cruise valiant lady

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Valiant Lady

Cruise line Virgin Voyages

• Miami (Florida)
• San Juan (Puerto Rico)

Valiant Lady current position

Valiant Lady current location is at Caribbean Sea (coordinates 14.59982 N / -61.07213 W) cruising en route to KNBAS. The AIS position was reported 2 minutes ago.

Current itinerary of Valiant Lady

Valiant Lady current cruise is 7 days, round-trip Atlantis Exotic Southern Caribbean Cruise . The itinerary starts on 16 Mar, 2024 and ends on 23 Mar, 2024 .

Specifications of Valiant Lady

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

Valiant Lady Itineraries

Valiant lady review, review of valiant lady.

The 2021-built/2022-inaugurated MS Valiant Lady cruise ship is the second in the Virgin Voyages fleet . The vessel's name was officially announced on November 20, 2019. The ship is currently scheduled for inauguration in March 2022. Valiant Lady's sisterships (of the same design ) are Scarlet Lady (2020 February), Resilient Lady (2023 May) and Brilliant Lady (2024 March).

All Virgin cruise ships were constructed at Fincantieri's Sestri Ponente yard (near Genoa Italy ).

These liners are known as "Lady Ships" - a play on "your ladyship" term regarding Virgin Group's British heritage. A number of renowned designers were chosen to create a new "cruise ship" style and "adult cruising" vacation concept. For the ship's interior design, the Virgin cruise line contracted the marine architecture and naval design companies Roman and Williams (NYC), Concrete Amsterdam, Tom Dixon's Design Research Studio (London UK), Gem Srl (Italy), Softroom (London UK), WORKac (NYC), Knibb Design, HL Studio (UK), HKS Architects (Dallas USA), PearsonLloyd (London UK).

Virgin Voyages (fka Virgin Cruises) is a new cruise line company headquartered in Plantation (Florida USA). Virgin Voyages was created in December 2014 as a joint venture between Virgin Group Ltd (UK-based multinational holding company, 49% stake) and Bain Capital LP (USA-based multi-asset investment company, 51% stake). Virgin is an adults-only cruise company (passengers' minimum age is 18) and officially starts operations in April 2020.

The vessel (IMO number 9805336) is currently Bahamas- flagged (MMSI 311000983) and registered in Nassau .

Valiant Lady is owned by the company VC SHIP TWO LTD and managed/chartered by VIRGIN VOYAGES LTD.

Decks and Cabins

MS Valiant Lady staterooms (a total of 1408 passenger cabins) include 78x Suites, 1030x Balconies, 95x Oceanviews and 105x Interiors. The entire staff and crew (total 1160 people) are accommodated in 813 cabins.

The boat has 17 decks , of which 13 are passenger-accessible and 9 with cabins.

In mid-January 2019, Virgin Voyages announced details on RockStar Suites. Staterooms were designed by Tom Dixon Design Research Studio (interior, product and design consultancy). All staterooms are "smart", with mood lighting and sensors auto-adjusting the lighting according to passenger's movements. The cruise ship has a total of 78 cabins in the category "RockStar Suite", including 15x "Mega RockStar Suites" (9x Gorgeous, 2x Posh, 2x Fab, 2x Massive). Most of them are on Deck 15, with the above Deck 16 housing one "RockStar Suite Sailor" (bow-facing Owner Suite).

The decor is music (rock-and-roll) themed, with a retro-futuristic design, a color palette of deep blues with iridescent dichroic elements in the cabin's bathroom. Massive Suite has a separate bedroom that doubles as a music room (fitted with electric guitars and an amplifier). The cabin's terrace (bow-facing) is fitted with a Jacuzzi, dining area (6-seat table with built-in stairs), lounge area (circular sofa with low table), padded sun loungers, 2 hammocks, outdoor shower, catamaran net (canopy partially covering the terrace), live plants. Keeping with the music theme, each of the 78 suites boasts a record player.

All categories RockStar Suites (SB-Brilliant, SG-Gorgeous, SP-Posh, SF-Fab, SM-Massive) have marble-clad bathrooms (with hot tub, premium brand bath products, rain-shower head, multi-colored dichroic glass doors and windows / Peek-a-Boo shower), Terrazzo flooring, Tom Dixon brand furniture, large mirrored vanity tables, modern L-shaped sofabeds (for 2), low tables, cabinets, 3-door wardrobe, large smart TV (55-inch), vinyl turntable (gold-plated player with a collection of records), complimentary full bar (nautically-themed barware kit), brass and leather finishing, chaise lounge chair (bedroom).

RockStar Suite passengers enjoy exclusive access to "Richard's Rooftop" (VIP club lounge located forward on Deck 16). RockStar Suites receive as perks (price-inclusive amenities and complimentary services) airport-ship transfer (via private drivers), priority helicopter arrangements, luggage assistance, private walk-down service (express VIP pathway) at Virgin Voyages Miami Cruise Terminal (upon arrival), anytime boarding, early access to special shipboard events, complimentary laundry service, clothing pressing, nightly swimsuit drying, RockStar Agents (dedicated butlers per stateroom), dedicated hair and makeup crew (upon request), complimentary Thermal Suite access (Redemption Spa), all-inclusive premium drinks (in all shipboard eateries and bars), personalized bottomless in-room bar (free of charge), option to curate in-port activities.

All Virgin cruise ship staterooms offer as standard amenities European King-size bed (premium linens, plush bedding), wall-mounted reading lamps, bedside tables, mirrored vanity table / writing desk with stool, large wardrobe, electronic safe box (in the closet), 4K smart Ultra HDTV (with infotainment system), large balcony (with padded loungers, low table, 2-seat sofa, Yellow Leaf hammock, dining table / custom-designed champagne table fitting an ice bucket). Balcony access is via floor-ceiling sliding glass doors.

Every cabin is equipped with a custom-designed "seabed" and "mood lighting" which is familiar to customers of Virgin America (part of Alaska Airlines). Cabin lights automatically adjust according to passenger's movements. There are also staterooms suited for groups (each with 4 bunk beds) and single cabins (designed for solo travelers). Staterooms are divided into 21 categories. Balcony cabins have "sea terrace" (private, step-out veranda) and are serviced by "Rockstar Coordinators" (personal assistants), while "personal wardrobe teams" provide luggage packing and unpacking.

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

Dining on Virgin Voyages ships is ticket price-inclusive - no extra charges are applied to any of the 20-plus onboard dining options. The cruise company doesn't believe in "paying more for great food", so it ditched traditional surcharges levied in specialty restaurants. All eateries on Valiant Lady offer "exceptional made-to-order eats" - complimentary.

As part of the company's sustainable travel policy, Virgin Voyages banned single-use plastics and there is no buffet food on the ships. All shipboard food is made-to-order - to reduce waste and lower energy consumption and emissions. Savings are reinvested into fresh (locally sourced) top-quality products, exotic ingredients, highly trained staff, and clean technologies.

The company doesn't follow any traditional cruise dining concepts. Virgin ships don't have the main dining room, buffet restaurant, dress code (formal wear policy), assigned dining times or seating. All these concepts were replaced with intimate (boutique hotel-type) eateries offering 20+ dining options - all of which are included in cruise fares.

Follows the complete list of Valiant Lady restaurants and food bars.

• The Galley (main venue for casual dining and quick meals) is modeled on popular food halls. Here guests can taste food from various onboard restaurants via 8 shops and carts, including panini shop, bakery and pastry shop, a taco shack, noodle bar, a burger grill, a sushi bar with bento boxes, soup, and salad island, 24-hour American diner.
• The Test Kitchen (laboratory-like eatery with metallic furniture, beakers, test tubes) offers "avant-garde cuisine". It is a part restaurant, part cooking school. Chef-driven menus are presented in the form of ingredient list to guests to discover how the chef combines the flavors throughout the course of each meal.
• Wake (sized 5866 ft2 / 545 m2) is a steakhouse-seafood restaurant located aft and featuring views of the ship's wake. It serves "theatrical take" food inspired by The Grill-New York and The Wolseley-London.
• Geonbae (Korean barbecue restaurant) is "hosted by the loudest servers at sea". Meals start with complimentary soju (distilled beverage) for the table with guests encouraged to take part in Korean drinking games.
• Pink Agave (Mexican restaurant) provides shared plate experience with DJ music until late. It features porthole windows, metallic lighting fixtures, large tables, elongated curved area (intimate seating with 2-seat tables), separate bar (in the Lobby), private dining room (can be booked for parties and other private events).
• Extra Virgin (trattoria restaurant) serves traditional Italian food specialties, including handmade fresh pasta.
• Dock (sized 220 ft2 / 20.4 m2 beach club-inspired restaurant) offers Mediterranean cuisine with small plates, dips, mezze, salads. The Dock features wooden deck chairs, day beds, and loungers.
• The Pizza Place (beach club-inspired restaurant) offers complimentary oven-baked gourmet pizzas by the slice.
• Razzle Dazzle is the vegan-vegetarian restaurant. Part of Razzle Dazzle Restaurant is the Red Bar - juice bar offering fresh-squeezed juices and tonics, as well as crafted cocktails from a menu that varies every night. In two days per cruise, at Razzle Dazzle is hosted Drag Brunch featuring live entertainment by "sassy drag queens". Considered one of the ship's most energetic spots, Razzle Dazzle gets its design and name from the practice of camouflaging vessels during both World Wars via patterns of black and white paint.
• Sun Club Cafe - Outdoor Eatery
• The Sip is the ship's wine bar lounge (Virgin's champagne house) where along with a selection of premium wines can be enjoyed traditional British Afternoon Tea service.

Virgin cruise ship passengers (Sailors) are offered complimentary water (filtered and sparkling) at all onboard bars and dining venues. Throughout the ship, there are also complimentary water stations.

Via the Sailor App (when your phone is shaken) a secret "Champagne button" allows Sailors to order Moet-Chandon Champagne (Brut Imperial, 750 ml bottle) delivered in an ice bucket and with two glasses. The service is called "Shake for Champagne" and provided anywhere on board.

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

Each Virgin ship features 93% oceanview cabins and 86% balconied staterooms (called "sea terraces"), casino, several live entertainment venues (similar to traditional theatre lounges).

Ship's signature venues include:

• Athletic Club (training center) is an outdoor gym area (with a boxing ring and gym club equipment) located top-deck aft. Part of the Sports Deck is also the raised jogging track (Runway track, red-white colored), sundeck with open-air lounge (furnished with double daybeds and semi-circular loungers), triple netting area (220 ft2 / 20.4 m2 overlooking below decks), 10 private cabanas (cushioned bed, low table, 2 lounge chairs), beverage service (from the outdoor Sports Bar), foosball tables, swimming pool, showers. The Athletic Club was designed by Concrete Amsterdam and inspired by New York City's sports clubs in the 1920s.
• Sun Club - Sun Worship Sanctuary
• MyBeast is an outdoor playground / poolside gym area.
• The Crow's Nest (aft sundeck) offers 360-degree views and is furnished with loungers and mats colored in Virgin's signature red. Here are also hosted sunrise and sunset outdoor yoga classes.
• The B Complex is an indoor fitness center with Technogym ARTIS equipment, floor-ceiling windows and separate rooms (studios) for cycling, yoga, cardio and spinning classes.
• Gym and Tonic Bar serves cold-pressed fresh juices.
• Aquatic Club Sundeck - Poolside Oasis and Aquatic Club Bar.
• Two Pools (including the Well-being Pool - ship's main pool surrounded by an adult playground and fitness apparatus named MyBeast).
• The Manor is the ship's 2-deck high Disco Nightclub with a large dance floor. The NYC-based design studio Roman and Williams designed the ballroom (The Manor), which is a venue for innovative entertainment, dancing, music, and fun, destined to be one of the most exciting spots onboard. The Manor Nightclub was inspired by Richard Branson's first Virgin music studio of the same name and has been expertly outfitted with platforms, corners, and details that make it both somewhere to see and to be seen.
• The Dock is an outdoor lounge (aft on Deck 7) with cushioned wooden furniture (loungers, deckchairs, daybeds).
• Richard's Rooftop is a top-deck VIP area (Suite passengers only sundeck) furnished with daybeds, deckchairs, circular loungers, large umbrellas, colored crystals. Named after the company's founder Richard Branson, it has a futuristic feel with giant umbrellas, circular loungers, and accents of colored crystals that cast rainbow reflections.
• "Ministry of Ground" and "Ministry of Ground Too" are specialty coffee bars serving Intelligentsia coffee (Virgin Voyages Blend) and made-to-order beverages made by expert baristas. Ministry of Ground (designed by Softroom of London) is located midship on Deck 7 (in The Galley food market) and features round-shaped/porthole-type large windows with window seats, purple and aquamarine hues for seating, comfy loungers and modern tables. In addition to the hand-crafted Intelligentsia Coffee brews, passengers receive complimentary cakes and light bites. Retail items (bags of Intelligentsia Coffee and JoJo loose-leaf teas, kettles, coffee cups, and others) are available for purchase.
• Redemption is the ship's Spa complex (on Deck 5) consisting of Reception, Mud Room, Salt Room, Hydrotherapy Pool, cold plunge pool, Jacuzzi, Thermal Suite (indoor spa with porthole windows, plunge pool and Jacuzzi), treatment rooms (for massages and treatments) with quartz-mattress beds, Dry Dock Salon (hairdressing services), Stubble and Groom (barbershop), Blow Dry Bar, Male pedicure Spa, Mani-pedi Spa. At night, the wellness complex transforms into a dancing lounge with live DJ music.
• The Scene Event Space
• Squid Ink is a tattoo studio via a partnership with World Famous Tattoo Ink. The facility is operated by two full-time tattoo artists (handpicked by Lou Rubino Jr) plus celebrity artists. All tattoos are created by using original vegan ink. Other services at Squid Ink include body piercings and permanent makeup treatments (using certified vegan Perma Blend pigments).
• The Red Room was designed by theatre consultants Auerbach Pollock Friedlander and renowned architects WorkAC as the first-ever transformational multi-form theatre at sea. The Red Room transforms into 4 different configurations: an alley stage used in fashion shows, a traditional Proscenium stage, a dance flat-floor configuration, and a unique reverse stage setup. The first at-sea theatre enables the cruise line to create different experiences for each day of the cruise. Valiant Lady offers 6 original shows that include production by Randy Weiner (The Donkey Show, Queen of the Night, Sleep No More).
• The Groupie (privately bookable karaoke room/for sing-alongs) also doubles as Cinema and VIP Casino (gaming lounge).
• The Den Flex Event Space
• Local DJ celebrities perform live onboard Valiant Lady at all ports of call.
• Voyage Vinyl (record store) features listening stations, record collections and a DJ spot for live performances (by resident and guest DJs).
• "JLo Beauty" is an onboard shop selling skincare products of Jennifer Lopez's brand "JLo Beauty & Lifestyle".
• Draught Haus (on deck 7, adjacent to Voyage Vinyl) is the ship's taproom - an exclusive bar serving craft beers.

