12 Virgin Voyages Questions Everyone Asks (Answered by a Cruise Specialist)

🥃 Is the Virgin Voyages Bar Tab worth it?

Asked in almost every VV thread on Reddit

This is easily the number one question new sailors ask. The short answer: yes, for most people. Virgin Voyages does not sell a traditional unlimited drink package. Instead, they offer a pre-paid Bar Tab that you load before your sailing in increments from $200 to $1,000. When you load Bar Tab credit, Virgin adds a bonus on top — typically around $50 extra for every $300 you load, which works out to roughly a 15-17% instant return. Since cocktails on board run $12-16 each, even moderate drinkers come out ahead. The key detail most people miss: unused Bar Tab credit is not refundable, so load an amount that matches your actual drinking habits rather than going all-in. If you are unsure how much you will spend, we built a tool for exactly this situation.

✅ What is actually included in my Virgin Voyages fare?

One of the top questions from first-time cruisers

Virgin Voyages includes far more than most cruise lines. All dining is included across 20+ restaurants — no specialty dining surcharges, no main dining room, every restaurant is open to every sailor. Basic Wi-Fi is included. Tips and gratuities are included (no envelopes, no automatic daily charges). Group fitness classes like yoga, boxing, and cycling are included. Basic beverages like drip coffee, tea, water, and some juices are included. All entertainment — shows, DJs, parties — is included. What costs extra: alcoholic drinks (unless you have Bar Tab), the Thermal Spa, premium Wi-Fi upgrades, shore excursions, and specialty spa treatments. We broke down every detail in a dedicated guide.

🧳 What should I pack for a Virgin Voyages cruise?

Comes up constantly, especially for first-time cruisers

Packing for VV is different from traditional cruise lines because there are no formal nights. You can leave the tuxedo and ball gowns at home. Focus on: casual daywear for the pool deck and Beach Club, something in red for Scarlet Night (even a red tank top works), comfortable pajamas for the PJ Party, workout clothes if you plan to use the included fitness classes, and a few nicer outfits for evening dining at restaurants like Razzle Dazzle or The Wake. Do not pack an iron, extension cord, or power strip — Virgin Voyages does not allow them and provides hair dryers and ample USB charging ports in every cabin. Bring reef-safe sunscreen for Bimini and two bottles of wine (750ml each) if you want to enjoy them in your cabin.

👔 Is there a dress code on Virgin Voyages?

Frequently asked by traditional cruise line switchers

There is no formal dress code. Virgin Voyages takes a relaxed approach — no suit required, no assigned dinner seatings, no formal portraits in the atrium. That said, you cannot wear swimsuits or flip-flops in restaurants. Most sailors dress smart-casual for dinner: think sundresses, linen pants, nice shorts and a button-down. The vibe leans more trendy Miami nightclub than traditional cruise ship dining room. For themed nights like Scarlet Night or the PJ Party, there are fun dress-up opportunities, but nothing is mandatory.

🔴 What is Scarlet Night and what do I wear?

One of the most hyped experiences on every sailing

Scarlet Night is Virgin Voyages’ signature onboard event and it happens on every sailing, on every ship. It is an immersive evening that transforms the entire ship — think pop-up performances, a pool deck dance party, and a general atmosphere of celebration. The tradition is to wear something red, though it is not required to participate. It can be as simple as a red t-shirt, a red dress, red accessories, or even red nail polish. The energy level is high and it is genuinely one of the highlights of the trip. Show up in red, grab a drink, and let the night unfold.

🏖 Is Bimini Beach Club worth it?

Asked by almost everyone sailing Caribbean itineraries

Bimini Beach Club is included in your fare and it is absolutely worth spending the day there. The 4.5-acre property has a long beachfront with hundreds of lounge chairs and umbrellas, two massive lagoon-style pools, six bars, food stations serving complimentary lunch, hammocks, DJs, and a sunset party vibe that rivals any beach club in the Caribbean. The only extras that cost money are alcoholic drinks and premium cabana reservations. Pro tips from repeat sailors: get off the ship early to grab the best chairs, eat breakfast on the ship before heading ashore since lunch does not start until around 11:30, and if it is your first visit, skip the paid shore excursions and just enjoy the Beach Club itself.

