Embarking on a Virgin Voyages cruise is an exciting opportunity to explore a fresh and innovative way to experience the high seas. While this cruise line offers a contemporary and unique take on traditional cruising, it still leaves many first-time and veteran cruisers wondering what to pack for their upcoming journey. In order to make the most of your Virgin Voyages cruise, it is essential to be prepared with the right attire, essentials, and mindset for your adventure.
Virgin Voyages has established a more relaxed and laid-back approach to the dress code compared to other premium cruise lines, making this an important consideration when packing your suitcase. With a focus on a “wear what you want” attitude, guests are given the freedom to express themselves through their clothing choices and enjoy the various experiences onboard without the constraints of strict dress codes. This also applies to the various dining and entertainment options offered by the cruise line, so it is important to be prepared for a diverse range of activities during your voyage.
By taking the time to pack thoughtfully and efficiently for your Virgin Voyages cruise, you can ensure that you are well-equipped to take full advantage of the innovative and exciting offerings this cruise line presents. Anticipating the right clothing and essentials for your cruise will not only make your experience more convenient and enjoyable but also enable you to fully immerse yourself in the uninhibited and free-spirited atmosphere that Virgin Voyages is known for.
Essential Travel Documents
Passport and Visa Requirements
Before embarking on your Virgin Voyages cruise, it is crucial to have the appropriate travel documents. All travelers, including U.S. citizens, are required to sail with a valid passport, even if the voyage is a closed-loop sailing (starting and stopping at the same U.S. port). Ensuring that your passport has at least six months of validity beyond your travel dates will help avoid any potential issues.
If your Virgin Voyages trip includes visiting countries like Cuba, additional documentation may be necessary, so it’s essential to review the visa requirements for your specific itinerary. Make sure to acquire any required visas well in advance to avoid last-minute issues.
Cruise Paperwork
Apart from your passport and visas, Virgin Voyages require specific cruise paperwork to embark on your journey. Keep the following documents handy to ensure a smooth embarkation process:
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Booking Confirmation: Remember to bring a printed copy of your Virgin Voyages booking confirmation, which includes essential details such as your reservation number, cabin number, and departure date.
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COVID-19 Vaccination Card: As part of their Voyage Well Protocols, Virgin Voyages require all guests to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19. Bring your original vaccination card as proof of vaccination.
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Travel Insurance Documentation: Although not mandatory, it’s recommended to have travel insurance for your Virgin Voyages cruise. Bring a copy of your travel insurance policy and ensure it covers the specific requirements for your trip, including medical emergencies and trip cancellations.
Packing Tips and Guidelines
Clothing Essentials
When packing for a Virgin Voyages cruise, focus on clothing items that make you feel comfortable and represent the best version of yourself 1. Some essential items to pack include:
- Comfortable daytime outfits: shorts, t-shirts, and casual dresses
- Swimwear: swimsuits, cover-ups, and flip-flops
- Evening attire: stylish casual wear, such as dresses, skirts, or nice pants, and a collared shirt for men
- Activewear: workout clothes, running shoes, and reusable water bottles
Remember to pack enough clothing for the duration of your cruise and consider the cruise destinations’ climates.
Toiletries and Personal Items
Here are some essential toiletries and personal items to pack for your cruise:
- Travel-sized toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and toothpaste
- Sun protection: sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, and a wide-brimmed hat
- Prescriptions and over-the-counter medications: pain relievers, motion sickness remedies, and allergy medicines
- Miscellaneous personal items: sunglasses, reusable shopping bags, and a refillable water bottle
Don’t worry about packing a hair dryer, as the one provided in the cabins is sufficient 2.
Gadgets and Electronics
Packing the right gadgets and electronics can enhance your cruise experience. Here are some items to consider:
- Smartphone with a reliable international data plan (if applicable)
- Portable charger or power bank to keep your devices charged
- Travel adapters for electrical outlets, if necessary
- A small travel-sized clothing iron or steamer, as most cruises, including Virgin Voyages, do not provide them in cabins 3
Remember to pack all your chargers and necessary cables. Additionally, it’s a good idea to bring a carry-on bag or hand luggage with essentials like medications, electronics, and a change of clothes, in case your checked luggage gets delayed or lost 4.
