We’ve been on countless ships, sailed every ocean, and thought we had the cruise game down pat. Then Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady entered our lives, promising a revolution. And revolutionize it did! We recently disembarked from a fantastic cruise vacation on this much-hyped vessel, and let us tell you, it was an experience unlike any other. As seasoned travel writers and cruise experts, we approached this trip with a mix of excitement and a healthy dose of professional skepticism. We wanted to see if the hype was real, and more importantly, how it translated into a real-world cruise ship experience.
What we discovered was a ship that genuinely pushes boundaries, but also one where a little insider knowledge can go a long way. We made some brilliant choices, and, if we’re being honest, a few blunders along the way. So, for all you future sailors, whether this is your first cruise booking with Virgin or you’re a loyal Virgin Voyages fan, we’re here to share our unfiltered take: the five mistakes we made and the four things we absolutely nailed on our Scarlet Lady adventure.
Even with our extensive cruising background, Virgin Voyages threw us a few curveballs. Here’s where we stumbled, so you don’t have to.
Mistake #1: Underestimating the Dining Reservation Hustle
We pride ourselves on being early birds when it comes to cruise booking and planning, especially for specialty dining. On most cruise lines, a few weeks out is usually sufficient. Not so on Scarlet Lady.
The Allure of the Unique Eateries
Virgin Voyages boasts an incredible array of included specialty restaurants – no main dining room here! From the theatrical Korean BBQ at Gunbae to the sophisticated steakhouse at The Wake, and the experimental delights of Test Kitchen, each venue offers a distinct culinary journey. This is a huge draw, and rightly so. We were so excited to try them all.
Our Fatal Flaw: Procrastination
We figured we’d snag our dinner reservations a couple of weeks before sailing. Big mistake. By the time we logged in, many of the prime slots, especially for popular restaurants like Gunbae and The Wake, were already snapped up. We ended up with some later dinner times than we preferred and had to be flexible with our choices.
Our Advice to You
As soon as your cruise booking is confirmed and the booking window opens (which is usually 45 days prior to sailing for dining), jump on that app! Seriously, set a reminder. Prioritize your must-try restaurants and grab those coveted early slots. If you miss out, don’t despair entirely – keep checking the app, as cancellations do happen, especially closer to sailing and even during the voyage. We managed to snag a last-minute cancellation at Gunbae, and it was worth the persistence!
Mistake #2: Not Fully Embracing the App for Everything
We’re tech-savvy, but we still have a soft spot for the traditional cruise experience. On Scarlet Lady, however, the app isn’t just a convenience; it’s practically your lifeline.
Beyond the Basics: The App as Your Navigator
We initially used the app for basic things: checking our onboard account, looking at the daily schedule, and the aforementioned dining reservations. We overlooked just how deeply integrated it is into the entire ship experience. From ordering drinks from anywhere on the ship (yes, even by the pool!) to messaging other sailors in your party, and even controlling your cabin’s lighting and temperature, the app is central.
The Learning Curve We Missed
We spent the first day or so looking for physical daily planners or asking crew members for information that was readily available on the app. We missed out on ordering a few poolside cocktails because we were too busy waiting for a server to pass by, not realizing we could have had one delivered with a few taps.
Our Advice to You
Download the Virgin Voyages app as soon as you book. Familiarize yourself with its features before you even board. Connect to the ship’s Wi-Fi immediately upon embarkation and make it your go-to source for everything. It genuinely streamlines your experience and allows you to maximize your time onboard. Don’t be afraid to explore every tab and function – it’s designed to make your cruise vacation smoother.
Mistake #3: Overpacking for the “No Formal Night” Vibe
Virgin Voyages famously ditched the traditional formal nights, which we applauded! We love a relaxed atmosphere. However, we misinterpreted “no formal” as “anything goes,” and a few of our outfits felt a bit out of place.
The “Relaxed but Chic” Misunderstanding
We packed mostly casual wear – shorts, t-shirts, sundresses. While perfectly acceptable for daytime and many evening activities, we noticed many sailors embraced a more “resort chic” or “smart casual” aesthetic in the evenings, especially at the more upscale restaurants like The Wake.
Our Wardrobe Woes
We felt slightly underdressed on a couple of occasions, particularly when we had reservations at some of the finer dining establishments. It wasn’t a huge deal, but we definitely wished we’d thrown in a few more elevated options. Think stylish jumpsuits, flowy maxi dresses, or nice button-down shirts for men.
