Ah, the open sea—the promise of adventure, relaxation, and the chance to create unforgettable memories. Recently, my husband Kris and I embarked on a cruise unlike any other. From indulgent spa sessions to a lively ship-wide party, our journey with Virgin Voyages was nothing short of extraordinary. Join me as I recount the highlights, best moments, and even a few surprises from our voyage.
New Travel Aspects: Elevating Our Voyage with the Splash of Romance Package
For this special occasion, Kris and I decided to elevate our cruise experience by purchasing the Splash of Romance package. This exclusive package offered a range of perks designed to add an extra touch of luxury and romance to our journey.
One of the standout benefits of the package was the priority boarding, allowing us to embark on our adventure without any hassle or delay. It set the tone for our entire voyage, ensuring a seamless start to our getaway.
But the perks didn't end there. Each day, we were treated to curated cold-pressed juices—a refreshing way to start our mornings. While I indulged in my favorite green juice, Kris opted for the vibrant beet juice, each sip a delightful burst of flavor.
The crown jewel of the package was undoubtedly the two 3-hour thermal spa passes. This serene retreat offers a sanctuary of relaxation, complete with steam rooms, saunas, and salt rooms. Our spa sessions left us feeling rejuvenated and ready to take on whatever the day had in store. Pro Tip: Schedule your session early in the morning if you'd like a quieter experience. Our session was from 9am to 12pm. Around 11am it started to get a bit busier.
As if that wasn't enough, the package also included an exclusive sail-away hour, where we enjoyed drinks and entertainment as we set sail into the sunset. It was a magical start to our voyage, filled with laughter and excitement.
On two evenings, we were delighted to find sultry bites waiting for us in our room. The Decadent Rose, gold, and Aleppo pepper macarons were a true highlight for me, while Kristofer couldn't get enough of the Passion Fruit truffle with cocoa nibs. The following night, we savored White Chocolate & Pomegranate and Saffron & Ginger gummies, each bite a symphony of flavors.
And let's not forget the shake for champagne feature—a personal favorite of mine. With just a shake of my phone, I received a message that our bottle of champagne was on its way. It was the perfect way to celebrate our voyage.
Overall, the Splash of Romance package truly elevated our journey, providing us with unforgettable experiences and cherished memories. Limited to between 75-90 cabins per sailing, it added an extra layer of exclusivity to our adventure, making it all the more special.
Highlight: Scarlet Night - A Celebration of Love and Glamour
One of the most anticipated events of our cruise was Scarlet Night—a celebration like no other. The evening promised an immersive journey into the realm of the fabled Sea Goddess, accompanied by a sailor who won her heart. With excitement bubbling in the air, Kris and I eagerly prepared for the festivities.
Right after dinner, I made my way to Glam Station Motivation—a glittering oasis where passengers could get adorned with sparkles and shimmer for the epic night ahead. The station offered complimentary glittering sessions, and I couldn't resist the opportunity to add some extra sparkle to my attire. After choosing a silver hue to contrast with the sea of red that surrounded me, I watched as the Happening Squad worked their magic, adorning me with a shimmering moon in honor of the love goddess. The result was dazzling, but I soon discovered that glitter has a way of finding its way everywhere by the end of the evening!
As the clock struck 9 pm, the festivities officially kicked off, and Scarlet Night transformed the ship into a playground of glamour and romance. The dress code was simple—wear your craziest, sexiest, or comfiest red outfit, and let your true self shine. The atmosphere was electric as fellow passengers embraced the theme with gusto, creating a kaleidoscope of crimson hues.
Throughout the night, entertainment popped up unexpectedly, adding to the enchantment of the evening. I was particularly captivated by the Sea Goddess as she regaled us with tales of love and adventure, her voice echoing throughout the Red Room. Her performance was nothing short of mesmerizing, drawing us into the mythic world she portrayed.
But the true highlight of the evening was the dance party that culminated by the pool. As the music pulsed through the air, passengers danced with abandon, the energy contagious and exhilarating. I couldn't resist joining the revelry, losing myself in the rhythm of the night. Eventually, we reluctantly called it a night around 11:45 pm, our bodies exhausted from non-stop dancing.
Scarlet Night was an unforgettable celebration of love, glamour, and sheer joy—a testament to the magic of cruising with Virgin Voyages.
Entertainment Extravaganza: Unforgettable Performances and Vibrant Personalities
Entertainment aboard a Virgin Voyage is unlike anything you've experienced before. At the heart of the entertainment scene is the Happenings Cast—a dynamic group of 12 individuals who serve as guides, entertainers, and hosts for sailors. Think of them as the reimagined cruise directors you may be familiar with on other cruise lines, but with a unique twist. Each member of the Happenings Cast embodies a distinct persona, from The Diva to The Hostess and beyond, adding a touch of whimsy and flair to every event.
During our voyage, we had the pleasure of attending performances hosted by The Diva, known by her stage name Dixie Krystals. Her shows were a delightful blend of cheekiness and naughtiness, keeping the audience entertained from start to finish.
