Virgin Voyages has a reputation for doing things differently, and after spending five days aboard the Scarlet Lady sailing through the Caribbean, with stops in Key West and Bimini, Bahamas, it’s easy to see why. This cruise felt intentionally designed for adults who want great food, a social atmosphere, and the freedom to shape their own experience, whether that means late nights, pool days, or both.
From embarkation to the final morning, the experience was smooth, fun, and refreshingly modern, with just a few things worth knowing before you book.
Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links on this site are affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through them. Read the policies to know more.
Embarkation in Miami: Fast, Seamless, and Surprisingly Easy
We departed from Miami, and the boarding process was one of the smoothest travel experiences we’ve had. Virgin assigns specific check-in times, which clearly helps keep things moving. We took an Uber to the port, were dropped off, and within minutes our bags were taken and tagged to be delivered directly to our room.
Check-in and security were quick and efficient, with none of the long lines or chaos you might expect. From curb to ship, the process felt organized and before we knew it, we were onboard.
One of the first things you receive is your Virgin Voyages wristband, and it quickly becomes one of the most convenient features of the entire cruise. The wristband:
• Opens your cabin door
• Is used for all onboard purchases
• Eliminates the need to carry cash or credit cards
Not having to think about wallets, room keys, or signing checks made everything feel effortless. You just tap and go, whether you’re grabbing a drink, shopping onboard, or heading back to your room.
First Night Vibes: Pub Crawl
Virgin Voyages is a very social cruise, and that was obvious from the first night. We joined the onboard pub crawl, which turned out to be one of the best ways to meet people early in the trip.
For $50, we got five cocktails, hopped between several bars, and played games along the way. The staff running it did an excellent job and were genuinely great at getting everyone involved. The games sparked conversation instantly, and by the end of the night, strangers felt like familiar faces we’d continue seeing all week.
That sense of openness carried throughout the cruise, whether chatting in hot tubs, at dinner, or waiting for a drink, people were friendly and easy to talk to, including the crew.
The Scarlet Lady: Modern and Stylish
The design of the ship itself was sleek and modern, with plenty of open decks, cozy lounges, and social spaces that make you want to hang out rather than rush from place to place.
There are multiple pools and hot tubs, which were a favorite, though they’re popular, so expect to wait during peak times. That said, it’s easy to grab a drink at the bar or settle into one of the many comfortable deck chairs or lounge areas nearby while you wait.
Dining on Virgin Voyages: A Standout Experience
Dining is one of Virgin Voyages’ strongest points, and all restaurants are included, which removes the usual cruise upcharge stress.
Gunbae: Interactive, Social, and Fun
Dinner at Gunbae was one of the highlights of the entire trip. This Korean BBQ-style restaurant is designed to be shared, making it both interactive and social.
We sampled a wide variety of dishes, grilling meats at the table and passing plates around. The communal setup naturally brings people together, not just within your group but also with others at your table. If you enjoy lively, shared dining experiences, Gunbae is a must.
Extra Virgin: Italian Comfort Done Right
At Extra Virgin, I ordered the Cacio e Pepe, and it was exactly what it should be—simple, rich, and comforting. The pasta was perfectly cooked, and the flavors were balanced without being heavy.
This restaurant is ideal for a relaxed, classic Italian dinner and quickly became a favorite.
Pink Agave: Bold Flavors and Great Cocktails
Pink Agave delivered across the board. The guacamole was fresh and flavorful, and the chicken enchiladas were a standout—hearty, well-seasoned, and incredibly satisfying.
As expected, the food pairs perfectly with tequila-based cocktails, including my favorite, spicy margaritas.
The Wake: Elevated and Elegant
For a more upscale evening, The Wake is the perfect choice. I ordered the salt-crusted dorade fish, which was beautifully prepared and full of flavor. Vanessa and others in our group ordered the steak, and everyone agreed it was excellent.
This restaurant feels refined and elegant without being stuffy—ideal for a quieter, polished night onboard.
Razzle Dazzle and Casual Eats
We had brunch at Razzle Dazzle, which was a great alternative to buffet dining. The food was tasty, and the atmosphere felt relaxed and fun.
The buffet options for breakfast and lunch were also surprisingly strong. I had everything from udon noodles and sushi to burgers, and the variety truly felt endless. Late at night, fresh mini pizzas were served—perfect after a few drinks.
Entertainment and Theme Nights
The onboard entertainment exceeded expectations. The shows were high-quality, with talented dancers and singers that felt more like professional theater performances.
Virgin also leans heavily into theme nights, and guests fully commit:
• Pajama Party on the first night
• Scarlet Night, the signature event
• 80s Night
• Y2K Night
Scarlet Night was easily the most memorable. The ship transforms into a sea of red, with a major show by the main pool. The dancers were incredible—and yes, they even ended up in the pool.
Ports we Visited
Key West
Key West was a fun, laid-back stop with tons of character. It’s easy to explore on foot, with ocean views, colorful streets, and no shortage of bars and seafood spots.
And of course, Key lime pie is a must.
Bimini Beach Club, Bahamas
The Bimini Beach Club was another standout experience. We rented a cabana, which comfortably fit six people and provided shade when needed.
Ship staff acted as waiters, bringing food and drinks directly to us, making the entire day feel incredibly easy. The ocean was stunning—clear turquoise water and soft white sand—and we spent most of our time swimming rather than using the pool.
Amenities for Every Type of Traveler
Beyond food and parties, Virgin Voyages offers a wide range of activities:
• Casino
• Bingo and games
• Spa and wellness experiences
• Quiet lounges and lively bars
No matter your travel style, there’s something for you onboard.
The One Real Downside: Cabin Location
Our biggest negative was our room location. We stayed on the 5th floor in an inside cabin with no window, directly below an event space. On Scarlet Night, the music and bass were strong enough to vibrate our room until about 3am.
The room itself was very reasonably priced, and in hindsight, it makes sense why. Vanessa wasn’t able to sleep that night, but Virgin handled it extremely well—they provided her with a quieter room for the night, which showed how accommodating the staff really are.
Our cabin had four beds, but with just the two of us, it already felt like the right size. Four people would have been very cramped. If quiet, space, or natural light matter to you, upgrading your cabin is worth considering.
Disembarkation: Easy Off the Ship, Slow to the Airport
Getting off the ship was just as smooth as boarding—quick, organized, and seamless. However, one thing to note: getting a cab or taxi at the Miami port takes time.
We waited about an hour for transportation, so if you’re flying out the same day, leave plenty of buffer time when booking your flight.
Final Thoughts
Virgin Voyages delivers a modern, social, adult-only cruise experience that feels thoughtfully designed and genuinely fun. The food, entertainment, and overall vibe set it apart, and the crew and guests were some of the friendliest we’ve encountered.
If you’re curious about Virgin Voyages and want a cruise that feels fresh, flexible, and social—this one is absolutely worth considering.
