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I switched to booking through a travel advisor after my second VV cruise and kicked myself for not doing it sooner. Same price or better, but I got $100 onboard credit and my advisor handled everything — cabin selection advice, dining reservation tips, excursion recommendations. It’s genuinely a better experience.
If you care more about views than motion, higher decks (12-14) give you a better vantage point. I personally love a high aft cabin — watching the wake from Deck 13 or 14 is mesmerizing. The slight extra motion is a worthwhile trade-off for the view.
RockStar suite addict from Texas. Once you go RockStar, you can never go back to a regular cabin. Richard’s Rooftop is my happy place. Glad to have found this community!
The Med on VV is incredible. General tip: don’t over-plan. Pick ONE must-do activity per port and leave the rest to wandering. In Ibiza, hit the beach and Old Town. In Marseille, take the train to Cassis for the calanques. In Naples/Capri, the Blue Grotto if weather permits. The ship’s late departures in several ports give you extra time which is a huge VV advantage.
Also check the app on embarkation day. People’s plans change and cancellations happen. I’ve gotten drag brunch reservations at the last minute by refreshing the app obsessively on day one. The front desk can sometimes help too if you ask nicely.
Friends who sailed on Brilliant Lady’s inaugural season said she’s essentially identical to the other ships in layout but the ‘new ship smell’ and pristine condition make a difference. The crew was incredibly enthusiastic too — inaugural crews tend to bring extra energy.
In my experience, the absolute best deals come from booking early during a Sailor Pricing event AND choosing off-peak dates. Mid-week departures and shoulder season sailings (early/late Caribbean season, beginning/end of Med season) tend to have the lowest base fares.
Absolutely worth it, especially for 5+ nights. The Thermal Suite includes hydrotherapy pools (hot and cold), a salt room, mud room, steam room, and relaxation loungers. It’s the most peaceful space on the ship and barely ever crowded — most people stick to the pool deck. I use it every sea day, usually in the morning when it’s almost empty. The per-day cost is much lower with the voyage pass vs. daily passes.
As my username suggests, I’m biased — but YES. The RockStar perks that make the biggest difference: 1) Richard’s Rooftop is a gorgeous exclusive sundeck with its own bar and hot tub — way less crowded than the main pool. 2) The included premium Bar Tab saves you $300+. 3) Priority embarkation and tendering saves time. 4) Thermal Suite pass is included (worth $100+). For an anniversary, it makes the trip feel truly special.
I’ve done both. The cabana is a nice splurge for a special occasion — you get shade, a dedicated server, Champagne, and prime location. But honestly? The free experience is still incredible. The beach chairs are comfortable, the water is stunning, and you’re right there in the action near the DJ pool. I wouldn’t stress about it for a first visit.
Here’s what worked perfectly for us: Night 1 – The Wake (celebration dinner, great sunset views). Night 2 – Pink Agave (amazing Mexican, book early slot for best energy). Night 3 – Gunbae (fun interactive Korean BBQ). Night 4 – Test Kitchen (save the most unique experience for later). Night 5 – Extra Virgin (relaxed Italian for the last night). Use lunches to hit The Galley, Dock, and Pizza Place.
Already looking at dates for the Brilliant Lady Greek Islands run. The combination of VV nightlife and Greek island hopping sounds like a dream vacation.
Dominican Daze is amazing — Puerto Plata is gorgeous and the Beach Club at Bimini is incredible. A few things I wish I’d known on my first sailing: there’s no formal night, so pack casual/resort wear. Basic Wi-Fi is included. All restaurants are free. And don’t miss Scarlet Night — pack something red to wear!