In addition to the Happenings Cast, Virgin Voyages offers a diverse array of entertainment options to suit every taste. We had the pleasure of experiencing performances by Ohana Duo, Flute Loops, and The Lee Boys featuring Dirty Byrd. Each act brought something unique to the stage, showcasing their talent and captivating the audience with their artistry.
Of all the performances we attended, our favorite was undoubtedly Ohana Duo. Their intimate gatherings late in the evening provided the perfect setting for us to unwind and enjoy their music. With her captivating voice and his skilled guitar playing, they effortlessly transported us to a world of melody and rhythm. We made sure to attend all of their performances, cherishing each moment spent in their company.
From lively shows hosted by the Happenings Cast to intimate performances by talented musicians, entertainment aboard Virgin Voyages is a feast for the senses—an experience you won't soon forget.
Culinary Delights: A Gastronomic Adventure at Sea
One of the highlights of any voyage is undoubtedly the food, and aboard Virgin Voyages, the culinary experience is nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we stepped onboard, we knew we were in for a treat.
Virgin's dining options are on par with the best in the industry, offering a diverse range of cuisines to tantalize your taste buds. What sets Virgin apart is that all dining experiences are included in your fare, with no upcharges unless you opt for specialty items or drink pairings.
Our culinary journey began on day one, as we headed straight to The Galley for a quick lunch. This food court-style venue features a mix of food counters, each offering a tantalizing array of options. Whether you're in the mood for Asian-inspired dishes, fresh seafood, or classic comfort food, there's something to satisfy every craving. We appreciated the convenience of being able to place our orders at each counter or take a seat and have a crew member assist us.
Throughout the ship, we discovered several grab-and-go locations, including the 24-hour Pizza Place and the whimsically named ice cream counter, Lick Me till Ice Scream. These spots provided the perfect opportunity to grab a snack or indulge our sweet tooth at any hour of the day.
For our main dining experiences, we had the pleasure of dining at The Wake, a sophisticated steakhouse offering succulent cuts of meat and impeccable service. Pink Agave transported us to Mexico City with its inspired cuisine, featuring upscale Mexican dishes and shareables bursting with flavor. Extra Virgin, with its authentic Italian fare, stole our hearts with its charcuterie selections and decadent affogato to cap off the meal. And then there's Test Kitchen—a culinary adventure that pushes the boundaries with creative presentations and bold flavors. This wasn't our first-time experiencing Test Kitchen, and it certainly won't be our last.
With so much to talk about when it comes to the food aboard Virgin Voyages, I could fill another article with our culinary adventures alone.
Pampering and Grooming Experiences: Indulging in Self-Care
Aboard Virgin Voyages, indulging in self-care is not just encouraged—it's practically a necessity. From luxurious spa treatments to refined grooming experiences, there's no shortage of ways to pamper yourself and your loved ones.
As soon as we boarded the ship, we made a beeline for the spa to schedule our indulgent experiences. While I opted for a relaxing pedicure at The Tune Up, Kris decided to treat himself to a visit to the barber at Stubble & Groom.
My pedicure at The Tune Up was nothing short of divine, with a hot stone massage on my legs adding an extra layer of relaxation. It's a ritual I try to uphold at the beginning of every cruise—after all, my feet deserve a little pampering too!Meanwhile, Kristofer's experience at Stubble & Groom was a revelation. As someone new to the world of grooming treatments, he wasn't sure what to expect. But the basic beard trim, paired with an exfoliating facial, left him feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. It was a moment of indulgence he thoroughly enjoyed.
We decided to treat ourselves to these experiences using the onboard credit we received, courtesy of our amazing travel agent. And yes, that travel agent is none other than me! It's moments like these that remind us why investing in self-care is so important, especially when embarking on a voyage as memorable as this one.
A Voyage to Remember
Our journey with Virgin Voyages was a feast for the senses, filled with unforgettable experiences and cherished memories. From indulgent spa sessions to the lively ship-wide party and gourmet dining, every moment was a celebration of life and adventure.
As I reflect on our voyage, it's clear that Virgin Voyages stands out for several reasons. Firstly, the convenience of having our room ready when we boarded allowed us to start our adventure without delay, setting the tone for a seamless and stress-free experience. No need to lug our carryons all around the ship with us.
Secondly, the atmosphere onboard was truly unique—a judgment-free zone where passengers were encouraged to embrace their true selves and let their hair down. It's this sense of freedom and acceptance that made our voyage all the more special.
And of course, we can't forget one of the most defining features of Virgin Voyages—no kids. While we love our children, the absence of little ones allowed for a more relaxed and adult-oriented atmosphere, perfect for couples looking to unwind and reconnect.
Virgin Voyages has a playful and cheeky attitude that permeates every aspect of the experience. As long as you have a good sense of humor, you're sure to have a great time. From the quirky names of onboard venues to the unexpected surprises that await around every corner, there's never a dull moment aboard a Virgin Voyage.
In conclusion, our voyage with Virgin was nothing short of extraordinary. It's a journey we'll cherish for years to come, and we can't wait to set sail with them again in the future.
Thank you for joining us on this adventure!
