are all virgin cruise ships the same

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What to Expect on Virgin Voyages Compared to Other Cruise Lines (Differences, What to Know, & More)

Never sailed on Virgin Voyages and not quite sure what to expect? Maybe you’ve seen the advertisements and weren’t sure exactly how it compared to other major cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean or Norwegian.

Or maybe you saw that it was adults only and wanted to know more before you spend your hard-earned money on sailing a relatively new cruise line?

So what’s Virgin Voyages like? How is it different from other lines? And what else should you know before you sail? Below, we dive into these questions and give you the real scoop of everything about the cruise line.

How Is Virgin Voyages Different Than Other Cruise Lines?

Trying to explain all the differences between Virgin and more traditional cruise lines is a challenge. Put bluntly, there are a lot of changes both big and small.

Let’s start with being adults only. That actually means much more than simply there are no kids running around the ship.

Instead, everything about the cruise can be tailored to adult tastes. Entertainment on the ship is more mature, such as drag shows in the nightclub. Many events go on until later at night than on a normal cruise. The food offered is more adventurous and upscale (though traditional options are available). The amenities offered around the ship are also different. Instead of waterslides and putt-putt, it’s yoga classes, tattoo parlors, and fitness equipment.

Along with these changes, Virgin also seems to have taken a hard look at traditional things in cruising and made changes that will appeal to many. For instance, the cruise director, art auctions, and roving photographers are out. Instead of a buffet where everyone serves themselves, the cruise line offers a food hall with a number of spots to eat where food is either prepared as you order or plated for you if already made.

There’s no main dining room or formal night. Instead, Virgin Voyages has several different sit down restaurants that are all included with your fare. Gratuities are included in your fare as well, as is wi-fi service.

Bottom line: It’s much more of an all-inclusive feel on the ship, with more that aims to cater to adults that you simply wouldn’t find on other lines.

What’s Included on Virgin Voyages?

One of the big differences we mentioned above is that a number of items that are typically an extra charge on a cruise are included in your fare. Of course, your room, food, and entertainment on the ship are all included. But so are the following items:

• All restaurants on the ship
• Crewmember gratuities
• Basic non-alcoholic drinks, including soda
• Basic wi-fi
• Fitness classes

What you will still have to pay out of pocket for are things like casino gambling, spa treatments, shore excursions, and alcoholic drinks. Still, between food, gratuities, and wi-fi alone, the included items add up to hundreds of dollars per passenger.

What’s the Crowd Like Onboard?

Step onto the ship and you’ll likely notice that your other passengers overall are a little different than on some other lines. Compared to most lines, we think that Virgin Voyages sees passengers that skew younger and a bit more fashionable.

One thing you don’t have to worry about is fitting in. While marketing for Virgin seems to focus on the “cool” factor with lots of beautiful and trendy people, there are all sorts of people on the ship — young, old, black, white, beautiful and not-so-beautiful, gay, straight.

Overall, the crowd seems very inclusive and everyone was friendly as you’d expect on a normal cruise.

Is There a Difference Between Ships?

Anyone who has sailed before knows that so much of your cruise is actually spent onboard the ship. In many ways, the ship is the actual main destination of your cruise, not the ports of call.

Typically there is a major difference between newer and older ships. However, since Virgin Voyages is still a new line, it only has three ships (with a fourth on the way). These vessels all have the same layout. So whether you are on Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, or Resilient Lady, you’ll have a similar experience.

It also means you don’t have to worry about picking the right ship for your cruise. You really only have one option.

What’s the Atmosphere Like on the Ship?

Every cruise line has its own personality, and Virgin Voyages is no different. In our view, the atmosphere definitely tends to be more modern and a bit more “cool” than what’s seen on other lines. If Instagram built a cruise ship, it might look a bit like Virgin.

There’s a lot of use of color (especially lights) to set the mood for different spaces — even down to the wake coming off the back of the ship.

Around the ship are lots of seating and daybeds built for two, which combined with the red you see everywhere, adds to the “sexiness” of the cruise ship.

In fact, we found that most often the atmosphere can change depending on time of day. During most of the day, the atmosphere seems to focus more on relaxation and wellness. There are yoga classes, the vibe is relaxed, and generally slow-paced.

In the late afternoon and evening, things change up a bit with the evening programming that’s more focused on entertainment and partying, including Scarlet Night when everything is doused in red light and the nightclub can go until 3 a.m.

One other note: Overall, we found the staff to be a step above what’s on other cruise lines. Generally any cruise staff is going to be upbeat and friendly. On Virgin Voyages, it simply seemed more genuine and as if the staff had a strong camaraderie between each other. It’s hard to explain, but it was a feeling of the staff being happy you were there.

What Are the Cabins Like?

As you’d expect given the atmosphere on the ship, that “cool” factor extends to the cabin. You can expect the layout of the cruise cabin to be similar to other lines. You’ll have your bed, the bathroom, closet/storage, and balcony (with a hammock swing) if you choose that room type.

But cabins also have some upgraded touches. In a small (but loved) perk, Virgin offers a carafe of water and glasses. That means you don’t have to bring or buy bottles of water or drink out of the bathroom faucet just to get a swig of water in your cabin.

There are also some higher-end touches. In the cabin shower, there’s a rainfall showerhead included, instead of just the sprayer on the end of a wand. Your room is controlled by a tablet that acts as the remote control and can be used to dim lights, and even activate different colors to set the mood. Of course, if you don’t want to use the tablet, manual controls and a TV remote are also offered.

Bottom line: Much of the cabin will be familiar, but with some upgraded features that make it feel nicer than the average cruise room.

What Is The Band?

If you’ve cruised before, it was likely on a line that has a credit card style room key that served to open your room, check you on and off the ship, and charge items to your onboard account.

On Virgin Voyages, you have “The Band” instead. This is a stylish little bracelet (complete with an anchor clasp) that holds a gray tag. This serves the same function as the room keycard. You swipe it on your door sign to unlock the room. It’s scanned when you come and go on the ship, and it’s scanned whenever you make a purchase onboard.

It’s a bit easier than having to dig out your card each time to need it, but it does have a tendency to want to come off occasionally.

What Sort of Entertainment Is There on the Ship?

You’d expect that a ship focused on adults might have different entertainment, and in this case, you’re right.

First, the biggest difference we noticed is that Virgin doesn’t offer a traditional large theater that seats hundreds and hundreds at one time. Instead, they have smaller venues. As a result, there aren’t the big production shows like you see elsewhere.

Instead, the shows are more intimate in crowd size, but still feature amazing talent. One show we say was an acrobatic program between a red team and blue team that features climbing a 25-foot pole in the middle of the stage with no harness, flips after being launched in the air on a see-saw, juggling, and more.

Other shows included a mentalist and comedian with a quick-witted sense of humor that was able to make off-color jokes since everyone was adults. Virgin also had a resident drag queen with several performances during the cruise.

Are Drinks Included? How Much Do They Cost?

So much is included on your cruise, but one area that isn’t — alcoholic beverages. Virgin Voyages does charge for these, but there are a couple of things to know.

First, when it comes to cost the menu prices range from about $10-14 depending on the drink. We ordered some simple drinks (Moscow mule and a mojito) that were only $9. One nice thing is that because gratuity is included, the menu price is what you pay. There is no additional tip tacked on.

As well, Virgin doesn’t have drink packages. Instead they have a “Bar Tab” that’s credit toward drinks. Depending on your booking, you can get this included in your trip. During our cruise we booked and had $300 already included, so drinks were on the house.

How Does Food Work on the Cruise? Is it Good?

One thing you’ll like about Virgin Voyages is that all food on the ship is included. There are no extra charges for some restaurants.

The dining onboard can be thought of in two groups. First, there is The Galley. While the ships don’t have buffets, The Galley is a large dining hall with a number of different stalls serving different foods. There’s a burger spot, a taco spot, ramen/noodle bar, a sushi area, salad area, dessert spot and more. All of these spots are either grab and go or you simply wait a few minutes while they prepare your meal.

Then there are a number of sit-down restaurants serving anything from upscale Mexican to Italian, steak, and more. These spots typically require reservations (though walk-ins are welcome) and fill up quickly. It’s your choice where to eat, and you can dine at whatever time you are able. There is no assigned seating or dining rooms like on many other cruise lines.

To us, the food was solid to very good. The Galley offers a lot of options, whether you want simple (burger and fries) to more adventurous (sushi, ramen). However, the sit-down restaurants are a step above. We especially enjoyed Pink Agave, the upscale Mexican restaurant where everything was phenomenal.

What’s Good About Cruising Virgin Voyages?

There’s a lot that’s different about Virgin Voyages, and we think that’s what makes it a great cruise line to sail if you’re an adult looking for a getaway.

For one, we think the cruise line earns high marks in reinventing what a cruise can be. If you’re someone that’s been turned off by some of the “kitsch” in cruising, then cruising Virgin will be refreshing. There’s no line dancing on the pool deck or roving photographers or overly-excited cruise director.

As well, by including many things with the cruise, the headache of being nickeled and dimed around the ship is gone. Essentially the only things you’ll pay for onboard are alcohol, spa treatments, and gambling.

Finally, by catering to adults Virgin has shifted the design of everything from the ship to food to entertainment to more mature tastes that are more appealing to many.

What Are the Downsides of Cruising Virgin Voyages?

There’s a lot to like about Virgin, but that doesn’t mean it’s perfect. So what should you know that’s not so good?

Our biggest complaint is that the pool area seems small given the size of the ship. There are two pools, but the main pool only had seating for a couple of hundred people around it that seemed to fill up quickly when at sea.

As well, the reservation system for restaurants needs work. During our cruise we found that reservations were completely booked days in advance, yet when we went down to see if there was any space for walk-in, the restaurants had plenty of open tables. (We were seated immediately.)

