Virgin Voyages has gone from industry disruptor to one of the most awarded cruise brands at sea. With four ships sailing throughout the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Europe, Australia, and now Alaska, it's clear that Virgin is here to stay. But despite the awards and growing popularity, Virgin Voyages is not for everyone—and that's okay. 

I've sailed with Virgin Voyages myself and will be returning this year. What's interesting is that even after experiencing luxury and yacht-style cruising, I still look forward to stepping back onboard a Virgin ship. Why? Virgin has created something different. The energy is contagious. People are having fun, being themselves, and genuinely enjoying their vacation. It's not trying to be a luxury cruise line, and it's not trying to be a traditional cruise line. It's simply trying to deliver a great adults-only vacation experience—and for many travellers, it succeeds remarkably well--based on the high occupancy rate across their 4 ships. 

As a travel advisor, my job isn't to sell every cruise line to every client. It's to help you find the right cruise line for your personality, travel style, and vacation goals. 

So let's answer the real question:  Who is Virgin Voyages designed for?

You'll Probably Love Virgin Voyages If...

You want an Adults-Only Vacation. 

Virgin Voyages is exclusively for travellers aged 18 and over. 

That doesn't simply mean there are no children on board. It means the entire experience is designed around adults—from the entertainment and nightlife to the dining and social atmosphere.

If you've ever said:

  • "I love cruising but wish there were fewer kids around."
  • "I want a getaway that feels more grown-up."
  • "I'd rather spend my vacation at a boutique hotel than a family resort."

Virgin deserves a closer look.

You Believe Vacation Should Feel Like Freedom

One of the biggest reasons guests become repeat Virgin sailors is the atmosphere.

Virgin embraces individuality, diversity, and self-expression in a way few cruise lines do. You'll find travellers of all ages, backgrounds, orientations, and lifestyles enjoying the same ship without judgment or expectations. 

This diversity extends to the staff as well. I spoke with many employees when I was onboard and they had a piercing or tattoo and they told me that with most mainstream cruise lines they wouldn't get an interview, or if they had tattoos on their arms, told to roll down their sleeves. On Virgin, they felt they could be their best self and they love working there. That says a lot! After all, a happy, engaged crew on board enhances the guest's experience, incredibly. 

Virgin has become particularly popular with LGBTQ+ travellers because the environment isn't merely welcoming—it's genuinely inclusive. The line has built a culture where everyone is encouraged to be themselves, whether that's on the dance floor, at dinner, or simply relaxing by the pool.

For many guests, that feeling of acceptance becomes one of the most memorable parts of the voyage.

Food Is a Big Part of Your Vacation

This is where Virgin continues to stand apart.

Rather than a traditional main dining room and buffet-centric approach, Virgin offers more than 20 dining venues with made-to-order meals included in the cruise fare. 

Think:

  • Korean BBQ
  • Italian trattorias (my favourite!)
  • Upscale steakhouse dining
  • Modern Mexican cuisine
  • Mediterranean-inspired menus
  • Vegetarian and plant-based options

And unlike many premium cruise lines, you're generally not paying specialty restaurant surcharges every night to enjoy the best food onboard.

For food lovers, Virgin is often one of the strongest culinary values in cruising.

You Prefer Experiences Over Formality

No formal nights.

No captain's cocktail party.

No assigned dining times.

No pressure to dress a certain way.

Virgin replaced many traditional cruise customs with experiences that feel more contemporary and flexible.

If you enjoy live music, immersive entertainment, wellness programming, themed parties, and a social atmosphere, you'll likely feel right at home.

Virgin Has Changed: Understanding the New Fare Options

One important update since Virgin first launched is that the pricing structure has evolved.

Today, guests can choose different fare levels that offer varying levels of flexibility, Wi-Fi, gratuity inclusion, bar benefits, and booking perks. The options generally range from a more basic fare to more inclusive packages that bundle additional value. (Pride Travelers)

This is where working with a travel advisor becomes especially valuable.

Sometimes the lowest fare isn't the best value.

Sometimes upgrading to a higher fare level can save money overall.

The "right" option depends on your travel style and what you plan to use onboard.

You May Want to Consider Other Cruise Lines If...

You Love Traditional Cruising

If your perfect cruise includes:

  • Formal nights
  • Large production shows
  • Traditional cruise traditions
  • A classic cruise atmosphere

You may feel more at home with lines such as Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, or Celebrity Cruises.

You're Travelling With Children

This one's simple.

Virgin is adults-only.

If your vacation includes children or grandchildren, another cruise line will be a better fit.

You Want a Very Quiet Ship

Virgin offers plenty of relaxation spaces, but it is still a social cruise line.

The energy onboard tends to be higher than what you'll find on luxury lines such as Silversea or Seabourn.

What About Alaska?

In 2026, Virgin Voyages entered Alaska for the first time with sailings aboard Brilliant Lady. Rather than simply copying what everyone else is doing, Virgin has introduced Alaska-specific programming, destination-focused dining, wildlife experts, and its signature adults-only approach to one of the world's most popular cruise destinations. 

For travellers who have always wanted to experience Alaska without a family-focused cruise environment, this is a compelling new option.

My Take as a Travel Advisor

Every cruise line has a target audience. The secret isn't finding the "best" cruise line. It's finding the cruise line that's best for you. Virgin Voyages has earned a loyal following because it offers a fresh, inclusive, adults-only approach to cruising. If that sounds appealing, it may be one of the best vacations you'll ever take. If not, there are plenty of other excellent options. My job is to help you find the right fit.

For travellers who appreciate excellent dining, a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, adults-only vacations, modern entertainment, and a cruise experience that feels different from the mainstream, Virgin delivers something truly unique.

For travellers seeking traditional cruising, family vacations, or a more formal onboard environment, there may be better choices.

Not sure if Virgin Voyages is the right fit for your travel style? Let's talk. Book a complimentary cruise planning consultation and I'll help you determine whether Virgin Voyages—or another cruise line—is the best match for your vacation goals.

Schedule Your Consultation Here:  https://calendly.com/dslupeiks/30min