Draught Haus offers 8 different draft beers, also boilermakers (beer cocktails), bottled craft beers, shots, shot-cocktails. The bar also provides growler/jug service that allows passengers to take their drinks throughout the ship (public spaces and in cabins). The beerhouse features themed furniture, rustic decor, a beer tap display (behind the bar).

Onboard MS Valiant Lady is served Virgin's own brand of craft beer (English Pale Ale) created by Wynwood Brewing Company (Miami). For the new "Virgin cruise beer" is used English yeast and American malts and hops.

Virgin cruise deals

In regard to onboard gratuities, the company has "No Tipping" policy, which means all gratuities are included in the base cruise fares. Also included in basic fares are beverages, all eateries, group fitness classes. The company also doesn't charge penalties or change fees. Customers are able to hold staterooms for 24 hours with no money down once they've placed a 20% non-refundable deposit. They also have a 7-day grace period allowing them to change bookings for any reason. Cruise departure date and names on bookings can be changed without fees or penalties.

In February 2019), Virgin announced all-inclusive deal policy by which cruises are sold "by cabin price". Fares are also inclusive of dining (shipwide / 20 options, some 24-hours), unlimited WiFi, all fitness classes. Cabin pricing only varies by the number of occupants. For 5-day itineraries, fares start from ~USD 250 pp per day (excluding taxes-fees).

Itineraries

Valiant Lady's inaugural season (2021) was based on 7-day Western Mediterranean roundtrips from homeport Barcelona Spain . The 7-day itineraries (Sunday departures) had overnights in large port cities in France, Italy, and Spain. Bookings opened on December 19, 2019.

• On November 12, 2019, Richard Branson announced that the second Virgin ship (Valiant Lady) will be seasonally homeported in Sydney (NSW Australia) . Branson was in Sydney to launch a partnership between Virgin Australia Airlines and Virgin Voyages and promote affordable Australia-Caribbean fly-cruise deals on Scarlet Lady.
• In mid-September 2020, Virgin expanded Valiant Lady's inaugural itinerary program with longer (6- and 8-night) Caribbean roundtrips from PortMiami (Florida USA) . Also were added two Transatlantic repositioning crossings (RepositionCruises.com) - 15-night westbound (Barcelona-Miami) and 14-night eastbound (Miami-Barcelona).

Due to the ongoing Coronavirus crisis, in mid-December 2020 Virgin rescheduled Valiant ship's Maiden Voyage from May 2, 2021 (7-day "The Irresistible Med" from Barcelona) to November 14, 2021 (6-day "Western Caribbean Charm" from Miami). A total of 26x itineraries were canceled, which affected the entire Mediterranean 2021 program.

In July 2021 Virgin rescheduled/postponed the inaugural season and announced new Valiant Lady cruises (for 2022 Spring) leaving from homeport Portsmouth England . The mini-season (March 18 thru May 14, 2022) had 3 new roundtrip itineraries.

• 3-night "Long Weekender" to Belgium (Zeebrugge/Bruges)
• 11-night "Coast the Canary Islands, Spain and Portugal"/UK to Iberia
• 12-night "Late Nights in Portugal and Spain"/UK to Iberia
• Late-night / overnight port stays were planned for Malaga , Palma de Mallorca , the Canaries, Lisbon , Zeebrugge .
• Bookings opened on July 22, 2021.
• The Maiden Voyage was rescheduled for March 18, 2022 (3-night roundtrip from Portsmouth to Zeebrugge).

In the Caribbean, all Virgin cruise liners are homeported in Miami and all their itineraries visit North Bimini Bahamas as a private island destination.

Valiant Lady's Caribbean itinerary program is based on homeporting in Miami and roundtrips themed as "Western Caribbean Charm" (6-night, visiting Honduras' Coxen Hole/Isla Roatan, Mexico's Costa Maya, and The Bahamas' Resorts World Bimini) and "Eastern Caribbean and Antilles" (8-night, with call ports Puerto Plata Dominicana, San Juan Puerto Rico, Frederiksted St Croix USVI, and North Bimini Bahamas).

Valiant Lady - user reviews and comments

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Other Virgin Voyages cruise ships

• Brilliant Lady
• Resilient Lady
• Scarlet Lady

Valiant Lady Wiki

On July 20, 2018, started the Valiant Lady ship's construction (Fincantieri yard/hull number 6288) with the steel-cutting ceremony held at Sestri Ponente Shipyard, near Genoa ). Earlier on the same day, the drydock was flooded and 2 large preassembled hull sections of Scarlet Lady were floated out and connected.

Next timelapse video shows part of Fincantieri's Virgin ship construction (block assembly) process.

For Valiant Lady, the shipbuilder contracted De Wave Group for the new ship's interior outfitting.

• De Wave Group ( Genoa -based manufacturing company) specializes in newbuild cruise ships and yachts interior outfitting. The company was formed via merger of three companies - De Wave (cabins and wet units), Precetti (catering areas) and Spencer Contract (public areas).
• On Valiant Lady, De Wave Group manufactured and supplied Area VI (Family Pool), Area VII (Open Deck), all passenger and crew cabins' Wet Units.

On May 20, 2020, Valiant Lady was floated-out from drydock and moved to Sestri Ponte Yard's outfitting berth. The vessel's assembly started in March 2019. Its float-out was originally scheduled for March 20th. However, because of the Coronavirus pandemic, the shipbuilder Fincantieri temporarily (for ~2 months) suspended works at all its European facilities, which resulted in delayed delivery (to Virgin Group) and cancelled inaugural cruises.

The cruise ship was delivered (by Fincantieri to Virgin Group) on July 1, 2021. Valiant Lady's hull art was created by Hillary Wilson ( Boston MA -based artist/illustrator and visual storyteller best known for her dynamic art and medical drawings). The bow art design features a mermaid resembling a modern black American woman with authentic features.

Virgin ship technology

Virgin cruise ships are with passenger capacity 2750 (plus 1150 crew), GT tonnage 110,000 tons, ABB Azipod XO propulsion system (electric drive motors with off-hull submerged azimuth thrusters / 360--degree rotating propellers). These units provide the best maneuverability (allowing in-port navigation without tug assistance) and minimal vibrations/noise. By placing the propulsion units outside the hull, the Azipod system frees up space for more lower-deck staterooms. ABB Ability technology is based on a network using real-time data transferred to remote centers monitoring and analyzing the propulsion system data and also offering remote technical support.

These vessels stand out with innovative design ideas and solutions, as well as the latest marine technologies for energy recovery and environmental impact reduction. The cleaning energy system was provided by the Swedish company Climeon Ocean. The technology allows reducing CO2 emissions by converting diesel engines' generated heat into electricity (capacity approx 1 MW) for onboard use. Each of the Virgin liners has 6 such units, saving annually approx 5400 tons of CO2. The waste processing system was provided by Scanship.

Wartsila (Finnish marine technologies corporation / former shipbuilder) was contracted to provide ships' powerplants . Each liner is powered by two 8-cylinder plus two 12-cylinder "Wartsila 46F" marine diesel engines. Wartsila's Hybrid Scrubber System operates in both open and closed-loop and uses seawater to remove SOx from the vessel's exhaust, also significantly reducing NOx emissions. The Wartsila-made navigation and automation control systems are from the company's latest NACOS Platinum series.

Alternative power is provided by 4-stroke engines powering the 4 electricity gen-sets, each equipped with TPL-C turbochargers (by ABB).

In February 2020 Virgin announced "The Band" - smart wearable technology introduced on Scarlet Lady (April 1st). The device is made from recycled marine plastic (sustainability initiative) and developed via partnership with The Bionic Company. The lightweight device (RFID wristband) is mailed to all passengers and is complimentary (keepsake). The Band is activated upon boarding the ship and used for onboard purchases and payments (beverages, Casino gaming), booking tours, cabin access (room key), room service ordering (points to guest's current location), VIP pass (for Richard's Rooftop).

Inaugural itineraries 2022

MS Valiant Lady was originally scheduled for inauguration in May 2021, but due to the COVID crisis, Virgin's plans were postponed and revised several times.

Next tables show the ship's inaugural itineraries (by region/destination and homeport) with lowest prices per person (inside cabin with double occupancy).

( MAIDEN VOYAGE ) 3-day "Long Weekender In Zeebrugge" itinerary ($1282)

(UK-Mediterranean repositioning) 12-day from Portsmouth to Barcelona ($4860)

(inaugural Mediterranean/"Mediterranean MerMaiden") 7-day "The Irresistible Med" itinerary ($1200). The "Mediterranean MerMaiden" voyage was attended by Richard Branson (Virgin Group's Founder), Tom McAlpin (President) and Nirmal Saverimuttu (CEO).

7-day "French Daze and Ibiza" itinerary ($2700)

7-day "Spanish Obsession" itinerary ($2835)

(inaugural Transatlantic crossing) 14-day westbound from Barcelona to Miami ($2295)

(inaugural Caribbean cruise) 6-day "Western Caribbean Charm" itinerary ($1935)

8-day "Eastern Caribbean and Antilles" itinerary ($2610)

Inaugural itineraries 2021 (canceled)

The ship's inaugural 2021 season was based on 7-day Western Mediterranean roundtrips out of homeport Barcelona (Sunday departures). Bookings were opened on December 19, 2019.

However, on December 10, 2020, Virgin canceled all Valiant Lady cruises in Europe - between May 2nd and/including October 24, 2021. The Maiden Voyage was rescheduled from May 2 (7-day "The Irresistible Med" from Barcelona) to November 14 (6-day "Western Caribbean Charm" from Miami). The cancellation affected 26 itineraries (the entire Mediterranean 2021 program).

• 7-day "The Irresistible Med" - dates May 2-23, June 6-27, July 11, August 1-15, September 5-19, October 10
• 7-day "French Daze Ibiza" - dates May 9-30, June 13, July 7-18, August 8-22, September 12-26, October 17
• 7-day "Spanish Obsession" - dates May 16, June 20, July 25, August 29, October 3
• The 15-day Transatlantic repositioning cruise from Barcelona to Miami (October 24 through November 8) was also canceled.

Next tables show the canceled Mediterranean itineraries (by theme) with prices in USD per person (Interior cabin rates with double occupancy).

7-day Maiden Voyage ("The Irresistible Med" itinerary) - from $4050 pp

7-day "French Daze and Ibiza" itinerary - from $3850 pp

7-day "Spanish Obsession" itinerary - from $3850 pp

15-day Transatlantic repositioning crossing - from $2700 pp

The next tables show the rescheduled Maiden Voyage and Caribbean itineraries (by theme) in 2021.

(MAIDEN VOYAGE 2021/canceled) 6-day "Western Caribbean Charm" itinerary - from $2160 pp

Virgin Cruises' private island resort "Bimini Beach Club" (Bahamas)

The liner Scarlet Lady was the first cruise ship to stop at "Bimini Beach Club" (Virgin Group's private island resort in Bimini Bahamas ). The exclusive destination allows Virgin's Sailors (passengers) to enjoy world-class entertainment from a rotating cast of DJs led by Mark Ronson.

Virgin's Bimini Beach Club offers premium food with locally sourced ingredients and traditional Bahamian favourites like banana leaf-wrapped queen snapper, conch and mango salad, Bahamian rum cake. The complex has 6 bars, outdoor lounge areas with hammock groves, beach loungers, watersport activities, (optional/at extra cost) private poolside and beach-side cabanas for rent.

RockStar Suite passengers benefit from complimentary food service, exclusive bar and outdoor terrace lounge, VIP beach cabanas. The 7-mile (11-km) long island offers extraordinary activities like boating, snorkeling, wreck diving. The partially sunk wreck of SS Sapona (concrete-hulled steamship that ran aground in 1926) is located just a few miles off island's southern coast.

Virgin's private resort is located on North Bimini Island and at a short bus transfer from the docking pier. It was built via a partnership with Resorts World Bimini. This is a 750-acres (3 km2 / 1,2 mi2) beachfront resort-casino-marina-hotel complex operated by Genting Group (Malaysia-based multinational corporation). North Bimini is approx 68 km (42 mi) east of Miami. Resort's estimated building cost is USD 220 million.

Virgin's Bimini Beach Club overlooks the sea and features a large lagoon-style swimming pool. The "resort experience" also features morning open-air exercises (yoga and meditation), afternoon DJ poolside parties, night beach bonfires and live musical performances.

First look: 10 things I love about Virgin Voyages' new Valiant Lady cruise ship

Editor's Note

Merpeople, rousing games of Clue and exercise classes that will have you sweating to the oldies are just some of the bizarre but intriguing offerings on Virgin Voyages ' Valiant Lady, the second vessel for the latest mega-ship line to enter the cruise market.

I'm just back from the three-night inaugural sailing, and I have so much to report that I honestly don't know where to begin.

I feel like I've just stepped out of a teenage boy's fever dream. He's a rockstar dressed in '80s neon one minute and a professional gamer stuffing his face with popcorn and gelato the next. All the while, he's making "that's what she said" jokes. It's a lot – both in terms of the chaos and the sexual innuendo – but I have a feeling that's exactly what founder Richard Branson intended.

From it all, I've gathered the most noteworthy bits and will try my very best to distill them – both pros and cons – for you here.