What Not to Pack
When preparing for a Virgin Voyages cruise, it’s essential to know what items you should leave behind. Packing the right items will ensure a seamless travel experience. This section outlines some of the items you should not pack for your trip.
First and foremost, avoid bringing any weapons on board. This includes firearms, knives, and other objects that could be considered a threat to the safety of other passengers and crew. Security checks will be in place to ensure these items are not brought on board, and possession of such objects can lead to denied boarding or even legal consequences.
Additionally, leave behind personal appliances such as hair dryers, as Virgin Voyages provides high-quality hair dryers in each cabin. This will not only save space in your luggage but also ensure you adhere to the ship’s electrical safety guidelines.
Here’s a quick list of items to exclude from your packing list:
- Weapons (firearms, knives, etc.)
- Personal hair dryers or styling tools
- Household appliances (irons, humidifiers, etc.)
- Illegal drugs or substances
- Alcoholic beverages (though some may be allowed with a corkage fee)
- Large speakers or sound systems
By following this guide, you’ll be prepared for a smooth sailing experience on your Virgin Voyages cruise. Be sure to double-check the cruise line’s policies to avoid any packing mishaps, and enjoy your trip!
Virgin Voyages Dress Code
Daytime Attire
During the day, Virgin Voyages encourages guests to dress comfortably and casually. There’s no strict dress code for daytime activities. You can wear whatever makes you feel confident and at ease. Some popular options include:
- Shorts and light t-shirts
- Sundresses or comfortable skirts
- Swimwear with a cover-up when walking around the ship
- Sandals, flip-flops, or sneakers
Just remember to pack essentials like sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Evening Dress Code
When it comes to the evening dress code, Virgin Voyages promotes a more relaxed vibe than other cruise lines. You won’t find any formal nights or strict dress codes onboard. Instead, you’re encouraged to wear outfits that make you feel amazing, and it’s always a good idea to glam up a bit for the full-service restaurants like Test Kitchen or The Wake. Some fashionable options for the evening include:
- Dressy pants or jeans with a stylish top
- Elegant dresses or jumpsuits
- Smart-casual blazers and slacks for men
- Dress shoes or classy sandals
Remember, the key is to feel comfortable while looking put-together.
Scarlet Night Party
Scarlet Night is Virgin Voyages’ unique twist on the traditional formal night. During this event, guests are encouraged to incorporate a touch of red into their attire. The dress code for the Scarlet Night party is flexible; you can wear an entirely red outfit or just add a splash of color with a red accessory. Some ideas for Scarlet Night attire include:
- A red dress, shirt, or jacket
- Red accessories like scarves, ties, or handbags
- Consider creative red makeup or nail polish
Ultimately, Virgin Voyages is all about encouraging guests to express themselves and have a great time. So be sure to pack attire that makes you feel confident and reflects your personal style.
Dining and Drinking on Board
Dining Options
Virgin Voyages offers a variety of dining options on board, ensuring all taste buds are catered to. Among the notable restaurants are:
- Pink Agave: A Mexican-themed restaurant with an intimate atmosphere.
- The Wake: A sophisticated steak and seafood house for a more formal dining experience.
- The Test Kitchen: A experimental culinary lab offering multicourse meals and unique creations.
- Extra Virgin: A chic Italian trattoria specializing in delicious pasta dishes.
- Gunbae: An interactive Korean BBQ experience where you grill your own meats and vegetables.
Clothing for dining experiences should be casual but stylish; think jeans, sneakers or dress shoes, and collared shirts for men, and dresses or blouses for women. No need for black-tie attire.
