virgin cruises western caribbean charm

Western Caribbean Charm

6-night round-trip sailing from Miami

Kaleidoscopic coasts in Honduras

Cruise through the Caribbean on a six-night sailing featuring a full day of unrivaled experiences in Costa Maya, Mexico, and another in Roatán, Honduras. With 2 days at sea to indulge in the good life on board, you'll also get to explore the rich history and turquoise waters of the Bahamas with a visit to the exclusive Beach Club at Bimini.

Western Caribbean Charm • 6 Nights

Sailing on Valiant Lady

  Day 1

Departs at 06:00 PM, All aboard 2 hrs before departure

  Day 2

  Day 3

10:00 AM - 07:00 PM, local time

  Day 4

09:00 AM - 06:00 PM, local time

  Day 5

  Day 6

Beach Club at Bimini

08:00 AM - 07:00 PM, local time

  Day 7

Arrives at 06:30 AM

The Virgin Voyages Experience

From captivating coasts to laid-back island vibes, the exclusively adult cruise vacation of your dreams is here.

Terminal V at PortMiami

Uniting the energy of Miami with nautical nods to the history of sailing, we’re infusing our own terminal with the same incredible ethos as our ships.

Hassle-free embarkation

Pre-upload your travel docs to the Virgin Voyages app, get Ready to Sail before leaving home, and make boarding a (sea)breeze in just a few minutes.

Late stays and overnights

No more rushing from A to Sea. Our itineraries feature late stays and overnights, so you can explore it all from morning to night (and morning again).

Exclusive access to The Beach Club at Bimini

From beach bonfires to private cabanas and floaty pool parties — all in a resort-like experience where you can actually let your salty hair down.

The places you'll go

From the Wynwood art scene to the world-renowned shores of Miami Beach, the Magic City is a perfect collision of relaxation and cultural exploration.

The world’s second-largest, electrifying reef attracts divers, plus endless white-sand beaches, and you'll understand why Roatán is the coveted jewel of Honduras.

Ancient ruins, sleepy beachside villages, and natural lagoons with seven shades of blue — this Mexican port is beaming with culture, history, and beauty.

Besides exploring the islands’ incredible biodiversity, relax at our private beach club experience, Virgin Voyages Beach Club at Bimini.

We have even more in our curated catalog.

Adrenaline zip-line adventure.

Get your adrenaline pumping on an extreme zip-line tour through the island canopy and between mountains. Fly through 11 lines to 12 platforms for a bird’s eye view of the jungle, island and turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea.

Energy Level

• Get a bird's eye view of the lush natural surroundings and the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea
• Glide down 11 different lines up to 1,500 feet long
• Soar through the skies between the mountains of Roatán
• Please be aware this Shore Thing is not wheelchair accessible
• This Shore Thing is not suitable for pregnant Sailors
• Sailors should consider their physical fitness level and medical history when determining whether this Shore Thing is appropriate
• Closed-toed shoes are required for ziplining
• This Shore Thing operator has received third-party certification based on the Global Sustainable Tourism Council criteria
• This Shore Thing is considered 'daring' and not for the faint of heart. Sailors are reminded that they assume full risk and responsibility

Got a mate you think would ❤️ this shore experience?

Chacchoben tour & uchbenkah lagoon lunch.

On this tour, you’ll head to the nearby Chacchoben Mayan ruins (known as “The place of Red Corn” for its red stucco walls), which house a mural showing the astronomical position of Venus. You’ll have time to climb the Gran Basamento where archaeologists found ceremonial offerings dating back to 1,000 B.C. Next, head down to Uchbenkah Lagoon in Pedro Santos to take a swim, paddle out in a kayak, and enjoy a grilled lunch with an open bar.

• Journey to the Chacchoben ruins, known as the “Place of Red Corn”
• Visit an ancient mural depicting the astronomical positions of the planet Venus
• Climb the Gran Basamento—taking you above the height of the trees
• Climb the Gran Basamento — a sacred plateau
• Head down to Uchbenkah Lagoon in Pedro Santos to swim, kayak or relax before a grilled lunch with an open bar
• Approximately 1 hour drive to ruins
• Local lunch and open bar included
• This Shore Thing is weather dependent

4x4 Off-Roading and Beach Adventure

Caravan through the quiet fishing village of Mahahual in a 4x4 Jeep—heading into the mangroves on a bumpy, off-road adventure. Encountering endless stretches of mangroves and beaches—you get to see a side of the Caribbean that most tourists never will. After an hour drive down the coastline, you’ll arrive at Explora Beach, where the white powder sand and isolated atmosphere make for a perfect spot to relax and savor a Mexican lunch prepared especially for you.

• Drive a 4 x 4 Jeep through the lush mangroves and caravan through the fishing village of Mahahual
• Arrive at the secluded Explora Beach and enjoy a Mexican lunch made especially for you
• Sailors must bring a valid driver's license
• Lunch and refreshments are included
• Each vehicle fits up to 4 Sailors — this is a great opportunity to make new BFFs if you're paired with Sailors from different cabins
• Sailors must know how to drive a manual transmission vehicle (stick shift) — if you cannot, a driver will be assigned
• Sailors should wear a swimsuit and bring a towel should they wish to go swimming

Bimini Beach Cabana

The Beach Club at Bimini is already a decadent experience—but for Sailors who are looking to take it up a notch or want a special beachside home-base for your crew, securing a cabana on the beach is the best way to do it. The beachfront cabanas are a stone’s throw from the turquoise Bahamian sea—complete with comfy day beds, coolers, and a variety of  extra  extras. 

• Each cabana comes with an adjustable double day bed and side table, 2 cushy beach chairs, drink cooler and coffee table
• Surprise and delight amenities
• Full day use of a private cabana
• Dedicated services teams
• Exclusive to Virgin Voyages
• First round of drinks are included (up to $100)
• Gratuities are included
• Head's up — the price is per cabana. Please book using only one (1) Sailor name per cabin

An ocean of opportunities is calling your name.

There’s nothing more liberating than having the freedom of charting your own course in the Western Caribbean. No pre-assigned seating, no fixed schedules, no limited options, no nonsense — just a shipload of opportunities to rejuvenate your body and transform your soul.

WANDERLUST SATISFIED

Off the coast of Honduras, Roatán sits proudly atop the largest reef in the Caribbean — making the island an unmatched spot to dive among the vibrant coral and sea life. With crisp, white sand nestling into sapphire waters, beaches like Little French Key and West Bay make relaxation an art form.

We’re making waves from the Caribbean to the Med, the Adriatic to the Red, and everywhere in between, with 38 itineraries featuring over 100 ports across 4 continents. Join us on an unparalleled journey of relaxation and indulgence, and discover the things — and the people — that make each destination so special. Because we didn’t build a cruise, we created a voyage.  Get a delicious taste of the modern romance of sailing that only a Virgin brand could pull off.

BOOK EARLY, SAVE MORE

Up to 10% off if you book ahead of time.

REFERRAL PROGRAM

$50 sail with friends bonus, limited-time cruise deals.

You deserve a vacation. And you deserve a deal. So we’re making both of those things happen. Wave goodbye to your routine and start planning an exclusively adult experience at sea.

Rest Your Head

These are the spots you might be calling home. Whether you prefer coffee (or cocktails) overlooking the waves, or waking up late in your own cocoon, we're holding space for you.

Always Included Luxury

We’ve taken care of all the details — so all you have to do is kick back and have the relaxing vacation you deserve. Everything below is included.

From refined dining to relaxed casual, all of our 20+ eateries featuring menus curated by Michelin star chefs are yours to enjoy.

Essential Drinks

Stay hydrated with still and sparkling water, non-pressed juices, sodas, teas and even drip coffee.

Browse, post, and stay connected with wifi — whenever you want, and wherever you are on the ship.

We've taken care (of taking care) of your servers, so we cover the gratuities for your onboard experiences.

Group Fitness Classes

Yoga, meditation, cycling, HIIT classes, and more — all your group fitness classes are covered.

Shows & Entertainment

Developed by the world’s most-talked-about producers and artists, you have a ticket to all of our awe-inspiring shows.

Western Caribbean Charm

Cruise Itinerary Expand All

Day 1: miami, florida, usa.

From the art scene in Wynwood to the shores of Miami Beach, Florida's Magic City is a perfect collision of relaxation and tradition.

This multicultural city where the sun rules supreme is more than just a cruise port. Whether you're getting down at a taco shop-turned live music performance, immersing yourself in Cuban tradition in Little Havana or lounging on a yacht, Miami makes for one perfect destination.

PortMiami is Virgin Voyages home port and ships will dock at their private terminal overlooking the Miami skyline.

Day 2: Cruising At Sea

Day 3: isla de roatan, honduras.

Roatan, the largest of the Bay Islands of Honduras, is noted for its pristine coral reefs, beautiful beaches, lush tropical foliage, and friendly people. A diving paradise, there is easy access to the underwater marvel of the Caribbean’s largest coral reef. Ships will dock or anchor offshore in the town of Coxen Hole.

Top Things to Do on Roatan:

• look for monkeys in Gumbalimba Park Nature Reserve
• snorkel or scuba dive the reef
• go deep sea fishing
• go horseback riding on the beach

Day 4: Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico

Located on the Yucatan peninsula, Costa Maya is privy to some of the best natural wonders, historic structures, and scenic views in Mexico. Built to predominately cater to cruisers, it offers sandy beaches, coral reefs, Mayan ruins, intriguing animal encounters, and exhilarating activities. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in Costa Maya:

• swim, snorkel or dive in Cenote Azul
• explore the Kohunlich and Chacchoben ruins
• spend they day at the Uvero Beach Club
• swim with a dolphin
• go kayaking in a clear-bottom kayak

Day 5: Cruising At Sea

Day 6: the beach club at bimini, bahamas.

The Beach Club at Bimini is a private destination exclusive to Virgin Voyages guests. Located in the Bahamas, Bimini Island is known for its long white sand beaches and crystal clear water.

Alongside access to the private beach club, guests will also have access to the island's incredible biodiversity and historic shipwreck diving. The beach club features a lagoon style pool, six different bars to choose from, two food stations and three types of cabana's that guests can book. The afternoons offer a DJ led pool party and a bonfire finale will complete the night.

Day 7: Miami, Florida, USA

Life onboard scarlet lady.

Designed for adult only guests, Sailors will enjoy cool interiors and outdoor spaces, chic bars and city styled eateries. Read more

Wellbeing is at the forefront of the onboard experience with a mix of high energy fun balanced with relaxation and rejuvenation. Read more

Original performances, cutting edge, boundary pushing productions and pop up performances make for lively onboard entertainment. Read more

Throw away cruise dining traditions, Scarlet Lady offers more than 20 city styled eateries, all inclusive in your fare. Read more

We’ve partnered with some of the industry's most esteemed mixologists to offer quality drinks without the premium price tag. Read more

We've taken care of all the details — so all you have to do is kick back and have the relaxing vacation you deserve. Read more

Virgin Voyages Worldwide (2024-26)

Availability twin share (per person) solo (own room) click on prices below to view cabin upgrades and details, similar cruises.