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

Energetic, social and nostalgic with just the right amount of partying, Valiant Lady is a welcoming place for both young and young-at-heart adults. (Children aren't allowed.) Although I haven't sailed on Scarlet Lady yet, I'm told Valiant Lady is similar but with the raunch turned down a few notches, thanks to cruiser feedback.

It's an active ship, with groups of people constantly mingling at bars, at shows and in various areas for trivia, board games – think favorites like Mousetrap, Trouble, Mall Madness and Operation – casino play and a chance to relive their childhood with vintage video games in the arcade.

Activities you might find on other ships are on Valiant Lady too, but often with a twist. Take, for example, the Test Kitchen's Shot for Shot event, where you'll learn not only how to make shots but also how to photograph them properly for social media. You can also expect to see impromptu performances throughout the vessel. Don't be surprised if you have no idea what's going on. You'll be in good company.

The caveat here is that all the activity, which is usually paired with pulsating music, does make it difficult to find quiet spaces, especially if you don't have a balcony cabin. Richard's Rooftop is a great top-deck space, but you have to be booked in a suite to access it, and the weather has to be favorable.

Also note that most bars, lounges and social hubs are on the small side, so they feel crowded. It was true on my sailing, which was only at about 54% capacity. I can't imagine how difficult it will be to find a seat when the ship is full.

The inclusivity

Part of what truly stands out to me about Virgin Voyages is its commitment to inclusivity – on many levels. At every show, you'll see performers of all shapes, sizes, colors and genders. The entertainment cast is a more accurate representation of both people and talent than I've seen on any other ship sailing with any other cruise line.

There are also welcome shoutouts to groups that are largely underrepresented in U.S. markets. The mermaid painted on the hull of Valiant Lady is Black and was designed by a Black woman, there's a restaurant onboard that caters largely to vegetarians, and if you don't see at least one person in drag on your cruise, you aren't paying attention.

Additionally, major kudos to the line for adding all-gender bathrooms among its restroom options. (There are separate male and female bathrooms also.)

Personally, I'm thrilled to see the ways in which Virgin has embraced an "everybody's welcome" attitude, but I acknowledge that some of it could be over the top or even uncomfortable for some passengers. For example, I'm all about sexual empowerment, but I left the "Never Sleep Alone" show after the host asked each member of the audience to find a stranger and tell them about their first sexual encounter. Nope. Pass.

And people aren't the only way Virgin is inclusive. Its fares include basic Wi-Fi, crew gratuities, fitness classes, all restaurants, soft drinks and nearly 70 free on-demand movies.

It's nice to be able to dine at a different restaurant each night without worrying about running up a huge onboard bill, and it leaves more money to be spent on other extras like alcohol, spa treatments or shore excursions.

The selections are surprisingly robust, too – Mexican, Korean, diner fare, sushi, seafood, Mediterranean tapas, pizza, burgers, Italian, molecular gastronomy, ice cream and popsicles, candy and popcorn, and a variety of healthy grab-and-go options like salad, charcuterie, fruit, and meat and cheese. There's also a cafe that serves free pastries and cookies (but the coffee costs extra).

The downside here is that the included Wi-Fi is horrible on voyages out of Portsmouth, and the usual premium extra-fee option isn't available yet. Additionally, just about anything worth doing on board – including the free stuff – requires a reservation, which is a pain. My advice? Book everything that looks interesting to you on the first day, or you might miss out. You can always cancel later. This is especially true for certain exercise classes, which have small class sizes and are only offered once or twice per sailing.

I struck up conversations with several crew members on Valiant Lady, and one thing is clear: they're happy. Most of the ones I spoke with worked for other cruise lines previously, and the common refrain is that Virgin treats its employees well. There's less of a social hierarchy; in many ways, it seems like the caste system so common in other fleets has largely been torched.

Mingling is encouraged between not only crew from different departments but also between crew and passengers. It's not unusual to see a crew member snagging a seat at a table full of guests to chat or sipping an alcoholic drink while hosting an onboard event.

Happier crew members generally mean happier passengers, and it creates a sense of community that I haven't felt when sailing with most other lines.

Another marked difference I noticed is that both officers and crew wear uniforms that could pass as street clothes in other environments. They dress for comfort, rather than for propriety – except for the times (and there are many) when they're in lavish costumes.

I do think it's wonderful that the dress codes have been relaxed for the crew – if passengers can wear jeans on formal night, why shouldn't the crew be allowed to wear T-shirts to work? – but I did miss seeing officers walking around the ship in their crisp, white uniforms. I often found myself wondering "Is that person crew or a guest?" when I had a question. Hint: Look for a nametag. If they're wearing one, they're crew.

When I did need help, I was usually pointed in the right direction. However, some crew seemed like they were still getting their feet wet. (These sorts of issues are expected on an inaugural sailing and will likely improve with time.)

I won't go so far as to say it's a problem yet, but there were a couple of times when I was waiting to be helped, and crew members didn't see me because they were on their phones. Freedom and familiarity are great, but not at the expense of customer service. (Note: The devices crew use to scan passengers' "The Band" bracelets look a bit like mobile phones, so it's possible that's what I saw them using. Either way, it was a distraction.)

The entertainment

Whether it's "Never Sleep Alone," a risque share-your-deepest-desires after-hours show starring a "sex therapist"; "Duel Reality," an acrobatic dance battle between two families a la "Romeo and Juliet"; or "Scarlet Night," which celebrates the fictional love story between a daring sailor and an octopus goddess (don't ask), the shows are like nothing you've seen on any other ship, and they ooze with audience participation.

One of the best spaces on the vessel to catch a show is The Red Room. You might expect whips and handcuffs, but instead, you'll find a rarity at sea – a theater that can be arranged in several configurations depending on the show. The seats extend and contract like bleachers, allowing for stadium seating on both sides or, when a stage is involved, just one.

Other entertainment consists of mixology classes, bar crawls, trivia, board game play, themed parties and quirky workouts. Take, for instance, the "VHS (Videos, Headbands, Simmons)" class, where crew lead a 50-minute aerobic workout set to '80s music while wearing fluorescent tank tops, short shorts and sweatbands. (Yes, cruisers are also encouraged to dress up. And, yes, Shake Weights are involved.)

As is the style for Virgin brands, a lot of the fun is accompanied by sexual references. Normally I love a clever-but-racy joke, but there are so many on Virgin Voyages' ships that it sometimes feels like the brand is trying a little too hard to be edgy.

To be fair, lewdness is employed in varying degrees, and it isn't always so intolerable. While I found the outright vulgarity at "Never Sleep Alone" to be off-putting, the VHS workout was replete with double entendres -- balls, thrusting and working up a sweat -- that just made me chuckle.

Also, you'll want to avoid the health and wellness seminars. (They're sales pitches.)

As far as cruise line apps go, Virgin's is one of the best I've seen. It's got tons of functionality, allowing passengers to complete pre-cruise check-in electronically, watch the muster drill video, and view and book daily activities.

It also lets cruisers make shore excursion and dining reservations, see what they've signed up for, view their onboard accounts, request room service or Champagne deliveries , summon their room stewards and jump in a virtual queue for guest services inquiries. Yet, it still manages to offer a simple user experience.

However, there are still some glitches. I was logged out several times throughout the course of my sailing, and it was a pain to look up my password and sign in again every time. Pages within the app would also refresh several times before finally remaining static enough for me to scroll to where I needed to be.

Some functions -- such as one that allows food to be delivered to you anywhere onboard via Bluetooth -- also weren't yet up and running, and when I jumped in the virtual queue for guest services, I waited more than an hour with no response before finally giving up.

The onboard Wi-Fi was also a severe pain point, which might have contributed to some of the app issues. (I'm told it will improve when the ship repositions to its Barcelona homeport.)

The Seabeds

Some people dislike Virgin Voyages' Seabeds – beds that convert into sofas during the day to allow for more cabin space. I think the concept is clever.

In bed configuration, the mattress is actually comfortable. In couch configuration, there's much more space if you plan to be in your room during the day. Plus, the bedside tables make for a great setup if you're working remotely like I was.

But you have to remember to ask for the configurations to be switched. If you forget, you could return from a late night of partying to discover your bed is still a sofa. (The incredibly useful in-cabin tablet will allow you to request the swap. Less than 60 seconds after asking to have my couch turned back into a bed, my room attendant was at my door.)

Speaking of accommodations, I'm obsessed with the simple but quirky cabin designs, which are mostly white with light woods and fun color pops – a striped throw pillow here, a color-changing mirror accent there and, of course, pinkish-purple accent lights.

I also adore the high-tech aspects, which allow you to push a button for "please make up my room" or "do not disturb." You can request everything from room service and on-demand films to fresh towels via a tablet on the vanity.

The hammocks found on all balconies are also a genius touch; frankly, all cruise lines should have them. (Sadly it was a bit too cold for me to enjoy mine for more than a few minutes.)

I do like that the bathrooms offer shampoo, conditioner and shower gel (Red Flower brand) instead of all-in-one, and there's a shower door instead of a curtain.

What I didn't love was the storage. Cabins on sister ship Scarlet Lady were recently redone to incorporate more shelves and drawer space , and Valiant Lady was constructed with them to begin with. However, I sailed alone in a room meant for two, I brought only a carry-on for my three-night voyage, and I still used up all of the available drawers.

The bathroom is also painfully small – about the size of an airplane bathroom – and there's nowhere to put toiletries unless you leave them on the sink. The showerhead options are rainfall or wand. I found the wand to be problematic; if you aim it at yourself, it also sprays the door, creating potential leaks. I'm not a fan of rainfall heads, either, as they make it difficult to avoid getting my hair wet when I don't want to wash it.

Also, it's minor but worth mentioning that the hangers look like a slightly more expensive version of the wire ones you'd get at the dry-cleaners, and they left bumps in the shoulders of some of my tops.

The (not so secret) secrets

If you're someone who craves exclusivity, Valiant Lady is the ship for you. You can always find limited-capacity events, including mixology seminars, fitness classes and – my favorite – a VIP experience on the ship's "Scarlet Night."

You can be selected as a VIP by joining in certain activities throughout the ship. After winning trivia two days in a row, my teammates and I were invited to participate in what amounted to a pirate-themed scavenger hunt below deck, complete with drinks and magic tricks in a hidden bar.

If that sounds fun to you, be sure to participate when you hear calls for free Champagne, trivia and other daily pursuits that could score you an invite.

Want more insider info? Ask for the "secret" menu at vegetarian-forward restaurant Razzle Dazzle. Oddly, it includes non-veggie items like steak or buttered chicken, depending on the region where the ship is sailing.

Spoiler: You'll hear lots of people mentioning said menu, so it's not really "secret" anymore. It's also not a physical menu, so don't expect a piece of paper to be handed to you when you inquire about it. TPG Principal Writer Gene Sloan tried the secret steak and said he wouldn't recommend it, so I steered clear.

The homage to shipbuilding

Throughout the vessel, you'll see nods to the ship's construction. I think the most fun are the metallic bars you might see on some of the walls, including the ones just outside of the Test Kitchen. They bear numbers, which indicate the ship's structural frame lines.

The vessel's cabin numbers are also linked to the frame lines, which is why they seem so random. For example, my cabin was 10314A, which means I was on Deck 10, my room was located at frame line 314, and I was on side A, which is port. (Z is starboard.)

There's no drawback to the frame line displays. But, with regard to the cabin numbering, since the same frame lines appear on both sides of the ship, that means cabin numbers are repeated -- one on either side -- making it crucial for cruisers to pay attention to the A or Z in their room assignments.

In keeping with its music industry roots, Virgin Voyages uses something called "The Band" instead of traditional cruise keycards. They look a bit like '80s friendship bracelets, and they're made from plastic that was fished from the ocean and recycled.

They're convenient and fairly unobtrusive. You also don't have to remember to take your card with you when you leave your room. Plus, since there are no cards, you aren't required to insert one when you enter your cabin in order to get the lights to work. (If you're concerned about saving energy, fear not. There are motion sensors that turn off the lights and close the curtains when no movement is detected after a certain period of time.)

The bracelets are a solid idea overall, but they're not the most attractive. They've got a hideous gray plastic bit attached, which serves as the mechanism that unlocks your cabin door and allows you to charge onboard purchases to your account.

They're also incredibly difficult to put on yourself if you aren't sailing with anyone, and they're not great mementos from the trip, as they don't include your name, the ship's name or the sailing date like a keycard would.

