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One tip: avoid cabins directly below the pool deck (Deck 16) or above the theater (Deck 5-6 area). Noise from above and below can occasionally be an issue. The VV app and deck plans on the website let you see exactly what’s above and below each cabin.
Solo traveler from NYC here. Discovered VV last year and it changed my entire perspective on cruising. I thought cruises were all buffet lines and bingo — VV showed me how wrong I was. Three sailings in and already planning my 4th.
Spend a couple of days in Barcelona before your cruise. The city is amazing and you’ll regret not giving it proper time. Book a hotel near Las Ramblas or the Gothic Quarter and just explore. For the cruise itself, comfortable walking shoes are the single most important thing to pack — Med ports mean a LOT of walking on cobblestones.
The Manor bar. Full stop. The energy, the music, the crowd — it transforms throughout the evening from a chill pre-dinner spot to the best club at sea. And the bartenders make some genuinely creative cocktails.
The fitness offerings on VV are legitimately good — way above typical cruise ship level. There’s a well-equipped gym (Athletic Club), outdoor running track, boxing ring, basketball court, and group fitness classes including cycling, yoga, HIIT, and barre. All the group classes are included in your fare. The instructors are enthusiastic and the classes are actually challenging.
I’ve done both! They’re actually quite different despite both being ‘modern’ cruise lines. Celebrity Edge has a more traditional cruise feel — beautiful ship, great service, but they still have a main dining room, buffet, and mainstream entertainment. VV feels more like a lifestyle brand at sea. VV dining is better and more creative, VV entertainment is edgier, and the adults-only atmosphere is a big differentiator. Celebrity wins on cabin size and the Magic Carpet bar experience though.
I’ve been eyeing that itinerary! A few questions: How were the ports along the Australian coast? Was the ship noticeably different from the Caribbean VV ships? And how was the vibe with mostly Australian passengers vs. the usual Miami crowd?
I got it on my last 5-night sailing and used it 4 out of 5 days. Totally worth it. The contrast between the hot hydrotherapy pool and the cold plunge is amazing. Pro tip: go first thing in the morning or during dinner time for the most peaceful experience.
Don’t forget a good book or Kindle for the hammock on your terrace! Also bring a small dry bag for beach day at Bimini — keeps your phone and valuables safe near the water.
I’d swap the order slightly and do Test Kitchen on Night 2 while you’re still fresh and excited. It’s the most unique dining experience and you want to be fully present for it. Save The Wake for the last night as a grand finale with sunset views.