8 Days San Juan San Juan

Operated By: Virgin Voyages

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Home » Cruise » Celebrity Cruises » Celebrity Beyond » Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady Western Caribbean Charm Cruise Review

Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady Western Caribbean Charm Cruise Review

We just returned from her MerMaiden voyage and share it all with you in our Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady Western Caribbean Charm Cruise Review.

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Virgin Voyages’ Valiant Lady is the second vessel in this new cruise line’s fleet. This 110K gross ton ship can carry up to 2,700 passengers. Virgin Voyages is an adult-only cruise line mixing elements of both luxury cruising and contemporary cruising to introduce something new to the cruise market.

Among the differentiators is the cruise line’s inclusions. The base fare covers all dining on the ship, basic WiFi, all service charges and gratuities, and all group fitness classes. 

While we sailed on this new lady ship this past summer in the Mediterranean , we were excited to hop back onboard for her MerMaiden voyage from Miami. In our latest Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady Western Caribbean Charm Cruise Review, we detail our six days onboard this one-of-a-kind sailing. From Halloween fun to breaking world records, it was certainly a memorable voyage.

EXCLUSIVE SAVINGS: Get Deals on Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady Cruises!

Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady Western Caribbean Charm Cruise Review – Day 1

Let’s get this mermaiden cruise started.

We were already in Florida prior to this Valiant Lady MerMaiden cruise. So, getting to Virgin Voyages’ Terminal V was easier than usual for us. There were no flights or potential delays keeping us from arriving to this new lady ship on time. Instead, it was a quick Uber ride from Fort Lauderdale to Miami.

Like all Virgin Voyages’ sailings, embarkation starts much later than other cruise lines. During our check-in process, we were assigned a 3 PM boarding group. This meant that we spent most of the day in our hotel’s lobby catching up on some work.

Around 2:30 PM, we requested an Uber for the approximately 30-minute drive to Terminal V in Miami. Upon arrival, the terminal was rather quiet. We were able to quickly process through the check-in and security in under 20 minutes.

While the inside of Virgin Voyages’ new terminal is beautiful, we didn’t spend much time here as we were able to immediately board the ship and get this Halloween-themed MerMaiden voyage underway.

While Valiant Lady sailed in the Mediterranean this summer, this was the ship’s first cruise from its new homeport in Miami. Thus, there were a number of VIPs onboard including Sir Richard Branson himself. Not to mention, the first sea day was Halloween and my birthday.

Back Onboard Valiant Lady

Officially back onboard Valiant Lady, we first made our way up to our cabin on deck 11. Stateroom 11030z is a Sea Terrace cabin located nearby the aft bank of elevators. We dropped off our carry-on items and took some time to capture photos and videos of the room.

Next on the agenda was the mandatory muster drill. We watched the video on our stateroom television then proceeded to our muster station, The Wake restaurant, for a short safety briefing.

Since we were sailing as part of the media group, we thankfully did not have to worry about making any dining or entertainment reservations. Though, since we enjoyed the Ship Show in the Manor during our last sailing, we decided to book this ourselves in place of our Test Kitchen reservation.

We had a cocktail party in Richard’s Rooftop scheduled for 5:30 PM, right before our sail away. Given our late embarkation, our bags arrived only a short time before this event. So, there was no time to unpack and settle in for this Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady Western Caribbean Charm Cruise just yet.

It was a quick costume change and dash up to Richard’s Rooftop, the private outdoor space for RockStar guests. While we were not staying in a RockStar suite, we were given special access to this exclusive area for the week.

Here, we enjoyed a cocktail and some conversation with the PR hosts and fellow media guests. We also met Tom McAlpin, the President and CEO of Virgin Voyages. After about an hour of mingling, we set off to capture some video of our sail away from PortMiami before heading to dinner.

Tonight, we had a reservation at Pink Agave for 6:45 PM. Sailing on Virgin Voyages a few times now, we are both in agreement that this is our favorite of the six onboard restaurants.

Our media hosts decided that we would order all of the small plates and medium plates on the menu to share amongst the table. Our favorites always include the guacamole and grilled corn for small plates. For medium plates, the chicken enchiladas and papas con chorizo are great. Hubby also enjoys the seared shrimp dish.

For entrees, I stuck with another order of the chicken enchiladas while Don ordered one of the large plates, the conchinita pibil. All the dishes at Pink Agave lived up to our expectations, including the bread pudding dessert.

We did have to rush through dessert a bit, as we had the Grog Walk to attend at 9 PM. This up-charge event is essentially a bar crawl with the Happenings Cast to a few of the bars on the ship. In Virgin fashion, this is not your typical bar crawl as you have to work for your drinks by participating in some ice breaker challenges.

Starting at the Red Room, the bar in Razzle Dazzle, we progressed to the Dock House and then the Loose Cannon sampling some signature cocktails. While the activity was still going, we bailed around 10:30 PM to head back to our room and unpack. While a fun and social activity, we couldn’t see ourselves paying to do the Grog Walk again in the future.

Unpacking, organizing, and settling in for the next 5 days onboard Valiant Lady, we officially called it a day around midnight.

Tomorrow was our first sea day of this Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady Western Caribbean Charm Cruise Review.

Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady Western Caribbean Charm Cruise Review – Day 2

Another glorious morning.

Day 2 of this Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady Western Caribbean Charm Cruise Review was a sea day and Halloween; however, we did have a number of events scheduled with the media team for today.

Sleeping in a bit this morning, Don grabbed our morning lattes from the Grounds Coffee Club along with some of the continental breakfast items available there while I got ready for the day.

The first event of the day was a ship tour led by the Director of Hotel Operations and the VP of Food and Beverage at 10 AM. During this tour, we learned some little-known facts about the ship and specific onboard venues.

Did you know that the red light in the spiral overhead fixture in the Roundabout always points north? Did you know that the stairwells are color-coded so you always know if you are forward, midship, or aft? There’s even a window into the Happenings Cast dressing room in the Manor.

Finishing this tour in the Test Kitchen around 11:30 AM, we had a little over an hour to kill before our one-on-one interview with Virgin Voyages’ CEO, Tom McAlpin. Thus, we strolled some of the outdoor public spaces and briefly enjoyed the nice weather.

Following this Q&A where we got a few tidbits of information, there was supposed to be a group Q&A with Sir Richard in the same meeting space. Though, the meeting was switched at the last minute to the Dock. While we enjoy this outdoor aft-located space, the music and background noise made it almost impossible for us to hear any of the conversation.

Within a half hour, he dashed off to his massage appointment. So, without even getting a selfie with him, we headed to the nearby Pizza Place to grab a late lunch. While the pizza here is still good, it is obvious there have been changes to the preparation, and it is actually not as good as it used to be.

Since the hubby had some work to catch up on for his full-time job, we spent the rest of the afternoon on the balcony of our cabin. I lounged in the hammock soaking up some sun while checking emails and social media. We can’t believe that more cruise lines don’t have hammocks on the balconies.

Some Halloween Fun

Tonight’s dinner was for 6 PM in Razzle Dazzle. This veggie-forward restaurant is one of our least favorite menus on the ship. This menu is getting an update for 2023 adding a few additional meat and seafood options.

We both started with the crazy cobb salad for an appetizer. For entrees, I did a secret menu item, the butter chicken, and Don ordered the bowtie pasta and fried chicken dishes. For some reason, the preparation of the dishes at Razzle Dazzle were different than our previous sailing on the ship just a few months again. Still though, nothing really stood out to us.   

Given our large party size, and that service was a tad on the slow side, we skipped out of dinner before dessert to catch the headliner act in the main theater. Tonight’s performance was the mentalist and magician, Marc Spelmann. This magician and his alter ego, Magician X, put on a great performance showcasing a variety of illusions with the help of some audience members.

Since we were heading directly to another cruise after this Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady Western Caribbean Charm Cruise Review, we decided not to pack Halloween costumes. Still, we scoped out some of the Halloween activities this evening following the show in the Red Room.

This included taking a few photos with the decorations around the ship, ordering some PSL martinis at On the Rocks while listening to the house band, and attending the Halloween costume ball in the Red Room. After the Halloween costume contest winner was crowned, we called it a night around midnight.

Tomorrow was our first port of call in Roatan, Honduras.

Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady Western Caribbean Charm Cruise Review – Day 3

Good morning roatan.

Since this Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady Western Caribbean Charm Cruise Review was added to our calendar rather last minute, we didn’t do much planning in terms of shore excursions. We considered a trip out to Little French Key, which gets great ratings by cruisers, but we never ended up booking it. Instead, we decided we would walk around the port for a bit and just enjoy the ship the rest of the day.

Up around 8 AM, Don headed out on his typical morning routine for coffee and some filming around the ship. Once we were both ready for the day, we grabbed some breakfast at the Galley. For those unfamiliar, the Galley is Virgin Voyages’ replacement to the typical cruise ship buffet. Here, staff take your order and deliver the menu items to your table.

The one problem with this concept is that when the food items arrive can vary greatly. I ordered some banana and Nutella toast along with an omelet, and hubby ordered avocado toast and a breakfast burrito. Both the toast options arrived quickly, followed shortly after by his breakfast burrito. However, I waited an additional 20-30 minutes before receiving my omelet.

The good news is that the food at the Galley is always well-prepared and delivered at the appropriate temperature.

After breakfast, Don had a few work obligations to complete before making our way ashore. We ended up heading off the ship around 12 PM, walking around for about an hour. The area seemed a bit more built up since the last time we were in Roatan. Though, since we were the only ship in port, it was still pretty quiet.

Back onboard the ship, we enjoyed a little more time outdoors along with a Poke bowl from the Sun Club Café, and maybe also some ice cream from the onboard ice cream shop. This sweet treat is certainly something that would be an up-charge on other cruise lines.

We then spent the next couple hours doing some work in our cabin before our 7 PM dinner reservation at Extra Virgin.

Also, we learned that there was a tropical storm in the area, and the Captain had made the decision to alter our itinerary for tomorrow. Who knew? Instead of calling in Costa Maya, we would head further north to Cozumel.

Another Great Dining Experience

While Pink Agave is our favorite restaurant on Virgin Voyages, Extra Virgin comes a close second. We enjoy several of the dishes at this venue. Again, since we were dining as a large group, we ordered most of the appetizers to split amongst the table. Some of our favorites included the calamari and the antipasti platter, but there’s also mini meatballs, crispy artichokes, beef carpaccio, and more.

For entrees, we both enjoy the pasta options which are all handmade in house. I went with my go-to dish, the bucatini carbonara. Hubby ordered the gemelli seafood pasta. Both dishes were flavorful and filling.

Of course, you can’t dine at an Italian restaurant without having some dessert and limoncello. I went with the affogato and Don with his favorite, the bomboloni. These selections were the perfect ending to our meal, even if it was another 3-hour dining experience.

Tonight, our group had a reservation for Never Sleep Alone in the Manor. We have seen this signature adult cabaret-style show a few times now, so we opted to pass on this evening’s performance. Instead, we grabbed some drinks in Sip and people-watched for a bit before calling it a night around 11 PM.

SCORE BIG ON VIRGIN VOYAGES SAILINGS!

Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady Western Caribbean Charm Cruise Review – Day 4

A change of plans.

Day 4 of this Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady Western Caribbean Charm Cruise Review changed from a visit to Costa Maya to Cozumel.

