Scarlet Lady: Where It All Began
Scarlet Lady holds a special place in Virgin Voyages history as the ship that started it all. Launched in 2021 after pandemic-related delays, she proved that Richard Branson’s vision for a completely different kind of cruise experience wasn’t just marketing hype — it was a genuine revolution in how people experience life at sea.
Homeported in Miami, Scarlet Lady primarily sails 4- and 5-night Caribbean itineraries visiting destinations like The Beach Club at Bimini, Puerto Plata, Costa Maya, and Key West. Her shorter voyages make her an excellent choice for first-time Virgin Voyages sailors who want to test the waters before committing to a longer sailing.
The Scarlet Lady Experience
At 110,000 gross tons carrying approximately 2,770 sailors, Scarlet Lady feels spacious and never overcrowded. The ship’s design is a masterclass in modern aesthetics — think exposed steel, statement art installations, and spaces that feel more like a trendy boutique hotel than a traditional cruise ship. Every corner has been thoughtfully designed by a team of world-class designers and artists.
The outdoor deck areas deserve special mention. The Athletic Club features a boxing ring, outdoor running track, and basketball court. The pool deck centers around two main pools — including the stunning Aquatic Club — with DJ sets keeping the energy high during sea days. And for something more peaceful, the Crow’s Nest offers panoramic views from the ship’s highest public deck.
Dining Aboard Scarlet Lady
Scarlet Lady features over 20 dining options, all included in your fare. The standouts include Test Kitchen, an experimental dining concept where the menu changes and surprises; Pink Agave, featuring upscale Mexican cuisine in a stunning pink-hued dining room; and The Wake, the elegant steakhouse at the ship’s stern with floor-to-ceiling ocean views.
For casual eats, The Galley food hall is open for most of the day and evening. The Dock serves Mediterranean-inspired dishes poolside, and The Pizza Place delivers surprisingly good Neapolitan-style pies late into the night.
Cabins and Suites
Scarlet Lady’s cabins are modern, efficient, and stylish. Even the Insider (interior) cabins feel well-designed with smart storage solutions and a calming color palette. The Sea Terrace cabins are the sweet spot — private balcony, comfortable hammock, and enough space to spread out without feeling cramped.
If you’re celebrating something special, the RockStar Quarters take the experience up several notches. The Mega RockStar Suites on Deck 15 are especially impressive, featuring music-themed decor, a peek-a-boo shower, premium balcony with hot tub, and access to Richard’s Rooftop — an exclusive sundeck with its own bar, hot tub, and stunning views.
Best Itineraries from Scarlet Lady
Scarlet Lady’s sweet spot is the 5-night Dominican Daze itinerary, which includes a stop at Puerto Plata and The Beach Club at Bimini. The 4-night Riviera Maya itinerary hitting Costa Maya is perfect for a quick getaway. Both itineraries depart from Miami’s Terminal V, Virgin Voyages’ dedicated terminal at PortMiami — itself worth arriving early to experience.
Who Is Scarlet Lady Best For?
Scarlet Lady is ideal for first-time VV sailors, couples looking for a quick Caribbean escape, and anyone who wants to experience the Virgin Voyages vibe without committing to a longer sailing. Her short itineraries and Miami homeport make her incredibly accessible, and her dining and entertainment are just as impressive as any of her sister ships.