the worst bout of rain I have ever experienced outside of the UK.
I viewed it all through sunscreen and mascaras running into my eyes, but our guide remained so upbeat we had to laugh. Shore things (again, we lean into the Virgin Voyages lingo) can all be booked on the app super seamlessly, but IRL you can book on board too, which is handy if you aren't sure what you want to do day-to-day. I would say that they do get booked up quickly so if there is something you absolutely want to do, I would book ahead.
It feels counterintuitive, but bring a couple of jumpers in your suitcase. They keep the ship pretty consistently cool which is pleasant when it's scorching outside but if you run cold, or the weather is chilly, you might find it a bit cold at shows and dinners and the deck is obviously quite breezy at night when you're sailing.
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All tipping is included in your on-board payment, so you don't need to worry about bringing bundles of cash on board. I would suggest bringing some for tipping when you get off the boat.
'Western Caribbean Charm' 6-night sailing on Scarlet Lady
Departing from Miami and calling at Costa Maya, Roatán and Bimini.
Sun, Nov 09 – Sat, Nov 15
Insider cabins from £1,477
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