Given the nearby storm, the seas were rather rough overnight. While neither of us are prone to seasickness, the movement did wake me up a couple times during the night. So, we slept in a bit this morning, finally making our way to Razzle Dazzle for brunch around 10:15 AM.

This menu offers some pretty basic breakfast selections but is a nice sit-down option in addition to the Galley. The Wake also offers brunch if you are looking for more upscale offerings.

The black clouds and ominous sky did not look promising for today. While we were hoping to spend some time in our favorite location on the ship, The Dock, we weren’t sure if the weather was going to allow that. So, we headed back to our room to try to get some work done before docking in Cozumel at noon.

Unfortunately, the WiFi did not want to cooperate and neither did the weather. By the time we arrived in Cozumel, it had begun raining and continued to do so for most of the day. This meant we didn’t venture ashore at all and spent most of our day inside.

When all else fails, there’s always pizza. This made for the perfect mid-day snack to hold us over until our dinner reservation at The Wake this evening.

This is Our Scarlet Night

In addition to dining at The Wake this evening with Tom McAlpin, it was also Scarlet Night. Unfortunately, this ship-wide event would have to be modified given the weather. This meant there would be no giant octopus in the Aquatic Club or sailors dancing in the pool tonight.

With our red outfits donned, we made our way to The Wake right on time for our 6:30 PM reservation. The Wake is Virgin Voyages complimentary steakhouse which is certainly on par with other cruise lines’ specialty restaurants.

Joining the CEO, this dining extravaganza lasted about 3 hours again and was filled with cocktails and conversation. The meal, as always, did not disappoint. I started with the wedge salad which did have a somewhat different presentation than our last trips. Don started with the clam chowder. While I usually like clam chowder also, this rendition contains shrimp which I don’t eat.

For entrees, hubby decided to switch it up on recommendation from the waiter. The New Zealand lamb chops were well-prepared and flavorful as an alterative, but the steaks are where this restaurant really shines.

Following dinner, we strolled the ship in search of Scarlet Night happenings. We found our way upon the Legend of Scarlet Night story in the main theater. Then, we were recruited to hear the true story in a secret location, where we may have become pirates and received a complimentary rum punch.

We then met our media group for a drink in Sip before heading to the Scarlet Night party taking place in the Red Room this evening. Lasting less than an hour at the party, it got a little too crowded for me, so we retreated to the Dock House for one last drink of the night.

Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady Western Caribbean Charm Cruise Review – Day 5

Hoping for a better day.

Day 5 of this Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady Western Caribbean Charm Cruise Review was our second sea day. We were hoping that the weather and the WiFi were better today so we could spend some time in the Dock and catch up on some work.

With hubby completing his typical morning routine, we stayed in the cabin until around 10:30 AM when we lost WiFi signal once again. We roamed the ship trying to find a better signal location as he had some work meetings today, but we were unsuccessful. Thus, we took this as our sign to chill for a few hours in the Dock.

Thankfully, the internet was back up and running in time for his afternoon meetings. After his meetings, we spent the rest of the afternoon doing work in Richard’s Rooftop before our evening obligations.

Tonight, we had a bridge tour scheduled for 5 PM and a media reservation at Test Kitchen for dinner. Given I am a picky eater, we opted to reserve the Ship Show for the two of us instead of Test Kitchen.

An Evening of Fun

Meeting for the bridge tour, we were escorted to the area promptly at 5 PM by security. Here, we learned some navigational information and insight into the operational procedures and ship design from Levi, a third officer.

We did have to skip out on this tour a little early as the Ship Show began at 5:45 PM. Upon checking in at the Manor for this dinner show, we were escorted to a front row table. This made for some great photo and video opportunities.

Currently, the Ship Show is only available on Valiant Lady. It is a variety show of sorts with a band, dancers, and various featured acts. During this performance, we saw an aerialist, an opera-singing pole dancer, a mentalist, and a roller skating duo. Of course, Don got picked by the mentalist to help out with a trick.

While the performers were amazing, the meal did not live up to the other dining experiences on the ship. Honestly, we would almost prefer that there wasn’t a meal during this show.

With the show over by 7:30 PM, we headed up to the Galley to grab a small snack given the lackluster dinner. We then had some free time until our next reservation for Duel Reality at 9:30 PM. Thus, we browsed the shops to spend some of our remaining Sailor Loot. I scored a new pair of Ray Ban sunglasses as a result!

Next, we made a pitstop at Sip to grab some cocktails before the show. An espresso martini for me and a Sidecar for DB.

Wanting to ensure good seats in the Red Room, we scanned in around 9 PM and were ushered onto the blue team. While this is definitely our favorite show, it was also fun watching the reactions of the other media folks who had not seen the performance before. The performers are extremely talented, and this is a must-see show.

After Duel Reality, we wandered into On the Rocks for one last drink and a few songs from the Free Label band. We may have also grabbed a pizza to take back to our room.

Tomorrow was already our final day onboard this Valiant Lady MerMaiden voyage.

Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady Western Caribbean Charm Cruise Review – Day 6

About to break some records.

The final day of this Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady Western Caribbean Charm Cruise Review was our stop in Bimini. This always means a day of fun and sun on the Beach Club at Bimini. However, this stop was extra special as Virgin Voyages was attempting to break the Guinness world record for the largest MerPeople gathering.

Up around 7:30 AM, Don set off on his morning routine while I got ready. We had also placed an order for Ship Eats last night to arrive at 9 AM this morning. Ship Eats is Virgin Voyages’ room service which is complimentary except for a $5 delivery fee.

Approaching 9:45 AM with no food, we decided to cancel the order so we didn’t waste any more time waiting around.

Exiting the ship around 10 AM, we took the complimentary shuttle over to the Beach Club, which seemed noticeably busier than our previous two visits. We made our way to the South pool and snagged some of the last remaining sun loungers.

Before long, we were approached by a production member asking us to sign a release. Apparently, there was a production crew filming a mermaid show in the pool today. This was completely separate from the other mermaid activity occurring on the resort.

We set up shop here for the next several hours, where we also got front row seats to the filming of this mermaid competition. It was a beautiful Bahamian day to just relax and soak up the sun. Of course, there was some Caribbean lunch and cocktails to be had as well.

During the day, Don ventured over to the RockStar area to get some video. He also walked over to watch Virgin Voyages break the world record for the most MerPeople in one location. No, we didn’t get tails and participate, so sadly, we are not world record holders.

By around 2:30 PM, I had enough of the sun so we made our way back to the ship. Back onboard, we grabbed a second round of coffee before heading back to our cabin. We then spent the next 2.5 hours doing a little work along with showering and getting ready for the evening.

Gunbae, Gunbae, Gunbae!

Tonight, we had a 6 PM dinner reservation at Gunbae with a short cabin tour beforehand. We also had an entertainment reservation for Untitled DanceShowPartyThing.

At 5:45 PM, we met on deck 12 to check out a Cheeky Corner Suite. This cabin is located aft on the ship with a very large balcony.

To Gunbae right on time, our media group split into two tables where we feasted on Korean BBQ for the next 2.5 hours. Of course, a visit to Gunbae wouldn’t be complete without a little drinking game and soju. In a surprising feat, I came out victoriously!

The BBQ portion of the meal is very seafood and red meat heavy. However, the smaller plates, including the Korean chicken and rice dishes, are great. Don enjoys the shrimp, calamari, and short rib grill selections. With all the family-style menu options, everyone at our table left this venue stuffed.

We also left just in time for our final show of the cruise in the Red Room. We couldn’t believe how empty the venue was. Either everyone else had too much sun or saw the show earlier in the week I guess.

This fun and upbeat performance was the perfect way to end our evening.

Now, it was back to the room to pack and get organized for our next trip beginning in less than 48 hours.

BOOK NOW: Exclusive Valiant Lady Cruise Discounts!

Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady Western Caribbean Charm Cruise Review – Disembarkation

The saddest day of this Valiant Lady MerMaiden voyage was here, disembarkation day!

We planned on doing self disembarkation this morning, so our alarm was set for 6:30 AM. While we didn’t have to worry about catching a flight, we wanted to get settled into our hotel and get some work done before our next trip.

Showering, getting ready, and last minute packing, we were ready by 8:30 AM. While we considered grabbing breakfast in the Galley, we decided to disembark before the terminal got too crowded. Instead, we grabbed a coffee and quick breakfast pastry at the Grounds Coffee Club prior to exiting.

With no line or wait, we scanned right off the ship, through CBP, and onto our Uber within 20 minutes.

Arriving at our hotel in Fort Lauderdale by 10 AM, we spent the rest of the day prepping for our next trip. Tomorrow, we will be boarding the brand new Celebrity Beyond.

Yes, the whole month of November is going to be crazy. So, get ready for lots of new ship content coming soon!

Did you enjoy our Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady Western Caribbean Charm Cruise Review? Have you sailed on Valiant Lady yet? Drop us an anchor below with your cruise reviews from Virgin Voyages.

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DB & The Princess

Welcome Aboard! We are Don and Heidi, the husband and wife travel team behind EatSleepCruise.com. We took our first cruise vacation together 13 years ago and have been hooked ever since. Follow along as we share our travel tips, cruise reviews, information on ports of call, and the latest cruise news to help you plan the ultimate cruise vacation. Are you ready to embark on your journey to “sea the world, one port at a time”?

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Virgin Voyages 6 Nights Caribbean – Western Caribbean Charm

Trip summary.

Cruise through the Caribbean on a six-night sailing featuring a full day of unrivaled experiences in Costa Maya, Mexico, and another in Roatán, Honduras. With 2 days at sea to indulge in the good life on board, you’ll also get to explore the rich history and turquoise waters of the Bahamas with a visit to the exclusive Beach Club at Bimini.

