I have to be honest – cruises have never really been my thing. For me, the idea of cruising always felt a bit… well, old-fashioned. I pictured cruises as something for a more mature crowd, where you barely get time to explore destinations and are stuck in claustrophobic cabins. So, when Virgin Voyages invited me aboard, I was intrigued. Their marketing promised something different – an energetic vibe, people smiling and dancing the night away, and a younger, fun-loving crowd. I thought, why not? With an open mind and a little scepticism, I decided to give it a shot. After all, this wasn’t just any cruise line; it was Virgin Voyages, one of the most talked-about cruise lines out there!

PLEASE NOTE: THIS WAS AN INVITE; however, my views are my own.

Adults-Only Bliss and All-Inclusive Goodness

One of the biggest selling points for me was that Virgin Voyages is an adults-only cruise – guests must be at least 18 years old. Don’t get me wrong, kids are great, but on holiday, they can be a lot…so this really sold it for me. Another big win? Virgin Voyages follows an all-inclusive model, meaning no hidden fees or surprises. Gratuities, Wi-Fi, food, coffee, tea, soft drinks, and fitness classes are all included. You can add an alcohol package in advance or pay as you go – everything is designed to be easy-going with a “we’ve got you covered” attitude.

We opted for the “Starry Nights in Greece and Croatia” itinerary, a 10-night round-trip sailing from Athens. This cruise was a dream come true, ticking off so many destinations from my bucket list. And the price? Starting at £3,831.24 for two people.

The App: A Lifesaver (Mostly)

Before setting sail, I downloaded the Virgin Voyages app, which turned out to be an absolute lifesaver throughout the trip. The app lets you explore restaurant options, check the entertainment schedule, and receive important updates like excursion reminders. Virgin offers a variety of port excursions called Shore Things, including winery tours, cooking classes, and adventurous boat and kayak expeditions plus more!

But, as with most tech, it wasn’t flawless. We encountered a few technical glitches – slow restaurant bookings, messaging errors, and loading delays. Despite these hiccups, the app was incredibly helpful overall.

Smooth Sailing: embarkation and disembarkation

Embarkation and disembarkation at each destination was seamless. The app notified us when the ship had arrived, embarking times, and whether we needed to book a slot for a charter boat (which is required at some destinations). Booking a day in advance is highly recommended, as slots can fill up quickly. We forgot to book a charter boat for one destination but managed to get on one without much hassle. Virgin also provides free shuttle buses or boats to city centres in most destinations, saving you money on taxis – a thoughtful touch, especially when we saw other cruise passengers haggling for cabs!

First Impressions: Jaw-Dropping

Arriving in Athens and seeing the Resilient Lady for the first time was, quite frankly, jaw-dropping- a bit of a surreal moment. I’ve never been near a cruise ship before, and honestly, it was like seeing the Titanic—massive and imposing! The ship can carry up to 2,700 Sailors (guests/passengers) in 1,408 cabins. With over 20 restaurants, numerous bars and lounges, a mega-nightclub, performance spaces, a pool with chic loungers, a giant whirlpool, a karaoke bar, the luxurious Redemption Spa, high-end shops, and even a tattoo parlour—this ship had it all!

Checking in was a breeze. We had selected our check-in time before arriving in Athens, and when we got there, there were no queues in sight. We received wristbands that acted as our identity cards and payment method, making it super easy to check in and out of the cruise and pay for drinks. The staff welcomed us with warm smiles, and our bags were already in our room by the time we got there—now that’s first-class service! Although we only caught the tail end of the arrival party, I recommend heading straight to the top deck when you board to join the fun and grab a glass of bubbly.

Accessibility: Thoughtfully Designed for Everyone

One thing that really stood out to me was how thoughtfully designed the Resilient Lady is when it comes to accessibility. Every floor had accessible toilets, making it easy to find facilities wherever you were on the ship. The elevators were abundant, ensuring that guests with mobility needs could navigate the ship without any issues. From the pool areas to the lounges, everything felt inclusive and accessible.

Top Deck: Fun in the Sun and More

The top deck was a paradise of activities and relaxation. There were two swimming pools—one large pool with a bar and a smaller, more intimate pool also with its own bar, making it easy to grab a drink while you lounged. And if you’re a fan of soaking in a hot tub, you’re in luck – there were several Jacuzzis scattered around the deck, perfect for unwinding with a view of the open sea.

