COST - This was a 4 night cruise, I think said 5 in the video, i paid $1556 before the cruise and then I spent about $100 onboard for coffee, a couple drinks, and upgraded internet. Of course prices will vary and there is second itinerary to the western Caribbean.
@@floatybyboaty Keep in mind there's no MDR so effectively all dining outside of The Galley is specialty dining. If you look at that price and say $50 per night of it is going to your meal it's a bit more what you'd expect. You're also getting the WiFi included and they're giving their employees WiFi too. Those bills still need to be paid so yeah it's going to run higher than your Royal and Carnival cruises. It's pretty in line with Celebrity and Princess pricing though.
I'm old and fat and had the time of my life on Scarlet Lady in July. I went alone and celebrated my 50th birthday like a Rockstar! The hammock and the restaurants/food were amazing and the crew was sooo wonderful all over the ship!!
Yeeeesss! I went 3 weeks ago. Im also fluffy, 50 & Fabulous! LOVED this cruise ship! Its for anyone that looking to relax, have an open mind, and comfortable around ALL types of folks. Food, and drinks are wonderful. I recommend for anyone looking to do a different ADULT cruise!
I was a little nervous going solo on a cruise but you changed my mind! It will be my first cruise I am 37 years old. Nobody wants to come with me so I guess solo it is! Excited now! thank you!
@@lw3371 I just turned 53 on Saturday. I've been solo cruising for 11 years and love every moment of it! Never be afraid to travel on your own; enjoy your own company. Also, the only thing I say for solo traveling is to ALWAYS do the cruise sanctioned Excursions. Don't go out on your own unless you're staying in the cruise port and just shopping next to the ship. Otherwise, enjoy yourself!!! I promise you'll make friends along the way. 🤗
I cruised in January. I loved it. I’m a large 71 yr old woman. I had a table next to my bed to put things on plus the sofa arm. I also found everything in cabin great. I travel with a mobility scooter and VV also planned for that. They have space and plugs outside of every cabin. The corridor had more than enough room for others passing by. I loved all of the food. I did do the room service. It was the first room service ever on land or sea that arrived piping hot in what appeared to be cast iron containers carried inside of a canvas bag. How shocked I was to open the containers and see the steam rise from it. The tattoo parlor was full of people that looked older than me getting tatted up. Best cruise I’ve ever been on and I found cost very reasonable! I’ve booked a suite on a 2 week segment of the world cruise for under $5000 for 2! I can’t wait to go back. I had premium Wi-Fi and streamed my Netflix and other movies to my cabin tv, although there were numerous options available on the tv without streaming. I also liked the in cabin mood lighting.
Tony, as a 51 yr old Fat Gal… you almost had me in tears!!! Your discussion about how welcoming Virgin voyagers are shocked me in a good way!!! Thank you deeply for giving me hope and making me think twice about this cruise company!!! Appreciate it!!! And hope you get to cruise with your Lovely wife Jenny B on V V very soon !
I'm a 50 year old dad and I don't drink alcohol. I sailed the Scarlet lady Jan 2022. There were people of all (adult) ages and body shapes. There's something for everybody on board. I had a blast. The food is outstanding.
We watched this video prior to booking our first Virgin Voyages cruise and we appreciated the information and all of the details provided. We did book and my husband and I (LGBT Couple) just got back from an 8 night Caribbean cruise on the Virgin Valiant Lady (March 2023). We have been on 15+ cruises as a couple and never have we felt more welcomed. The diversity of both the crew and the passengers made this the most fun and at the same time relaxing vacation we have had at sea. We are middle aged and not what I would consider Instagram gays and will still had an amazing time interacting with fellow sailors and the crew. I really hope that Virgin Voyages does well and is around for a long time.
We just sailed Scarlet Lady with the Dominican Daze itinerary, Puerto Plata and Bimini. I really didn't know what to expect and I kind of expected to be a 'one and done' with Virgin, but having sailed 8 cruise lines, I have to say this was the best overall experience of any cruise line so far. The vibe reminded me of a cross between Celebrity and Disney. In fact a couple of our fellow cruisers said it felt like Disney for adults. We learned that many of the crew have come from Celebrity, Seabourn and Disney so that explained the high level of service. Your review is echoing what my review will be as well. It's an incredibly open and inviting cruise line with a ship that's set up to encourage social interaction with your fellow guests. And the dining experience is unreal.
My wife and I sailed the Scarlet lady in June AND July (due to the credits from Covid cancellations). I agree it will not be for everyone. We have sailed over 15 cruises, and by FAR this was the best food on ANY cruise line we have sailed. June cruise was a basic balcony room and it was a little small. July cruise we had enough credit for the small suite, it was perfect, size and layout. Would Virgin be our first choice for our next cruise, probably not. But if you are "thinking" of trying it, you should. I would sail them again just for the food and no kids. And EVERY crew member seemed like they really wanted you to enjoy yourself, they were awesome.
Have you cruised with Disney? I'd like to hear reviews from people who have. I've been invited to a virgin cruise. Not sure I want to. I love Disney. I've tried other cruiselines and they don't compare.
@@chrystallimon Never been on a Disney cruise. So, we initially book our Virgin Voyages cruise just when they were starting up, then Covid hit, delaying their startup date. Even though it was no fault of theirs, they gave us DOUBLE credit back for future cruises. So, we did TWO, June AND July 2022. First was a balcony room, second we had enough credit remaining for a suite. The food on both trips were excellent. The entertainment was NOT your normal cruise ship entertainment and not what we really liked. Ship was awesome, crew was great, NO KIDS. I'd say if you have a chance to do a Virgin Voyage, you MUST do it at least once.
We just got off of the Dominican Daze cruise last week. We are in our 60’s. We have already booked another Virgin cruise! Your review was right on the money…especially the part about not worrying about weight. I am very body conscious..and a bit “fluffy”. After seeing guys and girls..much fluffier than me..at the pool, or in more glamorous evening outfits..I thought they looked great..and realized..so did I!! Love Virgin Voyages!
I've watched 3 reviews of Virgin Voyages this summer and yours by far is the most thorough. I especially appreciate your observations of details that seem minor; but truly make a positive difference in the overall experience -- such as: the generous availability of AC outlets and the "A" versus "Z" side of the ship. Your more objective and broader review of the shows painted them in a much more positive light than the other reviewers. I think that you "got" the point of the shows. Thank you!
This was a great video!!! So many people avoid these subjects of age and size when discussing cruises, but they are important factors. Great review of the ship. Makes me want to book a cruise on Virgin.
My first Carnival Cruise had a BBW (Big Beautiful Women) group. Still, the way Virgin advertises, you wouldn't think they welcome fat people. I'm glad his experience was positive.
We just got off a 5 night on virgin. It was great for all the reasons you said. Very fun and inclusive of everyone. I would add also I liked that there was no pushiness to upsell anything. No shopping guide, art auction, shop sales, etc. You just did what you wanted and all the info was in the app.
This was a great video and super helpful. We were already booked on Scarlet Lady and both my wife and I (in our 50's) were concerned about not feeling comfortable on a ship advertised as a younger person's cruise. Your video really helped to put us at ease. We went and not only did we feel as comfortable as on any other cruise we have been on, but had an amazing time and booked our next cruise with Virgin. Yes, there are beautiful people on board both crew and passengers but there are also people like us, older, fatter, skinnier, etc. What there weren't any of were children and while we are parents this was extremely nice to truly be able to get away and fully enjoy an adults only experience. I cannot say enough about how spectacular Virgin Cruises was, a unique experience for sure and certainly an option for everyone.......well except children. Can't wait to be back on the ship. Thanks for your excellent video.