What’s Included

• Non – Alcoholic drinks
• Unlimited workout groups
• All entertainment shows

What’s Not Included

• Travel insurance(we can help with this)
• Miami, USA - Departs at 06:00 PM, local time.📣 All aboard 2 hrs before departure
• Costa Maya, Mexico - 10:00 AM - 07:00 PM, local time
• Roatán, Honduras - 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM, local time
• Beach Club at Bimini, Bahamas - 08:00 AM - 07:00 PM, local time
• Miami, USA - Arrives at 06:30 AM, local time.📣 Please allow up to an hour for the Gangway to open to disembark

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Virgin Voyages Western Caribbean Cruise Reviews

1 - 10 of 526 Virgin Voyages Western Caribbean Cruise Reviews

Sail Date: August 2024

Review for a Caribbean - All Cruise on Valiant Lady

We were a family of 4 all over the age of 60. The staff was really friendly. My cabin was wonderful. I loved having a sea terrace with a hammock. The food in the “Extra Virgin restaurant “ was wonderful. We were not fond of the quality of food in any other restaurant. Although we did meet some great friends on board via the Gumbae seating. We did not enjoy the rest of the trip. The average age ... Read More

Sail Date: July 2024

First cruise on Virgin Voyages, my wife and I were highly anticipating this cruise as we had heard many notable things about others experiences. To provide some background, we have cruised over twenty times, mostly with Celebrity and Princess and Royal Caribbean. Below I will try to describe some of the hits and some of the misses we experienced on this sailing. Embarkation was a miss as it was ... Read More

My wife and I recently returned from VV Valiant Lady. It was an awesome experience. We originally booked a sea terrace but was upgraded to Rockstar prior to sailing. A bit about Rockstar, I read may reviews and threads questioning the value - we absolutely found value in it from the daily happy hour, rockstar agent to helped us move reservations, better room, in-room bar, etc. I guess it depends ... Read More

Sail Date: June 2024

This is my third cruise with Virgin and while i had a good time overall several customer service issues negatively impacted my enjoyment. I am going to start with the good. The DJ and the bands on board were excellent with a very good mix of various music genres. I especially loved Soulo Lyon Trio . Virgin needs to hire them permanently. Bimini was fantastic as always. The spa and my masseuse ... Read More

We had $600 onboard credit, so we took full advantage and booked the Beyond-Tequila--Rituals-and-Stories-of-a-Mezcalier $100.00, Path-of-the-Negroni-at-Extra-Virgin $100.00, Grog Walk - Draught Haus $100.00, Mix-It-Up $90.00 I found that the free onboard activities were a joke. Nothing like described and not fun. But the paid-for ones were amazing. We tried a few of the free ones and left ... Read More

Had a great time on this cruise. The Checkin in the embark were absolutely wonderful. Easiest we’ve ever been through. We are avid Royal Caribbean fans, but wanted to go on all adult cruise. This was absolutely amazing. The food was excellent and we enjoyed it better than any cruise we’ve ever been on, the only thing I would change is the entertainment was not as good as on some cruise lines. The ... Read More

Sail Date: May 2024

Review for a Caribbean - All Cruise on Scarlet Lady

I wrote a great review specific to the crew (truly amazing) the amenities, etc. Overall we had a great experience but I did want to add constructive criticism, however, as an add on. 1) Food. I wish there were more vegan options. For a transatlantic cruise, my group and I ran out of options (without eating the same thing over and over), relatively quickly. For protein options, there’s tofu and ... Read More

Sail Date: April 2024

Traveled with children

BACKGROUND: We stayed in a Seriously Suite Aft cabin. We are in our mid 60's. EMBARKATION: This went very well. We were one of the first one the ship. The only complaint we had was, we had been told our "Agent" would be there to meet us and help with reservations. That did not happen, but I did manage to find someone to help. CABIN: The balcony was huge, and we loved the padded ... Read More

One of the best vacations EVER! The staff at Virgin are so incredible especially Karina our Rockstar agent! She was so professional and accommodating on both of our voyages (we sailed back to back April 7-17! Gabriel was great too! We are definitely planning another voyage for next year! The food was delicious, our suite was a “cheeky corner suite” with an aft balcony which I highly ... Read More

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Western Caribbean Charm from Miami, 27 April 2025

Departure: 27 Apr 2025

• Cruise Only Flight not included

Tips, Wifi & Speciality Dining Included!

Cruise Line: Virgin Voyages

Ship: Scarlet Lady

• Exclusively for Adults
• Eco-Friendly
• Wifi Included
• Tips Included
• Bar Tab Bonus Offer
• Early Booking Offer
• Aged 18-26? Call for special offers
• Over $600 in value included*!  All food, Gratuities , Tips,  U nlimited Wifi ,  essential drinks such as waters & sodas , and group fitness classes  all included!
• Enjoy +20 restaurants onboard with no cover charges or assigned dining times

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• Travel Requirements

Ship facilities

Cabins & prices, what's included.

• Adults-only cruise experience
• All included dining - enjoy 20+ eateries from casual dining to formal restaurants
• Essential drinks included - from filtered and sparkling water to sodas, teas and coffees and juices
• Gratuities and Wi-Fi included
• A range of entertainment - from live music to dazzling theatrical performances
• Group fitness classes - including meditation, HIIT and cycling

• 1 Cruise departs from Miami departs at: 5 pm
• 3 Puerto Costa Maya
• 4 Roatan Island
• 7 Miami arrives at: 6:30 am

Solo Insider

• Clever cabin technology
• Flexible wardrobe for luggage and clothes
• In-room entertainment (43” 4K TV)
• In-room safe (fits 17” laptop)
• Mood lighting
• Plugs/USBs in all the right places
• Roomy Rainshower
• Super large single bed

The Insider

• Sleeps up to three

Some cabins have been adapted for guests with a wheelchair

Social Insider

• 2 bunk beds (4 single beds)
• Game console
• In-room entertainment (50” 4K TV)
• Sleeps up to four

The Sea View

• Saddle leather lounge chair
• Window Seat

Solo Sea View

Xl sea terrace.

• Enclosed private toilet
• Larger bathroom and cabin space
• Roomier Rainshower
• Terrace hammock

Central Sea Terrace

• Centrally located midship

The Sea Terrace

Ltd view sea terrace.

• Obstructed View

Massive Suite

• 2 separate wardrobes in glam room
• Chaise lounge in bedroom
• Champagne table
• Circular sofa for hosting
• Entertainment credenza
• European king bed
• Extra half bathroom
• Full-length hammocks
• Fully stocked, in-room bar
• In-room entertainment: (2) 55” 4K TV + (1) 43” 4K TV
• L-shaped sofa (converts to sleep mode for 2)
• Large marble bathroom with indoor Peek-a-Boo shower
• Lookout Point - stargazing lounge area
• More wardrobe space
• Outdoor Peek-a-View shower
• Plush robes
• Premium bathroom amenities
• Separate glam room with standalone tub
• Terrace conversation pit
• Terrace hot tub and runway table
• Tom Dixon-designed suite
• Upgraded linens
• Vinyl record player
• 3-door wardrobe for extra space
• Corner sofa
• In-room entertainment: (2) 55” 4K TV
• In-room glam brass vanity station
• Terrace sun chairs
• Terrace sofa and sun loungers

Gorgeous Suite

• In-room entertainment: (1) 55” 4K TV

Brilliant Suite

Sweet aft suite-biggest terrace.

• Central aft views
• Large marble bathroom
• Peek-A-Boo shower looks directly out to terrace
• Roomiest Rainshower
• Sleeps up to two

Cheeky Corner Suite-Biggest Terrace

• Interconnecting door with adjacent Sea Terrace

Cheeky Corner Suite-Even Bigger Terrace

Sweet aft suite-even bigger terrace, sweet aft suite-pretty big terrace, cheeky corner suite-pretty big terrace, seriously suite, more cruises on scarlet lady.

• Any destination Arctic British Isles Canary Islands / Azores Caribbean Central America Dublin Europe Fjords & Norway Greece Mediterranean Mexico North america Northern Europe Repositioning Transatlantic Inside">Inside Cabin Outside">Outside Cabin Balcony">Balcony Cabin Suite">Suite Cabin
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• French Daze & Ibiza Nights from Barcelona with Stay 27 Sep 2024 9 nights Inside from £1,529 per person
• French Daze & Ibiza Nights Fly Cruise from Barcelona 29 Sep 2024 7 nights Inside from £1,199 per person
• Irresistible Med & Ancient Aegean with Barcelona and Athens Stays 04 Oct 2024 22 nights Inside from £8,149 per person

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Miami » Roatán » Costa Maya » Beach Club at Bimini » Miami

Monday - Friday 9.30am - 5pm

Western Caribbean Charm with Virgin Voyages

Embark on a sensational voyage through the Caribbean, where the kaleidoscopic coasts of Honduras await. Spend six unforgettable nights on a luxurious cruise, complete with two indulgent days at sea to pamper yourself. Experience the adult-only cruise of your dreams, where captivating coasts and laid-back island vibes await. This is your chance to indulge in a luxurious voyage that will take you to the most exclusive destinations on earth. From savoring the stunning coasts to soaking up the serene island atmosphere, you'll relish every moment of your journey.

Customized Pricing: Your final cost will be tailored to your specific needs, factoring in availability, travel dates, accommodation choices, tours, and additional inclusions. Inspirational Itinerary: Consider this itinerary a springboard for your dream vacation. You can either adopt it as presented or use elements you love from it. Personalized Experience: We’re dedicated to customizing this journey to match your preferences and travel style, ensuring a unique and unforgettable adventure. ‍

Can't make this date but your are interested in a similar experience for your family and group of friends? Contact us with your preferred travel dates and group size and we will customize the itinerary to your preferences. ‍

Monday - Friday 9am -5.30pm

Let's start planning your unforgettable vacation!

Exact pricing will depend on availability, time of travel, choice of accommodations, tours and other inclusions.

How do we work?

Our work is based on years of experience, in-person and online training, extensive travel, vast industry affiliations, and a big network of reliable partners — all to enhance your vacation and ensure a seamless planning and booking experience, as well as memories of trips to last a lifetime.

Experience the multi-award winning, adults-only voyages.

🌟 Best Overall Cruise Line: Their exclusively adult, superyacht-inspired lady ships — sailing to some of the most dazzling destinations in the world. 🍴 Best Dining: With 20+ eateries (all included!), their Michelin-starred chef-curated menus feature fresh, made-to-order food. 👨 Best Service: Their incredible Crew is at the heart of what we do — making sure our Sailors have the most brilliant experience possible. 🏠 Best Cabins: Gorgeously designed, roomy rain showers, ample storage, and, best of all, their cabins feature the signature red hammocks — exclusively on Virgin Voyages ships. 💰 Best Value for Money: Their Always Included Luxury gives you epic perks on every single voyage — like all food, entertainment, all tips, WiFi, group fitness classes, and essential drinks.

Watch the video

Set sail on a cruise that exceeds expectations.

Enjoy the beautiful beauty of Costa Maya, Mexico, and Roatán, Honduras, where you will have outstanding activities. And don't miss out on the private Beach Club in Bimini in the Bahamas, where you can immerse yourself in history while swimming in turquoise waters. Join us for an exquisite experience that will leave you with lasting memories. Make your reservation now to enjoy the finest in luxury cruising.

Immerse in your day-by-day itinerary recommendation

Miami - departing.

Your adventure doesn't start when the ship pulls away from the dock, it begins the moment you step off the plane in Miami. This Magic City is the ultimate destination for those who seek thrilling experiences that create lifelong memories. The vibrant and ever-evolving city offers an exhilarating mix of rhythms and energy that will transport you far away from the humdrum of everyday life, even if you’re a local.

Sailing at sea

Sailing on Valiant Lady luxury cruise ship. Get ready for the ultimate stress-free vacation that's all about relaxation, indulgence, and enjoyment. They've taken care of every detail, so you can simply unwind and have the time of your life. Indulge in over 20 curated eateries, unlimited essential drinks, seamless wifi, covered gratuities, group fitness classes, and world-class entertainment.

Roatán, the coveted jewel of Honduras, boasts the world's second-largest and electrifying reef that lures divers, snorkeling enthusiasts, and thousands of marine-life species. The island's lush jungle canopies and endless white-sand beaches add to its allure, making it a tropical paradise that's hard to resist.

Adrenaline Zip-Line Adventure - Experience an unforgettable adventure as you soar through the island canopy on a thrilling zip-line tour, taking in breathtaking views of the lush jungle and sparkling turquoise waters. This adrenaline-fueled activity is a must-do for anyone seeking an exciting and memorable experience in paradise.

Discover a Mexican port that's bursting with culture, history, and natural beauty. From ancient ruins to charming beachside villages and breathtaking lagoons with seven shades of blue, this destination has it all. Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of this incredible port.