Valiant Lady: The Leading Lady Ship of Mediterranean Cruises

>> Blog article container --> There’s been a vessel in the distance for some time. Another irresistible cruise ship, conceived of by the innovators at Virgin Voyages and styled by top global design teams. She’ll be brought to life by the master shipbuilders of Fincantieri in Genoa, Italy and will find home port for herself in Barcelona, Spain. Benvenuta as they say in Italy, or welcome to our Virgin Voyages ship number two; Welcome Valiant Lady! With a name, derived from the Latin term, valēre , meaning strong, vigorous and powerful, we can’t think of a better way to describe the leading mermaid gracing her bow, guiding us through the Mediterranean , on our first European cruise. Inspiration for her identity combines folklore of the past while proudly ushering in traits of today. Historically, women have graced the bows of ships as symbolic figures of protection. But Valiant Lady embodies a new era where women don’t only represent a sort of figurative well-being for the ship, but also a quite literal one.  From engineers to builders, marine tech to captains, Virgin Voyages ships are empowering female leaders to break through, and challenge conventions for women in the maritime world. Virgin Voyages proudly boasts leadership positions for women with the design, build, technical operations and captaining of Virgin Voyages cruise ships. Like them, our ship’s leading lady is quite, well, valiant.   >> Blog article container --> Virgin Voyages new cruise ship which plans to sail in the Mediterranean with destinations throughout Europe. >> Blog article container --> With a home port in Barcelona, and destinations throughout the Mediterranean, Valiant Lady will feature three 7-night itineraries, all going on sale in December of 2019 and setting sail in May of 2021.  Home to some of the world’s best beach clubs, night clubs and yacht clubs these itineraries, typically sailed by super yachts, will play host to Valiant Lady’s three different itineraries, all beginning and ending in Barcelona’s Wharf home placing Sailors within walking distance to everything this architecturally legendary, urban gem has to offer. Our first itinerary visits the breathtaking southern French port city of Marseille, before sailing to Monte Carlo in Monaco, at the base of the Maritime Alps for an overnight stay along the French Riviera. This itinerary visits the Sardinian island’s north eastern coastal city of Olbia, known for the medieval San Simplicio basilica and its palm-lined waterfront. Valiant Lady then docks in Spain for another overnight in the beach club mecca of Ibiza before returning home to Barcelona, Spain. The second itinerary is a fantastic sampling of the med with plans to visit Toulon on France’s coast before sailing to Italy’s Tuscan coastal town, Marina di Carrara, with a backdrop of dramatic white marked mountains, where what appears to be snow is actually some of the purest marble in the world.  That itinerary next visits Ajaccio, the capital of the French island of Corsica before a stop in the Italian island of Sardinia’s capital city of Cagliari, known for the hilltop Castello, a medieval walled quarter towering the island town. This journey ends with an overnight stay gracing the music laden sands of Ibiza before heading back to Barcelona. The third itinerary offers a sampling of Spanish delights sailing from Barcelona to the shores of Palma de Mallorca, the capital of the Spanish island of Mallorca. Sailors will then head for an overnight stay in the southern port city of Málaga, Spain and visit Gibraltar on the southernmost coast with a final overnight stay in Ibiza before returning home to Barcelona.   In preparation for her new home, Virgin Voyages is partnering with Global Port Holding, the world’s leading independent cruise ship port operator, to refresh and recharge the Barcelona Wharf, a location, traditionally reserved by luxury liners and mega-yachts. All of Valiant Lady’s Mediterranean itineraries go on sale in December 2019 with each one spending overnights at the beach club mecca of Ibiza - it’s so much more than the typical shore excursion.  Traveling with bravery, strength, heart, and power come naturally when traveling on the new cruise ship, Valiant Lady. We can already feel her courage and determination quite literally bringing the ship to fruition. Following in Scarlet Lady’s footsteps, we’re preparing for the Valiant Lady to be even more beautiful than expected. We’re looking forward to her completion, and no matter where she sails, we know Valiant Lady will exhilarate the Sailors’ that travel in her care. Bon Voyage! 

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Review: Valiant Lady

Reviewed by Rick Jordan

What is the line? Virgin Voyages

Name of ship? Valiant Lady

Passenger occupancy? 2,700

Itinerary? Seven-night Western Mediterranean: Barcelona-Toulon-Marina di Carrara, Italy-Ajaccio, Corsica-Cagliari, Sardinia-Ibiza-Barcelona

Start out with the big picture—what is this cruise line known for?  

Virgin Voyages made its debut in 2022 with two ships and a mission to reinvent the experience for people who may never have considered a cruise before. Richard Branson, who confesses to hating the traditional idea of a cruise, has set out to disrupt the industry by offering adults-only itineraries appealing to the ‘young at heart’—with all-inclusive dining inspired by street-food trends, innovative entertainment that leans into club culture and stand-up comedy, and accomplished design by some of the brightest sparks on the block. Based on the inaugural voyage, it’s also extremely diverse, with a strong LGTBQ+ presence and a spread of ethnicities and age groups. There’s certainly an uninhibited, ‘party in the pool’ attitude onboard, but it never goes too overboard. And as a medium-sized ship, it’s able to dock at some interesting, lesser-known ports of call, such as Toulon and Ajaccio—plus it’s the only cruise experience that overnights on Ibiza, meaning those who want to keep the party going can stay out until the morning.      

Tell us about the ship in general  

The  Valiant Lady is the second ship in the Virgin fleet (which will number four in 2023), having made her maiden voyage in March 2022. At 278 metres long, she’s a mid-sized ship with 1,330 cabins and 78 suites (almost all with sea views) capable of holding a total of 2,700 passengers. Those are the stats, but the ship’s character is defined by the Black mermaid painted on its hull and the red octopus that comes alive, flashlight eyes and all, on the pool deck during DJ sets – the sense of inclusivity and fun flows all around. From a distance, the Valiant Lady may resemble a typical cruise ship with a rather prominent red funnel, but look closely and you’ll see trampoline-style netting at the stern for sunbathing, a deckside boxing ring and a standalone running track that circles the ship like a halo. Safe to say it’s also the only cruise ship at sea with its own tattoo parlour, mezcal bar and vinyl store. A central circular staircase has that high-kicking ‘sashay-down-me’ vibe, a diamante-sparkling mirrored ‘infinity’ corridor leads to the Manor nightclub, and there are so many different bars and restaurants – each with their own distinct design identity – that you’ll still be discovering new places on your last day.  The main swimming pool is an obvious hub, and can get busy; a less obvious one is Richard’s Rooftop at the stern, an Ibiza-white space with hot tub, bar and sofas accessible only by suite guests. At times, the ship can feel like a floating festival, albeit one with that takes its health kicks seriously – the onboard spa is very slick, all marble and Scandi-style wood with a salt room and hammams with porthole views. 

Who is onboard?  

On the inaugural voyage in May 2022, the passenger list included everyone from experienced, 40-cruises-under-their-belts sea dogs to first-timers; birthday-party groups to singletons. They were mainly from the US and UK, and ranged from mid-20s to 60s. One female couple from Los Angeles were celebrating their honeymoon onboard; a single lawyer from New York was on his way to the F1 race in Barcelona. Having Sir Richard Branson onboard for its ‘MerMaiden’ voyage also helped pull in a few curious sailors (as passengers are referred to continually), as well as industry pros keen to experience the new launch.  

Describe the cabins

On the small side but comfortable – mine was a standard Sea Terrace Cabin with a bed that can be converted into a pair of sofas to maximise space, a curved desk and a terrace just large enough for two metal chairs and a Virgin-red hammock. There’s a touch pad to control temperature and request room service, USB plugs on either side of the bed, a small fridge and wall-mounted TV, while the bathroom has a rainforest shower. One smart detail is that a movement sensor automatically turns lights on and off and opens the curtains for you. The cabin was fine for a week’s voyage but nothing to put a message in a bottle about. More space can be found in the suites, the Rockstar Quarters, which come in a variety of sizes (the largest sleep four) and give guests fast-track access to excursions and restaurants, and to the Richard’s Rooftop deck lounge—a couple even have their own DJ decks and wall-mounted guitars. Of the cabins, 30 are accessible and 46 are designed for solo travelers.

Tell us about the crew  

A melting pot of 90 nationalities makes up the crew here, all of whom are clearly very happy to be working here. It’s very apparent that Virgin takes good care of their staff. They’re encouraged to take shore leave and use the ship’s facilities when they’re off-duty—so there’s no sense of them being hidden away below deck – and have their own bars, including one on the top deck. 

What food and drink options are available on board?  

This is where the  Valiant Lady really stands out. There are 20 places to eat onboard, all of them included in the price of the voyage, and inspired by the New York and London dining scenes. Each of the spaces has been created by one of five different design studios—none of which has worked on a cruise ship before—which gives a very distinctive aesthetic. Razzle Dazzle, for example, was inspired by the camouflage pattern used by warships in WWI and II, while its plant-based menu includes heirloom squash ravioli, mushroom tartare and rainbow churros; Pink Agave, with its mezcal bar and Mexican menu of tamales, chicken enchiladas and rich mole sauces (a favourite) was designed by Tom Dixon, all blues and pinks with an entrance that’s very Sixties sci-fi. Gunbae is a boisterous Korean BBQ joint, where guests are thrown together on horseshoe-tables and encouraged to mingle while downing shots of soju, while Test Kitchen is a clever approximation of an experimental chef’s table, with a tasting menu prepared at an open kitchen and wine pairings. Elsewhere are options for pizzas, Mediterranean salads and small plates, while for quick fixes the Galley is a food hall with eight options, ranging from bento boxes to tacos. Of all the restaurants, I wish I’d spent more time at The Wake, an elegant surf-and-turf spot designed by Roman & Williams (Freehand hotels, Standard Highlight, NoMad London) in homage to mid-century Manhattan, an oyster-shell glow of a space with stern-window views, tableside Martini mixing and filet mignon and Maine lobster on the menu—though few had discovered its brunch potential. As for bars, there are standalone craft ale and Champagne options, a wine bar at the Extra Virgin restaurant and the outdoor Dock, a favorite for sundowner cocktails. Damn good flat whites, by the way, at Grounds Club, for those who despair of insipid cruise coffee. This isn’t, by the way, a ship to ask about getting a place on the captain’s table – though reservations are needed for individual restaurants. 

Is there a spa on board and is it worth visiting?  

Yes, wellness is a key feature of the  Valiant Lady , at Branson’s request, and a lot of thought has gone into the Deck 5 Redemption Spa, a beautiful, free-flowing space that takes in a variety of hydrotherapy pools, a wood-lined sauna, mud room and salt cave, with cold plunge pools and even quartz massage beds – most of which have porthole views to the ocean outside. There’s also a mani-pedi bar, barbershop and hairstyling bar.

Activities and entertainment  

Even on the most sophisticated cruise ships there’s always a little corniness when it comes to entertainment, but the shows on  Valiant Lady were among the most original and inventive I’ve encountered—a whole week went by without hearing a single note of Andrew Lloyd Webber. In fact, several were ones I’d pay to see if they ever toured my home city. There were kinetic dance performances that morphed into a club night with guests taking to the floor alongside a number of sequinned Carnival queens, a thrillingly acrobatic retelling of Romeo and Juliet, drag-queen karaoke sessions and a sexologist comedy show, Never Sleep Alone, which featured some toe-curling audience participation. The nightclub is partly inspired by Studio 54 (albeit without Bianca Jagger riding in on a white horse) and feels credible, with stage performers leading the dancing, while the unique shape-shifting theatre has seating and a stage that slides around to make various configurations; small impromptu performances also materialize in public spaces around the ship, along with a nightly blues session at the base of the circular staircase. There’s also a variety of activities such as cocktail mixing lessons, pajama parties and shuffleboard, as well as Pilates and yoga, and an outdoor gym. At the casino one night, I won and lost a mighty $20 over the course of an hour on the roulette wheel, and tried to figure out how on earth to play craps. Once a week, there’s a Scarlet Night pool party in which half the crew and guests end up jumping in (on the inaugural voyage, Branson led the way). 

How was the experience for families?  

This is a cruise line for the young at heart, but that doesn’t include children. 

Where did it sail and how were the excursions? Did anything stand out?  

Sailing between Barcelona and Ibiza and back, the Irresistible Med itinerary took us to some lesser-visited Mediterranean ports – as a mid-sized ship, the  Valiant Lady is able to access ports that bigger ships can’t. Toulon is a mini Marseilles with modernist architecture and a pretty beach; Marina di Carrara, the famous marble quarries gleaming like snow-capped mountains in the distance, has a beautiful old town; Ajaccio is full of Napoleonic history and a busy food market. Once the ship docks in Ibiza Town, there’s a beach club just for guests, and the overnight anchorage means you can stay out all night at DC-10 if you like. Excursions are probably the most conventional aspect of Virgin Voyages, with longer trips to destinations such as Florence, and experiences such as snorkelling, pasta making and truffle-hunting with dogs. Groups signing up for different activities often found themselves at the same place. (A Napoleon tour of Cagliari was a gentle if underwhelming tour of the town, mostly spending time at a bistro for a 10.30am bottle of wine and an over-dubbed dramatised film about the Emperor’s life.) Using the app – which had teething problems—to book trips took away any personal contact with the excursion team and the opportunity to ask questions. The itineraries needed a little more detail, such as how long coach journeys would take.  

Are there any stand out sustainability or green initiatives about this cruise?

Virgin Voyages’ sustainable credentials are impressive, too: heat from the engines is converted into clean electricity,  and it’s the first carbon-neutral cruise line for direct emissions. Shoreside power is used where possible, waste water recycled into drinking water, and the presence sensors in the cabins ensure they flip into energy-saver mode once you’ve left. And rather than treading water, the cruise line has partnered with a variety of sustainable, waste-based fuel providers in order to reach net zero by 2050. There are no single-used plastics or takeaway cups onboard, and those bright-red hammocks were sourced from a community project in rural Thailand. 

Anything we missed  

The boarding experience in Barcelona (from the ferry port, meaning you can walk straight from town) was very speedy, a matter of minutes, and guests are given an electronic wristband that works as a room key (any payments are taken using this too). 

Finally, give a sentence or two on why the cruise is worth booking.

This is a design-savvy, wonderfully inclusive ship that offers a genuinely different cruising experience, with some of the most exciting and varied restaurant menus afloat, and entertainment that will grab you by the seat of your pants. Those expecting a traditional, dress-up-for-dinner experience may want to sit this one out, but for anyone who appreciates a fresh approach—along with a refreshingly diverse set of fellow sailors—the  Valiant Lady ’s an obvious choice.  

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

By CNT Editors

Virgin Voyages welcomes its second ship Valiant Lady

Valiant Lady, Virgin Voyages ’ second ship, is set to make her UK debut with a tour around the UK this March. She’ll grace the ports of London International Cruise Terminal (Tilbury) and Liverpool ahead of her Mermaiden voyage from Portsmouth before she heads to her homeport in Barcelona.

Valiant Lady is the second Lady ship of four in Virgin Voyages’ new adult-by-design, boutique luxury fleet. Valiant Lady, like her sister ship Scarlet Lady, boasts dazzling contemporary design and new experiences to reinvigorate the cruise industry in the same way that Virgin Atlantic Upper Class did in aviation. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Virgin (@virgin)

Valiant Lady features an impressive 1,330 cabins and 78 RockStar Quarters, plus two Massive Suites that come with their own turntables and a private hot tub. 86% of cabins have their own balcony, and 93% feature ocean views – plus Valiant Lady’s cabins feature a new, elevated design to bring warmer energy and a more sophisticated feel. And there’s more drawers and storage space too, making them perfect for longer itineraries. 

Speaking of the arrival of Valiant Lady to the UK, Tom McAlpin, CEO of Virgin Voyages, said: “Following the success of our first lady ship, Scarlet Lady, we are so excited to debut Valiant Lady to the UK this March and begin our European tour. The lifting of UK travel restrictions has already shown promising signs with 70% uplift in bookings since December – and we can’t wait to welcome Sailors on board!