🍽 How does dining work with no main dining room?

Confuses people switching from Royal Caribbean or Carnival

This is probably the biggest culture shock for traditional cruisers. Virgin Voyages has no main dining room and no assigned seating times. Instead, you have 20+ restaurants and eateries, all included, and you eat wherever and whenever you want. You can book reservations through the Virgin Voyages app starting 45 days before departure, but walk-ins and day-of reservations are generally available too. The restaurants range from Korean BBQ at Gunbae to steak and seafood at The Wake, Mexican at Pink Agave, and Italian at Extra Virgin. The food quality is genuinely impressive — these are menus designed by Michelin-starred chefs. Our advice: book your must-try restaurants early and leave a few nights open for spontaneous choices.

📶 Is the Wi-Fi any good on Virgin Voyages?

Important for remote workers and anyone needing to stay connected

Basic Wi-Fi is included in your fare, which already puts VV ahead of most cruise lines that charge $15+ per day. The included connection handles messaging apps, email, social media scrolling, and light web browsing. If you need video calls, streaming, or heavier usage, you can upgrade to Premium Wi-Fi for an additional charge. The general consensus among repeat sailors is that the included Wi-Fi is solid for everyday needs but can slow down during peak hours when everyone is on board. If you are a remote worker planning to take calls from the ship, budget for the premium upgrade.

🍷 Can I bring alcohol on board?

A practical question with a specific answer

Yes, but with limits. You can bring two bottles of wine per cabin (750ml each) in your carry-on luggage. If you pack wine in your checked luggage, Virgin Voyages may confiscate it until the end of the voyage. You cannot bring liquor, beer, or other spirits on board. The wine policy is great for celebrating in your cabin — bring a nice bottle for the first night while you settle in. Beyond that, the ship’s bars and the Bar Tab system are the way to go for drinks during your sailing.

🛏 Which cabin type should I book?

Always generates lots of debate in online forums

Virgin Voyages offers four cabin categories: Sea Terrace (balcony), Sea View (window), Sea Breeze (interior with a hammock), and Insider (interior). For first-timers, the Sea Terrace balcony cabin is the most popular choice — you get your own private outdoor space which is great for coffee in the morning or drinks at sunset. If budget is a concern, the Insider cabins are well-designed with mood lighting, a good layout, and plenty of outlets. A popular tip from experienced sailors: if you are choosing a Sea Terrace, aft-facing balconies at the back of the ship offer the best views with wider, deeper balconies looking out over the wake.

🗺 What about shore excursions?

Especially for Caribbean and Mediterranean itineraries

Virgin Voyages calls their shore excursions “Shore Things” and they are booked through the app or onboard. They range from snorkeling and beach breaks to cultural tours and adventure activities, depending on your itinerary. Prices vary but expect $60-200+ per person. For Bimini specifically, many repeat sailors recommend skipping Shore Things on your first visit and simply enjoying the included Beach Club. For Mediterranean itineraries, the excursions can be worth it for logistics alone, especially in ports where independent exploration is tricky. Book popular excursions early through the app as they do sell out.

❤ Is Virgin Voyages good for couples?

Especially popular among honeymoon planners

Virgin Voyages is one of the best cruise lines for couples. The entire fleet is 18+ only, which means no kids anywhere on the ship — the pool deck, the restaurants, the entertainment, everywhere. The vibe is upscale, trendy, and social without being a party ship (though Scarlet Night can get lively). The spa has a thermal suite, the restaurants are date-night quality, and the bars have a craft cocktail scene that rivals good land-based bars. For honeymooners, look into the Rockstar Quarters suites for the ultimate experience — they come with a dedicated agent, premium in-room bar, and access to Richard’s Rooftop, a suite-exclusive outdoor terrace. If you are planning a honeymoon or couples trip and want help with booking, our team at Pixie Vacations specializes in romantic getaways.