I was on that same ship in June 22. The passengers were of all sizes and ages . I liked that it wasn't a party cruise, had a classy vibe and the food was A+. Paid about 1600 for a balcony, it was worth it, no kids.
I've been fortunate to go on Scarlet lady and Valiant lady from my Home Port. From knowing Virgin as a brand for many years, Virgin has never been the same from other companies, from trains to planes. VV is the exactly that. Personally they allow the crew to be themselves and I would recommend to anyone to try out the brand at least once. VV is not everyone because how it's designed. All I can say, when you board, don't think about other cruise brands, on how they operate, keep an open mind, Virgin has once again just did their own thing. They changed the British railway system and now they have brought that style to the sea. Personally it still has that Funky British vibe, but taking it across the sea.
Absolutely agree. From decorations, furnishings, etc it definitely has a European Vibe but we absolutely loved it. I forgot to mention that aspect of the crew in my comment which is they allow the crew to be exactly who they are. Wether it's gay/straight, tattoos or a funky haircut, you feel the genuineness all around and that is truly refreshing. We felt more than comfortable just being us, in our 50's, on the "healthy" side of body mass, but more importantly 2 adults that just wanted to enjoy a new experience. I am beyond Impressed with Virgin Voyages.
I went solo also and it was a GREAT CRUISE and going back soon. Food, music, and cruise vibe was GREAT! Totally agree on it being a very inclusive cruise for EVERYONE!
As a single millennial who does not love kids virgin voyages is on my list for sure the fact that there are single cabins is a huge plus and the dining variety is huge for me. I am also fat so I really appreciate you talking about that aspect of a cruise ship that really promotes their fitness stuff. This review made me want to do a virgin cruise even more than I already did
This is the first review of Virgin that I've seen that has made me want to try them out. I'm glad to hear you felt welcome because every other review I've seen has given off a vibe of "this is for the cool Instagram kids, you can't sit with us." I do appreciate how Virgin has tweaked cruising to make it more modern, and the food looks wonderful. But the last thing I want is to go on a cruise and be overlooked/ignored because I'm no longer in my 20s/30s.
Similarly, other passenger reviews of Virgin made it sound very not my thing. One video I watched implied that the halls were filled with house music 24/7 and that the drag shows were the main entertainment. I have no problem with drag shows existing, but have no interest in attending. The shows reviewed here do sound interesting.
I hear what you're saying but other reviewers are social media types, it's not reality. It's the shiny coat of paint covering the reality. Most cruise devotees are normal suburban people.
Pro tip: cool Instagram kids are never cool nor are they material in reality. You are way cooler than they’ll ever be because you are real life. I’ll be booking with virgin this week!
Virgin and Viking are known for adults-only, but I seem to remember from some cruise news reports that other cruise lines are adding more cruises that are adults only as well, even if they normally are family oriented.
I like that the shower is either or and not both. As a black lady, 9 times out of 10, when I go on vacation my hair is already done, either in braids or another style. I hate rain shower shower heads because even with a shower cap, you run the risk of ruining your hair.
This is all very good information. I'm a big dude, and I just booked a solo trip on Virgin Voyages for October 2023 on a repositioning cruise from Barcelona to Miami, 14 day trip. This will be my first ever cruise! I'm glad that they are accepting of those of us who have extra girth!
I went on this cruise ship and enjoyed absolutely everything about it! It's definitely a game changer in my opinion. I can't wait to go back again. I'm completely sold!! I went with my mom who is in her 70s and she loved it as well. Definitely for everyone.
Thank you Tony. I'm built like you and just turned 60. My wife and I have reserved a spot on the inaugural Alaska cruise season aboard the Brilliant Lady in 2026. I'm now looking even more forward to it.
Always value the disrupter. Even if it doesn't hit it out of the park, it helps adjust perceptions and make people think differently about things that have "always been this way" but shouldn't be anymore. Not having many of those interior multi-floor spaces may actually help me a little bit. Sound is ordinarily extra loud for me and when the ceiling is high enough that sounds start bouncing around a lot, I have extreme difficulty in picking out words. And by that I mean I'm probably not going to understand the words from the person next to me unless they speak directly into my ear or I concentrate enough that I'm unable to notice anything else, so I shouldn't be walking while trying to listen. I deal with it as well as I can but I appreciate spaces where I don't have to fight with it. If I find a price I can work with I'll try Virgin happily.
Tony, I’ve been watching your videos daily for about 2 months now. I wanted to stop in and say that we just completed our first ever cruise. A 4-night experience on the Scarlet Lady. Your videos were so helpful in understanding how it all works for us newbies. The cruise was amazing and only $1500 for a beautiful Sea Terrace room and a complimentary $300 bar tab. I couldn’t be more pleased with the experience and wanted to thank you for your guidance to a good time.
@@andyanderson3437 unfortunately it was a temporary sale that was going on. It seems that these specials pop up throughout the year. Maybe keep your eye on the site and be ready to book when the next sale rolls around.
I love that a cruise line is open and inclusive..Sounds amazing…I like that it’s a non traditional cruise..I love to workout but I’m a foodie too..a huge plus is the adult only concept…
I watched someone else’s review of this cruise line and immediately said not for me. I watched your review and am ready to book! We are a smidge older than you and I, too, wondered if we might be too old; if we were not “hip” enough. Appears my perceptions were incorrect. Great, honest review and frankly can’t wait to try it out.
Bob Gurr, the 93 year old last living Imagineer to have worked with Walt Disney, just returned from a cruise on the Valiant Lady and posted lots of photos, including getting a tattoo on the ship!
Not going to lie, I’m loyal to royal and I’ve seen this cruise and I’ve as like… nah, I’m ok. HOWEVER, after seen your video and listening/seeing how cool and different it is….. You honestly changed my mind. THANK YOU! For being awesome, THANK YOU for being extremely detailed/funny, and just thank you! I honestly hope one day I’ll catch you on the lido ‼️
I like the concept of The Galley. Some grab and go with a menu and table service. The chaos of a traditional buffet is something I never like, makes me feel anxious. The food looks outstanding! Nice presentation and choices.
Dude you're awesome! We just booked Scarlet Lady last night, and I've been researching stuff all day. Love your take. I'm a bigger guy too and always self conscious, but this sounds like the perfect cruise for me and my husband. Can't wait to get onboard!
Thanks AGAIN for your honest review. I never would have considered this line. I thought it was for young jet setting crazy rich physically fit people (none of which includes myself) so now I’m off to watch more Virgin videos!
Kim, I've been on the Scarlet Lady twice. Their only target clientele is people who are young at heart and love to have a good time. It's the most welcoming, accepting environment you'll find.
Virgin is my favorite cruise line! As you said, very welcoming. The crew is AMAZING and they feel genuine, unlike most cruise lines where they are begging for those survey results and terrified you'll be honest. Such a friendly, relaxed, inclusive vibe. They make you feel like family.