We will also say that compared to other mass market lines with mega ships, there aren’t near as many things to do as you see elsewhere. For instance, there’s no roller coaster, go-kart track, zipline, rock-climbing wall or the like. That’s by design as these are largely included to appeal to kids and teens on the ship. However, if you’re someone that likes to be more active, you might be wanting more things to do.

Is Virgin Voyages Right for Me?

Having sailed the line recently, we think there is a lot for passengers to like about the cruise line no matter who you are. As mentioned, we saw all types on the ship from older couples to bachelorette parties. And the appeal is broad.

Overall, the crowd seems to skew younger — and more upscale — than most cruises. The atmosphere — ranging from the vibe on the ship to food to entertainment — definitely caters more to adult tastes. We think who would love the cruise line the most would be a couple from 30-60 years old celebrating an anniversary, special occasion, or simply wanting a romantic trip away. That, however, also casts too narrow a net as we saw all sorts having a great time.

In fact, outside of families, we have a hard time pinpointing who the cruise line wouldn’t appeal to. Personally we were worried that the cruise would be too trendy and cool for us to feel comfortable (there is a tattoo parlor onboard, after all), but that wasn’t the case at all. Instead, it was a great time with a lot of changes made to the traditional cruise to make it more appealing.

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Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady vs Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady

The Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady is a fairly new ship, being built in 2022. This is an adults-only ship; all guests must be 18 or older. It's 1 year newer than the Scarlet Lady , which was built in 2021. Scarlet Lady is Virgin Voyages first ship. To make the ship feel fresh and innovative, they brought in renowned designers who haven't worked on cruise ships before. It's an adults-only ship; all guests must be 18 or older.

Comparison Overview

Number of passengers, food and restaurants.

• Bars and Drinks

Pools and Hot Tubs

Ship features and activities, cruise costs, onboard costs.

The Valiant Lady is considered a medium size ship. Coming in at 909 feet long and 125 feet wide, it's roughly the length of 2.5 football fields, as wide as 2.4 tractor-trailers and the same height as a 13-story building. The Valiant Lady and the Scarlet Lady are in the same class, which means they're sister ships. For the most part, they're similar in terms of size and layout; although they may have different features and attractions on board.

Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady holds about the same number of passengers as the Scarlet Lady based on double occupancy (two people per room). When you look at the "Space Ratio," or tons of ship compared to number of passengers, the Valiant Lady has the same amount of space per person as the Scarlet Lady.

Food is a big part of any cruise, and the ship you choose can make a huge difference in your food experience.

The Valiant Lady has 22 different dining options like The Dock House , Pink Agave , and Lick Me Til Ice Cream . Of those options, 22 are complementary, or included with your cruise fare.

The Scarlet Lady has the same number of dining venues. Some of its popular venues are Sun Club Cafe , Extra Virgin , and Razzle Dazzle . 22 of these restaurants are complementary.

The Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady has about the same number of dining options as the Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady.

Both ships have a similar number of paid versus included dining options.

Restaurants on Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady & Scarlet Lady

In terms of drinks and cocktails, you have a variety of choices. Both ships serve the Coca-cola family of products. That means Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite and Barqs Root Beer, although the selection can vary by ship.

There are also plenty of bars available on these ships. You can check out recent the bar menus for the Valiant Lady and the Scarlet Lady below.

Nothing beats relaxing by a pool with a nice drink in hand as you feel the fresh sea breeze pass by you. The problem is that with thousands of people on a ship, there's not always room. If you want to spend all day for 7 days in a pool, a cruise isn't for you. You would have a much better bet choosing a resort with a huge pool complex. That being said, a quick dip in the pool can be nice on a hot day.

The Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady has a total of 1 pools and 3 hot tubs.

The Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady has the same number of pools as the Valiant Lady and the same number of hot tubs.

Both ships have lots of activities to keep you busy throughout your cruise. Below you'll see a list of some of the major features on these ships. On both ships, 45% of the activities below are included in your cruise fare.

Virgin Voyages is a premium cruise line. Premium cruise lines typically offer upscale food, accommodations, and service. These typically cost about $150 - $400 per person per day.

Cruise pricing is dynamic and varies for each specific sailing based on factors such as departure point, ports of call, and time of year. To get a good idea of how the pricing compares, visit Virgin Voyages's website to price out the separate cruises or consult a travel professional.

Another way to gauge the cost of a cruise is to consider how much you'll spend on board. Even though a lot is included in the base cruise fare, you may still spend money on things like spa treatments, specialty dining, drinks, and excursions. In addition, guests can also have to pay for things like gratuities and tips.

Typically guests can expect to spend about 25 - 40% of the cost of the cruise on onboard expenses. In other words, if the cruise fare is $1,000 per person, you might spend between $250 and $400 on extra expenses.

The table below will help you understand what you might spend onboard a Virgin Voyages ship.

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Valiant Lady vs. Scarlet Lady: Comparing Virgin Voyages Ships

Since first setting sail in 2021, the adults-only cruise line Virgin Voyages has been determined to redefine the luxury cruise experience. Virgin Voyages made a wave in the industry with their first ship, the Scarlet Lady.

Virgin Voyages Offers & Deals

Virgin Voyages regularly has deals and offers available. You can check their website for discounts, airfare credits, drink credits, and other discounts that change often.

Featuring a sleek design, chic bars, gourmet restaurants, and Rockstar suites, it’s easy to see why Virgin Voyages’ first ship was such a hit.

What’s the Difference Between Valiant Lady vs. Scarlet Lady?

Virgin Voyages is a relatively new cruise line and only has four ships in its fleet. The first ship to launch was the Scarlet Lady, which offers a sleek exterior and modern take on luxury cruising.

The Valiant Lady was the second ship to join Virgin Voyages’ fleet, and it offers a similar experience as its predecessor. In truth, there aren’t many differences between the two ships other than the slight tweaks to decor and their itineraries.

So when it comes time to choose your Virgin Voyage, do it based on the location, dates, and the special cruises that happen from time to time, not the ship because they are very similar.

Both “Lady Ships” offer more than 20 restaurants, luxurious cabins and suites, several bars and lounges, casinos, large fitness centers, and much more. In addition, you will find that Virgin Voyages keeps the environmental impact of their ships to a minimum.

You might find Virgin Voyages cruise reviews online saying that one ship is better than the other, but that is a matter of opinion. This could be due to a bad experience or the customer service being faster or slower, depending on the specific voyage. In reality, if you weren’t told the name of the ship, you might not be able to tell the two apart.

Keep reading as we discuss the two ships’ sizes, dining options, and other amenities that come with sailing on a Virgin Voyages ship.

Scarlet Lady vs. Valiant Lady: Size

The Scarlet Lady and Valiant Lady are considered medium-sized superyachts. Both ships weigh in at 110,000 gross tonnages and are 909 feet long and 125 ft wide. They both can accommodate 2,700 passengers.

Each ship has 13 decks and a crew size of approximately 1,150. This means that there is almost 1 staff member for every two passengers onboard. This ratio ensures that each person receives the 5-star service they expect during their voyage.

Scarlet Lady vs. Valiant Lady: Dining

Virgin Voyages has the goal to be different than any other cruise line, and you will find their food offerings are no exception. Both ships have more than 20 complimentary dining options to choose from. Unlike other cruise lines, you won’t find buffet-style restaurants on either Scarlet Lady or Valiant Lady, and none of the restaurants cost extra.

Some of the most popular restaurant options are Razzle Dazzle, Pink Agave, Gunbae, The Dock, The Test Kitchen, and The Wave. In addition to these restaurants, you will also find several poolside snack and late-night bite options, plus room service.

Scarlet Lady vs. Valiant Lady: Drinks

The coffee shops, bars, and lounges all have the same names on both ships, including the Draught Haus tap room, Sip Lounge champagne room, On the Rocks martini bar, The Aquatic Club Pool Bar, and more. There may be slight differences in decor or even drink menus, but don’t expect a drastic difference between the two ships.

In addition, you will find the same alcohol drink prices and all-inclusive perks. All essential drinks such as water, soft drinks, juices, basic coffees, and teas are included in your fare. For alcoholic drinks, you have two choices: either pay as you go or get a $300 bar tab in advance.

When you choose to prepay for a Virgin Voyages alcohol package, you will receive an additional $50 bonus. If you plan on drinking, this is more than worth it, as you will end up getting free drinks.

If you don’t want to buy the bar tab, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find that alcoholic drinks are reasonably priced. Virgin Voyages drink prices are $5-$6 for beer and $9 for a basic cocktail. Almost half of the glasses of wine and champagne cost under $10.

Both ships also offer an on-demand champagne service called “Shake for Champagne.” For roughly $95, sailors can shake their phone while using the Virgin Voyagers app and have a bottle of high-end champagne delivered to them anywhere on the ship.

Scarlet Lady vs. Valiant Lady: Amenities

Both Virgin Voyages Lady Ships have multiple amenities to enjoy, with a strong focus on fitness and relaxation. However, since the vessels in the fleet are smaller in comparison to other cruise lines, don’t expect to find the extras you might on other ships, like a full-sized water park, ice skating rink, or bumper cars .

That said, you will find one main pool on both ships that have loungers and day beds. There is another pool on the rear of the ships, but it’s so small that it is more of a dipping pool. Each ship has three hot tubs to relax in.

Guests who want to keep their fitness goals on track during their voyage can enjoy the gym, jogging track, cardio studio, weight lifting area, and group fitness classes. If you’re in need of body therapy, you can head to the full-service spa for a massage or treatment.

While not all of them are included in your fare, each ship also has a casino, tattoo studio, arcade, and salon.

Scarlet Lady vs. Valiant Lady: Cabins & Suites

While you won’t spend a lot of time in your cabin, it is still something that is vital for having a good experience. Both Scarlet Lady and Valiant Lady offer three different cabin styles, including the Sea Terrace, Sea View, and the Insider.