“We’ll be showcasing our newest lady in Tilbury and Liverpool, where fans are invited to wave her in before we kick off our bookable European sailings from Portsmouth in March and our new homeport in Barcelona in May. Our epic sailings have curated itineraries that are unbelievably accessible for those in the UK wanting to cruise differently, and we look forward to hitting the high seas and showing both budding and avid sailors how to voyage the Virgin way.”

Valiant Lady’s itineraries feature longer port stays and overnighters in some of Europe’s most idyllic islands and effervescent cities , including Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza. 

Richard Branson said: “Virgin Voyages has been a dream in the making since my 20s and today is a momentous day launching our second ladyship, Valiant Lady. It’s exciting to be able to celebrate our continued growth as a brand that’s on a mission to voyage like no other. In our five decades in business, Virgin has always sought to offer our customers something extra special, and Virgin Voyages has worked tirelessly to do just that.”

Visit Virgin Voyages to find out more and book your voyage with Valiant Lady.

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Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady Deck Plans & Reviews

Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady

Activities & entertainment

• Gym & Tonic Bar
• Redemption Spa *
• Squid Ink *
• Stubble & Groom *
• Sun Club Sanctuary
• Tattoo Parlor *
• The Crow's Nest
• The Roundabout Atrium
• The Tune Up *
• Training Camp
• Active Diversions
• Aquatic Club
• B-Complex Build & Balance
• B-Complex Burn & Bike
• Boxing Ring
• Fitness Classes
• The Casino *
• Vibrant Nightlife
• Pink Agave - Mexican & Mezcal
• Razzle Dazzle - Vegetarian
• Sun Club Cafe - Outdoor Casual
• The Athletic Club Bar - Sports Drinks *
• The Dock - Outdoor Eatery
• The Galley - Market-style food hall
• The Pizza Place - Pizza
• The Test Kitchen - Experimental
• Aquatic Club Bar - Poolside Bar *
• Extra Virgin - italian
• Gunbae - Korean BBQ
• Excellent 370
• Very Good 68
• Terrible 50
• All languages ( 541 )
• English ( 530 )
• Spanish ( 7 )
• Italian ( 2 )

Upcoming itineraries

Valiant Lady

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages |

Find a Cruise on Valiant Lady

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Virgin Voyages ' second ship can hold up to 2,770 passengers and 1,160 crew members. Debuted in March 2022, Valiant Lady receives rave reviews from travelers thanks to its well-appointed cabins and excellent service.

Valiant Lady features more than 20 eateries – all of which are included with your cruise fare – serving cuisine ranging from seafood and steaks to Korean barbecue. For entertainment, guests on board can head to the Red Room, where the ship's largest productions are held. However, Valiant Lady also holds several pop-up performances throughout the day in various locations around the ship. Other entertainment options include trivia, board games, an arcade and more.

Standard Insider cabins range from 105 to 177 square feet. All accommodations come equipped with high-end amenities like rain showers, flat-screen TVs and adjustable Seabeds – beds that can be converted into couches when guests want extra legroom. For additional perks, like a European king mattress and a terrace with a hammock, opt for one of Valiant Lady's RockStar Quarters. These lavish digs range from 570 to 2,167 square feet and are serviced 24/7 by RockStar Agents, Virgin Voyages' version of a butler.

Valiant Lady sails to several popular destinations in the Mediterranean (think: Cannes, France , and Ibiza, Spain ), as well as Caribbean hot spots like San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic . The ship also offers transatlantic voyages.

U.S. News Insider Tip:  If you didn't lock in the dining reservations you wanted before your trip, don't despair. Reservations open up for popular eateries and times during each sailing as restaurants release bookings and people cancel. You can also try walking into eateries that require reservations to see if they can fit you in. –  Holly Johnson, Contributor

Pros & Cons

Plenty of entertainment options

Alcoholic drinks are not included in the base fare

• Expert Rating » 4.5
• Traveler Rating » 4.1
• Health Rating » 4.0

Valiant Lady ranks # 3 out of 3 Virgin Voyages Cruise Ships based on an analysis of expert and user ratings, as well as health ratings.

• # 3 in Best Virgin Voyages
• # 38 in Best Cruises to the Caribbean
• # 39 in Best Affordable Cruises
• # 40 in Best Cruises for Couples

Valiant Lady offers a wide range of accomodation options. Browse cabins to find the stateroom that suits your needs.

Valiant Lady contains 14 decks. Find out which features are available on each Valiant Lady deck.

Traveler Reviews

A ship’s traveler rating is provided under license by Cruiseline.com , which manages one of the largest databases of cruise reviews and ratings by travelers. A total of 62 guests have reviewed Valiant Lady , giving it a rating of 4.2 on a scale of 1-5.

Cruiseline Travel Rating:

Reviews by traveler type.

Ship Photos

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

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Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady Review: An EPIC Cruise Experience

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We had such an incredible time on our Virgin cruise , and today I’m sharing a super in-depth Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady review!

Whether you’re considering cruising with Virgin or you’ve already booked your cruise and you’re looking for the scoop, I’m writing up everything you need to know before you go to make the most of your epic Virgin Voyages vacay!

Psst, if you’re eyeing any Virgin Caribbean cruises , here’s their best offer of the season:  Voyages throughout the end of April 2023 in the Caribbean will receive 60% off their second sailor and $200 of sailor loot (onboard credit to use on spa services or shore excursions) !!

We went on the French Daze Ibiza Nights Valiant Lady cruise. I knew I wanted to do one of Virgin’s Mediterranean cruises and was debating between this one and the Irresistible Mediterranean one (both are aboard the Valiant Lady ship).

We ended up going with the French Daze Ibiza Nights cruise because the itinerary on this one just looked epic and I wasn’t familiar with any of the stops on the Irresistible Med itin, but I’m sure that one is awesome too. We actually ended up chatting with the hosts of one of the onboard shows and he said that one was lovely.

And even if you’re heading out on a cruise out of Miami on the Scarlet Lady ship, from what I’ve heard the layout of the ship is pretty much the same, with identical eateries and restaurants, so all of these tips apply as well.

This was my first time going on a cruise and I can already tell the experience onboard Virgin Voyages has forever ruined me.

Virgin really has elevated everything in a way that only the Virgin brand can. They’ve created an epic cruise experience for people who don’t typically like cruises.

Virgin Voyages are adults-only, and it really felt like an adult playground and 24/7 party out on the sea every day/night. There are so many fun things to do onboard, from different shows to trivia night (I usually hate trivia night but their version was so fun), an arcade, karaoke, fine dining, to dancing…that it’s literally impossible to get bored.

We had such an incredible time, we’re already looking at our calendars wondering when we can set sail with Virgin again!

Read on for my in-depth Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady review and all the deets you need to know!

Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady Review

Know before you go on your virgin voyages cruise.

Here are a few tips/things to know before your Virgin Voyages cruise…because failing to plan is planning to fail. Lol jk it’s not that serious, you’ll have a great time whether you wing it or plan out your itinerary beforehand. But these tips will help you get the most out of your cruise!

Download the Virgin Voyages App

The app is super helpful—when it works. Fair warning, it’s slow and crashes a lot, but for some reason, it works much better once you’re on the ship’s wifi.

Before your trip, you’ll use the app for things like uploading your passport and documents, booking restaurant reservations (see below for more tips on that), and linking up with other sailors in your party so you can share an agenda and make bookings for restaurants and shows together.

You can peruse the app to get acquainted ahead of time with the ship’s spaces (sooo many restaurants) and amenities (like a tattoo parlor, full hair salon, spa, shops, etc.).

Restaurant Reservations on board Valiant Lady

Once you’ve downloaded the Virgin Voyages app, check to see what date reservations open up and you’re able to book restaurants. Mark your calendar and set a reminder for that date, because reservations start to book up quickly!

Book restaurants as soon as reservations open up. This was what I struggled with on the app the most before our trip. It took me a good afternoon to make all of our dinner reservations because the app was so slow and kept crashing, so I’d give it a break and check back again until I was finally able to book everything I wanted.

We dined around 8 pm most nights and that felt perfect. The restaurants do hold some tables for walk-ins rather than reservations too, so if you aren’t able to get all the rezzies you want, you can always stop by on the ship to see if there’s availability.

See the below section all about dining options and my reviews of the restaurants on board for tips on which restaurants to prioritize during your cruise, which ones are best for dinner vs brunch, etc.

Get a Feel for the Shows You Want to Book

Definitely check out the shows in the app and start to get a feel for the ones that interest you the most. I have more notes below in the Shows section of this post describing the different ones and which ones were our favs.

You won’t be able to book any of the shows until you’re onboard on the ship’s wifi, but Omied and I found it helpful to map out which shows we wanted to make sure to hit up and what nights they were playing and fit into our itinerary. That way we had done our research ahead of time and were able to quickly reserve our seats once we were on the ship.

I will say, the actual schedule of some of the shows had shifted around a bit by the time we got on the ship (I had noted some of the shows down for certain nights and they were no longer playing those days), but it was still helpful to have a quick list of which ones were our priority to book.

Cabins on the Valiant Lady

I would definitely recommend springing for an XL Sea Terrace! Having a little balcony with a hammock was so nice.

We also upgraded for $100 to get a centrally located XL Sea Terrace cabin. Cruise ships can feel pretty big and overwhelming, so not having to walk too far to get to the main elevator was nice, but I also don’t think it would have been that big of a deal if we didn’t upgrade to a central room.

Another fun feature of the cabins is your bed converts into a sofa. We never took advantage of this but if you wanted some seating during the day, that’s an option.

Next time, I’m eyeing the Rockstar Suite! 😉 If you watched the last season of The Bachelorette, you’ll recognize the MegaStar Quarters as Gabby’s room where she had her serious chat with Logan.

Helpful Things to Pack for Your Virgin Voyage

Nausea Bands and Dramamine – If you get motion sickness, bring nausea bands & Dramamine . They do have Dramamine on the ship too in case you forget, but it’s a big ship, and if sea sickness hits you probably won’t want to be running around trying to find the medical center on board.

I do tend to get motion sickness and I was pretty nervous about how I would feel since this was my first cruise and I didn’t really know what to expect.

Thankfully, I felt pretty good and really didn’t experience any nausea! There are certain parts of the ship where I could feel the rolling and rocking a bit more than others, but my nausea bands were enough to keep me feeling fine and I didn’t end up needing to take Dramamine.

Travel Steamer – The rooms don’t come equipped with an iron or steamer and if you call down to ask Sailor Services for one, they might not have one available. I was glad I brought my travel steamer (I love this one , it’s lightweight and works great) both for steaming my clothes and for the next item…

Travel Espresso Maker – Probably my only complaint (and we’re getting into first-world problems here) was that there’s no way to make coffee in your room.

I fully recognize I have a caffeine addiction. But I like to get my morning going with some coffee before ever having to leave my room. I don’t live the feeling of showing up at a restaurant for breakfast super groggy and out of it.

Plus with a hammock and sea terrace, it’d be nice to sip coffee out there in the mornings.

I came up with a nice little travel hack solution here that I’m pretty proud of. I brought my travel espresso maker with me (love this thing, I always travel with it because you never know what the in-room coffee situation will be) but I also needed hot water for it.

Sailor Services was not able to provide me with an electric kettle so I could make hot water, which is when I started using my travel steamer to make hot water. Et voilà! Shots of espresso in our room every morning. I felt like MacGyver.

A Red Outfit for Scarlet Night – Scarlet Night happens on Thursday night onboard the ship and it is SO much fun. Truly one of the highlights of our experience on Virgin Voyages.

Be sure to bring a red outfit to wear for this party, and my advice is to wear something that you wouldn’t mind jumping in the pool in because Scarlet Night starts with a pool party, and jumping in while fully clothed is a MUST. Trust me, it’s so so fun. Omied and I had a blast. 😉

My two-piece set is from Dress the Population and it was the perfect shade of Virgin red. It held up great after jumping in the pool too!

Here are a few other red outfit ideas for you if you’re looking for some inspo:

Magnetic Hooks – Turns out the walls have metal in them, and these magnetic hooks for the bathroom/walls were perfect for more hanging space!

We hung hats, wet swimsuits, and wet clothes (from Scarlet Night! ;)) on our hooks and we were happy to have them.

Buy these must-haves before your trip:

Tips Once aboard Valiant Lady

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Elise / Travel Blogger + Life (@wtfab)

I felt like this was a good time to share this IG Reel I made about things aboard the Valiant Lady that ~*just make sense*~. There are so many cool, well thought out features on the ship!

Here are a few random notes and tips we learned aboard the ship that will be helpful for you during your voyage!

First things first, let’s start with this hot tip about alcohol lol. You aren’t allowed to bring hard liquor or beer on the ship, but you can bring two bottles of wine per cabin on the ship.

While it isn’t explicitly stated on Virgin’s help page, I believe you can bring on two bottles of wine per port (that’s what we did and we had no problems at all). Here’s what their Help page says about alcohol:

If you must bring that rare bottle of red you got in the south of France, we get it. Sailors are also welcome to bring two (2) 750mL bottles of wine per cabin in carry-on bags.

You can bring your wine with you anywhere on the ship and they’ll open it for you and bring you an ice bucket to chill if it’s a white or champagne.

This came in so clutch. We picked up wine at each stop and drank our bottles with dinner, at shows, and we even popped open a bottle of rosé poolside.

Such a great way to save a bit on alcohol and it was so nice that the staff on the ship were super cool about it and happy to open our bottles wherever we were.

We definitely indulged in ordering cocktails (and shots on Scarlet Night lol) onboard—it’s so easy with just the scan of your wristband—but bringing on wine helped offset the alcohol costs.

Booking Shows

Remember to book the shows you want to see once you’re on board and on the ship’s wifi! Some of them book up fast.

The wifi on the ship is free (yay), but very weak (boo), so don’t expect to be able to work on the ship. You certainly won’t be able to do any video calls, and I could barely post my Insta Stories or check my email sometimes.

Pro-tip, put your DND light on in your cabin before you go to sleep if you don’t want housekeeping to ring your doorbell and open your door at 9 am.