Never been on a cruise in my life but watching this dude almost made me want to try one. I weigh about 240 myself so I can only imagine how rough it is on some of those cruises for even bigger guys like him. It's definitely one of the reasons I haven't tried one. So many places aren't very fluffy-friendly these days with their setups and atmospheres unfortunately :( Great work on the video.
I agree, I loved my cruise on the SL. My favorite cruise line, easy. So laid back, you do you on your schedule. No announcements at all, and you just walk off when it over. Great product.
More cruise lines need to switch to the rain shower head so much better! Seems like Virgin Voyages really made statement with wanting to be a totally different type of cruise line, your in-depth video really describes the differences perfectly! There are many people that will love this type of cruising! I absolutely love their way of dining and more being inclusive! Thanks for the great video!
I really don’t like them, as nowhere to go in the shower away from it while I wash with the shower gel. I hate the water on my head all the time. Both shower heads would be good, but that increases the price for the cruise line.
we just did our first VV cruise in Scarlet Lady. After 20+ RCCL cruises I have to say Only VV from now on. Tony did not mention the games area, tons of old school games like Rockum Sockum robots and operation for free and a really cool arcade with the old school games, also no charge. also several foosball tables. Food was awesome. Have never been a cruise pool / hot tub person so the small pool was no issue for me.. Great review Tony! ALSO! if you have Cruise loyalty status on another cruise line, VV will Match it to their program! Well worth looking into!
Great review, Tony. The things I would like are the food venues, and the 'no kids'! Can I just mention, again, how much I like your new schedule of videos? You have figured out a way to give us the best of a cruise channel in one place! 🙂
Those are my two biggest selling points for this particular cruise ship are the food venues and No Kids Policy 😁! Especially the latter is what caught my attention initially. Unfortunately me and my mom are already booked for a Hawaii cruise in 2023. But after that I would love to delve in more about booking a cruise with Virgin in the near future 😆!
I'm so happy you were able to to get on this ship. I love Virgin and for me its now my go to cruise ship. I love the vibe. As a single solo cruise its perfect for me and yes its so welcoming. Also you can tell they treat the staff right because the seem for relaxed and enjoying theirselves as well. On their down time they are hanging with in public areas which I love. They can actually enjoy and relax on down time in public on the ship that they are on for months at a time.
I love the review and really appreciate the comments! Personally, I LOVE the Scarlet Lady. Been on it twice and will be going on it again in a few weeks. But I also love how some people are opting out of going! It’s not for everyone. But it’s hard for me to have to sit in a main dining room, or pay extra for “signature” dining. Too much is included for me to go back. At least not yet…
Your review was so thorough, positive, and down to earth that I was able to convince my wife to go on the Valiant Lady on an 8-day cruise next February. So thanks! Most of our cruises have been on Disney ships are we are looking forward to experience a different vibe.
This was the review I was waiting for. Thanks for being so thorough. Having cruised with multiple parties before, the couch concept made a lot of sense for me. Invariably one room would always end up being a home base for everybody. So the idea of just turning the whole cabin into a hangout space seems smart. I know they’ve had to delay their third ship, and they got a lot of flack for cancelling the bookings. But I hope this line makes it. I’d love to see this concept expand.
My wife and I just got back on the Scarlett Lady to Mexico snd Bimini.. THE BEST CRUISE EVER. We loved it all. The food was out of this world. The cleanliness , the crew , the price was excellent . Can’t wait to go again next year.
I’d love to see a video covering things other cruise lines could learn from Virgin Voyages and things Virgin Voyages could learn from older cruise lines
Great review! I like that Virgin has so much included, like all the restaurants, gratuities etc. I wish more cruise lines would adopt the all-inclusive type cruising.
Our first Virgin cruise is next year on Valiant Lady in April. We were already looking forward to it, but as a couple older/fluffier cruisers seeing this video amped up that enthusiasm even more. Thanks for this!
I enjoyed your review. It seemed very fair. That said, I don't think Virgin has bubbled up to my top-anything list. Pro: The dining (cooked to order) sounds great. Cons: I did not care for the minimalist look of the cabin or the modern industrial outside decks. The shows didn't look appealing either. And that "pool" leaves much to be desired. I like when cruise lines innovate. Celebrity Apex is probably my favorite cruise ship and the Edge class was an innovation. I think Virgin might have been trying too hard to be different initially, without getting input from prospective customers. The fact that they are making change to some of those innovations indicates that they are listening now. So I never say never; I'll just say not now.
I was so excited about this when first announced... and the more I've heard, the more I've read, the gladder I am I haven't decided to sail Virgin. I'm VERY big on ships with LOTS of outdoor spaces.
This cruise is on our must do list because it is different. As to age and size....HELLO this 2022 you do what you want never let anyone else build your bounderies!!!! Great review
Amen!!! Thank you for sharing your experience of the inclusiveness of Virgin Voyages. As a Virgin Atlantic employee I can also testify to the fact that we all live and breath the idea that, 'everyone' can take on the world.
A really well structured, thoughtful, considered review. Your final thoughts about the true meaning of inclusivity, that by definition it means a space for everyone, is what reset my perspective of VV. We’ve booked Eastern Caribbean Isles next year and Virgin are going to help us scatter my fathers ashes in the seas where he skippered back in the early ‘60s, and where he and my mother met. Great food, a good cocktail, and a welcome for everyone is a fitting backdrop for my Dad.
Great job……you nailed it again ! Think a lot of people had questions about what sailing with Virgin is like. You compared things a bit but also just showed what the Scarlet had to offer…..nice way of doing it. Again awesome job ! 😀🇨🇦
I love your shows , I use your shows to look up stuff,even when I’m in the shower I put your show on and listen to it, I’ve learned a lot from you & Jenny. Keep up the good work Thank you for all yous do
Love Virgin Voyages for its outside-the-box approach to cruising. LOVE that they make everyone feel welcome and included. I sailed them in January 2022. I have 3 more voyages booked. No looking back for me. You can have the other mass market lines! Oh, no kids….massively attractive. Thank you Virgin Voyages
This was a great review. I really love what you said about being inclusive and I absolutely agree. I don’t love cruising, but as a TA, I certainly sell cruises if that’s what my clients want and I do go and experience them from time to time to stay informed. So when VV debuted, I did my job and booked a cruise. I fell in love with this line from the moment we stepped on board. We were on the 8th sailing, so we were still very much the fog of COVID and several experiences were modified. I was gobsmacked by the inclusions onboard, the AMAZING food, the entertainment (both large scale and small scale), the activities (hello karaoke booths!), and the relaxation spaces. But the crew!! Omg they were phenomenal. They were so excited about what they were doing and so excited to share their ship with us. We found them to be very welcoming despite the fact that we also don’t fit the crazy petite to average 30-something party vibe I was afraid the line was trying to grab. I’m booked to go again in 2 months with friends and I’ll be doing an onboard booking so I can go again with my husband as soon as possible. I love, love, love this line. I am a mega Disney fan and all else being equal, I would choose VV over DCL in many circumstances. And I really don’t need to cruise on any line except those two ever again.
Damn! Truly appreciate your honesty on body size and room comfort. Definitely something I was curious about. I wish I could give this more thumbs up. LOVED the wrap up and the fluffy friendly comments.