Alcoholic Beverages and Drink Packages
Virgin Voyages has a wide range of alcoholic beverages and drink packages to choose from. Here are some highlights:
| Drink Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Beer | A variety of craft and international beers available. |
| Wine | A curated selection of red, white, and rosé wines. |
| Cocktails | Innovative cocktails crafted by expert mixologists. |
When it comes to choosing the right drink package, consider your individual preferences and how much you plan to indulge. Some packages include select wines, beers, and cocktails, while others offer a more premium experience:
- Basic Package: Select beers, wines by the glass, and well drinks.
- Premium Package: A wider variety of beers, wines, and top-shelf spirits.
It’s important to note that Virgin Voyages does not offer a traditional buffet-style dining option. However, they make a conscious effort to provide healthier meal choices in venues like their Food Hall and provide room service for those who prefer to dine in the comfort of their stateroom.
While on board, don’t forget to take advantage of other unique amenities, such as entertainment options, pools, and the stunning Bimini destination. With so much to experience, make sure to pack accordingly and enjoy the innovative, exciting world of Virgin Voyages.
Onboard Facilities and Entertainment
Spa and Wellness Offerings
Virgin Voyages offers a variety of spa and wellness offerings onboard their ships. The spacious spa facilities provide an inviting atmosphere for relaxation and rejuvenation. You can enjoy treatments such as massages, facials, and more. The fitness center onboard is well-equipped, offering classes and personal training sessions for health-conscious sailors.
Pools and Outdoor Spaces
The Scarlet Lady, a hip and modern cruise ship from Virgin Voyages, provides sailors with several pools and outdoor spaces for relaxation and fun. The main pool area offers ample lounging space, while the more secluded top deck has a hammock grove for quiet moments of reflection. Many itineraries also include stops at beautiful shore locations, like Florida and the Caribbean, so you can explore and enjoy the outdoors during your cruise.
Casino and Nightlife
Virgin Voyages’ adults-only cruises offer a vibrant nightlife scene, including a casino for those looking to test their luck. The ship also has a variety of bars and lounges, each with its own unique ambiance. From relaxed spaces for a quiet drink to lively clubs for dancing the night away, there’s something for every evening mood onboard.
Activities and Shows
A wide range of activities and shows are offered on Virgin Voyages cruises, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. Instead of traditional Broadway-type performances, Virgin Voyages presents innovative live shows like “Never Sleep Alone” and various other on-stage events. The ship’s Test Kitchen and Galley provide interactive culinary experiences, and the Sailor App makes it easy to stay connected and informed about daily happenings with onboard WiFi.
Remember to pack light, comfortable clothing for daytime activities, and attire suitable for the evening, taking into account the relaxed dress code on Virgin Voyages. Enjoy your journey aboard this cruise line, and make the most of the many unique offerings tailored to a modern, adults-only trip at sea.
Booking and Payment Information
Deposit and Payment Options
When booking a Virgin Voyages cruise, you’ll be required to make a deposit to secure your reservation. The amount of the deposit will vary depending on the length of your voyage. Payment options typically include major credit cards, such as Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover. It’s essential to plan accordingly and be aware of payment deadlines to avoid any cancellation of your reservation.
Taxes and Fees
In addition to the cruise fare, Virgin Voyages will have additional taxes and fees that are added to your total. These may include:
- Port taxes and fees, which cover the cost of docking in various ports of call
- Government taxes and fees, which are mandatory charges imposed by the destination countries
Make sure to factor these additional costs into your budget when planning your trip.
Gratuities and Service Charges
Virgin Voyages has a no-tipping policy, meaning that gratuities are already included in your cruise fare. This policy ensures that all crew members are fairly compensated for their service without guests needing to worry about additional payments.
It is worth noting, however, that some extra services, such as spa treatments, may incur additional service charges. Make sure to read the fine print when booking these services, so you’re aware of any extra fees involved.
In summary, when booking a Virgin Voyages cruise, be prepared for the deposit requirements, payment deadlines, as well as additional taxes, fees, and service charges. Planning ahead will ensure a smoother booking experience and help avoid any unexpected surprises.