Our Advice to You
While you can absolutely be comfortable, consider packing a few outfits that lean towards “elevated casual.” Think about what you’d wear to a nice dinner out at home. Virgin Voyages has a vibrant, adult-focused atmosphere, and many people enjoy dressing up a little for dinner and evening entertainment. You won’t see ballgowns, but you’ll certainly see some fabulous outfits. Pack a mix to feel comfortable in any setting, from the casual pizza joint to a sophisticated dinner.
Mistake #4: Not Maximizing the “Included” Perks
Virgin Voyages prides itself on its “what’s included” model: all food, basic beverages (water, juice, soda, coffee), gratuities, and even some fitness classes. We initially treated this like a traditional cruise, not fully leveraging everything on offer.
The Cost of Old Habits
We almost fell into the trap of buying specialty coffees and premium water bottles without fully appreciating the quality of what was already included. We also debated paying for some fitness classes, only to realize later that many were covered.
Our Missed Opportunities
For the first day, we were still thinking in terms of “upgrades.” We might have skipped a free yoga class thinking it would be basic, only to hear rave reviews from other sailors. We also didn’t explore the full range of included non-alcoholic beverages as much as we could have.
Our Advice to You
Dive deep into what’s included! Virgin’s coffee is excellent – skip the paid options unless you have a very specific craving. Hydration stations are plentiful with good quality water. Check the app for the full schedule of included fitness classes – from HIIT to meditation, there’s usually something for everyone. This is where Virgin truly shines, and by taking advantage of these perks, you maximize the value of your cruise booking. Don’t leave money on the table by paying for things that are already part of your fare!
If you’re considering a cruise experience that goes beyond the ordinary, you might find it interesting to explore unique water activities available in destinations like Abidjan, Ivory Coast. While the Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady offers a modern take on cruising, the adventures you can have onshore can truly enhance your journey. For a deeper dive into exciting options, check out this article on unique water activities that can complement your travel plans.
Mistake #5: Underestimating the Need for Chill Time
Scarlet Lady is a hub of activity, and we, being go-getters, tried to do it all. This led to moments of delightful chaos, but also some missed opportunities for pure relaxation.
The FOMO Factor
With so many unique entertainment options, incredible dining experiences, and lively bars, it’s easy to get swept up in the “fear of missing out.” We booked back-to-back activities and sometimes felt a little rushed.
Our Exhaustion Episode
By day three, we realized we hadn’t really taken a moment to just be. We hadn’t truly savored a quiet coffee on our balcony or spent an extended period simply lounging by the pool. We were having fun, but also running a little ragged.
Our Advice to You
Build in downtime. Seriously. Schedule an afternoon for nothing but reading by the pool, enjoy a leisurely breakfast, or simply sit on your balcony and watch the sea. Virgin Voyages offers plenty of opportunities for lively fun, but it also has serene spots like The Perch for yoga or the quiet corners of The Dock. Balance the high-energy experiences with moments of calm to truly recharge and enjoy your cruise vacation. Remember, it’s a vacation, not a race!
If you’re considering a cruise with Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady, you might also find it helpful to explore related travel insights, such as the best hotels near the Seattle Washington cruise port. This article provides valuable information on accommodations that can enhance your pre-cruise experience, ensuring you’re well-rested and ready for your adventure. For more details, check out the article here: Seattle Washington Cruise Port Hotels.
Our Scarlet Lady Triumphs: What We Nailed
Now, for the good stuff! Despite our minor missteps, we absolutely aced some aspects of our Scarlet Lady journey, and we’re here to share those wins with you.
Thing #1: Booking a Central Balcony Cabin
We usually opt for ocean view or interior cabins to save a bit of money, but this time, we splurged slightly on a “Sea Terrace” (balcony) cabin, and it was a game-changer.
The Rockstar Treatment, Even Without a Suite
Our Sea Terrace cabin felt incredibly well-designed. The hammock on the balcony was a stroke of genius – perfect for morning coffee or an afternoon read. The intelligent use of space, the mood lighting, and the comfortable bed made it a true sanctuary.
Location, Location, Location
We purposefully chose a cabin mid-ship, closer to the elevators, and slightly higher up. This meant minimal walking to get to most venues, less motion (for those prone to seasickness), and fantastic views. It truly enhanced our overall experience.