I've never been on a cruise. I love watching videos like this from someone who is knowledgable about them, in adds e I ever pull the trigger and go! So thank you :)
Thanks for your review. I’m going on this cruise next month so it was very timely. I personally really like the aesthetic of the rooms and ship in general, and I love that I can get a solo cabin! Having good food that is all included and not having to sit in a skanky buffet or stuffy main dining room is a breath of fresh air. I like that there are no kids on this cruise, it’s an adult cruise and I like that. Also, no nickel and dime stupid drinks packages, etc. Thanks for this review, I’m really excited to go now!
I was on one for the first sailings from the US and found it to be the most boring 10 days of my life. I have only done traditional cruising and this was quite a change. I travel solo all the time and I felt more alone on this ship than I have on any other I have taken. I found that if you are not in to fitness there is nothing to do during the day or evening. No casual entertainment spots, no general activities. To me it was fitness, drinking and a couple of shows of questionable entertainment value It was something new to try but only burn me once, back to the old traditions of Carnival and NCL! Happy sailing.
I agree with you. I have only done Carnival. It fits my budget, Virgin doesn't, and Carnival has more things to do, the decor is more to my taste, and the ships on Carnival have fitness spaces that are free and have good machines, if I need to exercise.
Tony is so right. I took a European cruise on the Virgin Valiant Lady. I am in my late 60's and could lose a few pounds. The food and entertainment were wonderful. I loved the various food options and the quality was incredible. I cruise every two months or so, and Virgin is now one of my favorites. I little pricier than some lines, but then more is included in the cabin price, e.g. specialty dining and gratuities. I also loved Branson's strategy to encourage passengers to explore the entire ship with various venues on several decks. I would definitely sail again with Virgin. Great review Tony!!
I appreciate your disclosure of weight issues/limitations which was what was making me hesitant about booking with Virgin. Now I think I would be OK about booking.
Great review!! As a fluffy cruiser, I had similar concerns. It would be nice to be kid free on a cruise and I mean even our grown kids lol. Thanks for the info and the entertainment!
As someone who also does circus as a hobby, I'm so happy to see another circus person (picked up on it even before you mentioned you were a juggler when you called the performances "circus arts")! Thanks for a great, in-depth review! I've been really curious about Virgin Voyages especially because they allegedly have solid vegan options.
I am very interested in cruising on a VV ship. I’m solo, female and vegan. That’s what sells me, the fact I can get a variety of vegan foods throughout the ship. I’d really like to do a repositioning cruise but at this moment, I’m not sure if VV does these kinds of cruises because I haven’t researched it yet. AND… get a great price on a balcony cabin (must have.) Would love to do a transatlantic, either direction, or even other parts of the world. Guess I better start looking! Good review and thanks.
I freaking love this!!! Thanks for sharing…I was excited to try them out next year but now I am online looking at schedules!! 🙌🏻 Sincerely, a 45 year old fluffy gurl
Great review, Tony. I love the adults only aspect. And I've been told I'm too open minded (is that even possible?) so it isn't likely any venue or entertainment would have me clutching pearls. Love, love love a veggie forward restaurant and couldn't care less that they offer bacon too. To each their own! At the moment I'm on the fluffy side of life but my budget is not. I will definitely give some thought to trying the Scarlet Lady though. About your style of review: I appreciate so much that, when you find something negative to mention, you always emphasize that it's just your opinion and still try to put a positive spin on whatever the subject is. You're always kind. The world needs more of that. Be well.
I don't think Virgin Voyages is for me, but you get my thumbs up for the Fire Juggling 🔥. I always love your reviews and even though I haven't been able to go on my first cruise yet I have developed a love for cruising because of your genuine love for it and how well you share youe experiences with us. And I appreciate what you and Jenny do. My kids and husband even know who you guys are. Great review as always 👏
We were on the Scarlet Lady in November 2021. It's a very interesting departure from regular cruising. I'm on the fence about whether I would go on another Virgin Voyages cruise. While I loved the food itself, I did not like the idea of having to make restaurant reservations months ahead of time. We found that part of it to be inflexible and ended up having to eat later than we normally do. They take the sustainability thing too far by not making water available to purchase pre-cruise or from any venue on the ship. This was the first cruise we've been on where I had to bring a large Yeti water bottle to fill up each night in the galley so we'd have plenty of water in our stateroom.
@@dawnmeade2172 We had those too but that's not enough water for us. On a Royal Caribbean cruise, I buy a case of bottled water pre-cruise and we order more from room service if needed. We can also take those bottled waters with us when we go off the ship on a shorex.
Awesome review! I too wondered if I would fit in on a Virgin cruise. Now after hearing your review I feel comfortable giving it a try. I embrace diversity. Thanks for your honest report.
This is the kind of cruise I want to try! The price tag might be a bit high, but once you consider all the included amenities and excursions, it's probably a wash. Bonus that there isn't a focus on gambling, partying and kids. The fact that it's so accommodating for plus size folks is an added bonus!
I appreciated your review 👍🏻. I went on Scarlet Lady in May 2022. Loved it! Never had better food on any cruise line. Just awesome. The staff couldn’t have been more accommodating. The vibe was intimate and welcoming. Can’t say I don’t also enjoy the big ship feel also, but I already put down money for my next virgin experience (and tomorrow I’ll try Margaritaville, (which is an entirely different thing )
I could see sailing on Virgin from Miami, but the attraction would definitely be the ship instead of the ports, although the proprietary beach club at Bimini looks gorgeous. I love the no MDR, multi-specialty restaurant vibe.. everything, including a lot of stuff in the "buffet" is its own specialty, and looks done to perfection.. Celebrity is playing with a hybrid concept on the Apex, with a few mini-MDRs that share some dishes and specialize with others.. I'll be on the Apex for 14 days at the end of October and I'll let you know what I think.. I don't mind the ultramodern vibes of the cabins but the furniture looks cheap to me, and I didn't see much in terms of storage.. maybe 5 nights worth.. I'd rather have 7 or 8 with 3 decent ports.. It is pricey, but since virtually everything is included, I'm sure if you deconstruct the cruise cost into pieces, you'll have something in line with a mid level cruise line like Princess or Celebrity... I am definitely intrigued by Branson's concept of cruising, and I'm sure they cross the line between sexy romantic and sexy gratuitous a few times... I'll just cover my wife's eyes... It seems definitely worth sailing at least once, because it is different and has a lot of positives.. did you have to book directly with the cruise line? don't see it on my travel agent's site..
One thing I did not like is the bars that were tucked away where you couldn't see anything but four walls - not even windows. These bars generally were empty every time I found one. I love the way Royal and Carnival have most of their bars on either side of the hallways. I sailed on the Valiant Lady last February in a Sea Terrace. The technology is It was a little smaller than staterooms on other cruise lines, but I liked it. I have another Valiant Lady cruise booked for November in a XL Sea Terrace. I got incredible deals on these two cruises and since I have noticed the cruises are more than twice what I paid at the time of booking. The showers were amazing! The water pressure is great! The food on this cruise line is the best I've had at sea.
I just recently found your channel, and find your reviews so thorough. Not sure Virgin would be for me but I do appreciate a lot about it. After Covid, I was quite worried about cruising. But your reviews are sorely tempting me again. Thanks for all of your reviews.
I have been watching your videos for a while but never subscribed, I was on Scarlet Lady 2 weeks ago & this video made me hit the subscribe button. Your review was very on point & I agree with all you said. We have been in many cruises from different companies & so far Virgin is our favorite.