The Sea Terrace is the nicest cabin of the three, featuring a balcony with a hand-woven hammock. The Sea View, you might have guessed, offers a porthole view of the ocean. The Insider is the smallest of the three, and while it lacks a view, it’s perfect for solo travelers.

If you want to sail in luxury, then the Rockstar and the Mega Rockstar suites might be the perfect fit. These VIP suites offer perks before you even get onto the ship, including priority boarding and 24/7 access to a dedicated concierge. You also get an in-room bar and exclusive access to Richard’s Rooftop members-only sundeck.

There are a few differences between the Rockstar and Mega Rockstar suites. First off, the Mega Rockstar suites are larger than the Rockstar suites. Next, you will get more perks, such as a bottomless in-room bar, premium Wifi, complimentary spa services, a daily bar tab, and a dedicated Rockstar Agent.

Scarlet Lady vs. Valiant Lady: Itineraries

As noted above, the main difference between Scarlet Lady and Valiant Lady is where they sail. Scarlet Lady is based in Miami and sails the Caribbean . Valiant Lady is based in Barcelona and sails the Mediterranean and the Caribbean.

Does Virgin Voyages Have Different Ships?

Yes, Virgin Voyages has four different ships. In addition to the Scarlet Lady and Valiant Lady, there are Brilliant Lady and Resilient Lady.

Overall, the main differences between Virgin Voyages ships are their names and their itineraries. The Scarlet Lady and Valiant Lady are very similar when it comes to size, amenities, dining options, and cabin types. Even if you find some differences, they won’t be significant enough to say one is better than the other.

Choosing between Scarlet Lady and Valiant Lady will probably come down to which home port, destinations, and itinerary you want on your Virgin Voyages cruise.

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See the entire world with Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages has announced four new one-way sailings that cross oceans and hemispheres and offer Sailors the chance to see more of the world.

Experience Virgin Voyages’ newest ship, Brilliant Lady. Enjoy a five-night holiday sailing to finish 2023 in style, or voyage on one of three epic, two-week adventures – or combine them for a global, six-week trip of a lifetime in 2024.

Brilliant Caribbean holidays

Brilliant Lady will set sail from Miami to San Juan on 24 December 2023, giving Sailors the chance to celebrate the holiday season with Virgin Voyages. Enjoy some serious festive vibes while you sail, with full days to explore both Puerto Plata and St. Croix. You’ll arrive in San Juan on 29 December 2023, just in time to see in the new year.

Australia, Bali & Singapore

Sail north with Virgin Voyages from Sydney to Singapore on 27 Marcy 2024. On this 14-night cruise, you’ll leave with iconic views of the Sydney Harbour, stopping at Airlie Beach, Cairns and Darwin before making an overnight stay in Bali, and then arriving in Singapore.

Singapore sights to Dubai delights

Set sail from Singapore on 11 April 2024 on a one-way voyage to Dubai with Virgin Voyages. With this 14-night voyage, you’ll have plenty of time to dip into Phuket’s beautiful green waters, gaze at Colombo’s incredible architecture, and catch up on Goa’s laid-back lifestyle. You’ll also get to explore Kuala Lumpur and Mumbai, before arriving in Dubai.

Modern Dubai to Ancient Athens

Explore iconic sites along the Red Sea and the Mediterranean on this 14-night one-way voyage from Dubai to Piraeus (Athens). After experiencing the modern wonders of the Arabian Gulf, you’ll cross the Suez Canal and reach the stunning Greek coast. With late-night stays in Safaga and Alexandria, plus full days in Rhodes and Santorini there’s plenty of time to soak up the history, revel in the desert sunshine and get your island glow going.

Set sail the Virgin way

There’s so much to do onboard all of Virgin Voyages’ ships. Enjoy a taste of luxury at the 20 onboard eateries, covering everything from Michelin-style dining to late-night snacking. Or if you’re after some rest and relaxation time, book into the onboard spa and enjoy some time for yourself. All that self-case will come in handy when it’s time to put on your glad rags, grab your dancing shoes and throw some shapes at the onboard nightclub.

Plus, with Virgin Voyages, there’s so much included in the price of your sailing. You won’t be paying for WiFi so upload as many holiday snaps as you want to make everyone back home jealous. All your exercise classes are included too, as well as your food and basic drinks, and tips for Virgin Voyages’ crew.

Can’t wait to get on board? Visit Virgin Voyages to find out more and book your sailing today.

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Comparing the Virgin Voyages Cruise Ships

Virgin Voyages is a new cruise line that has been making waves in the industry since its launch in 2021. The line’s four ships, Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, Resilient Lady, and Brilliant Lady, are all adults-only and offer a variety of unique and exciting amenities and activities.

If you’re considering booking a cruise on a Virgin Voyages ship, you’re probably wondering which ship is the right one for you. Here’s a comparison of the four ships to help you make your decision:

• Scarlet Lady  is the first ship in the Virgin Voyages fleet and is currently sailing from Miami to the Caribbean. She is the largest of the four ships, with a capacity of 2,770 passengers. Scarlet Lady is known for her edgy and stylish design, as well as her wide range of activities and amenities.
• Valiant Lady  is the second ship in the Virgin Voyages fleet and is currently sailing from Portsmouth, England to the Mediterranean. She is slightly smaller than Scarlet Lady, with a capacity of 2,700 passengers. Valiant Lady is known for her luxurious accommodations and her focus on wellness and relaxation.
• Resilient Lady  is the third ship in the Virgin Voyages fleet and is currently sailing from Barcelona, Spain to the Mediterranean. She is the same size as Valiant Lady, with a capacity of 2,700 passengers. Resilient Lady is known for her focus on adventure and her wide range of activities and amenities.
• Brilliant Lady  is the fourth and newest ship in the Virgin Voyages fleet and is currently sailing from San Juan, Puerto Rico to the Caribbean. She is the same size as Scarlet Lady, with a capacity of 2,770 passengers. Brilliant Lady is known for her focus on entertainment and her wide range of bars, clubs, and restaurants.

So, which Virgin Voyages ship is the right one for you? It depends on what you’re looking for in a cruise. If you’re looking for an edgy and stylish cruise with a wide range of activities and amenities, then Scarlet Lady is a good choice. If you’re looking for a luxurious cruise with a focus on wellness and relaxation, then Valiant Lady is a good choice. If you’re looking for an adventurous cruise with a wide range of activities and amenities, then Resilient Lady is a good choice. And if you’re looking for an entertaining cruise with a wide range of bars, clubs, and restaurants, then Brilliant Lady is a good choice.

No matter which ship you choose, you’re sure to have a great time on a Virgin Voyages cruise. The line offers a unique and exciting experience that’s sure to appeal to adults of all ages.

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• Virgin Voyages Review, Part 1: The Concept and the Ship

by Andy | Jan 25, 2023 | Travel , Trip Reports | 5 comments

If you’d like to book a Virgin Voyage I encourage you to use the following link, courtesy of my friend Isabella, who can answer even more questions than me (leave a comment and I’m happy to put you in touch with her!).  Full disclosure: I do not receive a thing from her if you use the following link, just supporting a dear friend: Virgin Voyages Booking Link

• Virgin Voyages Review, Part 2: Food Heaven
• Virgin Voyages Review Part 3: Beautiful Food from The Test Kitchen

I was kind of done with cruising.  When I was a youth we went on cruises with our extended family and we had some great times (we even ended up in the news after our ship’s air conditioning went out in the middle of the Caribbean).  When some friends and I were in our twenties we did a couple of big group cruises on the Carnival Conquest.  The cruises were fine but they all kind of felt the same:

• Large dining halls with assigned seating
• A statistically significant number of buffets serving very average food
• So. many. people. and by people I mean kids running around vomiting on everything
• Feeling nickel and dimed at every turn, especially with the mandatory tips

Now the last cruise I went on was in 2009 so admittedly I hadn’t really kept up with things, instead just casually paying attention to headlines like  Royal Caribbean Unveils New Ship Larger Than Island of Manhattan full of theme parks, helipads, lazy rivers, the world’s biggest average food buffet, even lazier rivers, full-size football fields, and still the dining hall with assigned seating.  It was just lost on me, I thought I had grown out of it until I have kids someday and inevitably spend the entirety of my disposable income for them to go on a Disney Cruise and cry while Mickey Mouse tries to make them laugh…as long as they’re in their assigned seat in the dining hall.

But then a friend invited me on a Virgin Voyage last month.

How Virgin Voyages has changed cruising

As usual, when Sir Richard Branson wanted to make a cruise line, he wanted it to be different.  He wanted it to be edgy, fun, and free of the eye-rolly things like Formal Night.  Free of the nickel-and-diming and roaming photographers taking pictures to try and sell you later.  A simple, fun, refined experience.

Oh, and there needed to be hammocks.

And a dance party where everyone dresses in scarlet in front of an enormous octopus.

Oh and NO DINING HALLS WITH ASSIGNED SEATING (thank goodness, that joke was getting old).

And how did Sir Richard do?

He may have converted me back into a cruiser.

What makes Virgin Voyages different than the others

I think cruise lines generally fall into one of four different categories, with a few examples for each ( note: I’m not the leading market expert on cruise brand categorization so give me some rope here ):

• Mass-market big ships: Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, MSC
• Upscale bigger ships: Princess, Crystal, Azamara
• River Cruises: Viking, Ama Waterways, Avalon Waterways
• Antarctica/Expedition Vessels: Lindblad, Quark, Seabourn

Virgin Voyages, in my opinion, sits perfectly between the mass-market and upscale categories.