Embark on a fascinating journey through time as you explore the ancient Mayan ruins, followed by a delectable lunch at Uchbenkah Lagoon in Pedro Santos. This unique excursion will take you on a cultural and culinary adventure that's sure to leave you enchanted.

Venture off the beaten path and explore the hidden gems of the Yucatán Peninsula in a rugged 4x4 vehicle. From lush mangroves to pristine beaches, this thrilling excursion will take you on an unforgettable journey through one of Mexico's most stunning regions.

Sailing on the Valiant Lady luxury cruise ship.

Experience the ultimate in comfort and luxury onboard Virgin Voyages, where they've created the perfect home away from home just for you. Whether you prefer to start your day with a cup of coffee or a refreshing cocktail while overlooking the waves, or retreat to your own cozy cocoon for a lazy morning, they've got you covered.

Beach Club at Bimini

Experience the ultimate in beachside luxury at The Beach Club at Bimini, with breathtaking views of the sparkling Caribbean blues from your very own cabana. Perfect for sailors who want to take their beach experience to the next level, the beachfront cabanas offer the ultimate in comfort and convenience, with plush day beds, coolers stocked with your favorite beverages, and a range of extra amenities to ensure you have everything you need for an unforgettable day in paradise.

We have arrived back to Miami. See you next time!

Hear from Our Satisfied Travelers!

We love to make our clients happy! And we love to hear their feedback after they returned from vacation. Here are a few of them.

To Confirm your reservations, a $500/person deposit applies with a minimum deposit of $1000/cabin (if you are booking a single occupancy rate you must submit $1000). The final payment is due by 15FEB, 2024 .

DOUBLE OCCUPANCY $4,134/person in B1 Cabin

SINGLE OCCUPANCY $5,829/person in B1 Cabin

Only 6 cabins left in B1 Category on Strauss Deck! ‍ Terms and Conditions: Deposit payments are non-refundable/non-transferable. Any Cancellation Request must be submitted in writing. The following cancellation conditions apply to all bookings: 1OCT23 - 15Feb2024 -Deposit non-refundable 16Feb - 22MAR2024 - 50% penalty 23Mar - 23APR2024 - 80% penalty 24APR2024 - 100% penalty - booking is completely non-refundable We strongly encourage the purchase of travel insurance. After your booking is deposited and confirmed, we will be sending you and insurance quote.

To confirm your reservation, a deposit of $1500/person is due immediately. The Final Payment date for this Group is due by 27 JUN, 2024. ‍

DOUBLE OCCUPANCY $8,995/person

SINGLE OCCUPANCY $10,945/person

If you need a roommate, please let us know. We’d be happy to pair you up with one of our other goddesses. ‍ Terms and Conditions: ‍ Deposits are non-refundable. The group pricing is based on a small group size of 10 participants. In case the minimum group size is not met by 25 February 2024, we reserve the right to cancel this departure. In this case, your deposit will be refunded. Please note, that these are specialty accommodations in high demand with strict hold and cancellation policies. In order for us to guarantee our room block, we recommend anyone interested to sign up by 1FEB the latest. The following cancellation policy applies: The deposit of $1500/person is non-refundable. The below cancellation fees apply to the rest of the payments: 1 OCT 2023 – 28FEB 2024 – deposit non-refundable, any amount paid above the deposit is refundable 29FEB – 27JUN2024 – deposit is non-refundable, and an additional cancellation fee of $1500/person applies 28JUN- 31JUL2024- 50% of trip cost non-refundable 1AUG – 100% cancellation penalty applies. No refunds provided for cancellations starting on 1AUG. We highly recommend the purchase of additional travel insurance to protect your investment, and yourself. We will gladly send you a quote as soon as your reservation is confirmed.   Payment Schedule: Trip Deposit of $1500/person - At the time of booking 1 st installment of $1500/person – 15FEB2024 2 nd installment of $1500/person – 1MAY2024 Final Balance- 27JUN2024

Inclusions, Exclusions & F.A.Q.

Set sail with Virgin Voyaegs

Let your dreams take flight with up to $600 in free drinks for making your fantasy escape on a luxury ocean cruise a reality.

Services included worth over $600:

From refined dining to relaxed casual, all of our 20+ eateries featuring menus curated by Michelin star chefs are yours to enjoy.

Essential Drinks

Stay hydrated with still and sparkling water, non-pressed juices, sodas, teas and even drip coffee.

Browse, post, and stay connected with wifi — whenever you want, and wherever you are on the ship.

We've taken care (of taking care) of your servers, so we cover the gratuities for your onboard experiences.

Fitness Classes

Yoga, meditation, cycling, HIIT classes, and more — all your group fitness classes are covered.

Entertainment

Developed by the world’s most-talked-about producers and artists, you have a ticket to all of our awe-inspiring shows.

Frequently Asked Questions About This Tour

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Services

Why is our professional retainer non-refundable?

Our professional retainer fee is non-refundable due to the commitment and resources we allocate once we take on a project. Here are the key reasons why this policy is in place: ‍ Time Allocation: When we accept a project, we block out our time exclusively for that particular request. This means we decline other potential projects to ensure that we can provide the dedicated attention and high-quality service required for the task at hand. ‍ Lost Opportunities: If a client decides to cancel or change their mind, we not only lose their business, but also the business from other clients we had to turn away. This double loss impacts our ability to maintain a sustainable operation. ‍ Upfront Resource Commitment: The retainer fee also covers some of the time and expenses incurred during the initial phases of the project. This includes research, itinerary design, and other preparatory work necessary to provide a professional service. ‍ Ensuring Serious Engagements: The non-refundable retainer also helps in ensuring that the engagements we enter into are serious and well-considered, which is crucial for maintaining a professional and reliable service. Our aim is to provide exceptional service and to allocate our resources effectively to meet the needs of all our clients. The non-refundable retainer fee is a crucial part of achieving this goal, ensuring that we can continue to offer high-quality, dedicated service for each project we undertake.

Do you offer a best-price guarantee?

Our prices are very compatible. We always look at value vs. cost and we make sure you get a fair price. This however doesn’t mean that our packages are always the cheapest. We work with trusted, hand picked tour operators that are service oriented, professional and reliable. We want to offer you the best experience at a reasonable cost, and that is our priority. When you book online, you are basically paying a service fee to a website, without actually getting the service in return. When you book with us, you are a priority to us, and we are at your service every step of the way.

How do you get paid for your services?

a.  We have negotiated contracts with the suppliers we sell who pay us a commission. These are only paid to us only if you actually take the trip we booked, and we do not get paid typically only a few weeks after your return. If you book your trip months in advance, we only have the retainer as our payment for all that time and work, until we actually get paid by our suppliers. ‍ b.  Since our specialty is customization, we often work with suppliers on a net price basis. We do this when this option offers more flexible terms and conditions for you, or when we are working on trip components (such as train tickets, ferryboats, private transfers, exclusive activities and more) that make more sense to be booked on  a non-commissionable rate. In this case we charge a standard service fee to compensate for our lack of payment. ‍ When you get our quotes the price you will see listed on them is inclusive of all the commissions and/or service fees, so you will know the exact cost of your trip before you are charged for it .

Is this your service fee for booking my trip?

Retainers are not service fees for the work we do, they are a non-refundable payment to hire us to work with you. We keep these fees really low, starting at $100 - and it goes up depending on the complexity of your trip and number of travelers.

How many quotes does your retainer include?

Before you are charged a retainer, we do a free consultation, during which we discuss your needs, and our general recommendations. It is very important that you are honest about what you are looking for, what your approximate budget is, and give us feedback on anything we suggest. This is what ensures that we can actually work on quotes that would be a good fit for you, instead of wasting your time with unsuitable options. There are a reasonable amount of revisions included in our quoting services, but the retainer is basically for one specific trip. If you are looking to shop around, see multiple quotes for several destinations just let us know, we would handle that with an hourly rate instead of a trip retainer.

What happens when I pay a retainer, get the quotes that I need, but don’t purchase the trip? I come back to you at a later time, when I am ready to proceed with the booking. Do I have to pay another retainer for the same trip?

It takes time for us to work on each of your quotes. We customize everything, and each time we quote you something, we work with you to adjust those to your needs. Quotes are usually valid for 24-72hrs. If you don’t purchase the trip, and come back to us at a later time, we have to start everything all over again. In this case a new retainer will be charged.

Are your retainers refundable?

No, our retainers are fully non-refundable.

The Eat & Drink Festival

Virgin Voyages is blending new events with last year’s favorites for the pairing of a lifetime, bringing you more to eat, more to drink, and more to love. From interactive demonstrations by the culinary wizards in the Crew to bar takeovers by celebrated mixologists, they’re pulling out all the stops for this year’s Eat & Drink Festival. On all sailings this August and September, they’re cooking up mouthwatering experiences that will blow even the most seasoned foodies away.

An award winning luxury cruise line

Virgin Voyages took home all Cruise Critic Cruisers’ Choice Awards in the large ship category for this year — making them the first brand in history to do so!

Secure your room today!

Ready, set, sail.

Secure your spot today and set sail on a cruise filled with luxury, excitement, and endless memories. Embark on the voyage of a lifetime!

Ideas based on our experience.

As certified travel agents, we work for you, our client. Customization is what we do best, and it looks different for each client. Our end to end services help you make travel decisions that best suit your needs, our creative consultants always come up with ideas and recommendations you might not otherwise consider, and we make sure your trip components are booked through trusted tour operators.

Making the best decisions.

We act as your advisor and your advocate, we help you understand where it makes sense to splurge or where to hold back, and assist in making sure that you make the best decisions for yourself and your family.

Custom itineraries.

Every itinerary is unique and catered to you. We plan for your budget, your party, and your interests to ensure that your vacation is stress-free and truly memorable!

Luxury vacations designed with you in mind!

We assist with your itineraries as much - or as little - as you need us to. From simple logistics planning to designing entire itineraries, Evyssa Vacations works with you every step of the way to help make your plans a reality.

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Virgin Voyages: Miami & Western Caribbean Charm stay and cruise

Embark on a vibrant Caribbean adventure aboard either Scarlet or Resilient Lady, luxury cruise ships with exceptional amenities and world-class dining. Begin your journey in Miami, Florida, and sail through the stunning Caribbean waters with stops at the idyllic destinations of Roatán, Honduras, and Costa Maya in Mexico, all before reaching the exclusive Virgin Beach Club at the Bahamian island of Bimini.

Each destination blends natural beauty, cultural experiences, and thrilling activities, whether you're exploring the second-largest coral reef in Roatán to discovering ancient Mayan ruins in Costa Maya or unwinding on the gorgeous beaches of Bimini.

Onboard, indulge in over 20 eateries with menus crafted by Michelin-star chefs, relax with luxurious spa treatments, and enjoy top-tier entertainment and fitness classes. Whether you're snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs, zip-lining through lush jungles, or simply soaking up the sun on a private beach cabana, this all-inclusive Virgin Voyage aboard the Scarlet Lady offers an unforgettable adventure.

Additionally, there is complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship, a variety of group fitness classes like yoga, meditation, and cycling, and access to all the ship's entertainment facilities, including the onboard shows developed by renowned producers and artists.