Great review Tony, thanks!! I'm scheduled on the scarlet lady for the same itinerary in April 2023 and I was worried that I too may be too old at 52, plus going solo. But your review has me convinced that I'm going to have a great time and meet some very fun and interesting people. Yay!
So glad the lobster roll saga has been rectified!! I still remember you two explaining what happened and I was so sad for you!! Then when Key West tried to stop welcoming the larger ships, I thought you'd never get another shot at them! As a 51 yr old married old lady who is fairly close to what I call fluffy status, I really appreciate the reviews. I watched Emma give her review from a tiny young human and probably would have never tried the line myself; however, your photos and explanations have turned my decision around I think. Going to look for other videos about the Lady you put out as well. Keep the great videos coming!
We have not done Virgin Voyages ...yet. What I found most intriguing is the dinner options. Sounds like fun! Also, adults only cruising sounds good as well. Not too sure I'm a fan of the decor but from what you showed it seem to constantly change. Seems like they listened to some cruisers in the past and are making small adjustments without changing their themes. Thanks for sharing :)
COST - This was a 4 night cruise, I think said 5 in the video, i paid $1556 before the cruise and then I spent about $100 onboard for coffee, a couple drinks, and upgraded internet. Of course prices will vary and there is second itinerary to the western Caribbean.
Hope you got a rub down for that price mate!
@@floatybyboaty Keep in mind there's no MDR so effectively all dining outside of The Galley is specialty dining. If you look at that price and say $50 per night of it is going to your meal it's a bit more what you'd expect.
You're also getting the WiFi included and they're giving their employees WiFi too. Those bills still need to be paid so yeah it's going to run higher than your Royal and Carnival cruises. It's pretty in line with Celebrity and Princess pricing though.
For that price, drinks should be included.
Not too bad of a price for a solo rate. Thanks for sharing Tony!
@@recoveringfatboy5660 Sodas and water are free it’s just stuff like coffee and alcohol that’s extra.
I'm old and fat and had the time of my life on Scarlet Lady in July. I went alone and celebrated my 50th birthday like a Rockstar! The hammock and the restaurants/food were amazing and the crew was sooo wonderful all over the ship!!
Yeeeesss! I went 3 weeks ago. Im also fluffy, 50 & Fabulous! LOVED this cruise ship! Its for anyone that looking to relax, have an open mind, and comfortable around ALL types of folks. Food, and drinks are wonderful. I recommend for anyone looking to do a different ADULT cruise!
I was a little nervous going solo on a cruise but you changed my mind! It will be my first cruise I am 37 years old. Nobody wants to come with me so I guess solo it is! Excited now! thank you!
@@lw3371 I just turned 53 on Saturday. I've been solo cruising for 11 years and love every moment of it! Never be afraid to travel on your own; enjoy your own company. Also, the only thing I say for solo traveling is to ALWAYS do the cruise sanctioned Excursions. Don't go out on your own unless you're staying in the cruise port and just shopping next to the ship. Otherwise, enjoy yourself!!! I promise you'll make friends along the way. 🤗
@@dr.braxygilkeycruises1460 thank you for the insight! I’m excited. It’s my first cruise ahhhh can’t wait!!
Happy Belated 50th Birthday! I'm a solo sailor too and this was helpful.
"No kids" and "all inclusive vibe." I'm sold.
I cruised in January. I loved it. I’m a large 71 yr old woman. I had a table next to my bed to put things on plus the sofa arm. I also found everything in cabin great. I travel with a mobility scooter and VV also planned for that. They have space and plugs outside of every cabin. The corridor had more than enough room for others passing by. I loved all of the food. I did do the room service. It was the first room service ever on land or sea that arrived piping hot in what appeared to be cast iron containers carried inside of a canvas bag. How shocked I was to open the containers and see the steam rise from it. The tattoo parlor was full of people that looked older than me getting tatted up. Best cruise I’ve ever been on and I found cost very reasonable! I’ve booked a suite on a 2 week segment of the world cruise for under $5000 for 2! I can’t wait to go back. I had premium Wi-Fi and streamed my Netflix and other movies to my cabin tv, although there were numerous options available on the tv without streaming. I also liked the in cabin mood lighting.
Virgin is the most inclusive cruise I have been on. The vibe is great and everyone is welcome to be as you are. It’s become my favorite cruise line.
Tony, as a 51 yr old Fat Gal… you almost had me in tears!!! Your discussion about how welcoming Virgin voyagers are shocked me in a good way!!! Thank you deeply for giving me hope and making me think twice about this cruise company!!! Appreciate it!!! And hope you get to cruise with your Lovely wife Jenny B on V V very soon !
I was about 320 on this cruise and I didn't have any trouble.
Do it, you'll have so much fun!
I'm a 50 year old dad and I don't drink alcohol. I sailed the Scarlet lady Jan 2022. There were people of all (adult) ages and body shapes. There's something for everybody on board. I had a blast. The food is outstanding.
There are no sails on this ship.
We watched this video prior to booking our first Virgin Voyages cruise and we appreciated the information and all of the details provided. We did book and my husband and I (LGBT Couple) just got back from an 8 night Caribbean cruise on the Virgin Valiant Lady (March 2023). We have been on 15+ cruises as a couple and never have we felt more welcomed. The diversity of both the crew and the passengers made this the most fun and at the same time relaxing vacation we have had at sea. We are middle aged and not what I would consider Instagram gays and will still had an amazing time interacting with fellow sailors and the crew. I really hope that Virgin Voyages does well and is around for a long time.
Ok, may I say.... "Instagram Gays" tickled me 🤩
We just sailed Scarlet Lady with the Dominican Daze itinerary, Puerto Plata and Bimini. I really didn't know what to expect and I kind of expected to be a 'one and done' with Virgin, but having sailed 8 cruise lines, I have to say this was the best overall experience of any cruise line so far. The vibe reminded me of a cross between Celebrity and Disney. In fact a couple of our fellow cruisers said it felt like Disney for adults. We learned that many of the crew have come from Celebrity, Seabourn and Disney so that explained the high level of service. Your review is echoing what my review will be as well. It's an incredibly open and inviting cruise line with a ship that's set up to encourage social interaction with your fellow guests. And the dining experience is unreal.
Followed your adventures. Looked like you had an awesome time.
Did you find average age in the 30’s, 40’s 50s?
@@inky2034 Mid 50's probably. All ages from 18 to about 85. It was so much fun.
This was helpful. I am going on that Dominican Daze itineraries as well. Really looking forward to it.
My wife and I sailed the Scarlet lady in June AND July (due to the credits from Covid cancellations). I agree it will not be for everyone. We have sailed over 15 cruises, and by FAR this was the best food on ANY cruise line we have sailed. June cruise was a basic balcony room and it was a little small. July cruise we had enough credit for the small suite, it was perfect, size and layout. Would Virgin be our first choice for our next cruise, probably not. But if you are "thinking" of trying it, you should. I would sail them again just for the food and no kids. And EVERY crew member seemed like they really wanted you to enjoy yourself, they were awesome.
Have you cruised with Disney? I'd like to hear reviews from people who have. I've been invited to a virgin cruise. Not sure I want to. I love Disney. I've tried other cruiselines and they don't compare.
