Hey Sunshine's!! I've been at it again. The world beckoned, and I answered the call. I have a new cruise line that I want to tell you about. Last month, I sailed on Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady to Nassau and Bimini in the Bahamas. It was amazing and I think you're going to love it as much as I did.
I was originally supposed to sail on this adults only cruise back in 2020, but when the pandemic hit, everything got put on pause. Like so many, I had to reschedule my cruise for last year. Since it's an adults only cruise, I had the opportunity to get away with my husband (1st couples trip since 2019). And... let me tell you, the much anticipated wait was so worth it.
I want to share a few highlights with you from my cruise and about the cruise line. We'll start with the protocols. While Virgin Voyages is operating with 100% vaccinated crew and passengers they still have everyone's best interest at hand, without taking away from the fun. Here are a few of the protocols to expect when sailing:
You must test up to 3 days prior to boarding the ship and provide proof of negative COVID test. Proof of vaccination is required and you will be able to upload both document into the app prior to your arrival. Both are also checked and confirmed during the check-in process.
Once you arrive at port, you will need to test (at no expense to you) prior to boarding the ship. The testing process is fast, and I swear I wish they could duplicate the workers performing the test. Either, I'm just used to testing (doubt it) or they're the most gentlest I've encountered (more likely... lol).
Unless, you are in a Rockstar Suite, boarding the ship does not begin until 2 pm. So you'll want to plan accordingly.
If you've completed your check in process at least 4 weeks in advance, you will receive customized wrist band and luggage tags in the mail. Otherwise, they are provided to you at check in. It's really a seamless process.
Mask are recommended in areas where social distancing is not available. The staff wear mask at all times, but the guest have the option to wear their masks or not.
Virgin Voyages really did think of it all... and I'm not just talking about the abundance of sockets that you'll find in your cabins. They wanted to make an impact and provide added value. So when you #SetSailTheVirginWay these amenities are already included in the price:
Free WIFI - you can upgrade to a paid version if you want to download or stream movies & videos on your phone. But, why would you? They have a great array of movies that they provide to you, and if Social Media is your thing... there are so many Instagrammable areas and activities that you can upload on the free WIFI provided. Honestly, I was impressed. Their free WIFI worked better for me than the one's I've purchased.
Free Arcade - okay now this has to appeal to the kid in you. The arcade games are free and unlimited. You have anything from PacMan, Mortal Kombat, Racing games, Table Hockey and more. Like most of the ship, you'll have a sense of Nostalgia when you're aboard. I'm not going to lie, my husband totally crushed me in PacMan (my joy stick was faulty - that's my story and I'm sticking to it).
Unlimited non-alcoholic beverages. Your juices, coffee's & teas, and sodas are all included. Now they do have some specialty drinks, and with the added values in savings, you'll be more willing to splurge a little on these items. While Alcohol is not included, if you're staying in a suite, then the first round is on them. You'll have a selection of alcohol in your room and the higher the suite the more benefits you get. The other nice thing is their Bar Tab. You purchase one tab, and you can buy drinks with it for whom ever you choose. Did I mention that they give you bags full of candy for free? No, well they do. So if you like gummy bears, licorice, salt water taffy & more... just add that into the savings you receive.
No added gratuities to your sea pass. You gratuities are included in the price and the workers aren't expecting you to leave tips. They give you amazing service just because. How wonderful is that? I still tipped because it's just what I'm used to, and if you decide to, they're very appreciative. But, if you don't, you'll still get the same amazing service as everyone else.
No Main Dining Rooms - There are no main dining rooms on Virgin Voyages, but instead 6 distinct unique restaurants in which you'll have to make reservations for. I highly suggest doing this as soon as your able to see it in the app, as they do fill up fast. However, if you're unable to, don't fret. Walk-ins are welcomed and there's plenty of other areas to eat at as well. One thing to keep in mind - the menus at each restaurant does not change. So, if you're the type that likes to try one of everything, you won't have to gorge yourself in one day. You can come back another day to try those dishes. Ultimately, it's like going to a specialty restaurant every night, without the added cost.
One of the restaurants that stuck out to me was Razzle Dazzle, which is vegan forward. If you're as surprised by this as I was, it makes sense. I'm not a vegetarian, which is why I ordered from the Naught section (Pretzel Pork Schnitzel). It was delicious, but it was the cookies & milk dessert option that I loved the most, and it didn't include any dairy products. Speaking of vegan products, the Green Machine ice cream at Lick Me Till... it was by far my favorite ice cream out of 6 flavors on the ship. The ice cream is made of green apple, avocado and kiwi. Had someone told me it was vegan, I probably wouldn't have eaten it, but I didn't find out until I was about 6 servings in... lol. Highly recommended flavor.
Let's talk accommodations. There is a variety of cabin selections to choose from, and something
that's sure to fit any budget. Like many cruise lines, Virgin Voyages offers interior, ocean view, balcony and suites. The most popular being their XL Sea Terrace (Balcony) and their Suites. I stayed in the Sea Terrace, which I found to be very accommodating and spacious. However, if you're looking for more bathroom space the XL Sea Terrace would be a better option, as that's really the biggest difference between the two. But another fan favorite is the Seriously Suite, which comes with a fully stocked bar and a peek-a-boo shower window. The bathroom in the suites will make you forget that you're even on a cruise. If you're a cruiser, you know what I mean.
Besides the ship being for adults only (18+), there's really no set age group that the ship will appeal to more than the other. So whether you're looking to celebrate your birthday in Rockstar fashion, have a bachelor(ette) getaway, get away with your boo, or just have fun with your friends, there's something for everyone and geared towards different generations.
This ship has a lot to offer with a nostalgic feel to it. You could truly do as much or as little as you want and not feel like your missing out on anything. After being postponed for almost 2 years, Virgin Voyages came out of the gates swinging. This is one ship you don't want to miss out on.
If you follow me, you know I love to travel. But it's also important to me as a top-tier travel agent to be able to recommend resorts, destinations and cruises that I've actually experienced. I'm able to create extraordinary experiences for you, because I know the unique features of the resorts or cruise lines and can anticipate how it will align with what you are looking for.
Virgin Voyages offers amazing service, value added and more at an affordable price - and I know you're going to want to try it out for yourself! You can see more gorgeous travel pics and follow my journey on Facebook or Instagram at @twingeministravel. If you are ready to set sail the Virgin way and want to talk more about making this trip a reality, you can set up a complimentary planning session by clicking here. For a limited time, when booking with Twin Gemini's Travel Agency, new bookings will get 20% of any sailings through October 2023, and an additional 10% off if the balance is paid in full 6 months in advance. Plus, if you add the pre-paid bar tab ($300), you'll get an extra $100 bonus added to your tab.
Your ship has arrived - don't miss the boat!
Twin Gemini's Travel Agency is a full service agency dedicated to creating lasting memories and relationships with our clients. To learn more about our agency and owner, click here.
Website: www.twingeministravelagency.com
Destination Weddings Site: www.dw-by-kiesha.com/twingeministravel
Instagram: www.instagram.com/twingeministravel
#TwinGeminisTravel #Cruising #Cruises #JourneyWithKieshaMonae #FirstMate #Sailor #VirginVoyages #Vacation #CruiseLife #ScarletLady #VVFirstMate #NJTravelAgent #TravelAddict #CruiseSpecialist #AdultsOnlyCruise #Travel #TravelAgent #LiveLoveLaughTravel #Ahoy #SetSailTheVirginWay #GourmetRestaurants #Rockstar #SuiteLife