Here’s what makes Virgin different :

• Amenities are consistent : the four Virgin Voyages ships are all exactly the same, unlike needing an abacus and/or slide rule to figure out the different amenities offered from ship-to-ship on bigger cruise lines
• Ships are brand new and reasonably-sized : the current four Virgin Voyages ships are brand new (the first was only delivered in 2020) and more reasonably-sized than the mass-market mega ships.  Virgin Voyages ships have a capacity for just under 2800 passengers and 1160 crew.  Compare that to Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas, the upcoming largest ship in the world, which has a passenger capacity of 6988 and 2300 crew
• So much is included with your fare : Tips are included.  Soft drinks and drip coffee are included.  Basic wi-fi is included even!
• The food is INCREDIBLE : you’ll see in my next post, but the food is absolutely insane on Virgin Voyages.  Gone are the ridiculous dining halls, instead there are a variety of specialty restaurants along with a food hall where you seat yourself and can eat from a variety of food “stalls” featuring everything from American Diner fare all the way to a legit Ramen spot
• Adults-by-Design : No kids are allowed on Virgin Voyages
• Less…I don’t know how to say it…Generic Cruise Stuff : there’s no formal night.  There’s no photographers jumping into your face and taking pictures to try and sell you later.  There’s no Overly Caffeinated Cruise Director.  Instead there’s Scarlet Night, photography meetups, and the Happenings Crew to provide all sorts of entertainment throughout the voyage

It just feels like a more modern evolution of an institutionalized industry.

Let’s get started so I can show you the whole thing.

The Virgin Voyages “Lady Ship” Fleet

Like I said above, Virgin Voyages currently has four ships in its “Lady Ships” fleet (Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, Brilliant Lady, Resilient Lady), and they’re all the exact same design.

Ship exterior

The ship’s exterior form and livery were designed by Magpie Studio in London to mimic a luxury yacht, sporting a silver-grey hull with splashes of Virgin Red all over the ship, including the funnels at the very top of the ship.

86% of Virgin cabins have balconies (Virgin calls them Terraces) and 93% have an ocean view!  Virgin actually uses lights on these terraces to spell out messages in ports when they’re still docked as the sun sets (check out the ship spelling “AHOY” below, in Bimini.

It’s just a stunning ship all around, not infested with random water slide tubes or go-kart tracks like the monstrosities from the mass-market ships (although I’m sure those are fun).

I had a Sea Terrace on the 13th deck, which is nice and high on the ship but not too close to any public areas.

The cabin had plenty of storage space (my camera was on a tripod next to the closet area so I didn’t get any good pictures of that, sorry).

In-room technology was done well, like the curtains opening when you opened the cabin door and the tablet for all in-room controls, including the TV.  This is one of those things that makes getting on a new or newly-renovated ship worth it, the thoughtful use of tech was great.

To cut down on plastic bottle usage and reduce their carbon footprint, Virgin Voyages instead has a water carafe that is refilled whenever needed so you have fresh water on the ship.

There’s a small desk area and a very comfy chair where I would take video calls for work (many of my customers and internal colleagues didn’t even realize I was on a cruise).  The bed was supremely comfortable and had outlets near the bed for charging devices.

But let’s be honest here.  My favorite feature of the room was the Sea Terrace itself, featuring the now legendary red hammock.

Ok technically it’s a chair hammock.  I spent countless hours in my hammock and even slept in it a few nights.  They’re made by Yellow Leaf Hammocks, who have created weaving communities in underserved villages in Thailand to provide stable employment and sources of income for women and men living below the poverty line.  I loved reading Yellow Leaf’s story, available here .

There was nothing better on my trip than watching the sun set from the comfort of my hammock.

The Virgin room numbering convention is a tribute to how the ships were built but it’s confusing.  Let’s take the 13th deck, for example.  Room numbers start with the deck number, followed by the cabin number, followed by a letter.  So an example would be 13210A, which would be a Sea Terrace cabin on the port side of the ship.  Sounds simple enough, right?  Well, there is also a 13210 Z on the starboard side of the ship (there are also M cabins for the interior cabins).  I ended up doing a back-to-back cruise and was in very similar room numbers from one week to the next but moved from a Z to an A and got it wrong a few times.  Don’t worry, though, your bracelet will not let you into any cabin other than the one you’re supposed to be in, so you’re safe there 🙂

The Ship Interior

The “Lady Ship” interior was designed by a Creative Collective of interior designers, famous the world over for stylish boutique hotels and resorts, but they all had one thing in common – they had never designed for the cruise industry.  The public spaces are luxurious, functional, and don’t have the typical overly-vibrant shouty interiors common to the mass-market megaships.

(This is not intended to be an entirely comprehensive photojournalistic essay of every public space, just illustrating some of the design language)

As you came aboard the ship, you were in the Roundabout Atrium, one of the central hubs of the ship.

Downstairs was a small entertainment venue for ship bands to play and for folks to grab a beverage.

If you ever get lost on board, there are three elevator banks that have a quick and easy guide for which venues are on each floor.

Dotted around the upper deck of the Roundabout Atrium were a variety of small eateries and beer-focused bar.  Each space had its own design language to set it apart from the main walking areas, separating the areas without being obtrusive.

(and yes, there are plenty of double entendres on board, including the name of the ice cream parlor)

Next to the ice cream parlor was a great pizza parlor, where each pizza was custom-made, and also had interior/exterior dining areas.

Elsewhere on the ship, next to the casino, was the champagne bar area, with lots of seating and a swanky vibe.

The place I probably spent the most time was the Grounds Club for a morning latte or three.

Every area had plentiful seating and great wifi access.

Coming Up Next

You better believe this will be a multi-part review.  Up next, we’ll get into some of the incredible food on board at some of the specialty restaurants.  Stay tuned!

Have you sailed on a Virgin Voyage?  Which ship and route?  What did you think?  Tell me in the comments below!

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Sounds like you are ready for the drag show and to get a tattoo? I had heard that they have been working on fixing the lack of storage space in the cabins. Anything you noticed on this yet?

Is Virgin a non-smoking line?

There are two designated smoking areas: one room next to the casino and towards the bow of the ship on the Deck 16

Were you with others or on your own? Trying to figure out if going with a friend would be fun or awkward if it’s all couples or bachelorette parties!

Enjoyed your blog. Tempted to book, saw an offer for Scarlet Lady – never done Virgin just a couple of RC’s but we’re in our 70s and not sure whether it’s “too young” an experience for us – though we not old in our heads, just legs!! What’s the average age, can you give us an idea? Thank you.

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Inside Virgin Voyages, the cruise ships that want to make sea travel cool again

Cruise travel is typically thought to be more appealing to families and older travelers—and for good reason as they are convenient for groups and parties looking for less hassle with little planning required beyond the reservation. Cruise guests can select an itinerary, and have little to worry about after that as far as logistics go.

But Virgin is hoping to change all that with the debut of its latest travel industry venture (at least the most recent available those of us wishing to travel only on Earth). Following in the tradition of Virgin Atlantic, Virgin Hotels, and Virgin Trains, Virgin Voyages wants to make the cruise industry cool again.

“When we went into this business, we did this because the cruise industry was successful,” says Tom McAlpin, president and CEO of Virgin Voyages. “But we wanted to take the best of what cruising is, one that has unique entertainment and is sophisticated, with lots of flexibility in an elegant way, not in a stuffy environment…And we believe by doing that, people will pay you.”

From the outset, the flashy and colorful designs as well as a heightened focus on fitness and wellness would make it seem that Virgin Voyages aiming to attract a younger audience. But millennials and Generation Z have much less spending power compared to their parents’ and grandparents’ generations amid record inflation that has not been matched in adequate salary gains.

That said, McAlpin says that the ships and itineraries were designed for the “young at heart.” He admits that “we’re not going to be for everyone” and there will be those traditional cruise-goers who want the same meals at the same time at the same restaurant every night. But, he continues, the experience on Virgin Voyages is meant to be livelier with more room for people to change their minds and do what they want, when they want.

“The people that are coming on board are having a fantastic time, and we really do think about this as a younger time,” McAlpin tells Fortune . “What we’re trying to appeal to is a different way to cruise, a different experience…Naturally, I think we’ll get a younger crowd, but this is about appealing to and a different experience for cruisers—cruisers, first and foremost.”

During a media briefing about the launch of Valiant Lady this month, Sir Richard Branson, founder of The Virgin Group , noted that he has been wanting to get into the cruise industry for a long time—to as far back as when he was in his 20s—but that he didn’t have the resources to do it then. “What seemed missing in the market was a really good adults-only cruise line,” he said.

A joint venture between the Virgin Group and Bain Capital, Virgin Voyages is headquartered in Plantation, Fla. The company’s first fleet is referred to as the “Lady Ships,” a play on the term “your ladyship,” in a nod to Virgin’s British heritage.

Virgin Voyages’ brand design ethos can be summed up as “modern romance of sailing,” capturing a fresh, contemporary, and sleek look, with nods of glamour and romance with touches of saltiness and nautical traditions.

“Our brand purpose is to create an epic sea change for all,” McAlpin explains. “We had to create the right culture. And that was the key element that we wanted to get across to everybody: An epic sea change for all—epic and sea change meant that what we’re doing had to be significant, a marked change.”

The Virgin Voyages fleet are also “adult-by-design,” welcoming guests only 18 years and older, with a capacity of approximately 2,700 passengers per ship.

“By not having kids [onboard], it means we can have much more space for beautiful, stunning workout rooms, stunning massage pampering areas, party areas, running tracks, and all that space that you would have to put aside for kids,” Branson explained.

Virgin worked with a creative collective comprised of some of the most experienced interior designers, artists, and architects worldwide, including New York-based Roman and Williams, Concrete Amsterdam, and Tom Dixon’s Design Research Studio as well as Softroom, both in London. What’s notable is that while these firms are responsible for some of the most stylish boutique hotels and resorts across the U.S. and Europe, none of them have ever designed for the cruise industry.