@@chrystallimon Never been on a Disney cruise. So, we initially book our Virgin Voyages cruise just when they were starting up, then Covid hit, delaying their startup date. Even though it was no fault of theirs, they gave us DOUBLE credit back for future cruises. So, we did TWO, June AND July 2022. First was a balcony room, second we had enough credit remaining for a suite. The food on both trips were excellent. The entertainment was NOT your normal cruise ship entertainment and not what we really liked. Ship was awesome, crew was great, NO KIDS. I'd say if you have a chance to do a Virgin Voyage, you MUST do it at least once.
LOL, I guess I should have re-read my initial post, apparently I have the same thought since it's almost identical to my new post 🤣🤣🤣
We just got off of the Dominican Daze cruise last week. We are in our 60’s. We have already booked another Virgin cruise! Your review was right on the money…especially the part about not worrying about weight. I am very body conscious..and a bit “fluffy”. After seeing guys and girls..much fluffier than me..at the pool, or in more glamorous evening outfits..I thought they looked great..and realized..so did I!! Love Virgin Voyages!
I've watched 3 reviews of Virgin Voyages this summer and yours by far is the most thorough. I especially appreciate your observations of details that seem minor; but truly make a positive difference in the overall experience -- such as: the generous availability of AC outlets and the "A" versus "Z" side of the ship. Your more objective and broader review of the shows painted them in a much more positive light than the other reviewers. I think that you "got" the point of the shows. Thank you!
My feelings as well. Excellent and honest review. It helps a lot.
This was a great video!!! So many people avoid these subjects of age and size when discussing cruises, but they are important factors. Great review of the ship. Makes me want to book a cruise on Virgin.
You said what I was going to say.
Yep, I completely agree & going to book one over Thanksgiving
On
I’m old and fat ….. with a cane! These were some of my favorite voyages. Been on three, going on a fourth in February. YAY!
My first Carnival Cruise had a BBW (Big Beautiful Women) group. Still, the way Virgin advertises, you wouldn't think they welcome fat people. I'm glad his experience was positive.
We just got off a 5 night on virgin. It was great for all the reasons you said. Very fun and inclusive of everyone. I would add also I liked that there was no pushiness to upsell anything. No shopping guide, art auction, shop sales, etc. You just did what you wanted and all the info was in the app.
That sounds amazing! I hate the constant underlying tone of “selling” on cruises - the art auction, sales, etc. Thanks for mentioning this!
This was a great video and super helpful. We were already booked on Scarlet Lady and both my wife and I (in our 50's) were concerned about not feeling comfortable on a ship advertised as a younger person's cruise. Your video really helped to put us at ease. We went and not only did we feel as comfortable as on any other cruise we have been on, but had an amazing time and booked our next cruise with Virgin. Yes, there are beautiful people on board both crew and passengers but there are also people like us, older, fatter, skinnier, etc. What there weren't any of were children and while we are parents this was extremely nice to truly be able to get away and fully enjoy an adults only experience. I cannot say enough about how spectacular Virgin Cruises was, a unique experience for sure and certainly an option for everyone.......well except children. Can't wait to be back on the ship. Thanks for your excellent video.
I was on that same ship in June 22. The passengers were of all sizes and ages . I liked that it wasn't a party cruise, had a classy vibe and the food was A+. Paid about 1600 for a balcony, it was worth it, no kids.
I've been fortunate to go on Scarlet lady and Valiant lady from my Home Port. From knowing Virgin as a brand for many years, Virgin has never been the same from other companies, from trains to planes. VV is the exactly that. Personally they allow the crew to be themselves and I would recommend to anyone to try out the brand at least once. VV is not everyone because how it's designed. All I can say, when you board, don't think about other cruise brands, on how they operate, keep an open mind, Virgin has once again just did their own thing. They changed the British railway system and now they have brought that style to the sea. Personally it still has that Funky British vibe, but taking it across the sea.
Absolutely agree. From decorations, furnishings, etc it definitely has a European Vibe but we absolutely loved it. I forgot to mention that aspect of the crew in my comment which is they allow the crew to be exactly who they are. Wether it's gay/straight, tattoos or a funky haircut, you feel the genuineness all around and that is truly refreshing. We felt more than comfortable just being us, in our 50's, on the "healthy" side of body mass, but more importantly 2 adults that just wanted to enjoy a new experience. I am beyond Impressed with Virgin Voyages.
I went solo also and it was a GREAT CRUISE and going back soon. Food, music, and cruise vibe was GREAT! Totally agree on it being a very inclusive cruise for EVERYONE!
Thanks! I was just wondering if it would be fun if I go by myself!
As a single millennial who does not love kids virgin voyages is on my list for sure the fact that there are single cabins is a huge plus and the dining variety is huge for me. I am also fat so I really appreciate you talking about that aspect of a cruise ship that really promotes their fitness stuff. This review made me want to do a virgin cruise even more than I already did
Double Ditto on that one Megan sweetie! i'm with you on that for sure! 😁
u may not want to sail with kids but your cruise will costs doubles.
Do it! I went solo for a birthday and met so many amazing people had a lot of fun and already lined up for my next tripp
@@juliechats2000I would pay triple to escape people’s annoying kids encroaching on my vacation.
@@ms.voicer3214 yep it’s great it’s 18+ no little kids running around or crying ….
This is the first review of Virgin that I've seen that has made me want to try them out. I'm glad to hear you felt welcome because every other review I've seen has given off a vibe of "this is for the cool Instagram kids, you can't sit with us." I do appreciate how Virgin has tweaked cruising to make it more modern, and the food looks wonderful. But the last thing I want is to go on a cruise and be overlooked/ignored because I'm no longer in my 20s/30s.
Similarly, other passenger reviews of Virgin made it sound very not my thing. One video I watched implied that the halls were filled with house music 24/7 and that the drag shows were the main entertainment. I have no problem with drag shows existing, but have no interest in attending. The shows reviewed here do sound interesting.
I hear what you're saying but other reviewers are social media types, it's not reality. It's the shiny coat of paint covering the reality. Most cruise devotees are normal suburban people.
Pro tip: cool Instagram kids are never cool nor are they material in reality. You are way cooler than they’ll ever be because you are real life.
I’ll be booking with virgin this week!
I love the adults only concept for cruising!! Don’t like/care for the rooms though.
Virgin and Viking are known for adults-only, but I seem to remember from some cruise news reports that other cruise lines are adding more cruises that are adults only as well, even if they normally are family oriented.
@@TorIverWilhelmsen good.
I like that the shower is either or and not both. As a black lady, 9 times out of 10, when I go on vacation my hair is already done, either in braids or another style. I hate rain shower shower heads because even with a shower cap, you run the risk of ruining your hair.
FACTS
You're preaching to the choir 💯
This is all very good information. I'm a big dude, and I just booked a solo trip on Virgin Voyages for October 2023 on a repositioning cruise from Barcelona to Miami, 14 day trip. This will be my first ever cruise! I'm glad that they are accepting of those of us who have extra girth!
I went on this cruise ship and enjoyed absolutely everything about it! It's definitely a game changer in my opinion. I can't wait to go back again. I'm completely sold!! I went with my mom who is in her 70s and she loved it as well. Definitely for everyone.
Thank you Tony. I'm built like you and just turned 60. My wife and I have reserved a spot on the inaugural Alaska cruise season aboard the Brilliant Lady in 2026. I'm now looking even more forward to it.
