Viking River Cruises

The Vibe: Relaxed, Sophisticated, and Playful

Forget the all-you-can-eat buffets and screaming kids. Virgin Voyages cultivates an atmosphere that is both high-energy and laid-back. It's for people who want to have a good time without the pressure of a nonstop party. You'll find curated experiences, from world-class DJs on the pool deck to quiet, zen-like spaces for relaxation. The core philosophy is freedom and authenticity—you can choose your own adventure, whether that's dancing until midnight, taking a sunrise yoga class, or simply relaxing with a book. The "Adults-Only" policy (18+) ensures a mature environment.

Destinations & Ports

Virgin Voyages sails to a variety of destinations around the globe, with itineraries focused on the Caribbean and Europe.

Key Destinations:

Caribbean: Including the Bahamas (with an exclusive stop at the Beach Club at Bimini), Mexico, and the Dominican Republic.
Europe: Sailing to destinations in the Mediterranean, such as Spain, Italy, and Greece, and Northern Europe, including Iceland and the UK.
Other Routes: Transatlantic and U.S. West Coast cruises are also offered.

Major Departure Ports:

Miami, Florida
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Barcelona, Spain
Piraeus (Athens), Greece
Los Angeles, California

The Ships: A Modern Fleet

Virgin Voyages has a fleet of four ships, all designed to offer a sleek, modern, and upscale experience. They are:

Scarlet Lady
Valiant Lady
Resilient Lady
Brilliant Lady

Each ship is a mid-sized vessel with a gross tonnage of approximately 108,000 GT, and they can each accommodate around 2,700 passengers.

Cabins: Smart and Stylish

Virgin Voyages cabins are designed with a focus on smart design and comfort. The most common cabin types are:

The Insider (Interior): Windowless cabins that are still designed to feel luxurious.
Sea View: Cabins with a porthole window to enjoy ocean views.
Sea Terrace: The most popular option, these cabins feature a private balcony with Virgin's signature red hammock.
Rockstar & Mega Rockstar Quarters: These suites offer more space, exclusive perks, and amenities like hot tubs and private terraces.

All cabins include a "Seabed," a custom-designed bed that can be converted into a lounge-like sofa during the day, maximizing space. They also feature a tablet to control lighting and curtains, as well as a rainshower in the bathroom.

What Is Included

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All Dining: Unlike most cruise lines, all specialty restaurants are included at no extra cost. There are no main dining rooms or buffets; instead, there are over 20 unique dining options.
Wi-Fi: Basic Wi-Fi is included for all sailors.
Essential Drinks: Still and sparkling water, non-pressed juices, sodas, and drip coffee are included.
Gratuities: Tips for the crew are included in your fare.
Group Fitness Classes: A wide array of fitness classes like yoga, spin, and HIIT are complimentary.
Shows and Entertainment: Most onboard shows and performances are included.

What Is NOT Included

Alcoholic beverages (unless you have a special package or are in a specific suite category)
Excursions
Spa treatments
Special Dinner Shows

Onboard Activities & Entertainment

Virgin Voyages provides a wide range of activities that go beyond the typical cruise experience. The entertainment is designed to be more immersive and theatrical.

Live Shows: Expect edgy, city-style entertainment, from acrobatic shows in the Red Room to late-night cabaret.
Theme Parties: The signature event is "Scarlet Night," a ship-wide party where guests are encouraged to wear red.
Fitness: Bungee classes, yoga at sunrise, and high-energy workouts at the Athletic Club are available.
Relaxation: The Redemption Spa offers a variety of treatments, and there are plenty of quiet nooks for unwinding.
Games & Fun: Activities like game shows, bingo with a drag queen, and various social events keep the energy high.

Pros

No Kids: The adults-only environment is a major draw for those seeking a more tranquil or party-centric vacation.
Included Value: The "Always Included Luxury" model means no surprise charges for specialty dining, Wi-Fi, or gratuities.
Unique Dining: The food is a highlight, with a diverse range of restaurants that are all included.
Modern Design: The ships have a sleek, contemporary feel that sets them apart from traditional cruise lines.
Innovative Entertainment: The shows and performances are often praised for being fresh and different.

Cons

Small Pools: The main pools are often criticized for being small and can get crowded.
Limited Room Service: The complimentary room service menu is very limited.
Inconsistent Entertainment: While the shows are unique, some guests find the variety can become repetitive on longer cruises.
Less of a "Classic" Cruise Experience: If you're looking for a formal night or a traditional cruise feel, Virgin Voyages might not be for you.