“We didn’t build behemoth ships. We built mid-sized ships, and that allows us to create a more intimate experience, and the size of the ship allows us to do things that others can’t,” McAlpin says. “The whole part of the building of this business was orchestrated in a way that makes sense to the type of customer that we’re trying to attract.”

For example, at Valiant Lady ‘s port of call in Barcelona, Spain, you can walk right off the gangway and into Las Ramblas, a neighborhood popular with tourists at the heart of the Catalonian city.

The ship’s design is intended to mimic that of a yacht with a sleek silvery-grey hull with smoked glass, and of course, the Virgin brand’s distinctive touches of red. The ship’s livery was conceptualized by Ben Christie and David Azurdia from the award-winning Magpie Studio in London. RWD from Beaulieu, England, a top draw in super yacht design, fashioned the iconic red Virgin funnel of the vessel.

Constructed in Genoa, Italy, all four of Virgin’s ships will be fairly similar in layout and design upon completion, a conscious decision for both financial and sustainability purposes as McAlpin notes that 20% of the cost of the ship is engineering. There are minor tweaks from ship to ship, like the original artwork. But major components of the ship, such as the restaurants and nightlife (including an event called “Scarlet Night,” the marquee evening party of each trip) will remain the same.

The company has banned single-use plastics on-board its ships—including straws, bottled water, other beverage bottles, condiment packets, shopping bags, food packaging, stirrers, and to-go coffee and tea cups. Instead, the company emphasizes the use of recyclable and reusable materials across the ship. While onboard, guests are provided with access to complimentary filtered still and sparkling water in their cabins, and there are dozens of refilling stations on each deck.

“We have the newest fleet in the industry. So we’ve been able to benefit from all of the work that we’ve done to make it as fuel efficient as possible,” McAlpin says. “And with every last ounce of energy, we tried to train and not consume, and we have a lot less waste on board.”

Virgin invested in Climeon technology, which converts extra and waste heat into electricity. In the case of cruise ships, engineers can convert the water used to cool the engines, with that heat differential, to create clean energy. “So we can create almost one megawatt of power on board just by taking the heat that’s generated from the engine cooling water,” McAlpin says.

All in all, Virgin Voyages aims to be net zero in carbon emissions by 2050 as its fleet is being built to the latest energy-efficiency standards with state-of-the-art equipment. All of Virgin’s ships are built with diesel engines and the ability for connecting to shoreside power when docked, and McAlpin says, “the thing that we can do the quickest to have an impact is find different low carbon fuels.”

On finding low carbon fuel for ships, Branson said, “If the industry can’t have sorted that out by 2030, 2035—basically, in my lifetime—I’d be very, very disappointed. I don’t think we need to wait to 2050 for it.” He noted that Virgin has been looking at setting up hydrogen islands in Norway, where ships can just pull in, fill up with hydrogen, and then sail off. “It’s so much easier to do for ships than it is for airplanes,” Branson said. “I would be surprised if ships are not either using alternative fuels, as Tom says, or hydrogen-based fuels within 10 years.”

While stressing there are no positives from the current war in Ukraine, Branson said it is getting more people in Europe talking about every single way to try to speed up deployments of hydrogen and other alternative fuels.

As cruise operators ramp up business again in the wake of pandemic shutdowns and quarantines, many of them are trying to lure customers back with as many all-inclusive goodies as possible. Virgin Voyages touts that all guests get at least $600 “in value” with included gratuities, Wi-Fi, all food across all of the more than 20 eateries on board, basic drinks (water, coffee, soda, wine, and beer), and group fitness classes—all included in the voyage fare.

“To launch the business, we did a lot of work in talking to our prospective customers about what they were looking for, and wellness resounded very well,” McAlpin says. “They wanted that flexibility, they want to have a good time, they wanted to party, but they also wanted to be able to take care of themselves and have great, healthy food.”

Wellbeing, in all senses of the term, is at the forefront of the onboard experience. You could also throw in the phrase “work hard, play hard” as the ship is fully equipped for daytime rejuvenation and exercise with a 24-hour, fully-quipped fitness center as well as dozens of eclectic group workouts from spin cycling and vinyasa yoga (indoors and outdoors) to upswing bungee masterclasses.

But guests should budget accordingly for onshore excursions (which can run anywhere from $50 to $500—per person, per excursion—based on what you choose to do) as well as for premium drinks, like speciality coffees (i.e. lattes and cappuccinos), green juices and smoothies, and champagne and cocktails.

The only tip that Virgin says it will ask for are donations to supports ocean conservation partners. All of the fish and seafood served in the onboard dining facilities were promised to have been sustainably-sourced, and sunscreens for sale are all reef-safe.

The newest ship sailing in the fleet, Valiant Lady has nearly 80 suites, ranging from 352 square feet for more budget-friendly cabins to upwards of 2,147 square feet for those who want to travel like rock stars. Virgin is really betting big on the latter—so much so that they’ve branded its VIP hospitality as “Rockstar Service.”

RockStar Quarters guests (or “sailors,” as Virgin is referring to them as while onboard) see perks as soon as they board thanks to an exclusive express VIP pathway to the ship during embarkation. Guests staying in RockStar Quarters will also get to have porters (also referred to in-house as a “wardrobe team”) to help unpack and repack along with complimentary pressing service and nightly express swimsuit drying service.

All RockStar Quarters Sailors have access to Richard’s Rooftop, a private members club and a more secluded (and quieter) spot for sunbathing and cocktails. Rockstar guests will also be welcomed with a full bar and cocktail kit in their minibars.

All cabins can sleep at least two, but adjustments can be made during the reservation process to accommodate more depending on the party. Each cabin is custom-created to accommodate the Seabed, the first-ever transformational cabin bed-at-sea, specially engineered and handcrafted by Walter Knoll in Germany. Think of it as the sofa-bed or futon of the ocean as the bed can be reconfigured to a couch easily, reflecting Virgin’s emphasis that this is a social ship rather than a place to quietly get away from it all.

Most standard cabins already have transitional Seabeds installed as well as in-room entertainment with 43-inch 4K flat-screen HDTVs, mini bars, and ample closet space. Cabins feature infrared ( PIR ) presence sensors, which automatically detect when someone has left the cabin so that the system can go into energy saver mode, closing the blinds close and adjusting the air conditioning to an eco-saving temperature.

All suites across the board are equipped mood lighting that automatically adjusts to match the time of day and in-room tablets that allow guests to adjust the room’s lighting. Rooms are outfitted with premium linens and a plush European king bed in every suite as well as upgraded bath amenities.

Virgin Voyages currently has four ships on the docket, and the original schedule for delivery was to launch a ship annually between 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023. Virgin Voyages’ first ship, Scarlet Lady , was delivered on Feb. 14, 2020. (And the name “Scarlet Lady” appeared on one of the earliest planes to fly for Virgin Atlantic.)

Obviously, given the pandemic, that plan changed, and instead, the operator is in the process of launching the first three ships over the span of a year. “Our timing was just as bad as it could be,” Branson chuckled.

Valiant Lady just debuted with her “ mermaiden ” voyage this spring. Resilient Lady will follow later this summer, and Brilliant Lady will set sail, as originally planned, in 2023.

Scarlet Lady sails from Miami with itineraries to Mexico and throughout the Caribbean, including stops at Virgin’s private beach club in Bimini. After being christened in England, Valiant Lady is sailing Mediterranean itineraries out of Barcelona. Resilient Lady ‘s port of call will be in Athens, with itineraries around the Greek Islands.

But beyond these four ships, Virgin Voyages is keeping the cards close as to what’s next on the horizon. Branson compared Voyages to Virgin Atlantic, recalling that when the airline was founded in 1984 with only one plane, they didn’t expect to have more than four planes. “We are a small, niche player in a big market in the same way that Virgin Atlantic, when it started, was a small, niche player in a big market.”

“We’re not going to be a fleet complete of 30 ships, but we certainly believe that we can grow beyond four ships. We think 10 is probably the right place,” McAlpin says. “But we’ll do it very systematically, and at the right channels at the right time as we continue to build awareness and build that repeat base of customers.”

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Virgin Voyages

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages |

Find a Cruise on Virgin Voyages

with a cruise advisor

Cruising with Virgin

The brainchild of British entrepreneur Richard Branson, Virgin Voyages is a hip, adults-only cruise line that aims to be a bit different from the other options on the cruising market. And according to recent cruisers, it succeeds; many rave that a Virgin Voyages sailing is unlike any cruise experience they've had before (in a good way). Virgin Voyages' ships stand out with their superyacht-inspired atmosphere, upscale dining outlets, free Wi-Fi access, design-forward staterooms and wellness activities. There are four ships in the fleet (the newest ship debuts in 2024):  Scarlet Lady ,  Valiant Lady , Resilient Lady and Brilliant Lady (scheduled to debut in 2024). The line sails to a variety of destinations around the globe, including popular spots in the Caribbean, Europe and the South Pacific. Virgin's ships have departed from ports in  Miami ;  San Juan, Puerto Rico ;  Barcelona , Spain;  Athens, Greece ;  Dubai, United Arab Emirates ;  Singapore ;  Melbourne, Australia ; and  Auckland, New Zealand  so far, and Virgin continues to switch up itineraries to sail from destinations around the world. Itineraries typically last anywhere from two to 15 nights.

Cruisers can enjoy numerous amenities on Virgin's ships, including swanky pools with plenty of lounge seating, group workout classes, unique evening performances and more. Meanwhile, foodies will appreciate the ships' 20-plus dining venues and specialty bars, and the fact that sodas, drip coffee and other "essential drinks" are included in the cruise fare. Shore excursion options (called “Shore Things” by the cruise line) range from snorkeling and exploring Mayan ruins in Mexico to cultural tours and beach club relaxation in the  Bahamas  to scenic bike rides and food tastings in  Corfu, Greece . Keep in mind that Virgin Voyages excursions are subject to change based on the time of year, weather, availability and more.