Our Advice to You
If your budget allows, a Sea Terrace cabin is highly recommended on Scarlet Lady. The innovative design and private outdoor space are worth it. When choosing your cabin, consider proximity to amenities you’ll use most often. A central location often offers the best of both worlds – easy access to forward and aft attractions. This seemingly small detail significantly improved our daily comfort and enjoyment of the cruise ship.
Thing #2: Prioritizing Shore Excursions Wisely
We’ve seen it all when it comes to shore excursion offerings, and we know that sometimes less is more, and sometimes going off the beaten path is best. On Scarlet Lady, we balanced this perfectly.
Our Choice: Mix of Ship-Organized and Independent Exploration
For one port, we opted for a Virgin Voyages organized shore excursion that involved a unique cultural immersion – something we knew would be difficult to arrange independently. It was seamless, well-executed, and provided valuable insights. For another port, we did our own thing, researching local highlights near the cruise port and exploring at our own pace.
The Sweet Spot
This mixed approach allowed us to enjoy the convenience and curated experience of a ship excursion when it made sense, while also embracing the freedom and authenticity of independent exploration when we wanted it. We felt like we saw a lot without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
Our Advice to You
Don’t feel pressured to book every shore excursion through the cruise line. Research your cruise port ahead of time. See what unique experiences Virgin Voyages offers that might be harder to do on your own. For ports where major attractions are easily accessible via local transport or a short taxi ride, consider venturing out independently. This strategy can save you money and give you a more personalized experience, truly enhancing your cruise vacation.
Thing #3: Embracing the “Adults Only” Vibe
Virgin Voyages is strictly 18+, and we leaned into this fully, enjoying the sophisticated, playful, and sometimes wonderfully cheeky atmosphere.
A Different Kind of Energy
Without kids onboard, the ship has a distinct energy. The entertainment is geared towards adults, the pools are more serene (or lively, depending on the area), and there’s a general sense of freedom and relaxation. We truly appreciated the ability to enjoy conversations without interruption and experience entertainment that was genuinely edgy and creative.
Our Enjoyment of the Nightlife and Lounges
We thoroughly explored the various bars and lounges, from the energetic Manor nightclub to the more intimate Sip Lounge. The lack of children meant these spaces could truly shine as adult playgrounds, offering unique cocktails and vibrant social scenes.
Our Advice to You
If you’re looking for a kid-free cruise vacation, Virgin Voyages is an excellent choice. Embrace it! Attend the late-night shows, linger at the bars, enjoy the more adult-oriented activities. It allows for a different kind of relaxation and fun that’s sometimes hard to find on multi-generational ships. It truly sets Scarlet Lady apart from many other cruise ship experiences.
Thing #4: Engaging with the Crew and Other Sailors
We always make an effort to connect with the crew and our fellow passengers, but on Scarlet Lady, this felt particularly rewarding.
The “Rockstar” Service
The crew, or “Rockstars” as Virgin calls them, are exceptional. They’re genuinely friendly, attentive, and seem to genuinely enjoy their jobs. We took the time to chat with our cabin steward, bartenders, and restaurant servers, and these interactions truly enriched our trip. They offered great recommendations and made us feel genuinely cared for.
Making Friends at Sea
The communal dining tables at Gunbae (the Korean BBQ) were a brilliant idea for fostering connections. We met some fantastic people there and continued to see them around the ship, striking up new friendships. Even at other venues, the open, friendly atmosphere made it easy to connect with other sailors.
Our Advice to You
Don’t be shy! Strike up conversations with the crew – they have amazing stories and insights. Take advantage of opportunities like communal dining to meet new people. The social aspect of a cruise vacation is often one of its most rewarding elements, and on Scarlet Lady, that’s particularly true. The inclusive and welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to forge new connections and create lasting memories.
Our Final Thoughts on the Scarlet Lady Adventure
Our time on Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady was an unforgettable journey. We learned that even experienced cruisers can have new lessons to learn, and that sometimes the best adventures come from embracing the unexpected. This cruise ship isn’t just another vessel; it’s a meticulously crafted experience designed to challenge perceptions of what a cruise vacation can be. We hope our honest recounting of our mistakes and triumphs helps you navigate your own Scarlet Lady adventure with confidence and excitement. Happy sailing!