For those who like to stay active, the top deck featured a running track and a basketball court, so you can keep up with your fitness routine even while on vacation. There were also fun activities like seesaws, ball games and various lounge areas throughout the ship, offering plenty of spots to relax, socialise, or just take in the stunning views.

The Room: Cosy and Functional

As we wandered around the ship, we were in awe of its sheer size. We found our floor and accessed it via one of the many elevators (the ship is very accessible with plenty of elevators and stairs). When we opened the door to our Sea Terrace room, we were greeted with a spotless space complete with a balcony and a cosy hammock. Everything was neatly arranged—towels, information booklets, mini fridge, fresh water, and a tablet to control the room’s lights, blinds, TV, and more. There was ample storage for our clothes and toiletries, making the room very comfortable for two people. The bathroom was compact, as you’d expect on a cruise, but it was functional and well-designed for our needs. The balcony quickly became our favourite spot, where we enjoyed many sunsets and breakfasts.

Room service was available, and an electronic system outside the door allowed us to request room cleaning. Additional services like laundry and “Ship Eats” were offered, though they came at an extra cost. Unfortunately, we had a minor hiccup with “Ship Eats.” Some menu items were missing, and the quality wasn’t great. However, the issue was resolved within 10 minutes of reporting it, so we were satisfied with the quick response.

As a British gal, my only complaint was the lack of in-room tea-making facilities. I do love my tea, and while you can get as much as you like from The Galley (which I certainly did—about seven cups a day!) it would have been nice to have a kettle in the room. But I understand that Virgin wants you to get out and explore the ship.

Now, the most common question that flooded my inbox was: Can you hear the sea at night? And can you feel the boat rock? It wasn’t until the second night, during a storm, that I felt the ship rock a little, which made me slightly dizzy for about 30 minutes. But other than that, I didn’t hear or feel a thing—unless, of course, you leave the balcony door open (which I strongly advise against!). Overall, my sleep was peaceful every night.

Restaurants: The Choice Is Yours!

When it comes to dining on Virgin Voyages’ Resilient Lady, you’re truly spoiled for choice. With 20 dining options onboard—all included in your ticket price—you’ll never have to worry about extra costs piling up. It’s all covered! You can even revisit your favorite eateries as many times as you like, thanks to Virgin’s refreshingly laid-back booking system. We met a few seasoned cruise-goers who couldn’t stop praising the flexibility Virgin offers, especially compared to other cruise lines that often impose restrictions on restaurant bookings.

As for my personal favorites, I couldn’t get enough of Pink Agave, Test Kitchen, The Wake, and Gunbae. Each offered a unique culinary experience that kept us coming back for more.

I recommend booking your dining spots as soon as possible since they do tend to fill up quickly. The food quality and variety onboard were nothing short of impressive. Whether you’re in the mood for Italian, Japanese, Mexican, or something entirely different, there’s always something new and delicious to discover. The ice cream parlor was a real treat, especially on those warm, sunny days at sea. I was particularly smitten with the Butter Pecan—a must-try!

For breakfast, The Galley became our go-to spot. It’s the perfect place to start your day, and we couldn’t get enough of their fluffy pancakes and mouth-watering breakfast burrito. The variety of options at The Galley is extensive, and because it’s open all day, you can pop in whenever hunger strikes. It was a bit surreal to just help yourself to whatever you wanted without ever reaching for your credit card, but that’s one of the many joys of this cruise—no hidden costs to worry about.

And here’s something you’ll appreciate: No Buffet Lines! That’s right—there are no buffet restaurants onboard Virgin Voyages ships. Instead, food is prepared fresh and to order at each food station. You won’t find any extra-cost specialty dining venues on Resilient Lady either—they’re all special, and they’re all included in the price. Virgin Voyages has done away with the typical cruising clichés, but rest assured, with so many fabulous eateries on the ship, you’ll never go hungry.

If you’re looking for a cool spot to hang out during the day or in the evening, the Social Club is where it’s at. With bar games, indoor shuffleboard, quizzes, and more, it’s the perfect place to relax and have some fun. And let’s not forget the snacks—hotdogs, pretzels, sweets, shakes, popcorn – you name it! You can stuff your face 24 hours a day if your mood (or appetite) can take it. While restaurants have set dining times, The Galley and “Ship Eats” (room service) are available 24/7. Order as much food as you want, whenever you want. Just keep in mind that Test Kitchen does have a set menu.

Vegetarians and vegans, rejoice! While most of the restaurant menus have clearly marked options for you, Resilient Lady’s dedicated Vegan/Vegetarian restaurant, Razzle Dazzle, takes plant-based dining to the next level. With an exciting and innovative menu, it’s a treat for everyone—even the carnivores in your group will find something to love!

Bars: Where Do You Start?!

Virgin Voyages takes a different approach when it comes to drink packages. Instead of the traditional all-you-can-drink packages found on many other cruise lines, they offer “Bar Tabs.” This system allows you to preload a set amount of money onto your tab, which you can use at any of the bars during your trip. Just keep in mind that the Bar Tab is specifically for alcoholic drinks—you won’t be able to use it for coffee, water, or sodas.

The essentials, like filtered still and sparkling water, sodas, teas, and drip coffee, are included in your fare, so you won’t need to worry about those. You can easily keep track of your spending via the Virgin Voyages app. If you’re in the mood for something more premium, barista-made coffees, fresh juices, specialty cocktails, premium beers, and top-shelf spirits like Ketel One, Hendrick’s, Patrón Silver, and of course, Moët, are available at an extra cost.

With so many bars on board, there’s something to suit every taste. SIP, the champagne bar, and The Manor are standouts, but my personal favorite has to be The Dock House. The cocktails there were incredible, and we loved the lively atmosphere, especially when they had live music or karaoke nights. Another hidden gem for cocktail lovers is the Red Bar in Razzle Dazzle. Tucked away inside the restaurant, it offers unusual but very cool cocktails that we thoroughly enjoyed.

As for coffee, while you can get free coffee throughout the cruise, if you’re after something a bit more special, I highly recommend Grounds Club. They make a fantastic flat white, and the pastries are absolutely delicious too!

Entertainment: No Boredom Here!

Whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, Virgin Voyages has entertainment options that will blow your mind. From epic pool parties and live music to jaw-dropping shows and immersive experiences, there was never a dull moment on board. I was particularly impressed by the quality and variety of performances—each one was nothing short of spectacular. The Red Room is the ship’s entertainment hub, hosting everything from Broadway-style productions to intimate live music sessions. The Miss Behave Show, a hilarious and interactive sing-along game show, was a definite highlight. The acrobats and dancers who took centre stage were mesmerizing, and even a round of bingo was unexpectedly thrilling!

One of the standout experiences was Scarlet Night, Virgin’s signature event where everyone dresses in red, and the ship transforms into a pulsating sea of crimson. It’s the kind of night where you leave your inhibitions behind and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy—it’s an absolute blast!

And if dancing the night away isn’t your thing, there’s no shortage of other activities. From invigorating fitness classes to unwinding in the luxurious Redemption Spa, where you can treat yourself to a massage or facial, there’s something for everyone. The ship also features a range of high-end shopping options, with designer brands like Chanel, Marc Jacobs, and Rolex as well as high street brands such as Sephora. There was also a shop for essentials such as sun cream, medical products, merchandise and more. If you’re already thinking ahead, you can even book your next cruise right on board. Their Virgin Voyage shop offers enticing incentives such as discounts on future voyages and onboard credit—a fantastic way to keep the excitement going and ensure you come back for more!

 If you’re in the mood for something more unique, you can even get a tattoo at the onboard tattoo parlour or spruce up at the barbers, hairdressers, or salon. Virgin really has thought of everything!

For those who enjoy a bit of gambling, the casino is a cool spot to test your luck – I was thrilled when I instantly won $100 with just one press of a button. Maybe it was just my lucky night! The casino is also where you’ll find the entrance to The Manor – the nightclub with that iconic disco-tech crystal backdrop where everyone snaps a picture. On the first night, I was worried about getting a photo there, but don’t fret – there’s plenty of time to grab that perfect shot when it’s quieter. The Manor itself is a fantastic club where we spent a couple of nights dancing our shoes off – literally! One night, my shoe somehow flew to the other side of the dance floor! Oh, and don’t miss out on their wicked espresso martinis—they’re a must-try!

Shore Things: Adventures Ashore

Our itinerary took us to some incredible destinations, each with its own unique charm. We explored ancient ruins, lounged on beautiful beaches, and soaked in the vibrant local cultures. Virgin Voyages offers a wide range of shore excursions, aptly named Shore Things, which can be conveniently booked in advance through the app. Whether you’re into adrenaline-pumping ATV rides, scenic boat tours, or cultural experiences like wine tasting and cooking classes, there’s a Shore Thing to match every interest.

What I appreciated most was how easy Virgin made it to explore on our own as well. The ship often docks close to major attractions, and there are shuttle services available if needed. This approach struck the perfect balance between guided exploration and independent adventure.

Who Is This Cruise For?

This cruise experience really depends on the destination. We made friends with a group from Manchester who had previously sailed with Virgin in Miami and noted that the crowd there was younger. On our cruise, the demographic was mixed – young professional couples, groups in their mid-40s, and mature guests looking for a relaxing getaway all found their place. The ship caters to everyone, with lively bars for those who want to party and sophisticated champagne lounges for those who prefer a quieter vibe. We even saw some older guests partying harder than we did!

Is It Value for Money?

When you consider that you’re visiting 10 incredible destinations and enjoying top-notch service, the price feels like a steal. Some might argue that the time at each destination is short, but I found it more than sufficient. As we disembarked for the last time, I couldn’t believe the value for money. One of the destinations we visited was £1000 just for one day! Another destination was £900, so I believe we got incredible value for money – Virgin really nailed it, possibly even being a bit too generous.

Final Thoughts

After 10 unforgettable nights aboard Resilient Lady, would I cruise again? Absolutely! Virgin Voyages shattered my preconceived notions of cruising, offering an experience that was vibrant, thrilling, and just plain fun. The service was exceptional, the food was delicious, and the entertainment was top-notch. I particularly loved the all-inclusive model, which made everything feel seamless and stress-free.

If you’ve been hesitant about cruising or are seeking a contemporary, adult-focused escape, Virgin Voyages is the answer. This isn’t just a cruise; it’s an unparalleled adventure at sea that promises to create unforgettable memories. With its vibrant atmosphere, top-notch service, and diverse range of experiences, you’ll find yourself immersed in a journey that goes beyond your wildest expectations. Virgin Voyages redefines cruising with a fresh, exhilarating approach that makes every moment count. Trust me, you’ll be counting the days until your next voyage – because once you’ve experienced this, there’s no going back!

BOOK YOUR VIRGIN VOYAGE CRUISE HERE

Tips to Know

1. Wine Policy: You’re welcome to bring two 750ml bottles of wine per cabin in your carry-on luggage. Spirits and beer aren’t allowed. Enjoy the wine in your cabin to avoid a $25 corkage fee if you take it elsewhere on the ship BTW your cabin should have a bottle opener ready for use.
2. Scarlet Night: Virgin Voyages skips the formal nights. Instead, embrace the vibrant Scarlet Night, where red is the theme and the ship transforms into a sea of crimson. While there’s no strict dress code, expect some guests to bring their A-game fashion-wise – GO ALL OUT!
3. Dress Code Freedom: Forget about formal dress codes—Virgin Voyages is all about relaxed elegance. Feel free to dress up or down as you please, with no set expectations.
4. Drink Packages: Consider opting for one of the drink packages. They’re designed to save you money and enhance your experience. It’s a great way to enjoy your favorite beverages without a second thought.
5. Tender Bookings: Book your tenders early—they can fill up fast. If you’ve booked a Shore Thing (excursion), you’re guaranteed a spot. Otherwise, use the app to secure your place or visit Sailor Services for last-minute availability.
6. Scarlet Night Tip: Engage with the crew! Each member has a unique role and may invite you to exclusive events and performances. Just bring your party spirit and be ready for some fun!
7. Dining Recommendations: While The Galley is open late and offers a great variety of food, I highly recommend booking reservations at the specialty restaurants for even more delectable options. You can book as many restaurants as you like and cancel if your plans change.