Before You Book
1. Book during Sailor Pricing events. Virgin Voyages regularly runs promotions that include perks like free Bar Tab, free Wi-Fi upgrades, or onboard credit. These Sailor Pricing events can save you hundreds of dollars.
2. Sea Terrace is the sweet spot. If your budget allows, book a Sea Terrace (balcony) cabin. The private terrace with hammock is the perfect spot for morning coffee and is the most popular category for good reason.
3. Download the app immediately. The Virgin Voyages app is your lifeline — you’ll use it for check-in, dining reservations, daily schedules, onboard purchases, and more. Download it and complete your check-in as soon as possible after booking.
Dining Reservations
4. Book dining the moment reservations open. Dining reservations typically open 45 days before sailing. Set a reminder. The Wake, Test Kitchen, and Pink Agave fill up first. Book these on day one.
5. Make reservations for every night. Even though walk-ins are possible, having reservations guarantees you a seat at the restaurants you want. You can always cancel or change through the app.
6. Don’t skip breakfast and lunch spots. The Galley is great, but breakfast at Razzle Dazzle and brunch at The Wake are hidden gems that many sailors overlook.
Packing Smart
7. There is no formal night. Virgin Voyages has no dress code beyond “wear clothes.” Pack comfortable, stylish outfits — think resort casual. Leave the tuxedo at home.
8. Bring reef-safe sunscreen. Essential for The Beach Club at Bimini. Regular sunscreen can damage coral reefs and some ports prohibit it.
9. Pack a light jacket or sweater. Air conditioning on the ship can be aggressive, especially in restaurants and the theater. A light layer is your best friend.
10. Bring a lanyard for your Sailor ID band. The wristband works for everything onboard — room key, purchases, embarkation — but it can be annoying on your wrist 24/7. A lanyard lets you wear it around your neck.
Embarkation Day
11. Arrive at your scheduled time. Check-in is staggered through the app. Arriving at your assigned window means shorter lines and a smoother boarding process.
12. Head to The Galley first. Your cabin might not be ready, but lunch is. The Galley is open during embarkation and it’s a great way to start your voyage with a meal and get your bearings.
13. Explore the ship before it gets crowded. While everyone else is at the pool deck sail-away party, take 30 minutes to walk the ship. Find the restaurants, bars, fitness areas, and your favorite quiet spots.
Onboard Life
14. Try every restaurant. With 20+ included dining options, challenge yourself to eat somewhere different for every meal. You’re paying for it — take full advantage.
15. The Thermal Suite is worth the money. If you enjoy spa experiences, buy the voyage-long Thermal Suite pass. The hydrotherapy pools, mud room, salt room, and cold plunge are incredible, and the per-day cost drops significantly with the multi-day pass.
16. Attend the first-night parties. The Scarlet Night party (or themed equivalent) is a signature VV experience. Red outfits encouraged. The energy is electric and it sets the tone for the whole voyage.
17. Use the squeeze page for daily activities. The “Squeeze” section of the app shows everything happening each day. Check it each morning to plan your day and avoid missing events you’d enjoy.
18. The pool deck has a rhythm. Mornings are quieter and perfect for relaxing. Afternoons bring the DJ sets and party atmosphere. Choose your vibe accordingly.
Money-Saving Tips
19. The Bar Tab package is usually worth it. If you drink 4-5 alcoholic beverages per day, the Bar Tab pays for itself. Do the math based on your typical consumption.
20. Skip the premium Wi-Fi unless you need to work. Basic included Wi-Fi handles messaging and social media just fine. Save the upgrade cost for an excursion or spa treatment instead.
21. Bring your own wine for the cabin. Virgin Voyages allows you to bring wine onboard (one bottle per person). Enjoy it on your terrace at sunset — free of charge.
Beach Club and Ports
22. Tender early at Bimini. First tenders to The Beach Club fill up fast. The earlier you get there, the better your beach chair options and the more time you have in paradise.
23. Book excursions through VV for peace of mind. If a VV-booked excursion runs late, the ship waits. If your independent excursion runs late, it doesn’t. The peace of mind is worth the slight premium.
Night and Entertainment
24. See every show at least once. VV entertainment is unlike traditional cruise shows. Even if the description doesn’t sound like your thing, give it a chance — you’ll likely be surprised.
25. The Manor after midnight. If you enjoy nightlife, The Manor transforms into one of the best clubs at sea after midnight. The DJs are legit and the sound system is club-quality. This is where the late-night magic happens.