• International airfare & taxes
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• In resort assistance & 24 hour contact center
• Hassle-free - book direct quickly and easily
• Choice of airlines and the option to switch
• A friendly, family run business with a wealth of experience.
• Great deals on offer for multiple destinations
• Low deposits

• What's Included

Day 1   Miami, Florida (embarkation)

Begin your adventure in the famous, vibrant city of Miami before boarding the Scarlet Lady, filled with stunning features and providing world-class dining.

Day 2   Fun Day at Sea

As your first full day at sea, this is a great opportunity to experience all the inclusive luxury onboard, such as over 20 eateries featuring menus created by Michelin star chefs, full Wi-Fi access all over the ship, group fitness classes such as Yoga and meditation, and awe-inspiring shows and other dedicated entertainment.

Day 3   Roatán, Honduras

Ideal for divers and snorkelers, Roatán is a beautiful island with the second largest coral reef in the world. Alongside the stunning marine life, there are relaxing, soft sand beaches of Little French Key and West Bay.

Adventurers can indulge in exhilarating activities, including:

• Taking ATV trips through the breathtaking island jungle
• Watching the lively Garifuna dance show
• Exploring mangrove tunnels by boat
• Taking in stunning panoramic mountaintop views

Plus, there are many more memorable experiences such as hitting off the tees at Black Pearl Golf Course and ziplining through the island canopy and in-between its magnificent mountains.

Day 4   Costa Maya, Mexico

Explore a world of Mayan history at Costa Maya and its ancient ruins and charming villages, along with local shops and the chance to kayak through the beautiful lagoons filled with wildlife.

Travellers can also enjoy other wonderful experiences such as:

• A glass-bottom boat tour and snorkelling adventure that explores the beautiful waters of the Caribbean
• A tour of the Chacchoben Mayan ruins, which house a mural showing the astronomical position of Venus
• A Mayan wellness retreat that takes guests through a revitalising process of copal cleansing, purifying massages, clay rituals, coconut baths, and a hammock massage

Adventurers can also enjoy other stunning excursions such as clear-bottom kayaking over the crystal-clear, lively Caribbean waters; a Jeep journey through the relaxing town of Mahahual; and a guided tour of the famous, multileveled Mayan ruin – best known for its well-preserved, enigmatic Temple of the Masks.

Day 5   Day at Sea

Another full, fun-filled day to enjoy the diverse features, facilities and dining options provided by your Virgin Voyages cruise ship.

Day 6   Beach Club at Bimini, Bahamas

Time to enjoy Virgin’s very own private beach club! Welcome to Virgin Voyages Beach Club at Bimini: a beautiful, biodiverse island with historic shipwrecks and awe-inspiring marine life.

For the travellers just looking to unwind by the sea, the beach club will be their haven. It’s a Mediterranean-inspired hub of swimming, water and sand sports, relaxation, parties and great dining and drinks at the multiple bars and eateries.

Meanwhile, there are many more activities to enjoy at Bimini, such as swimming with sting rays, guided two-tank scuba diving tours through Bimini’s reefs, and an open-air tram car tour of the island’s rich history, culture, and landmarks.

There are plenty of other adventures, too, including:

• Jet skiing and kayaking tours for two
• Sportfishing in the coastal waters
• Visiting the great hammerhead shark safari at Neal Watson’s Bimini Scuba Center

Day 7   Miami, Florida (disembarkation)

End a vibrant, exhilarating adventure where it all started: in the vibrant, exhilarating city of Miami! Soak up the exciting culture with fresh memories of your time visiting Roatán, Costa Maya, and Bimini – and, of course, Virgin Voyages themselves! 

Don't forget, we can tailormake your perfect cruise and stay holiday so let us know if you want more time in sunny Florida.  It's easy to pick up a car and enjoy an extension to your stay with a road-trip down the Florida Keys!

• Return economy flights including luggage
• 1 night pre-cruise stay in Miami (room only basis)
• 6 night cruise aboard Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady or Reslient Lady in an inside cabin
• On board dining (excluding speciality dining)
• Standard WiFi (streaming WiFi available for purchase online)

What's not included:

• Shore excursions
• Drinks package (please discuss this with our Sales team should you wish to add this on)
• Full Wi-Fi access
• Clever cabins – App-controlled smart mood lights, digital entertainment, and a food ordering and delivery service (ShipEats) all provided by a dedicated room tablet
• 24-hour room service
• Eco-friendly features – Planet-friendly products and natural materials, with rooms that automatically conserve energy when you’re not using them

Choose from:

• Sea View (12m² to 18m²) – Ideal for solo travellers looking for peace, privacy, and a porthole view of the sea, this room can hold one super large single bed, or up to three smaller beds. Sleeps up to three people.
• Sea Terrace (18m² to 21m²) – A charming space with sweeping views, mood lighting, a Roomy Rainshower – and even (for almost all the Sea Terraces) a hand-woven terrace hammock. Sleeps up to four people.
• Insider (10m² to 16m²) – A stylish stay with Roomy Rainshowers, complemented by its mood lighting and overall cozy atmosphere that welcomes solo travellers and groups alike. Sleeps up to four people.
• RockStar Quarters (33m² to 654m²) – A suite with exclusive access, premium amenities, and marble-clad bathrooms – just some of the many great features of this spacious, stylish space conceptualised by world-renowned designer Tom Dixon. Sleeps up to four people.

Talk to our travel experts for more information and to book or tailor-make your vacation

Tropical Sky also recommends

Virgin Voyages: Miami & Fire and Sunset Soirees stay and cruise

Departure dates & prices.

Prices correct as at 6pm on Aug 29, 2024. Please call for final price. . Other durations available - call for quote.

Flight Information

Flights available from New York JFK airport with JetBlue and American Airlines. Regional connecting flights also available. Air fares vary considerably so a variety of airlines may be included in your quote to ensure you are presented with the best available price.

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• Virgin Voyages

Live! Valiant Lady - Western Caribbean Charm - Nov 27 thru Dec 3

By rfnc07 , November 25, 2022 in Virgin Voyages

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" Thanks for generously sharing your time at sea with everyone at Cruise Critic! "

rfnc07 was awarded the badge '"Live from...."'

Prologue I may be person with the lowest post count in Cruise Critic history to post do this, but I guess I have to start somewhere! I’ve been a long time lurker and excited to be able to do this live trip report!

My wife and I are taking Virgin Voyages for the first time aboard the Valiant Lady’s Western Caribbean Charm itinerary from November 27th thru December 3rd from Miami, stopping in Roatan, Costa Maya, and Bimini.   

We had never cruised before this year, as our first cruise (aboard Holland America’s Nieuw Statendam) was supposed to be in April 2020, but yeah…you know what happened.   

We ended up going on the Carnival Sunshine in April 2022 and immediately fell in love with cruising. Obviously, you know why, otherwise you  probably wouldn’t be on this site.  😉  

When we were in Nassau on this cruise, we were docked next to the beautiful Scarlet Lady, and immediately I was intrigued, as I had never heard of Virgin Voyages at that point. When we got home, I had fallen into a YouTube and CruiseCritic wormhole of Virgin Voyages videos and posts and at that point, I knew that this would be our next cruise without the kids.   

After we had done a family trip on the Carnival Valor at the end of July, it was time to start planning our anniversary trip in November. We took advantage of the 50% second sailor they were running over the summer, giving us a great rate for this 6-day cruise.   

We were booked with an Limited View Sea Terrace, but due to the rumored low capacity on our sailing, we were upgraded first to one of the standard view balcony cabins towards the front of the ship that doesn’t have a hammock, and later upgraded to a standard view balcony with the hammock next to the forward elevators.   

Probably given that the fact that we’re leaving on Thanksgiving weekend, flying was way overpriced (~$600 per person round trip from Charlotte), as were hotels in Miami, so we decided to drive. We had briefly considered taking Amtrak down, but the it was going to take too long - driving 1.5 hours to Columbia, SC followed by a 16 hour train trip vs. a total 10.5 hour drive.  

We’ll be leaving early tomorrow morning, spending the night at a Hampton Inn in Melbourne, FL, using Hilton Honors points, to break up the drive (8 hours tomorrow, and a little over 2 1/2 on Sunday), since check-in in Miami isn’t until 2pm anyways.

We got the $300 bar tab promotion that Virgin was giving everyone, plus paid for the $300 bar tab with the $100 bonus, which should be plenty for the two of us.   

The fridge and pantry are stocked for our sister in law to watch the kids, the car is gassed, my out of office message is on, and the bags are…oh nevermind, I still need to finish that. I’m looking forward to everyone coming along with us this week!

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happygolucky62

Following along since I will be boarding the day you get off. I am from Hickory. Have the best time!

happy anniversary  🍾

Yay!!! Eagerly following! I was on the Scarlet in late June and will be on the Valiant for NYE!!!

Excited to hear your thoughts, as I'll be on the Valiant for Christmas in 2023. P.S. Grew up in Charlotte!

20 hours ago, happygolucky62 said: Following along since I will be boarding the day you get off. I am from Hickory. Have the best time!

My sales rep is from Hickory, right on the lake

We left Charlotte just before 7:30am, stopping before we got too far on the road at a Bojangles in Fort Mill, SC.   

I drove and didn’t stop until the gas light turned on, which put us just north of Brunswick, GA.

 Traffic was extremely stop and go for no apparent reason on I-95 through South Carolina, but it opened up once we got to Georgia and we had 3 lanes.   

My wife decided her turn was over right around St. Augustine, so we stopped at Buc-ee’s, which was an absolute zoo. However, they do a good job at staffing and everything was well stocked and didn’t have to wait in line at all to check out.   

We got back on the road and drove the rest of the way to Melbourne, stopping at Target once we got close since my wife forgot her pajamas for the pajama party. On our way to the hotel, we stopped to pick up our dinners - Cracker Barrel for her, and Wawa for me. I grew up outside of Philly, so I am clearly biased as to who has the better gas station food. 😉

We got to our hotel, which is a Hampton Inn. It’s a standard Hampton Inn, which definitely isn’t a bad thing. The rooms seem to be recently refurbished.   

We were both beat from the drive, so we ended up going to bed around 9:30pm. I woke up early, around 4:45am, since I’m excited. It’s cruise…ahem, voyage day!   

I’m going to attempt to go back to sleep until our alarm goes off at 7:30am. The plan is to eat breakfast downstairs and leave around 9am to drive the 2 1/2 hour drive to Terminal V in Miami.

I am so glad you had a relatively stress free trip!

Can you please do me a favor and let me know if Slam Allen is still on board. He is the best Bluesman who plays in On the Rocks. I saw him last December on Scarlet Lady and he is so talented.

My daughter saw him on Valiant Lady when she was in the Med so I am hoping his Contract isn't up yet.

Have a Wonderful time! Thanks for everything you are about to share with all of us!

From what I’ve seen on the schedule that’s been published so far, unfortunately not. I’ve seen him on YouTube videos and he sounds amazing. 

Driving is over…we made it!  

Got to the terminal around 1:30, where we dropped off our bags, and went to park in the parking garage. Garage was almost full (a lot of people were double parked), but we parked, went across the street to the terminal where we were able to go right in.

There she is!