I'm old and fat and the Scarlet Lady was my favorite cruise so far!!!
Love your review and observations. The industry must find more adult-only, inclusive, solo sailor options. Way to go Virgin for testing the waters!
Always value the disrupter. Even if it doesn't hit it out of the park, it helps adjust perceptions and make people think differently about things that have "always been this way" but shouldn't be anymore.
Not having many of those interior multi-floor spaces may actually help me a little bit. Sound is ordinarily extra loud for me and when the ceiling is high enough that sounds start bouncing around a lot, I have extreme difficulty in picking out words. And by that I mean I'm probably not going to understand the words from the person next to me unless they speak directly into my ear or I concentrate enough that I'm unable to notice anything else, so I shouldn't be walking while trying to listen. I deal with it as well as I can but I appreciate spaces where I don't have to fight with it.
If I find a price I can work with I'll try Virgin happily.
Tony, I’ve been watching your videos daily for about 2 months now. I wanted to stop in and say that we just completed our first ever cruise. A 4-night experience on the Scarlet Lady. Your videos were so helpful in understanding how it all works for us newbies. The cruise was amazing and only $1500 for a beautiful Sea Terrace room and a complimentary $300 bar tab. I couldn’t be more pleased with the experience and wanted to thank you for your guidance to a good time.
How did you get a complimentary bar tab? Sorry I know this comment is old but any help would be appreciated! Thank you!
@@andyanderson3437 unfortunately it was a temporary sale that was going on. It seems that these specials pop up throughout the year. Maybe keep your eye on the site and be ready to book when the next sale rolls around.
More Cruise 🚢 Reviews!! I am loving them!
I love that a cruise line is open and inclusive..Sounds amazing…I like that it’s a non traditional cruise..I love to workout but I’m a foodie too..a huge plus is the adult only concept…
I watched someone else’s review of this cruise line and immediately said not for me. I watched your review and am ready to book! We are a smidge older than you and I, too, wondered if we might be too old; if we were not “hip” enough. Appears my perceptions were incorrect. Great, honest review and frankly can’t wait to try it out.
Bob Gurr, the 93 year old last living Imagineer to have worked with Walt Disney, just returned from a cruise on the Valiant Lady and posted lots of photos, including getting a tattoo on the ship!
Not going to lie, I’m loyal to royal and I’ve seen this cruise and I’ve as like… nah, I’m ok.
HOWEVER, after seen your video and listening/seeing how cool and different it is….. You honestly changed my mind.
THANK YOU! For being awesome, THANK YOU for being extremely detailed/funny, and just thank you!
I honestly hope one day I’ll catch you on the lido ‼️
I like the concept of The Galley. Some grab and go with a menu and table service. The chaos of a traditional buffet is something I never like, makes me feel anxious. The food looks outstanding! Nice presentation and choices.
Dude you're awesome! We just booked Scarlet Lady last night, and I've been researching stuff all day. Love your take. I'm a bigger guy too and always self conscious, but this sounds like the perfect cruise for me and my husband. Can't wait to get onboard!
Thanks AGAIN for your honest review. I never would have considered this line. I thought it was for young jet setting crazy rich physically fit people (none of which includes myself) so now I’m off to watch more Virgin videos!
Me too. I liked this review and need to watch more Virgin reviews...
Feel free to check out our reviews of the Scarlet Lady!
@@stelbotadventures Oh yay! Yet another perspective! Going over to watch now! Thanks!
You should join a Facebook group for the line!
Kim, I've been on the Scarlet Lady twice. Their only target clientele is people who are young at heart and love to have a good time. It's the most welcoming, accepting environment you'll find.
Virgin is my favorite cruise line! As you said, very welcoming. The crew is AMAZING and they feel genuine, unlike most cruise lines where they are begging for those survey results and terrified you'll be honest. Such a friendly, relaxed, inclusive vibe. They make you feel like family.
Never been on a cruise in my life but watching this dude almost made me want to try one.
I weigh about 240 myself so I can only imagine how rough it is on some of those cruises for even bigger guys like him. It's definitely one of the reasons I haven't tried one. So many places aren't very fluffy-friendly these days with their setups and atmospheres unfortunately :(
Great work on the video.
I agree, I loved my cruise on the SL. My favorite cruise line, easy. So laid back, you do you on your schedule. No announcements at all, and you just walk off when it over. Great product.
More cruise lines need to switch to the rain shower head so much better! Seems like Virgin Voyages really made statement with wanting to be a totally different type of cruise line, your in-depth video really describes the differences perfectly! There are many people that will love this type of cruising! I absolutely love their way of dining and more being inclusive! Thanks for the great video!
I really don’t like them, as nowhere to go in the shower away from it while I wash with the shower gel. I hate the water on my head all the time. Both shower heads would be good, but that increases the price for the cruise line.
No thank you…hate the rain showers! I like having the option for a regular shower….even better, a hand shower as well
we just did our first VV cruise in Scarlet Lady. After 20+ RCCL cruises I have to say Only VV from now on. Tony did not mention the games area, tons of old school games like Rockum Sockum robots and operation for free and a really cool arcade with the old school games, also no charge. also several foosball tables. Food was awesome. Have never been a cruise pool / hot tub person so the small pool was no issue for me..
Great review Tony!
ALSO! if you have Cruise loyalty status on another cruise line, VV will Match it to their program! Well worth looking into!
Great review, Tony. The things I would like are the food venues, and the 'no kids'!
Can I just mention, again, how much I like your new schedule of videos? You have figured out a way to give us the best of a cruise channel in one place! 🙂
Thanks Diane!
Those are my two biggest selling points for this particular cruise ship are the food venues and No Kids Policy 😁! Especially the latter is what caught my attention initially.
Unfortunately me and my mom are already booked for a Hawaii cruise in 2023. But after that I would love to delve in more about booking a cruise with Virgin in the near future 😆!
I'm so happy you were able to to get on this ship. I love Virgin and for me its now my go to cruise ship. I love the vibe. As a single solo cruise its perfect for me and yes its so welcoming. Also you can tell they treat the staff right because the seem for relaxed and enjoying theirselves as well. On their down time they are hanging with in public areas which I love. They can actually enjoy and relax on down time in public on the ship that they are on for months at a time.
I love the review and really appreciate the comments! Personally, I LOVE the Scarlet Lady. Been on it twice and will be going on it again in a few weeks. But I also love how some people are opting out of going! It’s not for everyone. But it’s hard for me to have to sit in a main dining room, or pay extra for “signature” dining. Too much is included for me to go back. At least not yet…
Another fun thing for Gen-X was the totally free 1980's arcade!
We had a lot of fun there!
Yes!
Your review was so thorough, positive, and down to earth that I was able to convince my wife to go on the Valiant Lady on an 8-day cruise next February. So thanks! Most of our cruises have been on Disney ships are we are looking forward to experience a different vibe.
Very cool. I hope you enjoy it.
I love that you are mixing in cruise reviews among the cruise news!
This was the review I was waiting for. Thanks for being so thorough.
Having cruised with multiple parties before, the couch concept made a lot of sense for me. Invariably one room would always end up being a home base for everybody. So the idea of just turning the whole cabin into a hangout space seems smart.
I know they’ve had to delay their third ship, and they got a lot of flack for cancelling the bookings. But I hope this line makes it. I’d love to see this concept expand.