U.S. News Insider Tip:  One detail to note about Virgin Voyages is the line’s four ships are nearly identical and feature the same layout. This means you can focus on finding a cruise with the dates and itinerary you want without having to compare ships or unique amenities. –  Holly Johnson, Contributor

Pros & Cons

Adults-only cruise line with brand-new ships

Focus on food, wellness and technology (including free Wi-Fi)

Unique evening entertainment options

High-tech features may not appeal to traditional cruisers

New line means there are fewer ships to choose from

No traditional buffets on board

• Expert Rating » 4.5
• Traveler Rating » 4.3
• Health Rating » 4.5

Virgin Voyages has been ranked based on an expert evaluation of the line's level of luxury, as well as an assessment of user reviews and health ratings.

• # 1 in Best Cruise Lines for the Money
• # 3 in Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean
• # 6 in Best Cruise Lines for Couples

Explore Photos

Virgin Voyages Ships

Resilient Lady

Scarlet Lady

Valiant Lady

Before You Book

• Note: To see Virgin Voyages' flexible deposit, cancellation and rebooking policies, visit its website .
• Virgin Voyages requires a deposit of 20% of the cruise fare to confirm a booking. A reservation can be held for 24 hours without a deposit up to 45 days prior to sailing; bookings made within 44 days of the sailing (or less) require full payment at the time of booking.
• Final payment is due 120 days before the trip departure date.
• The cancellation policy varies depending on when you decide to cancel your cruise and how much of it you've paid. Depending on the timing, you may be eligible for a full refund of the deposit and any payments, a refund of any payments (but not the deposit) or a future cruise credit. If you cancel 44 days or less before your cruise, you are not eligible for any refund or credit. For more information, see the Cancellation Policies section on the Virgin Voyages terms and conditions page .
• The cruise line allows only adults ages 18 or older on its cruises.
• If you are pregnant, you must be less than 24 weeks by the end of the sailing to book a trip with Virgin Voyages.
• At the time of booking, guests are asked to notify the cruise line of any special requirements or accommodation needed, including wheelchair access and service animal requests. Cruisers requiring a service animal must notify the cruise line no later than 21 days prior to departure. You also can call Virgin Voyages directly at 1-954-488-2955 to request assistance with these matters.

Before You Board

• Cruisers will need a current passport that's valid for six months past the end of the voyage date.
• Check-in for Virgin Voyages cruises takes place entirely on the line's mobile app. This means you don’t have to print cruise tickets or bring other printed documentation along.
• Boarding is typically around 2 p.m. and disembarkation times vary by cruise. Virgin Voyages instructs travelers to refer to their booking confirmation for additional information on timing and notes the departure time listed means the exact time the ship leaves the dock, so cruisers should plan accordingly to arrive well in advance.
• There are no specific luggage restrictions, but Virgin recommends limiting the number of bags you bring on board. If you are arriving at your departure destination by plane, be sure to consult airline luggage policies before your trip.
• Cruisers can book shore excursions – which Virgin calls "Shore Things" – in the Sailor App at least 120 days prior to sailing. Travelers booked in RockStar Quarters will be able to book shore excursions 135 days ahead of sailing. Payment is due at the time of booking.
• Passengers can secure dining reservations and entertainment starting 45 days before departure through the Sailor App or via a travel agent. Those booked in higher-level accommodations (Mega RockStar and RockStar Quarters) receive early access to reservations: 60 days prior to departure. Reservations for spa and wellness experiences can only be made on board.

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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A BRILLIANT INAUGURAL SEASON

SAIL INTO A BRILLIANT NEW ERA IN 2025

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Once-in-a-lifetime 5 to 16-night journeys, four MerMaidens, never-seen-before experiences, and iconic destinations sea-defining luxury and adventure.

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As we gear up for her 2025 debut, stay tuned for more details on how Brilliant Lady is not just navigating the high seas, but charting a new course for sea travel, exploration, and peak luxury.

Specially designed with brilliant and multi-length itineraries in mind, on top of our already award-sweeping experiences you know and love, our fourth lady ship features unprecedented entertainment, dining that transcends expectations with original food concepts, relaxation that reaches new heights with brand-new cabin categories, and a short and (much) longer itineraries — giving you endless choices for how you escape at sea.

A SEA OF FIRSTS

Brilliant Lady's MerMaiden marvels

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New York City Sept. 5th, 2025

Kick off Brilliant Lady’s inaugural season with an exhilarating 5-night voyage from the city that never sleeps to Bermuda's Kings Wharf! Revel in pristine beaches, explore the rich naval history, and soak in the subtropical bliss on this first-ever journey to paradise.

Miami Oct. 17th, 2025

Immerse within a melting pot of cultures while luxuriating in St. Maarten's sun, escape to Tortola’s serene shores, and indulge in our exclusive beach club experience in Bimini on Brilliant Lady’s 8-night MerMaiden voyage out of Miami’s Terminal V.

Los Angeles Apr. 7th, 2026

From the coastal charm of Santa Barbara and San Diego to Ensenada’s vibrant flavors, live the best of the Pacific on Brilliant Lady’s (and Virgin Voyages’!) first-ever West Coast voyage — a 5-night dive in sunshine, culture, and culinary delights.

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Sail into the heart of Alaska for an experience filled with breathtaking landscapes and glorious wildlife, all viewed from an unparalleled vantage point — your cabin. And the most iconic outdoor views of the most awe-inspiring corner of the USA.

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Panama canal, los angeles, new york city.

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Amazing cruise. Our second. The food and restaurants are very unique and yummy… and the Splash of Romance add-on is worth it. It gives you so many extras for such a low price. Look it up. Everything was seamless. Can’t wait for our next VV cruise.

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Which Virgin Voyages Ship is Best? Navigating the Seas of Choice! – 4 Lady Ships to choose from

Irresistible Med – Valiant Lady Virgin Voyages Cagliari and Scarlet Night

Ahoy there, fellow sailors! Today, we’re embarking on a delightful voyage to unravel which Virgin Voyages ship is best. As a Virgin Voyages Specialist and a bit of a cruise connoisseur we have experienced each of the Virgin Voyages Lady Ships, so have first-hand experience of each ship, and what they have to offer.

We’ve got the inside scoop on Virgin Voyages’ fleet. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a newbie to nautical adventures, this guide is your compass to choosing the perfect ship for your next seafaring escapade. Spoiler alert: they’re all fabulous, but the itinerary truly sets them apart!

UPDATED FOR 2024

Table of Contents

Setting sail with the fabulous virgin voyages fleet.

Since its 2021 debut, Virgin Voyages has been making waves in the cruising world. With its adult-focused, chic voyages, it’s a breath of fresh sea air for those who thought cruises weren’t their cup of tea. The fleet, comprising of Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, Resilient Lady and in 2025 Virgin Voyages is welcoming Brilliant Lady , is like a quad of stylish siblings – similar, yet each with their own charm.

Scarlet Lady: The Trendsetting Trailblazer

First up, the Scarlet Lady, the inaugural Lady Ship of Virgin Voyages, the trendsetter. This beauty made a splash with short, vivacious voyages to the Bahamas and the Caribbean. Think of her as the life of the party – a ship where the fun never stops, spending winter sailing the Caribbean and summers sailing the Med.

For summer 2024 and 2025, she’s setting her sights on Europe, with a selection of sailings across the med, and making her maiden call to Iceland in 2025. If you want Iconic Virgin Voyages vibes

Current Itineraries:

• Mediterranean: 7 to 14-night sailings from Barcelona in 2024 • Europe: Various sailings from Portsmouth for 2025 • Caribbean: 4 to 8-night sailings from Miami (Winter Seasons) • Transatlantic: 11 to 16-night sailings between Europe and Miami

Valiant Lady: The Cosmopolitan Voager Maven

Next, we have the Valiant Lady, the second in the fleet. She’s the cosmopolitan cousin, found exploring the Caribbean’s crystal-clear waters during the winter months making frequent stops at Virgin Voyages private Beach Club at Bimini. If you fancy Caribbean cool, she’s your lady

• Caribbean: 4 to 7-night sailings from Miami • Special holiday sailings and extended routes from Miami to San Juan

Resilient Lady: The Dashing Adventurer

Enter Resilient Lady, launched in Athens, in May 2023, bringing an extra dash of adventure to Virgin Voyages. She’s like the daring sibling who’s not afraid to chart new waters. With her, you get to explore the best of both the Mediterranean and Europe during the summer months. She spent the northern hemisphere Winter 23/24 sailing Australia and New Zealand, but will make her Caribbean Debut for the 24/25 winter season.

• Mediterranean, Greek Isles & Adriatic Sea: 5 to 12-night sailings from Barcelona and Athens • UK & Europe: 3 to 6-night sailings from Portsmouth for Summer 2024 • Caribbean: 5 to 11-night sailings from Miami and San Juan (Winter Season) • Transatlantic: 14-night sailings between Europe and Miami

Brilliant Lady: The Radiant Explorer

And soon to join the family, the Brilliant Lady, set to debut in 2025. This ship promises to be a radiant beacon, offering dazzling voyages to captivating destinations yet to be unveiled. She really does have some incredible itineraries, with a tease of an Alaska season

View all the Details of the Brilliant Lady Lauch season here .

• Bermuda: 5-night sailings from New York • Canada & New England: 8 to 13-night sailings from New York to Quebec • Caribbean: 7 to 12-night sailings from Miami • Panama Canal: 16-night sailing from Miami to Los Angeles • Pacific Coast: 5 to 8-night sailings from Los Angeles to Vancouver

Virgin Lady Ships – Siblings in Style

Now, let’s talk about similarities because these ladies have more in common than just their good looks. Each ship boasts an impressive array of over 20 eateries (and yes, they’re all included!), Michelin-starred chef-curated menus, and those signature red hammocks on every balcony.

In terms of design, they’re like walking into a high-end boutique hotel that floats. The cabins? Think gorgeously designed havens with roomy rain showers and ample storage. And let’s not forget the unparalleled service – the crews on these ships are more like genies, ready to grant your every wish (within reason, of course!).

It’s All About the Journey

But here’s the real tea – when it comes down to choosing your Virgin Voyages ship, it’s the itinerary that should be your guiding star. Each ship sails to some dazzling destinations, and that’s where the differences really shine.

The ships offer the same layout, and the same core experience, the way Virgin has decided to make the ships different from each other is via the entertainment offering. You can see more about some of the Virgin Voyages Entertainment here.

What Entertainment is Offered on Virgin Voyages

So, if your heart yearns for the Caribbean’s balmy breezes and laid-back vibes, Valiant Lady is calling your name. Fancy a taste of the Mediterranean’s rich history and exquisite cuisines? You don’t need to worry about the ship so much, the core focus of Virgin Voyages is the destination, so whichever Lady Ship you choose, you are sure to have a wonderful time sailing the Virgin Way.

Resilient Lady Versus Scarlet Lady

We put Resilient Lady and Scarlet Lady head to head in the post, to work out which ship is the best out of the two, but to also show you where Virgin Voyages works to make the ships feel unique and different. Why not take a look?

Scarlet Lady vs Resilient Lady 2024 | Which Virgin Ship should I book

Book your Virgin Voyages Cruise Today

If you would like to book your Virgin Voyages Cruise today, you can use the below link to see the latest offers and self-service your booking. Any bookings made using this link will be linked to Magical Traveller (it will say Sold and Serviced by Kieran Miller at the top); you will have complete control over your booking and can pay Virgin Voyages directly.

If you book using our Book and Go link by clicking the image below, we will add bonus sailor loot to your account as a thank you, $25-$200, depending on cruise duration and cabin purchased. Sea Terrace cabins receive $100 on sailings four nights or more as a guide. An email will be sent within 24 hours from Magical Traveller confirming the loot will be added within 30 days before you sail.

If you would like to add hotels and accommodation, don’t hesitate to contact us, and we can make your cruise a fully ATOL-protected holiday.

Why Itineraries are the Real MVPs

While the ships are pretty much identical in terms of luxury, comfort, and style, the destinations make each voyage unique. The Mediterranean’s allure lies in its blend of ancient history and modern luxury, the Caribbean’s charm is in its sun-soaked beaches and vibrant cultures, and the allure of Australia and New Zealand lies in their exotic wildlife and stunning landscapes.

Each itinerary is carefully curated to offer a mix of famous spots and hidden gems. So, whether you’re lounging at Virgin Voyages’ private beach club in Bimini, sipping a cocktail in Cannes, or exploring the fjords of New Zealand, you’re in for a treat.

The Verdict – Which Virgin Voyages Ship is Best?

In conclusion, the four Virgin Voyages ships are pretty much identical, so it’s more important to choose an itinerary, knowing that you will get the same fantastic Virgin cruise regardless of which ship you choose.

It’s about where you want to drop your anchor and explore. Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, Resilient Lady and the soon-to-be-launched Brilliant Lady are all fabulous choices, each offering the same level of sophistication and fun. The actual decision lies in whether you fancy a Caribbean fiesta, a Mediterranean adventure, or an exploration of new frontiers.

So, pack your bags, pick your destination, and let the ship be your stylish, luxurious home on the seas. After all, in the world of Virgin Voyages, it’s not just about the destination; it’s about the journey – and what a splendid journey it promises to be!

Book your Virgin Voyages Cruise with us

Why not join our virgin voyages facebook group.

We have a growing community on Facebook where we share our planning tips, news and Exclusive offers. Feel free to join us, and share your Virgin Voyages adventures with like-minded sailors. Click the Banner below.

You can also view all our Virgin Voyages offers and cruise planning tips in our dedicated group on Facebook.

You can book these cruises by contacting us via our Enquiry form on our website or by filling in the form below. Remember, we offer $100 bonus Sailor Loot when you book a Sea Terrace or above on your Virgin Voyages Cruise with us.

Please note that we are a UK travel agent, and all bookings are made in GBP, all bookings are eligible for our $100 Sailor loot offer.

With international flight costs on the rise, and many islands in the Caribbean increasing their port fees and taxes, the ...

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The best Royal Caribbean cruise ship for every type of traveler

What's the best Royal Caribbean cruise ship? We get this question a lot, and our answer always is the same: It depends.

It depends on what sort of traveler you are. Royal Caribbean is the world's biggest cruise line, and it has more ships than any other major line, including vessels in a wide range of sizes and with a wide range of amenities. While they all have a lot in common, they have some major differences, too, that make them more or less appealing to different types of travelers.

Some Royal Caribbean ships — such as the line's Oasis-class vessels and recently launched Icon of the Seas — are built with far more family-focused activities than others. Some, such as the two-year-old Wonder of the Seas, have added features that appeal to luxury-loving travelers. Other Royal Caribbean ships operate on particularly low-cost itineraries that are best for budget travelers.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

In short, the best Royal Caribbean cruise ship for you, if you're traveling with children, might not be the same as the best Royal Caribbean cruise ship for a solo traveler or the best Royal Caribbean cruise ship for a retiree.

Here, we list our top picks for the best Royal Caribbean cruise ships for five different types of travelers.

Icon of the Seas: Best ship for families

The best Royal Caribbean ship for families, in the unanimous view of TPG's cruise editors, is a ship that just debuted earlier this year: Icon of the Seas.

Sailing since January 2024, Icon of the Seas is the biggest cruise ship in the world — more than 6% bigger than the next-biggest ships in Royal Caribbean's fleet. That means greater space for the family fun zones that are a hallmark of Royal Caribbean ships, from children's clubs to water parks.

But it's not just its larger size that makes Icon of the Seas the best Royal Caribbean ship for families. As TPG saw during an early sneak peek at Icon of the Seas in January, Royal Caribbean has designed the vessel — the first of a new class of ships — specifically to cater to families in a bigger way.

For starters, Icon of the Seas has an increased number of cabins that offer extra bunks to accommodate families with multiple children, including new room designs. Some family suites even feature separate rooms for the kids.

Related: The 5 best cruise lines for families

Many of these family-friendly accommodations are near a new-for-the-line outdoor "neighborhood" called Surfside, which is dedicated to families with young children. Surfside features splash areas for babies and kids, pools and lounge spaces for parents, family-friendly eateries and shops, and a bar with "mommy and me" matching mocktails for kids and cocktails for grownups.

Icon of the Seas also features the largest water park ever built on a cruise ship, with a record six top-deck waterslides and a cool new ropes course. Your teens will never want to sail on another ship.

Related: The ultimate Icon of the Seas review and guide

Icon of the Seas is just the first of three family-focused sister ships Royal Caribbean has on order for delivery by 2026 that will make up its new Icon class. The second ship in the series, Star of the Seas, will debut in 2025 and already is open for bookings.

Wonder of the Seas: Best ship for luxury lovers

There's no doubt about it, Wonder of the Seas is the Royal Caribbean ship to book if you're looking to live the high life (and are willing to spend big bucks to do so). Unveiled in 2022, the world's second biggest cruise ship (after Icon of the Seas) was the first Royal Caribbean vessel with a private suite complex for the fancy set — a swanky hideaway with an upscale private lounge, restaurant and sun deck (the new Icon of the Seas has one of these, too, but we still rank Wonder of the Seas as our top Royal Caribbean ship for luxury).

If you book a suite in the complex on Wonder of the Seas, you'll be getting a luxury experience of the sort you won't find almost anywhere else in the Royal Caribbean fleet.

Related: What's it like in Wonder's suite complex? We spent $11,000 to find out

Called the Suite Neighborhood, the complex offers some of the biggest (and priciest) suites at sea, including the sprawling, two-deck-high Royal Loft suites that measure more than 1,500 square feet.

A booking for one of the suites also comes with a bevy of perks, from complimentary Wi-Fi to private beach access at Labadee, Royal Caribbean's private beach destination in Haiti. Among the best perks: Access to private concierges who set up shop daily in the suite complex and will ensure you get prime seats at the ship's shows or a table at the always crowded Mason Jar eatery . On a ship that can carry more than 6,000 people, such reservations are a must.

Note the suite complex is a gated community — one where you'll only be surrounded by other swells who have paid top dollar for exclusivity. Nobody can get into the area unless they have a keycard showing they're a resident.

Related: The 8 best cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

With access to a stylish rooftop pool, loungers at the suite area's private sun deck and higher-level food in its private Coastal Kitchen eatery, you may never want to leave the enclave. However, this being Royal Caribbean, you'll also have access to a seemingly endless array of amusements from waterslides to aerial water shows just steps away.

Freedom of the Seas: Best ship for budget travelers

Freedom of the Seas is the Royal Caribbean ship to pick when you're looking for a quick and affordable getaway — something that isn't a big commitment and won't break the bank.

Based in Miami, the 16-year-old vessel operates short three- and four-night voyages to the Bahamas that are often on sale for just $250 per person or less. That's not per day, mind you, but for the entire cruise. It's a lot more affordable per day than the two ships mentioned above, which are the belles of the ball in the Royal Caribbean fleet and command significantly higher rates.

For would-be Royal Caribbean cruisers, Freedom of the Seas serves as a sort of "test the line" ship. Its short sailings and low pricing mean you're not out a lot in time or money if you don't have the time of your life. It caters heavily to first-time cruisers as well as Florida locals who can book on short notice and drive into the port for a quick escape.

One of three ships in the line's Freedom class that date to the mid-2000s, Freedom of the Seas is no longer the creme-de-la-creme of the Royal Caribbean fleet (though it was when it debuted). At around 156,000 tons, it's about 30% smaller than Royal Caribbean's newer Oasis-class ships and has fewer venues, from bars and restaurants to entertainment spaces.