Grandeur of the Seas and Carnival Celebration

We had a small wait to go up the escalator, but once we got up check-in was a breeze. All they had to do was check us in, check our passports, and give us our bands. It was so easy, I had to ask the person checking us in if that was it.   

After that, we got to the boarding area and had maybe a 10 minute wait while we waited for our group to be called.   

We made our way on the gangway, and within a hundred feet or so, we had arrived on the Valiant Lady!

First stop was to Sip, so we could attempt to book events. Pretty much everything was booked already, except for Untitled Dance Party and Never Sleep Alone that night. So I see complaint #2 people have about Virgin, as it was only 2:15 at that point. Oh well, we’re not huge show people, but it would have been nice to do some of the other events like the Grog Walk and the Culinary tour they were having for Food and Wine month.   

We got our first drinks, and headed up to our cabin, where our bags were already waiting for us. 

My wife was ready to go back to the room at that point, so I left her and walked around the ship to get my bearings.   

We met back up and went up to the sail-away party just after 5:30, where the champagne was freely flowing and we had amazing views of Miami.   

NCL Encore turning around in the basin

Our reservations were at Gunbae, and our experience was a little different that most people’s. The party they had scheduled to sit with us were no-shows, so it was just us. No worries, as our server, Goran, was amazing and we talked about life at sea and back home for him in Moldova.   

Food was pretty good, appetizers better than the entrees, though the marinated short rib was great.

I wanted to watch the Eagles game, so I went down to the casino and watched from the blackjack table. I hadn’t realized that blackjack on here pays out at 3:2, even at the $10 table. I got up briefly (by $25, but a wins a win), but I went back down just as quick, so I quit and moved along.   

At that point, it was time for the Untitled Dance Party, which was um…interesting. The dancers were great, but I feel like

the concept was trying too hard to be different.

After the show was over, my wife went back to the cabin to settle in for bed, and I headed to the Social Club for the remainder of the Eagles game. I had gotten there right before they closed, so I got the whiskey Coke float, which was good, but I didn’t eat the ice cream…I forgot that would have been my 4th dessert for the day. Lol 

After the game, I went and got a pizza at the Pizza Place, which was good. Even at around 11:45, service was quick, and I maybe had to wait 10 minutes for my Chicken Pesto pizza.   

I took it back to the cabin and ate it on the balcony, and went to bed.   

So…day 1 thoughts, everything has been great so far!

Check-in was seamless and quick, and the food has definitely lived up to the hype so far.   

The crew is amazing, and it is great to see how happy and genuine they are and how they are able to live their lives on the ship, compared to our sailings with Carnival.   

The only complaint so far is the aforementioned issue with booking events. 

I came up to deck 16 to write my post for yesterday and I think I’ll hang out here for a little bit.   

My wife is still asleep, but I think we are going to do brunch at Razzle Dazzle once she wakes up. I hope it’ll be awhile, since I’m still stuffed from yesterday.   

Today is a sea day, we’ll be in Roatan tomorrow. 

More views of Cuba:

Moved to the hammock. Already trying to figure out how to get one on our deck at home.   

How full is the ship?  That is a big downer that you could not get reservations for the shows as soon as you boarded. It seems that is how it will always be  though with the limited capacity of the show venues. That has to be a let down for sure.  Maybe you can try the stand by line.

3 hours ago, surfone said: How full is the ship?  That is a big downer that you could not get reservations for the shows as soon as you boarded. It seems that is how it will always be  though with the limited capacity of the show venues. That has to be a let down for sure.  Maybe you can try the stand by line.

It’s at 1300, I’ve heard. We were able to get booked for Duel Reality tonight!

Brunch at Razzle Dazzle:

Bottomless Bloody Mary’s 

Jalapeno cheddar croissant  

Mushroom tartare

Everything salmon bowl with a side of bacon

Everything was awesome and fresh!

Now at the main pool area. It’s not too crowded at midday on a sea day, but I can see where it would be a problem at full capacity.   

I'm enjoying your review. I'll be on the same cruise in a few months, so I'd to get others experiences before then. Thanks!

49 minutes ago, MzShae said: I'm enjoying your review. I'll be on the same cruise in a few months, so I'd like to get others experiences before then. Thanks!

Dylan0474mac

Are they still offering the next voyage offer onboard for a $300 deposit? If so does it still include $600 OBC?  I sail on the 11th and want to grab a few more.

Thanks for the reviews!  We’re on this same itinerary in 9 days!!! 🙂

• 2 months later...

I'd love to read the rest of this review!

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6 Nights Western Caribbean Charm

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Scarlet Lady She is named, in part, as an ode to our Virgin heritage (Scarlet was one of our earliest Virgin Atlantic planes), but more importantly, to call attention to our pledge to a future of fostering gender equality. With our new program, the Scarlet Squad, we're seeking to help women flourish in industries previously occupied exclusively by men. Ships, like everywhere on the planet, are made better when all of us are involved. 21st Century Sailing Swipe it. Dim it. Play it. Tap it. Order. Love it. We don't want to encourage you to stay in bed all day, but with our killer app and tablet in every room, we made it very tempting. And if the trip starts while you're mid-binge, worry not — we literally have a satellite (yes, a satellite) that can beam you all the goodness. So dim the lights, order in, make a reservation all while being completely horizontal. Green on Blue Our greatest aim is for sailors to have the best time on board while indulging… minus all the guilt. So to do that, we’ve embedded sustainability deeply into both our operations and the sailor experience itself. Through pioneering innovative and sustainable technologies, banning unnecessary single-use plastics, and thoughtfully sourcing food and retail merchandise — we’re creating a sailor experience that balances the duality of enjoying the earth and caring for it.

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Western Caribbean Charm

Miami, florida to miami, florida, onboard - scarlet lady.

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• Scarlet Lady

With a name inspired by an early Virgin Atlantic plane, Scarlet Lady is Virgin Voyages' premium take on what a luxury cruise ship means - sailing from the vibrant shores of Miami. Ushering in a new era for sea travel, she's designed with a unique approach to how cruises look and feel.

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Mega rockstar quarters - massive suite, mega rockstar quarters - fab suite, mega rockstar quarters - posh suite, mega rockstar quarters - gorgeous suite, guarantee mega rockstar quarters, rockstar quarters - brilliant suite, rockstar quarters - cheeky corner suite - biggest terrace, rockstar quarters - cheeky corner suite - even bigger terrace, rockstar quarters - cheeky corner suite - pretty big terrace, rockstar quarters - seriously suite, rockstar quarters - sweet aft suite - biggest terrace, rockstar quarters - sweet aft suite - even bigger terrace, guarantee rockstar quarters, rockstar quarters - sweet aft suite - pretty big terrace.

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Oceania Cruises will sail from Port Tampa Bay beginning in 2026

• Shauna Muckle Times staff

A new luxury cruise line is coming to Tampa Bay. Oceania Cruises will set sail for the Caribbean and Panama Canal starting in February 2026.

The 670-guest Insignia ship will offer guests five options of seven- to 20-night cruises from February to April, according to a media release from Port Tampa Bay. Passengers will dock in Costa Maya, Mexico; Puerto Limon, Costa Rica; Cartagena, Colombia; and other similar destinations.

Oceania, a Miami-based subsidiary of Norwegian Cruise Lines, operates eight luxury vessels that traverse all seven continents. The line’s “Around the World” cruise takes guests to over 100 destinations in 180 days — prices for 2026 start at $42,000. On board, guests can access fine-dining options like Polo Grill, an American steakhouse, and Toscana, an Italian venue.

Starting prices for sailings from Tampa currently range from $2,200 for a seven-night Caribbean cruise to $5,800 for a 20-night Panama Canal cruise.

Here’s a look at the five itineraries that will sail from Tampa in 2026:

• Tropical Harmony : February 22-March 3, nine days. Starting in Bridgetown, Barbados; Oranjestad, Aruba; Montego Bay, Jamaica; Costa Maya, Mexico; Cozumel, Mexico; ending in Tampa.
• Leeward Isles Serenade : March 3-18, 15 days. Starting in Tampa; San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Thomas, Virgin Islands; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; St. John’s, Antigua; Roseau, Dominica; Basseterre, St. Kitts; Frederiksted, St. Croix; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; ending in Tampa.
• Western Caribbean Escape : March 18-25, seven days. Starting in Tampa; Cozumel; Belize City, Belize; Roatan, Honduras; Costa Maya; ending in Tampa.
• Palms and Panama Canal : March 25-April 4, ten days. Tampa; Cozumel; Costa Maya; Belize City; Roatan; Puerto Limon; Colon, Panama; ending with one overnight stay in Panama City, Panama. The ship crosses the Panama Canal during daylight hours.
• Panama Canal Connoisseur : March 25-April 14, 20 days. Starting in Tampa; Cozumel; Costa Maya; Belize City; Roatan; Puerto Limon; Colon; one overnight stay in Panama City; Cartagena; Willemstad, Curacao; Oranjestad, Aruba; Montego Bay; George Town, Cayman Islands; ending in Miami.

Port Tampa Bay now has six cruise lines that dock at the port. Oceania will join Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line and Margaritaville at Sea.

Cruises represent a quarter of the port’s revenue, and that share is rising. In fiscal year 2025, the port expects 373 sailings with around 1.6 million passengers. This year, around 1.2 million people are projected to sail from Tampa’s port as the industry makes a rapid comeback post-pandemic.

Shauna Muckle is reporter covering tourism, transportation and technology. She can be reached at [email protected].

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Western Caribbean Charm

6-NIGHT ROUND-TRIP SAILING FROM MIAMI

Kaleidoscopic coasts in Honduras

Cruise through the Caribbean on a six-night sailing featuring a full day of unrivaled experiences in Costa Maya, Mexico, and another in Roatán, Honduras. With 2 days at sea to indulge in the good life on board, you'll also get to explore the rich history and turquoise waters of Cozumel.

Western Caribbean Charm • 6 Nights

Sailing on Scarlet Lady

  Day 1

Miami, Florida

Departs at 05:00 PM, All aboard 2 hrs before departure

  Day 2

  Day 3

10:00 AM - 07:00 PM, local time

  Day 4

08:00 AM - 04:00 PM, local time

  Day 5

Cozumel (Playa del Carmen)

10:00 AM - 09:00 PM, local time

  Day 6

  Day 7

Arrives at 06:30 AM. Please allow up to an hour for the Gangway to open to disembark

The Virgin Voyages Experience

From captivating coasts to laid-back island vibes, the exclusively adult cruise vacation of your dreams is here.

Terminal V at PortMiami

Uniting the energy of Miami with nautical nods to the history of sailing, we’re infusing our own terminal with the same incredible ethos as our ships.

Hassle-free embarkation

Pre-upload your travel docs to the Virgin Voyages app, get Ready to Sail before leaving home, and make boarding a (sea)breeze in just a few minutes.

Easy port access in Costa Maya

Bask in the Mayan sun, go on a Shore Thing, and shop the local spots ‘til you drop. With easy access to the ship, you can come and go as you please.

Keeping it local

We’ve teamed up with locals in each of our ports to reveal sides of places you’ve yet to explore — from the people who know the destinations best.

The places you'll go

From the Wynwood art scene to the world-renowned shores of Miami Beach, the Magic City is a perfect collision of relaxation and cultural exploration.

Ancient ruins, sleepy beachside villages, and natural lagoons with seven shades of blue — this Mexican port is beaming with culture, history, and beauty.