The staff is v efficient and whenever we forgot to put our DND light on, we had someone pop into our room while we were still in bed, which is always awkward.

Shore Things

I would not recommend booking your activities/excursions through Shore things on the app. The excursions we did book we realized later would have been a lot cheaper if we had just booked them ourselves (whether it was booking a train ticket to Antibes or directly booking with a beach club).

Of course, you’re paying

for the convenience of just booking through the app and having a bus pick you up right from the ship, and the guide making sure you get back in time and don’t miss the ship leaving lol. 

But if you’re a comfortable traveler, you can def save some $$ by booking these activities yourself.

Dining Aboard the Valiant Lady / Scarlet Lady

I heard this Tiktok audio and felt so seen, lol. I had to make a Reel with it with some clips from our many dining experiences onboard the ship.

I know y’all can relate because my restaurant guides for all the cities I’ve been to are always some of my top-performing posts. We like to eat! And we like to eat gourmet food, specifically.

And the food aboard the Valiant Lady is totally delicious. There are no buffets, and no up-charges for the nicer restaurants (like there can be on other cruise lines).

The ship’s dining program and menus have been designed by Michelin chefs, and it shows. We were in foodie heaven!

One thing’s for sure, you will not go hungry onboard a Virgin Voyages cruise ship. There are over 20 different eateries available—yes, 20.

So just make peace with the fact that you probably won’t try all of them during your cruise. That’s what my guide is for—to help you figure out which ones to prioritize!

First, let’s start with the six restaurants where you can make reservations. I’m ordering them in order of our favorites so it’s clear which ones are can’t-miss spots.

The Test Kitchen

Test Kitchen is the ship’s experimental restaurant, and it features a six-course tasting menu. It’s experiential and social, and the food is inventive and delicious with beautiful presentation.

We dined at Test Kitchen on our first night on the ship and it was so much fun. Highly recommend doing the wine pairing as well—it was only $35 and they picked some really delicious wines that paired so well with the courses.

Each course highlights a key ingredient, and while the tasting menu does evolve so there’s no way to know what it’ll look like in the future, here’s what our menu featured:

Blue Cheese

We started off strong with a mushroom appetizer that was almost like a creamy mushroom pate, and it was out of this world.

The blue cheese semifreddo was another highlight that we just could not get over.

We found out during the trip that on Thursday night, Test Kitchen switches things up and does a different menu for the rest of the cruise. We loved the first night so much that we booked Test Kitchen again for Thursday night.

While the second night was good, we agreed that the first night was much better, so my rec here is to make sure you go to Test Kitchen Sunday – Wednesday night to make sure you get to enjoy that first menu.

Extra Virgin

Extra Virgin features elevated Italian cuisine, and we had a delicious meal here. This Trattoria serves regionally-inspired dishes with fresh, handmade pasta.

The appetizers are small, which is a good thing because they’re all so yummy you’re going to want to try a few. Definitely get the artichoke heart.

Enjoy some serious carb loading and share a pasta (or three) for your next course. Don’t miss the gnocchi (so soft and creamy—I can’t even) and the pappardelle.

For dessert, the affogato cart is fun. You get to choose which ice cream and toppings you’d like.

Have you ever seen a Korean BBQ restaurant on a cruise ship? Not until Virgin Voyages entered the scene.

Gunbae is SO fun and the Korean BBQ is great. You’re seated six people at a table so even if you’re dining as a couple, you’re going to make some new friends at this interactive dining experience.

Our server was very nice but he kinda insisted on ordering for us and giving us a sampling of different seafood and meats. In hindsight, the kalbi (marinated short ribs) was the absolute best, and I wish we just ordered that with some of the other apps and rice like we had originally wanted.

After dinner, you get to play a fun drinking game with your table. One of the servers will help facilitate and pour you soju, but just know it’s super fun (and definitely harder than it looks lol).

The Wake is Virgin’s modern take on a chic steakhouse, and it’s just the right mix of nostalgia and cool glam.

We only made it to The Wake for breakfast, but next time I’d definitely like to try it for dinner too. It’d also be really fun to time your dinner here to be around sunset when you’re out at sea because the big windows look out to, you guessed it, the wake of the ship.

Pro-tip, if you have time on Sunday when you dock back at Barcelona, you can make reservations for breakfast at The Wake and enjoy some eggs benny, french toast, and a mimosa before disembarking the ship.

Razzle Dazzle

Razzle Dazzle has a mix of comfort food (think fried chicken and burgers) and healthy vegetarian options. You know which route we went lol.

We went to Razzle twice, once for dinner and once for breakfast. I think I preferred it for a breakfast or lunchtime meal.

Pink Agave is the ship’s elevated Mexican restaurant, and it’s the only sit-down restaurant we didn’t make it to during our cruise. We just didn’t have enough time to dine at every restaurant, and my friend Jess from Miss Moore Style who had been on the same cruise a few months earlier said this would be the one to de-prioritize, so it didn’t quite make the cut.

I did hear they make great margaritas, so we’ll have try it for ourselves next time!

Ok, now let’s get into some of the other eateries on the ship that are more like quick bites…

The Pizza Place

I can’t tell you how many times Omied and I grabbed pizza here, whether we wanted a late afternoon bite or a midnight snack after dancing. It was So. Good.

The pizzas are made fresh to order with a thin, crispy crust. You can enjoy your pizza here or take it to go.

The Galley is like a food hall, with a bunch of different eateries here. Sit down and grab any open table, and a server will come over and take your order.

You can order from any of the many different eateries here. I had ramen one day, paninis another, and simple eggs and bacon another day.

The Galley is the spot for a quick breakfast before heading out exploring at your next port. There’s also self-serve black coffee here for free. You can order premium coffee from the Grounds Club here as well, but that isn’t included and will cost ~$5.

During lunchtime, I loved grabbing sushi rolls from Bento Baby.

Lick Me Til Ice Cream

Lol, the name on this one is so naughty. We definitely stopped by and got ice cream a few times during the cruise, and they rotate flavors so there was always something new to try.

Sun Club Cafe

Don’t miss the poke bowls here! I’d recommend asking for a double portion of tuna. It’s perfect for grabbing lunch when you’re having a pool day.

The Dock / The Dock House

We didn’t get a chance to dine here either, but The Dock House and its outdoor area The Dock feature Mediterranean cuisine. The menu looked good!

The Dock has more like mezze bites and indoors The Dock House has entree options.

The Social Club Diner

I’d skip the food at Social Club Diner—it’s a pretty bare-bones hot dog situation most days. BUT they do have a small sweets bar that I couldn’t not stop at every time we passed by. They had these cake pops that were so addicting!

Shows and Entertainment

Once again, Virgin has elevated this element of cruise ships—no cheesy magic shows or weird ventriloquist acts here! The shows on the ship were absolutely top-notch.

We hit up all of the shows so that I could give you all my first-hand recs, so here’s a quick synopsis of each show. Just like with the restaurants, these are in order of favorite to least favorite.

Duel Reality

Duel Reality is a must! It’s a modern retelling of Romeo and Juliet, but with Cirque du Soleil style acrobatics.

These guys are all so incredibly talented, and they put on a jaw-dropping performance.

Ship Show wasn’t really on our radar until we happened to meet the host of this show on one of our excursions. He was there with his parents who had come on the cruise to see him in the show (cute) and told us a bit about the show.

It’s a variety show with a mix of music and dancing, and several short acts that are once again jaw-dropping. Like a couple who rollerbladed around on a small, circular stand and the guy twirled the girl around by a strap around her head/neck. WHAT.

They also serve dinner with the Ship Show, but I heard the food was just ok so I’d recommend doing what we did—bring a bottle of wine to enjoy during the show, and then make dinner reservations at a different restaurant after.

Untitled Dance Show Party Thing

Ok, I really don’t know how to describe this one lol. And I almost feel like it’s better if you don’t really know what to expect.

So for this one, I’m just gonna show you a pic of my outfit from that night, which involved this killer hot pink sequin jumpsuit from Dress The Population . I received so many compliments on this jumpsuit all night long!

Just be sure to wear shoes that are comfortable for dancing/standing in for an hour because there’s no seating at this show.

The Mentalist Magic Show

If you have a free night, The Mentalist show is definitely worthwhile. He did some pretty crazy things that I’m still in awe over.

It’s a pretty large theatre so if you’re going to do this one I’d recommend arriving 15 minutes early so you can get a seat up front.

Never Sleep Alone

NSA was definitely our least favorite show. Some of the things she made people do onstage were funny/entertaining, but getting paired up with a random middle-aged man and telling him my deepest desires and fantasies was just straight-up awkward and not my idea of a good time.

If you want to watch the show but not participate, you can ask to be seated in the upstairs/balcony area, which is what I wish we did!

French Daze Ibiza Nights Itinerary and Recommendations

If you’re wondering what to do in each of the destinations on this cruise, I’ve got you covered below! I’m covering activities and where to eat/drink during your time in Marseilles, Cannes, Olbia, and Ibiza.

Sunday, Day 1: Boarding and Embarkation

Before you set sail, once you fill out your forms on the Virgin Voyages app you can choose your embarkation time. We chose 4 pm because we wanted plenty of time to get settled and explore the ship before dinner.

Turns out that as Rockstars, you can board as early as 2 pm, and you also have access to a VIP check-in line that’s much shorter.

The boarding process was easy. You check in and they take your luggage for you and drop it off in your room by 6 pm. If you want to head straight to the pool, keep your swimsuit with you!

Once you’re on board and connected to the ship’s wifi, you can book the shows you want. You can try planning ahead but by the time our cruise set sail the shows/timing were a little different than when I had looked a month earlier.

The first evening includes free champagne up at the deck above the pool as you sail away from Barcelona so be sure not to miss that! If you’re a Rockstar, you also get free champagne every evening at Richard’s Roofdeck. 😉

Monday, Day 2: Marseilles

We had heard mixed things about Marseilles, like that it was gritty. And while there’s definitely more graffiti than say, Nice, we really didn’t find it to be dirtier than any other European city and enjoyed our day here.

Here’s what we did during our day in Marseille:

Basilica de Notre Dame

The Basilica is beautiful and it’s on top of a hill so it has amazing views of Marseilles.

It’s free to enter and a nice way to kick off your day in Marseilles. You can take a cab or Uber up, or there’s also a tram from the old port.

Lunch at Sepia

We strolled down the hill a bit to a restaurant called Sepia that serves traditional French cuisine.

Our lunch here was fantastic and I’d highly recommend this spot! We had the haddock appetizer and tuna belly and both were delicious.

La Corniche

After lunch, we took an Uber over to La Corniche where we walked along the water.

If we had known there was a beach club there I would have brought my swimsuit and we probably would have parked it there for the rest of the afternoon, especially since it was so hot.

Instead, we grabbed drinks at the Le Bords de Mer rooftop overlooking the water.

Palais Longchamp

If you want to check out one more thing in Marseilles, you can visit the Palais Longchamp, an impressive fountain monument dedicated to water.

Tuesday, Day 3: Cannes

On day three we arrived in Cannes. If you haven’t been to Nice or Eze before, I would definitely recommend taking the train over there since you have all day/night and part of the next day at this stop.

Since we’ve been to Nice before we wanted to visit another town, and we booked the Antibes absinthe tasting excursion through Shore Things.

Tbh, we should have just taken the train to Antibes and strolled around ourselves and visited the absinthe bar. The tour didn’t include much besides the shuttle + the tasting and was $100.

When we returned to Cannes, we walked around and did a bit of shopping (the Zara’s in Europe are just so much better than the ones in the States) and stopped at my fav, Laduree, for macarons.

Dinner at Astoux et Brun

We walked over to Astoux et Brun for dinner and because we were there on the earlier side (by European standards), we were able to get seated right away. By the time we left, the line was getting pretty long.

It was here that I had the most amazing mussels of my life for dinner! They were so sweet and delicious and the cream broth they were covered in was out of this world.

Wednesday, Day 4: Cannes and then setting sail

We were planning on going to St Marguerite but it was raining so we ended up just relaxing on the ship.

But if your weather holds, I’d recommend going to St Marguerite island because it does look gorgeous! And you’ll have plenty of ship time on Friday on your way to Ibiza all day.

Thursday, Day 5: Olbia

We were once again unlucky with the weather on this day and all the excursions were canceled due to rain (even though it ended up hardly sprinkling).

The town of Olbia itself really doesn’t have much to do. We strolled around a bit but honestly quickly got bored and went back to the ship.

Olbia is definitely a port that you need to book an excursion from. From what I’ve heard, a catamaran sail would be ideal as it goes to stunning small beaches and coves that you otherwise can’t get to.

We were planning on doing the food and wine tuk-tuk tour , but the timing didn’t work out. Here are some other ideas for activities you can book in Olbia through GetYourGuide:

Jess also recommended renting a scooter at the port and checking out some of the beaches.

Thursday night is also Scarlet Night and like I said, one of our favorite experiences on the ship!

Friday, Day 6: Ibiza

Most of day six is spent out at sea on your way to Ibiza. We arrived in the evening, just in time for dinner.

Day six at sea is a great opportunity to relax at the spa, where they have cold plunge pools, a sauna, and mud bath room.

And of course, it’s a great day to get in some pool time.

The ship has the above pool and a smaller, circular one. It does get pretty crowded, especially on a day when you’re out at sea and there’s not much else to do.

So if you want to get a day bed, definitely come early.

Dinner at Laylah

We strolled around Ibiza and did a little shopping at some of the cute local stores before heading to dinner.

Omied picked this restaurant and it was soo good. It’s super vibey and fun and they had a DJ playing great music.

The menu is tapas style, Mediterranean food, and the cocktails were delicious. While the food was really good, the portions are a bit small and it’s def a bit pricey. I think between the two of us we spent 190 €.

Nightlife in Ibiza

Of course, Ibiza is known for its epic clubs and parties.

David Guetta has a residency at Hï Ibiza and we were contemplating going, but then we found out he doesn’t come on until like 3 am, and honestly, I’m tired just typing that lol.

We decided to keep it chill that night.

Keeper is a fun bar with good music and chill vibes if you’re looking for somewhere to go that isn’t a club with 80,000 people in it.

We tried going at 10:30 pm after dinner but apparently, that was too early because no one was there and their clean-up crew was setting up outside. We’re not in Kansas anymore lol so you’ll prob want to show up closer to midnight.

Saturday, Day 7: Ibiza

For our day in Ibiza, we went to Tanit Beach Club, which we booked through Shore Things (and later regretted).

The beach club itself was great with good food and decent drinks. We had a day bed and umbrellas and had a nice day here.

However, we realized we really should have just booked the beach club ourselves and taken a cab over here.

Booking through Shore things cost 235€ per person. While Tanit’s website isn’t super clear on pricing, it seems to be about 100 – 150 € for a day bed.

So I would def recommend spending your Saturday in Ibiza at a beach club, but booking it yourself!

That’s a wrap on my super detailed (and long lol) Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady review! As you can tell, Virgin has successfully turned me into a cruise person and I’m dying to set sail with them again.

Next year they’re launching some new itineraries, including Greece/Croatia and South Pacific sailings (including itineraries with Sydney, Bali , and Singapore), so definitely stay tuned for that on the Virgin Voyages website !

Huge thank you to Virgin Voyages for hosting us on this epic cruise experience!

The ships themselves are virtually identical. Their itineraries are different, with Valiant Lady starting in Barcelona and covering Mediterranean cities, and Scarlet Lady starting in Miami for Caribbean cruises.

Alcohol, premium coffee drinks, amenities like the spa/hair salon, and excursions cost extra. Things like wifi, tips, and all dining are included in your fare.

Valiant Lady accommodates 2,700 passengers and 1,150 crew members.

Love to travel? Me too. Check out travel guides from around the world here .

Elise Armitage is an entrepreneur and founder of What The Fab , a travel + lifestyle blog based in California. At the beginning of 2019, Elise left her corporate job at Google to chase her dreams: being an entrepreneur and helping women find fabulous in the everyday. Since then, she’s launched her SEO course Six-Figure SEO, where she teaches bloggers how to create a passive revenue stream from their website using SEO. Featured in publications like Forbes, Elle, HerMoney, and Real Simple, Elise is a firm believer that you can be of both substance and style.

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Sunday 16th of October 2022

Okayyy this post was so helpful!! My hubby and I have been eyeing Virgin's new cruise line but wondering if it's all it's hyped up to be. Your post convinced us to book!

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About Valiant Lady

Valiant Lady is among Virgin Voyages highly acclaimed "Lady Ships." Innovative and trend-setting, just like her sisters, she'll elevate your next cruise and you'll be vacationing like a rock star. She features all of the thrilling bells and whistles her sisters do and at 110,000 tons, she's ideally sized to access fantastic destinations, feature many thrilling amenities and activities, encourage "sailors" to socialize and ensure everyone onboard receives exceptional service. All guests will discover the seamless blending of luxury with hip for a unique travel experience.

While this adults-only line adores kids, sailors must be at least 18 years of age to cruise on the lovely ladies of Virgin Voyages. Revamping the cruise concept, there are no areas onboard that will feel as if you've been there, done that. Have you ever thought of dancing on the tables? Well, some of the stunning RockStar suites actually encourage it, with steps leading up to the tabletop. Festive interactive pop-up performances can happen anywhere at any time. Renowned choreographers, artists, chefs, mixologists, DJs, directors and producers were involved in her wonderful offerings to ensure one-of-a-kind venues, menus, productions and more. Enjoy entertainment ranging from incredible acrobatics, ethereal visuals, stunning retellings of favorite stories to interactive shows, karaoke and more.

Virgin Voyages takes your overall wellbeing as seriously as you do. Embrace the moment as you indulge in a sunrise Yoga class at The Perch, spar with a partner in the outdoor boxing ring, hit the bags or play on the adult-sized "seasaws" at the Athletic Club, join the party in the pool and more. From mudroom to sauna, wonderful seaweed wraps, knot-busting hot stone massages, float in the hydrotherapy pool or dip in the cold plunge pools, Redemption Spa is the place to be. Change up your look in Dry Dock blowout bar and men can get a proper shave at Stubble & Groom. Add to your body art at Squid Ink, or try some new services at the medi-spa.

A diverse range of options on Valiant Lady will satisfy the most discerning of palates, from casual to gourmet cuisine with menus curated by the collaborations of Michelin-starred chefs, renowned mixologists and bartending royalty. A diverse lineup of more than 20 complimentary eateries onboard this lady replaces the familiar style buffet and massive main dining rooms. International, freshly made fare includes a Korean BBQ, an upscale Mexican restaurant, a tony Steak & Seafood venue, handmade pasta dishes in Extra Virgin, Ramen & Miso Soup at Noodle Around, healthy Poke Bowls, Sushi Bar & Bento Boxes, The Test Kitchen wherein you can take a cooking class and eat your exam, among many other delicious options. Create your own pizza, grab a juicy burger, 24/7 room service… whenever you're hungry, food is served. Whether it's craft cocktails or mocktails, a fresh or cold-pressed juice, coffee, tea, beer, wine or champagne it's easy to whet your whistle and satisfy your thirst.

Beautiful "quarters" to suite every desire are ready to welcome you onboard. Many of the accommodations feature ocean views and the majority of those include a balcony. There are also comfortable inside cabins and incredible RockStar Suites. Those sailors preferring to do things their way and travel solo will find perfectly appointed accommodations just for them. Eco-friendly sensors reduce the power in staterooms when you're out and about. Mood lighting, transformative Seabeds, mini-bar, ample storage, in-room entertainment system and more are found in many rooms. Rain showerheads are found in the bathrooms and handcrafted hammocks are situated, for your relaxing pleasure, on many of the balconies. RockStar Suites boast amenities such as "swimsuit drying", a personal assistant, wardrobe coordinator, early entry to various onboard eateries and entertainment and exclusive admittance to Richard's Rooftop. If dancing on the table appeals to you, there's a place for that. Some of the largest suites have tables with attached stairs, hot tub, hammocks and private outdoor showers which redefine the concept of "air drying."

Evenings are a delightful extravaganza onboard. Bells are ringing and lights are flashing like paparazzi flashbulbs in the casino. Marvel at gravity defying acrobatics and spectacular choreography featured in productions where performers take an old story and give it a new spin. Get up and get down in a two-story entertainment spot that evolves from theater space to a pulsating nightclub where DJs lay down the hottest tracks into the wee hours.

Sail on the beautiful Valiant Lady to redefine the concept of a cruise vacation.

Massive Suite with Terrace

Positioned at the front of the ship for unparalleled views, this most tricked out, most extra, unreal three room suite at sea is fit for rock & roll royalty. Complete with a private music room that doubles as a second bedroom, it’s all legend-style here, down to the brass and leather nautical finishings. Step outside to find things like sun loungers, a standing hot tub and an open air Peek-a-View shower onto the sea. The expansive top to bottom marble clad bathroom features an indoor Peek-a-Boo shower with an iridescent, dichroic glass window onto the European king bed. Sailors can debate the latest musical hits while sipping some bubbly at the Champagne bucket-style table on the terrace, lounging on the full length hammock, sitting in the conversation pit bar area or stretching out in the suite’s private lookout point. Sleeps up to four.

Fab Suite with Terrace

Whether a Sailor prefers sunshine yoga on the terrace, or serving up negronis at the fully stocked, in-room bar, this suite is perfect for those who love to host. When here alone, they’ll be tasked with the age-old problem of relaxing in the fully marbled bathroom with an indoor dichroic glass enclosed Peek-a-Boo shower or rinsing off on the terrace in the suite’s outdoor Peek-a-View shower under the moonlight. With brass nautical finishings throughout, Sailors can relax on the European king bed while cranking some tunes on the vinyl record player or head outside to the three-seater lounger then pop some bubbly at the Champagne table on the terrace. Sleeps up to four.

Posh Suite with Terrace

Not to be outdone by the (slightly) larger Massive and Fab suites, our Posh Suites are designed to make Sailors feel like royalty so they can live their most posh and glamorous life here. Complete with brass nautical finishings throughout, Sailors will enjoy the European king bed, while sipping a cocktail from the fully stocked, in-room bar and listening to tunes from the vinyl record player. Sailors can relax on the sun lounger next to the Champagne bucket style table overlooking the waves or rise off with the open-air outdoor, Peek-aView shower on the terrace. Head inside for the indoor Peek-a-Boo shower with an iridescent dichroic glass window, situated in the top to bottom marble encased bathroom. Sleeps up to four.

Gorgeous Suite with Terrace

Relaxing is truly an art form in this suite. The terrace hammock here is the perfect spot to enjoy a nightcap while watching the moon flirt with the sea. Once inside, Sailors can lose themselves in the massive European king bed while drifting off to the sounds of the waves (or the vinyl record player). Complemented perfectly by brass nautical finishings throughout, there’s also a fully stocked, inroom bar, an indoor Peek-a-Boo shower with an iridescent dichroic glass window for a peek into the room and an outdoor Peek-a-View shower facing the sea, near the terrace Champagne table and sun lounger. Sleeps up to four.

Brilliant Suite with Terrace

Whether a Sailor’s rider specifies 1000 candy bars, a rare aged gin, or 1 penguin (try us), inner rockers will come alive in this suite. With a view of the European king bed from the indoor Peek-a-Boo indoor shower through a dichroic glass window, the only sensual rival is the ocean itself. Sailors can crank up the tunes from the record player, serve up some drinks from the fully stocked, in-room bar then take the party to the terrace to enjoy more stunning sea views while relaxing around the Champagne table. Sleeps up to four.

Cheeky Corner Suite – Biggest Terrace

Wrapping panoramic views from the corner of the ship are emphasized by design choices in this suite. Enjoy custom interior wicker chairs in this, the highest and biggest of the Cheeky Corner terraces, meant to maximize sea views - in this case, the wake view. Sailors will gaze at the sea while relaxing near the gorgeous outdoor Champagne table or kicking back in the hand-woven hammock chair. After they’ve finished soaking in the views, Sailors can indulge in some classics with their vinyl record player and a personalized, fully stocked, in-room bar. Then they’ll freshen up in the expansive top to bottom marble bathroom featuring the Roomiest Rainshower. Sleeps up to two.

Cheeky Corner Suite – Even Bigger Terrace

Wrapping panoramic views from the corner of the ship define this suite. Sailors enjoy custom interior wicker chairs and hand-woven hammocks on this (bigger than the suites beneath) terrace meant to maximize sea views - in this case, the wake view. Sailors will gaze at the sea while relaxing near the gorgeous outdoor Champagne table or kicking back in the hand-woven hammock chair. After they’ve finished soaking in the views, Sailors can indulge in some classics with their vinyl record player and a drink from the fully stocked, in-room bar. Then they’ll freshen up in the expansive top to bottom marble bathroom featuring the Roomiest Rainshower. Sleeps up to two.

Cheeky Corner Suite – Pretty Big Terrace

Wrapping panoramic views from the corner of the ship define this suite. Sailors will enjoy custom interior wicker chairs in this, “pretty big” terrace meant to maximize sea views - in this case, the wake view. Sailors will gaze at the sea while relaxing near the gorgeous outdoor Champagne table or kicking back in the hand-woven hammock chair. After they’ve finished soaking in the views, Sailors can indulge in some classics on their vinyl record player or a drink from the fully stocked, in-room bar. Then they’ll freshen up in the expansive top to bottom marble bathroom featuring the Roomiest Rainshower on the ship. Sleeps up to two.

Seriously Suite with Terrace

Fully stocked, in-room bar. Check. Record player ready to spin favorite tunes. Double Check. This suite is ideal for those who are serious about living life to the fullest. With plenty of room to take in the mesmerizing ocean views from any corner, luxury and selfcare become serious art forms here. From the hand-woven hammock on the terrace to the outdoor Champagne table and indoor Peek-a-Boo shower, this suite is the perfect place for bottle poppin’ and voyage rockin’. Sleeps up to two.

Sweet Aft Suite – Biggest Terrace

With endless back-of-the-ship, ocean eye candy, there’s no such thing as a bad view in this suite. Sailors can kick back here (the highest and biggest terrace of the Sweet Afts) while lounging in the hand-woven hammock chair or relaxing around the Champagne table. After freshening up and soaking in the sunlight provided by the indoor Peek-a-Boo shower, the fully stocked, in-room bar and record player are the only things needed to get the party started. Sleeps up to two.

Sweet Aft Suite – Even Bigger Terrace

With endless back-of-the-ship, ocean eye candy, there’s no such thing as a bad view in this suite. Sailors can kick back on the terrace (even bigger than the Suite Aft below) while lounging in the hand-woven hammock chair or relaxing around the Champagne table. After freshening up and soaking in the sunlight provided by the Peek-a-Boo shower, the personalized, fully stocked, inroom bar and record player are the only things needed to get the party started. Sleeps up to two.

Sweet Aft Suite – Pretty Big Terrace

With endless back-of-the-ship, ocean eye candy, there’s no such thing as a bad view in this suite. Sailors can kick back on the “pretty big” terrace while lounging in the sustainably sourced, hand-woven hammock chair or relaxing around the Champagne table. After freshening up and soaking in the sunlight provided by the indoor Peek-a-Boo shower, the fully stocked, in-room bar and vinyl record player are the only things needed to get the party started. Sleeps up to two.

XL Sea Terrace

Perfect for those who make getting ready a serious art, this sensory and responsive clever cabin has nautically inspired brass and leather finishings, a personal tablet, intuitive mood lighting, music controls, movie streaming, onetouch room service and a supremely comfy European queen, transitional Seabed. Plus the large, perfectly partitioned, upgraded walk-in bathroom has enough space for two. Even the Roomier Rainshower boasts just the right amount of space for some “we” time. Sleeps up to three.

Central Sea Terrace

For Sailors who prefer to be mid ship, this cabin has all the comforts and amenities of one of The Sea Terrace cabins, but is positioned closer to the action. Featuring nautically inspired brass and leather finishings, this sensory and responsive clever cabin has it all from the personal tablet, intuitive mood lighting, music controls, movie streaming, one-touch room service, European queen, transitional Seabed, hand-woven terrace hammock and upgraded bathroom experience with a Roomy Rainshower. Sleeps up to three.

The Sea Terrace

Epic ocean views, whether Sailors are inside on the European queen, transitional Seabed or dangling from the sustainable sourced, hand-woven terrace hammock. Complete with nautically inspired brass and leather finishings, Sailors will enjoy this sensory and responsive clever cabin. Just pick up the personal tablet to adjust the mood lighting, music controls, movie streaming or even onetouch room service. Sea gaze outside or head in to freshen up under the Roomy Rainshower in the upgraded bathroom experience. Sleeps up to four.

Ltd View Sea Terrace (Obstructed View)

All the comforts and amenities of The Sea Terrace with a slightly limited view because, well, shippy stuff. Otherwise, this sensory and responsive clever cabin has it all from nautically inspired brass and leather finishings to the personal tablet, intuitive mood lighting, music controls, movie streaming and one-touch room service. Sailors will relax on the European queen, transitional Seabed or the sustainably sourced, hand-woven terrace hammock. Not in the outdoor mood? No problem, refresh and relax under the Roomy Rainshower in the upgraded bathroom experience. Sleeps up to four.

The Sea View

Views on views minus the messy hair. This cabin has all the amenities of cabin life with a window seat that’s the closest Sailors can get to the ocean without getting wet (save that for the pool party). Sleeps up to three.

Solo Sea View

Views on views minus the messy hair. Sailors will enjoy all the amenities of cabin life while watching the waves from a personal hideaway. It’s the closest Sailors can get to the ocean without getting wet (save that for the pool party). Sleeps one.

The Insider

Nightlife type who prefers to catch Z’s without the morning sun peeking through the blinds? Then this window-free cabin will be perfect. Add in all the amenities of other cabins, just subtract the pesky glare. Sleeps up to three.

Social Insider

Built for groups of Sailors, what happens inside this cabin, stays inside (because it’s sans windows). The bunk beds go from sleep to sit mode in no time while the amenities in this sensory and responsive clever cabin match that of all other cabins, except the way bigger TV. Sleeps up to four.

Solo Insider

This cocoon-like cabin is perfect for fans of late nights and sleeping in until after lunch. It’s super cozy and ideal for solo travelers. Standard cabin amenities, check. No window, no problem. Sleeps one.

View Deck Plan

Sun Club Café Outdoor Eatery

Deck: Deck 16

Sun Club Café Outdoor Eatery.

The Pizza Place

Deck: Deck 7

The Pizza Place.

The Test Kitchen

Deck: Deck 6

The Test Kitchen.

Extra Virgin

Casual Elevated Italian Restaurant and Wine Bar.

Razzle Dazzle

Deck: Deck 5

Vegetarian Forward Restaurant with Meaty Cheats and Red Bar.

Upscale Mexican Restaurant and Mezcal Bar.

The Runway Jogging Track

Deck: Deck 17

The Runway Jogging Track.

The Crow’s Nest Outdoor Yoga Studio

The Crow’s Nest Outdoor Yoga Studio.

Richard’s Rooftop

VIP Sundeck + Bar.

Training Camp

Group Fitness.

The Cabanas

Private Hideaways.

Sports Area

Sports Area.

The Athletic Club

Adult Playground..

The Athletic Club Bar

The Athletic Club Bar.

Suspended Catamaran Net.

Well-being Pool

Deck: Deck 15

Well-being Pool.

Decks: Deck 7 Deck 6 Deck 6

The Manor. Kick Ass Nightclub.

The Roundabout

The Roundabout.

Mezze style outdoor eatery, Bar & social lounge.

Flex Event Space.

Gaming and Lounge.

Stubble + Groom

Stubble + Groom.

Redemption Spa

Redemption Spa.

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Valiant Lady Decks and Cabins

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• Solo Insider
• Solo Seaview
• Small Suite
• Corner Suite
• Posh & Fab Suite
• Massive Suite
• Ship info and tracking
• Cabins Check

Valiant Lady cruise ship weighs 110k tons and has 1410 staterooms for up to 3102 passengers served by 1160 crew . There are 17 passenger decks, 9 with cabins. You can expect a space ratio of 35 tons per passenger on this ship. On this page are the current deck plans for Valiant Lady showing deck plan layouts, public venues and all types of cabins including pictures and videos.

Valiant Lady

LIVE SHIP TRACKING

STATEROOM CABINS COMPLETE LIST BELOW

MASSIVE SUITE

Floor Diagram Massive Suites

Sleeps up to: 4 2 Cabins Cabin: 830 sqft (78 m 2 ) Balcony: 1317 sqft (124 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

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More Info [+/-]

Deck locations, stateroom cabin features, important size information, stateroom cabin perks, posh & fab suite.

Floor Diagram Fab & Posh Suites

Sleeps up to: 4 4 Cabins Cabin: 572 sqft (54 m 2 ) Balcony: 261 sqft (25 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

Floor Diagram Suite

Sleeps up to: 4 27 Cabins Cabin: 396 sqft (37 m 2 ) Balcony: 86 sqft (8 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

 Accessible Info [+/-]

More diagrams of this cabin type.

CORNER SUITE

Floor Diagram Corner Suite

Sleeps up to: 2 14 Cabins Cabin: 311 sqft (29 m 2 ) Balcony: 304 sqft (29 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

Floor Diagram Center Aft Suite

Sleeps up to: 2 7 Cabins Cabin: 236 sqft (22 m 2 ) Balcony: 180 sqft (17 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

SMALL SUITE

Floor Diagram Junior Suite

Sleeps up to: 4 24 Cabins Cabin: 236 sqft (22 m 2 ) Balcony: 322 sqft (30 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

Floor Diagram XL Terrace

Sleeps up to: 3 112 Cabins Cabin: 225 sqft (21 m 2 ) Balcony: 40 sqft (4 m 2 )

Floor Diagram Terrace

Sleeps up to: 4 1020 Cabins Cabin: 185 sqft (17 m 2 ) Balcony: 40 sqft (4 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

Floor Diagram Seaview

Sleeps up to: 3 89 Cabins Cabin: 190 sqft (18 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

Floor Diagram Inside

Sleeps up to: 4 65 Cabins Cabin: 177 sqft (17 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

SOLO SEAVIEW

Floor Diagram Solo Seaview

Sleeps up to: 1 6 Cabins Cabin: 130 sqft (12 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

SOLO INSIDER

Floor Diagram Solo Inside

Sleeps up to: 1 40 Cabins Cabin: 105 sqft (10 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

Valiant Lady Deck Page Menu

Click deck pictures to go to individual cruise deck plan pages where you can see all the public areas, venues and stateroom cabins categories for each deck.

Valiant Lady Quick Stats

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Valiant Lady Links

• PDF of all the decks
• PDF (choose your own decks)
• Valiant Lady DECK DRAG
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I booked a $5,910 balcony cabin for a 7-day Virgin Voyages cruise. The 225-square-foot room was big on luxury.

Posted: March 5, 2024 | Last updated: March 6, 2024

• On a recent Virgin Voyages cruise, I booked a 225-square-foot sea terrace room.
• Starting at $844 a night, the room has a balcony and a queen-sized bed that transforms into a couch.
• With a rainfall shower and smart controls for mood lighting and entertainment, it felt luxurious.

I took my first luxury cruise last summer, sailing on a seven-day Mediterranean adventure with Virgin Voyages, an award-winning, adults-only cruise line that's been operating since 2021, according to the company's website . 

Aboard Virgin Voyages' Valiant Lady ship , I slept in a cabin with a sea terrace. It had a starting rate of $5,910 for a weeklong stay for two people, a representative for Virgin Voyages told Business Insider.

The cruise sailed round-trip from Barcelona to ports in Italy and France. And my room was so glamorous that I spent more time in my cabin than anticipated. Here's a look at every detail that made it worth the price. 

Virgin Voyages' Valiant Lady ship has 1,408 cabins and suites. My room was toward the back of deck 12.

I booked a third-tier stateroom with a balcony — a step above sea-view cabins , which only have a window, and two steps above an interior room with no view. 

The room was 225 square feet, including the balcony. I thought the cabin made great use of the tiny space while including luxury details.

Inside, there was a queen-sized bed, a desk, a bathroom, and plenty of hidden storage compartments. Considering the room's small size, I was surprised by the ample floor space. I never felt cramped in my cabin.

At the front of the cabin, the bathroom was stocked with toiletries and had storage spaces to keep the counter free of clutter.

The bathroom felt luxurious thanks to a rainfall showerhead.

Across from the bathroom, a clever curtain hid the closet. Inside, I spotted a shelf with two empty bins for extra storage and a cabinet holding emergency life vests, towels, a safe, and drawers I filled with clothing.

Next to the closet, the desk against the wall had an ottoman tucked underneath it. I thought this made the room feel bigger.

Beneath the desk, I spotted a hidden mini fridge, which I used to keep my drinks cold.

At the back of the room, there was a queen-sized bed I found comfortable. Next to it, a thin nightstand was light enough to be moved around the room as needed.

I learned from the Virgin Voyages app that crew members could transform the bed into a couch upon request. This made the cabin feel more like a living room during the day.

The cabin also had an in-room tablet with entertainment and smart controls. So I didn't have to leave my bed to change the lighting or close the curtains.

From "Hangover" to "Photoshoot," different settings on the tablet changed the mood lighting around the room.

I thought the best part of the cabin was the balcony. It had a table and chairs as well as a large, netted hammock.

I spent a lot of time on my balcony during the voyage. From fresh air to sunset views, I thought it was totally worth the upgrade for a private outdoor space.

With multipurpose furniture and plenty of storage, I thought the 225-square-foot room was just big enough to keep my partner and me comfortable.

I'd definitely book a sea terrace cabin with Virgin Voyages again. And I'd recommend it to any adult travelers who want to feel wrapped in luxury while at sea. 

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I went inside a Virgin Voyages cruise ship lounge for suite passengers paying at least $8,000 and saw why it'd be worth splurging on a top-tier cabin

• I cruised with Virgin Voyages and spent some afternoons on Richard's Rooftop, the ship's VIP lounge.
• The rooftop reserved for suite guests had cabanas, shaded beds, hot tubs, and a full-service bar.
• On a seven-day Mediterranean cruise, suites for two cost between $8,000 and $26,000.

A plethora of empty beds to choose from on a quiet deck with ocean views and full food and drink service — this was my luxurious experience on Richard's Rooftop. 

Richard's Rooftop is the VIP lounge on board Virgin Voyages cruise ships . The rooftop is reserved for passengers staying in suites — known as "Rockstars" by the cruise line .

While prices vary depending on the ship, dates, and itinerary, a representative from Virgin Voyages told Business Insider that the starting rate for the cheapest suite on a seven-day Mediterranean summer sailing in 2024 is about $8,000 for two passengers. The most expensive suite on board costs $26,000.

While I didn't book a suite, I got access to the exclusive lounge during a seven-day Mediterranean cruise on Virgin Voyages' Valiant Lady in August 2023. To me, it was easily the most relaxing part of the ship. 

During my Virgin Voyages cruise on the Valiant Lady, I got a peek at the VIP lounge known as Richard's Rooftop.

The lounge is reserved for VIP suite guests, but Virgin Voyages gave Business Insider exclusive access.

The rooftop lounge was at the front of deck 16.

According to Virgin Voyages , the lounge was named for and inspired by founder Richard Branson.

To enter, passengers scanned their room key cards.

Inside, the space was filled with cabanas, pool chairs, two whirlpools, and several round loungers that felt like beds to me.

Iridescent glass dividers added colorful hues to the white furniture. I thought this was a captivating detail by the designer, Tom Dixon .

Each grouping of seats had a food and drink menu for the rooftop bar, and crew members served guests at their lounging spots.

I ordered a tuna poke bowl and a non-alcoholic strawberry daiquiri. Both were refreshing and delicious. 

During my visits to the lounge, there was always enough empty seating to settle into a spot where I couldn't see or hear anyone else.

The VIP lounge was quieter, emptier, and more shaded than the outdoor communal spaces for all passengers. And the service was more personal. Crew members checked in with guests often to see if they wanted more refreshments. 

With a more peaceful, private vibe than the rest of the pool deck, Richard's Rooftop was the only place on the ship where I could lie in the sun and feel like I was in bed simultaneously. That made it the most relaxing part of the whole cruise. So next time I cruise with Virgin Voyages, I'll consider upgrading to a suite.

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Florida woman found dead on cruise ship, Bahamas police say

By Alex Sundby

March 13, 2024 / 7:19 PM EDT / CBS News

A 27-year-old Florida woman traveling to the Bahamas on a cruise ship was found dead in her cabin, police said. The Royal Bahamas Police Force said it was investigating the unidentified woman's death and that an autopsy will be conducted to determine how she died.

Police on the island of Grand Bahama were told Monday the woman was found unresponsive in her cabin on an unidentified cruise line en route to the nation in the West Indies, the agency said in a statement Tuesday.

Medical personnel on the ship performed CPR on the woman, police said. They weren't able to revive her, and she was declared dead.

Officers found a substance suspected of being cocaine in the cabin and arrested an unidentified 32-year-old Florida man on an unspecified charge, police said.

In the Bahamas, 18 killings in January spurred the U.S. Embassy in the capital of Nassau to urge Americans to exercise caution in parts of the country.

"Murders have occurred at all hours including in broad daylight on the streets," the embassy said on its website .

The U.S. State Department issued a travel advisory because of the violence. In response, the Bahamian government said the killings did not reflect the country's safety and announced new initiatives to reduce crime.

"The safety and security of everyone is of paramount importance to us and we are confident that The Bahamas will remain safe and welcoming for millions of visitors to continue to enjoy the magic and beauty of our beautiful islands," the prime minister's office said in a statement .

According to figures released by the country's tourism ministry , over 9.6 million people visited the country last year, an increase from 2022.

Most of those tourists —over 7.9 million people— arrived in the country by sea, an increase from over 5.5 million in 2022, the tourism ministry said.

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Alex Sundby is a senior editor at CBSNews.com. In addition to editing content, Alex also covers breaking news, writing about crime and severe weather as well as everything from multistate lottery jackpots to the July Fourth hot dog eating contest.

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