Related: The 7 classes of Royal Caribbean ships, explained

That said, Freedom of the Seas still has a huge amount to offer for all sorts of travelers, from couples to families with kids. The ship was, notably, the first in the Royal Caribbean fleet to feature a FlowRider surfing simulator on its top deck — now a signature attraction for the line.

The vessel also has multiple pool areas, a water park, a miniature golf course and a rock climbing wall on its top deck. It also has one of Royal Caribbean's signature Royal Promenades in its interior — a mall-like space filled with eateries, bars and shops.

The only things you won't find are the most over-the-top Royal Caribbean attractions found on newer Royal Caribbean ships, such as zip lines, skydiving simulators and bumper car pavilions.

Quantum of the Seas: Best ship for solo travelers

Royal Caribbean isn't particularly known as a major draw for solo travelers. In recent years, it's doubled down on the family market more than ever. That doesn't mean that solos aren't welcome on its ships or won't have a great time.

If you're looking for the best Royal Caribbean ship for solo travelers, you'll want to start with Quantum of the Seas and its Quantum-class sisters. It's the class of ships where Royal Caribbean made the most effort to appeal to solo travelers.

In designing the vessels, Royal Caribbean took a page from solo-targeting Norwegian Cruise Line 's playbook and added several cabins specifically for solos. Quantum of the Seas offers 28 of these dedicated studio cabins, each measuring from 101 to 119 square feet.

What's more, unlike Norwegian's solo digs, some of these cabins are ocean-view rooms with balconies. Others have a virtual balcony that, at first glance, looks like a veranda but is actually a digital screen projecting a real-time view of the outside. (It may sound corny, but it works.)

Related: The best cruise ships for solo travelers

While the solo cabins on the Quantum-class ships don't come with a dedicated solo lounge as they do on Norwegian ships, solo travelers will find Royal Caribbean-hosted meetups for solo travelers on the vessels. It's a great way for single travelers to find others in the same boat, so to speak.

There's also quite a bar scene on Quantum-class ships, with a lot of counter-style seating in bars that are a great place to find other solo travelers. We recommend one of the two large bars at the Music Hall, where you can make new friends while sipping musically inspired cocktails and listening to live bands. If the Music Hall is too noisy for chatting up other solos, head to the sometimes quieter Schooner Bar.

In addition, Quantum of the Seas ships is particularly known for its unusual range of activities, from skydiving simulators to bumper cars that you can enjoy just fine as a solo traveler.

Rhapsody of the Seas: Best ship for retirees

For older travelers looking for a Royal Caribbean ship that isn't jammed full of children, it's hard to beat Rhapsody of the Seas.

Dating to 1997, Rhapsody of the Seas is one of Royal Caribbean's oldest and smallest vessels, and it lacks nearly all the gee-whiz attractions for families found on newer Royal Caribbean ships. You won't find big water parks, kiddie splash zones, zip lines or bumper car pavilions on this ship.

For the most part, its top deck only offers pools, whirlpools and sunning areas, as is typical for ships built in the 1990s. As a result, it draws far fewer families than the vessels above and caters more to an older crowd of mostly couples.

Rhapsody of the Seas is also the ship that Royal Caribbean deploys on some of its most destination-focused itineraries, the type that have particular appeal to retirees looking to see more of the world.

Related: The 7 best cruises for seniors who love to travel

Over the next two years, for instance, Rhapsody of the Seas is sailing out of such less-common home ports as Colon, Panama; Cartagena, Colombia; and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

The sailings out of Colon and Cartagena offer the chance to visit Southern Caribbean ports such as Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao that aren't on most Royal Caribbean itineraries in the Caribbean. The sailings out of San Juan will also get you into the Southern Caribbean, while the sailings out of Israel and Cyprus offer a destination-heavy tour through the Eastern Mediterranean, including stops at multiple Greek islands.

At 78,808 tons, Rhapsody of the Seas is a third the size of the biggest Royal Caribbean ships. Expect a more intimate experience than what you'll find on the bustling Icon-class, Oasis-class, Quantum-class and Freedom-class ships mentioned above.

The vessel is one of four in the line's Vision class, featuring ships much smaller than the typical Royal Caribbean vessel. With this class, the experience has more to do with the ports the ships visit than the onboard experience.

Bottom line

Royal Caribbean is the world's largest cruise line, with a large fleet of ships that cater to a wide range of traveler types.

While its biggest focus of late has been on the family market, it has ships that will appeal to luxury travelers, budget travelers, solo travelers and retirees as well.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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Seattle Sets World Record for LGBTQ Wedding Vow Renewals

56 lgbtq couples renewed their vows in a visit seattle ceremony aboard a cruise ship on what the city recognized as "love for all day.".

By John Riley on June 12, 2024 @JRileyMW

Visit Seattle claims to have set a new world record for the number of LGBTQ couples renewing their vows simultaneously.

The renewals took place on May 30 on Argosy Cruises’ Salish Explorer, dubbed the “Love For All Boat,” with 56 LGBTQ couples taking part in a vow renewal ceremony.

Passengers were treated to a meal of Pacific Northwest cuisine and Washington wines following the ceremony. 

The ship traveled around Puget Sound at sunset, offering attendees views of the Olympic Mountains and Seattle’s skyline, with several iconic landmarks — including the Seattle Great Wheel, T-Mobile Park, Lumen Field, and Rainier Square — lit up to mark the celebration of what Seattle city leaders officially recognized as “Love For All Day.” 

Visit Seattle , which organized and hosted the event on board the cruise ship, worked with 13 of its hotel partners to create special packages for couples taking part in the ceremony.

Couples who stayed at one of those 13 hotels received free admission to the event.

Seattle resident and RuPaul’s Drag Race  star BenDeLaCreme emceed the festivities, leading a celebratory cake cutting and giving a live performance. Washington Supreme Court Justice Mary Yu, the state’s first openly gay Asian-American and Latina justice, officiated the ceremony.

Among the couples on board were Sara and Emily Cofer, the first same-sex couple to legally wed in Washington State, who, coincidentally, were the first same-sex couple to be married by Yu.

Another couple who renewed their vows were Zac and Sam Baker, who relocated to Seattle after initially being chosen as one of four out-of-state couples who were thrown a “dream wedding” in 2014 as part of Visit Seattle’s “Marry Me in Seattle” campaign.

That campaign was developed to celebrate the passage of marriage equality in Washington State — which, at the time, was one of fewer than a dozen states recognizing same-sex marriages as valid — following a 2012 voter-approved ballot initiative . 

Same-sex marriages have since been legalized in all 50 states following the Supreme Court’s 2015 decision in Obergefell v. Hodges .

Proceeds from the event benefitted the GSBA Scholarship & Education Fund, a project of Washington State’s LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce, in which scholarships are awarded to LGBTQ students who exhibit leadership potential and strong academic skills and are actively involved in school and community organizations. Since its founding in 1991, the fund has given out $6 million to 535 scholars.

“This experience was about our city proudly affirming its vow to the LGBTQIA+ community as a place that they can always feel welcome to love openly and be their authentic selves,” Michael Woody, the chief communications officer for Visit Seattle, said in a statement. Woody also participated in the vow renewal with his husband of three years.

RecordSetter.com recognized the ceremony’s world record, but it was not listed on the Guinness Book of World Records site, which does not break down vow renewals by sexual orientation. 

According to Guinness , the largest vow renewal ceremony on record took place at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan, on October 8, 2016, with 1,201 couples participating.

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Judge Rules Kim Davis Must Pay $360,000 to Gay Couple

The former kentucky clerk who refused to issue same-sex marriage licenses must pay damages and attorneys' fees to one couple..

By John Riley on May 5, 2024 @JRileyMW

A federal judge refused to overturn judgments totaling $360,104 against former Kentucky clerk Kim Davis stemming from her refusal to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples. 

U.S. District Court Judge David Bunning, of the Eastern District of Kentucky, rejected a request from Davis's lawyers to set aside a jury verdict awarding $100,000 to David Ermold and David Moore, one of several couples -- both gay and straight -- who were denied licenses by Davis, the former clerk of Rowan County.

Lawyers from the right-wing, anti-LGBTQ legal firm Liberty Counsel, which is representing Davis, argued that Ermold and Moore had not provided sufficient evidence, including testimony from medical or mental health experts, of how Davis's refusal to issue them a marriage license had caused them "emotional distress."

Monét X Change Dives Into R&B with ‘Grey Rainbow’

Monét x change aims to bust through drag's glass ceiling with her new r&b album "grey rainbow, vol. 1.".

By André Hereford on May 25, 2024 @here4andre

READ THIS INTERVIEW IN THE MAGAZINE

"You are asking a question I've tried to answer so many times," says Monét X Change, sounding for a moment dead serious, as opposed to the quick-witted jokester who had kept this interviewer laughing throughout our conversation.

The drag entertainer, singer-songwriter, podcast host, and comedian -- born Kevin Akeem Bertin -- is responding in earnest to the question of how can people, given the ample evidence from Drag Race and elsewhere that a good drag queen has to be able to do it all, still not appreciate the loads of talent involved.

Female Kindergarten Teacher Fired for Engagement to Woman

After a washington state catholic school fired the beloved teacher, parents rallied in fervent protest demanding her reinstatement..

By John Riley on May 11, 2024 @JRileyMW

Parents at a Catholic school in the state of Washington started a petition to reinstate a kindergarten teacher whose contract for the next school year was not renewed after she became engaged to another woman.

Karen Pala, now in her fourth year teaching at St. Luke's Catholic School in Shoreline, Washington, was informed in an email that she will not be allowed to return in the fall.

"Father Brad recently informed me that he will not be offering me a job at Saint Luke next year," Pala wrote in an email to her student's parents, referring to the school's pastor, Father Brad Hagelin.

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