The world’s second-largest, electrifying reef attracts divers, plus endless white-sand beaches, and you'll understand why Roatán is the coveted jewel of Honduras.

Balancing sunlit mornings and effervescent nights out is par for the course on the eastern shores of Quintana Roo.

More Shore Things for your wishlist...

We have even more in our curated catalog.

Let’s make waves

An ocean of opportunities calling your name.

WANDERLUST SATISFIED

Off the coast of Honduras, Roatán sits proudly atop the largest reef in the Caribbean — making the island an unmatched spot to dive among the vibrant coral and sea life. With crisp, white sand nestling into sapphire waters, beaches like Little French Key and West Bay make relaxation an art form.

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We’re making waves from the Caribbean to the Med, the Adriatic to the Red, and everywhere in between across 4 continents. Join us on an unparalleled journey of relaxation and indulgence, and discover the things — and the people — that make each destination so special. Because we didn’t build a cruise, we created a voyage.   Get a delicious taste of the modern romance of sailing that only a Virgin brand could pull off.

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You deserve a vacation. And you deserve a deal. So we’re making both of those things happen. Wave goodbye to your routine and start planning an exclusively adult experience at sea.

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Rest Your Head

These are the spots you might be calling home. Whether you prefer coffee (or cocktails) overlooking the waves, or waking up late in your own cocoon, we're holding space for you.

Always Included Luxury

Over $1000 in value. The luxury you deserve — without the nickel & diming from the others. Look (far) beyond the headline rate.

Browse, post, and stay connected with WiFi — whenever you want, and wherever you are on the ship.

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We've taken care of (taking care of) your servers, so we handle the gratuities for your onboard experiences. You just enjoy.

From refined dining to relaxed casual, all of our 20+ eateries — featuring menus curated by Michelin star chefs — are yours to savor.

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Stay hydrated with still and sparkling water, non-pressed juices, sodas, teas, and drip coffee.

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Yoga, meditation, cycling, HIIT classes, and more — all your group fitness classes are covered.

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Developed by the world’s most-talked-about producers and artists, our awe-inspiring shows are all included in your voyage.

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Our 7 favorite summer cruises for all types of travelers

The best part of summer cruising is that there are more cruising options than in any other season. Cruises to destinations like Alaska and Scandinavia are highly seasonal; go in the summer, or you can't cruise there at all. Even the Mediterranean is somewhat seasonal, with most cruise lines leaning heavily into summer and moving ships to warmer destinations during the cooler months.

While putting together our list of favorite cruises for summer travel, we looked for options that would appeal to a wide variety of travelers. The one thing all these cruises have in common is that they make planning a summer trip easy. When you book a summer cruise, one transaction gets you transportation to multiple destinations, food, accommodations and onboard entertainment.

Whether you're looking for a short escape or the adventure of a lifetime, here are seven of our favorite summer cruises to book.

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

Best for short summer escapes: 3- to 5-night Carnival cruises

Carnival Cruise Line is an industry leader in short getaway cruises from local departure ports. You can sail to the Bahamas from Florida ports; Bermuda from Manhattan in New York; the Caribbean from Galveston, Texas , and New Orleans; and the Mexican Riviera from Long Beach, California. Each of these destinations promises beaches, water sports and land-based activities that range from cooking classes to all-terrain-vehicle rides.

Most Carnival ships feature top-deck waterslides and miniature golf, plus Seuss at Sea character parades, storytime and themed breakfasts. The Cloud Nine Spa and adults-only Serenity Retreat give adults a quiet place to relax, whether you cruise with kids or without. Carnival is known for having multiple included food venues like Guy's Burger Joint , Guy's Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que and the Mexican BlueIguana Cantina.

Carnival is also budget-friendly. The line's short cruises are affordable while still providing all the food, fun and entertainment you crave on a big-ship cruise.

Best for grown-up fun: Virgin Voyages to the Mediterranean

Virgin Voyages deploys ships to multiple European destinations, all loaded with summer fun grown-up style. Choices range from seven- to 12-night Mediterranean adventures (think: round-trip cruises from Barcelona featuring ports of call like Cannes in France or Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza in Spain, where ships often stay overnight, allowing time for a night of clubbing European style). Longer cruises include one-way routes between Barcelona and Rome, adding Italian ports like Florence and Naples. The line also takes in the Greek islands on cruises originating in Athens (Piraeus).

Virgin's adults-only ships carry 2,770 passengers (known on board as "sailors"), all 18 or older. The line claims to offer the ideal cruise for adults who don't care for cruises. Entertainment on board includes pajama parties and immersive naughty nightclub performances. Virgin ships focus on wellness with a techno fitness studio , an outdoor gym and a boxing ring.

Dining choices are where Virgin Voyages really breaks from traditional cruise lines. All 20 eateries on board are included in the cruise fare, and you won't find even one buffet line.

Related: 11 things I loved on Virgin Voyages — and 6 that I kind of hated

Best for solo cruisers: Greek island cruises on Windstar

What better way to sail among the Greek islands than on a gorgeous ship with sails or an intimate yachtlike ship where you never feel like just another number? Windstar Cruises offers summer cruises in the Greek islands, stopping at dream destinations like Santorini, Mykonos and Patmos. Port activities in the Mediterranean lean toward cultural and culinary interests.

What moves the needle toward Windstar for solo cruisers is its standard single supplement of 175%, which dips even lower on occasion. That's quite a cruise budget bonus when most cruise lines charge 200% of the fare for cruising solo.

All Windstar ships carry just over 300 passengers or fewer. You'll feel like you're cruising the Mediterranean on a private yacht. Solo cruisers will find it easy to meet fellow passengers — mixing and mingling are a normal occurrence for almost everyone on such small ships.

The main dining room (Amphora) features solo-friendly open seating each evening. I once met an 82-year-old woman cruising alone on back-to-back Windstar cruises. She had no shortage of invitations to join tables at mealtimes, but when she opted to dine alone, the staff treated her like a queen.

As the official cruise line of the James Beard Foundation, Windstar goes above and beyond when it comes to serving amazing food. Menus for both Amphora and a pop-up steak restaurant called Candles are highlighted by selections from James Beard Award-winning chefs — all included in the cruise fare.

Those same chefs are sometimes hosted on the line's special James Beard Foundation cruises. Besides hanging out with these amazing chefs (because they are there to enjoy the cruise, too), guests can go shopping with them as they prepare for menu takeovers using locally sourced ingredients. It's foodie heaven.

Best Alaska cruise: Weeklong Holland America cruises

Alaska sits at the top of many summer cruise wish lists. Sometimes it's a beat-the-heat plan. Most often, it's the desire to see the glaciers and wildlife in Alaskan waters and along its shores. You have lots of options for Alaska cruises, but we recommend the tried and true.

Holland America has been cruising in Alaska for more than 75 years and has more itineraries visiting Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) than any other cruise line. You can feel confident that any Alaska cruise you book with the line will be done well.

Holland America ships carry between 2,000 and 3,000 passengers. While the passengers on other itineraries tend to be a mostly adult (and often senior) crowd, that changes during the summer season in Alaska. Families with children of all ages are welcomed and catered to with youth programs on board, including a Junior Ranger program in Glacier Bay.

Options include round trips from Vancouver, British Columbia, and Seattle , as well as one-way trips between Vancouver and Anchorage, Alaska. Add-on pre- and post-cruise land tours are a Holland America staple for those wishing to explore inland Alaska.

Best for families with teens: Weeklong Caribbean cruises on Royal Caribbean

Finding a cruise itinerary that pleases teens and preteens can be challenging. The megaships Royal Caribbean sails in the Caribbean fit the bill nicely. Look for the line's biggest ships cruising from Miami , Port Canaveral (near Orlando) and Galveston.

Most itineraries alternate between Eastern and Western Caribbean routes , all with beachy ports of call with plenty of water sports and land-based adventure options. Many itineraries also visit the teen-pleasing private island destination Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas. It's an island playground with beaches, a pool, sand sports and a water park seemingly designed with easily bored teens in mind.

The ships themselves, however, are likely to be the real stars of the cruise for your teens. These ships carry close to 6,000 passengers and come loaded with waterslides, surf simulators, zip lines and rock-climbing walls. Teens ages 13 to 17 have a hangout space all their own, and the preteens have loads of age-appropriate activities to keep them on the go when the ship is not in port.

Royal Caribbean's biggest ships are family-pleasing masterpieces, cruising on sunny itineraries that make for incredible summer vacations.

Best for families with littles: Short Bahamas cruises on Disney Cruise Line

Putting smiles on little faces is the mission behind any Disney cruise, and if the littles are smiling, moms and dads probably are, too. Disney sails short cruises from multiple ports. Look for summer cruises to the Bahamas from Fort Lauderdale and Port Canaveral with stops at Disney's private island, Castaway Cay . Three to five nights is ideal for kids in the 4 to 7 age group — and their parents.

Disney Cruise Line cabins are designed with families in mind. They have split bathrooms (toilet in one, shower-bath in the other), privacy curtains for napping and plenty of storage.

Besides the fun onboard character encounters, water attractions and live musicals based on favorite movies, Disney cruise ships offer the most kid-friendly menus of any cruise line. Plus, 24-hour in-room dining is complimentary — perfect when the need for a quieter meal arises.

Imagine if the best parts of the Magic Kingdom were put on a ship for a much smaller crowd to enjoy, and you'll understand the magic of a Disney cruise summer vacation.

Related: 11 ways to save money on a Disney cruise

Best for a cooler European vacation: Scandinavia cruises on Viking

If you're looking for a European getaway where the weather isn't as hot as in the Mediterranean, Scandinavia is calling your name. You can cool down while experiencing the summer beauty of the Norwegian fjords and the cultural delights of Denmark and Sweden. If you're an older adult, Viking has your cruise.

In fact, Viking has multiple options. Cruise lengths range from seven to 28 nights, with a long list of possible ports of call, including Oslo, Norway; Copenhagen; and the Norwegian ports of Bergen, Stavanger and Honningsvag (in the far north). And don't forget Iceland. Viking offers seven-night circumnavigation cruises of the land of fire and ice, as well as longer sailings that include Reykjavik as a port of call.

Viking ships carry just 930 passengers, all in cabins with private balconies. The ships feature seven dining options, all included in the cruise fare. Beer, wine and soft drinks are complimentary during lunch and dinner, and at least one tour is also complimentary in each port of call. Viking is an adults-only cruise line, so all guests must be 18 or older — though its loyal fans tend to be retirees.

Viking ships make seeing the incredible sights of Scandinavia not only possible but comfortable. At the end of a day ashore — sometimes spent on excursions skimming across the waters of fjords in rigid inflatable boats or exploring tiny fishing villages near, or even above, the Arctic Circle — you'll return to relax in one of the best complimentary thermal suites at sea. If that's not enough, you'll also dine on extraordinary cuisine without worrying about extra costs.

Bottom line

Summer is by far the busiest cruise season. Destination choices expand exponentially, giving you more possibilities than in any other season. Even getting to the port, whether driving or flying, is a tad easier in summer than it can be in winter.

The best summer cruise matches your travel needs at this moment. Luckily, an abundance of cruise options makes it possible for almost anyone to find their match.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin