Richard Branson’s cheeky upstart of a cruise line is making an epic sea change in the world of ocean cruising. The vibe onboard caters to the young at heart and those open to new experiences. I traveled with a friend and we had a blast!
The Fundamentals
This cruise line is for adults 18 years and older. Virgin gives its sailors (guests) over $600 in value, including gratuities, basic wifi, soft drinks, 20 eateries (without additional charge), and group fitness classes. Each restaurant has its own kitchen and executive chef and there are no buffets. You can pre-purchase a bar tab that can be used by everyone in the cabin, unlike other cruise lines that require a drink package purchased by each person in the cabin. The physical design of the ship is genius, including the indoor and outdoor spaces.
There are tons of opportunities to enjoy fitness activities from the weight room to outdoor track to boxing apparatus. Richard’s Rooftop is a private space for “Rock Star” guests and Squid Ink, the tattoo parlor, is a unique shop that seemed to be constantly busy. Each cruise departing from Miami makes a call at Bimini and Richard’s private beach club, where you can relax on the beach or enjoy the party in the pool.
Cabins
The revolutionary design creates a modern and functional living space with comfortable beds that morph into loungers during the day. Bathrooms with roomy rain showers and sensory mood lighting elevate the cabin experience. We stayed in a Sea Terrace cabin, but the real wow factor comes from the Rock Star and Mega Rock Star Quarters that offer access to Richard’s Rooftop private deck.
Eateries and Bevvies
Michelin inspired dining and menus imagined by leading chefs drive the incredible cuisine that is sure to crush any craving. My favorite meals were at The Wake (steakhouse) and Extra Virgin (Italian). The made to order pizza at The Pizza Place, Gunbae (Korean BBQ) and The Test Kitchen were amazing. There were so many choices that I couldn’t make it to every eatery. The champagne lounge, draft house, and other venues provide quality drinks without the premium price tag, although you have options to splurge on high end spirits and champagne.
Entertainment
The groundbreaking acts, immersive experiences and pop-up performances in unique entertainment venues are original and extraordinary. My favorite entertainment were the live performances by The Free Label Band and Slam Allen’s blues band. The talent was beyond exceptional!
Scarlet Night
Scarlet Night was a specialty night where guests were encouraged to wear red. Initially, I was confused because there wasn’t a set schedule. There were splashes of entertainment throughout the ship with pop up entertainment.
Health Safety
Guests must be fully vaccinated and take a rapid covid test in the terminal before boarding the ship. Temperature checks (unobtrusive devices on the ship), hospital grade irradiation and disinfectants, social distancing, masks, air purification system that kills 99.9% of viruses, and increased medical capabilities onboard ensure guests are safe.
Set Sail the Virgin Way
Scarlet Lady is a true rebel on the seas. Virgin is currently offering 20% savings and is adding $100 to a $300 pre-purchased bar tab.
Helen Jordan is the owner of Jordan Luxury Travel, an independent affiliate of Brownell Travel, a member of Virtuoso. She can be reached at 602-692-9379 or [email protected].