My wife and I just got back on the Scarlett Lady to Mexico snd Bimini.. THE BEST CRUISE EVER. We loved it all. The food was out of this world. The cleanliness , the crew , the price was excellent . Can’t wait to go again next year.
I’d love to see a video covering things other cruise lines could learn from Virgin Voyages and things Virgin Voyages could learn from older cruise lines
I love and appreciate that you stay till the end of shows so as not to disrespect the performers!!!!
I am sharing this video with everyone I know! I LOVED my Scarlet Lady sailing, but it’s so hard to explain the vibe to people. You did it PERFECTLY!
Thanks Anna! Appreciate it!
Great review! I like that Virgin has so much included, like all the restaurants, gratuities etc. I wish more cruise lines would adopt the all-inclusive type cruising.
Great video Tony, upfront, informative and honest. Great to hear it fit a variety of ages, sizes and personalities.
Our first Virgin cruise is next year on Valiant Lady in April. We were already looking forward to it, but as a couple older/fluffier cruisers seeing this video amped up that enthusiasm even more. Thanks for this!
I enjoyed your review. It seemed very fair. That said, I don't think Virgin has bubbled up to my top-anything list. Pro: The dining (cooked to order) sounds great. Cons: I did not care for the minimalist look of the cabin or the modern industrial outside decks. The shows didn't look appealing either. And that "pool" leaves much to be desired. I like when cruise lines innovate. Celebrity Apex is probably my favorite cruise ship and the Edge class was an innovation. I think Virgin might have been trying too hard to be different initially, without getting input from prospective customers. The fact that they are making change to some of those innovations indicates that they are listening now. So I never say never; I'll just say not now.
Id agree with you on the pros & cons
I was so excited about this when first announced... and the more I've heard, the more I've read, the gladder I am I haven't decided to sail Virgin. I'm VERY big on ships with LOTS of outdoor spaces.
This cruise is on our must do list because it is different. As to age and size....HELLO this 2022 you do what you want never let anyone else build your bounderies!!!! Great review
Well said!❤️
I love your attitude! You’ve got it right! Let no one determine your decisions!
@@andreas4268 Thanks :-)
@@sylviekins Thank you😀
Amen!!! Thank you for sharing your experience of the inclusiveness of Virgin Voyages. As a Virgin Atlantic employee I can also testify to the fact that we all live and breath the idea that, 'everyone' can take on the world.
One of the best, in depth reviews of a cruise ship that I have ever seen. Thanks Tony
I agree 👍
A really well structured, thoughtful, considered review. Your final thoughts about the true meaning of inclusivity, that by definition it means a space for everyone, is what reset my perspective of VV. We’ve booked Eastern Caribbean Isles next year and Virgin are going to help us scatter my fathers ashes in the seas where he skippered back in the early ‘60s, and where he and my mother met. Great food, a good cocktail, and a welcome for everyone is a fitting backdrop for my Dad.
For someone like me, The Galley concept is great for someone like me, who has a tendency to over pick. It would help limit MY portions.
I REALLY appreciate your comments about size. I was very concerned about excessive body shaming. Awesome video.
Great job……you nailed it again ! Think a lot of people had questions about what sailing with Virgin is like. You compared things a bit but also just showed what the Scarlet had to offer…..nice way of doing it. Again awesome job ! 😀🇨🇦
The cruise really looks and felt like an upgrade all around. Definitely on my list to try now
I love your shows , I use your shows to look up stuff,even when I’m in the shower I put your show on and listen to it, I’ve learned a lot from you & Jenny. Keep up the good work
Thank you for all yous do
Maybe you would enjoy chicken wile your in there.
loved this review - thanks so much! looking forward to our western carribean charm cruise on Valiant in April!!
Love Virgin Voyages for its outside-the-box approach to cruising. LOVE that they make everyone feel welcome and included. I sailed them in January 2022. I have 3 more voyages booked. No looking back for me. You can have the other mass market lines! Oh, no kids….massively attractive. Thank you Virgin Voyages
This was a great review. I really love what you said about being inclusive and I absolutely agree. I don’t love cruising, but as a TA, I certainly sell cruises if that’s what my clients want and I do go and experience them from time to time to stay informed. So when VV debuted, I did my job and booked a cruise. I fell in love with this line from the moment we stepped on board. We were on the 8th sailing, so we were still very much the fog of COVID and several experiences were modified. I was gobsmacked by the inclusions onboard, the AMAZING food, the entertainment (both large scale and small scale), the activities (hello karaoke booths!), and the relaxation spaces. But the crew!! Omg they were phenomenal. They were so excited about what they were doing and so excited to share their ship with us. We found them to be very welcoming despite the fact that we also don’t fit the crazy petite to average 30-something party vibe I was afraid the line was trying to grab. I’m booked to go again in 2 months with friends and I’ll be doing an onboard booking so I can go again with my husband as soon as possible. I love, love, love this line. I am a mega Disney fan and all else being equal, I would choose VV over DCL in many circumstances. And I really don’t need to cruise on any line except those two ever again.
Damn! Truly appreciate your honesty on body size and room comfort. Definitely something I was curious about. I wish I could give this more thumbs up. LOVED the wrap up and the fluffy friendly comments.
Wow, thank you for this review. I had a preconceived idea that Virgin wouldn't be for us due to age and fluffiness. You've put this back on out list!
I am not a beach person, but LOVED the pools on Bimini. Personally I love Virgin Voyages!
I've never been on a cruise. I love watching videos like this from someone who is knowledgable about them, in adds e I ever pull the trigger and go! So thank you :)
Thanks for your review. I’m going on this cruise next month so it was very timely. I personally really like the aesthetic of the rooms and ship in general, and I love that I can get a solo cabin! Having good food that is all included and not having to sit in a skanky buffet or stuffy main dining room is a breath of fresh air. I like that there are no kids on this cruise, it’s an adult cruise and I like that. Also, no nickel and dime stupid drinks packages, etc. Thanks for this review, I’m really excited to go now!
You’ve convinced me to give Virgin Voyages a try with the hubby. Everything you’ve described is right up our alley! Thanks for such an honest review!
I was on one for the first sailings from the US and found it to be the most boring 10 days of my life. I have only done traditional cruising and this was quite a change. I travel solo all the time and I felt more alone on this ship than I have on any other I have taken. I found that if you are not in to fitness there is nothing to do during the day or evening. No casual entertainment spots, no general activities. To me it was fitness, drinking and a couple of shows of questionable entertainment value It was something new to try but only burn me once, back to the old traditions of Carnival and NCL! Happy sailing.
I agree with you. I have only done Carnival. It fits my budget, Virgin doesn't, and Carnival has more things to do, the decor is more to my taste, and the ships on Carnival have fitness spaces that are free and have good machines, if I need to exercise.
At least you tried it and now you know.
This is one of the best cruise reviews ive seen. Thank you for the "fluffy" perspective!
Tony is so right. I took a European cruise on the Virgin Valiant Lady. I am in my late 60's and could lose a few pounds. The food and entertainment were wonderful. I loved the various food options and the quality was incredible. I cruise every two months or so, and Virgin is now one of my favorites. I little pricier than some lines, but then more is included in the cabin price, e.g. specialty dining and gratuities. I also loved Branson's strategy to encourage passengers to explore the entire ship with various venues on several decks. I would definitely sail again with Virgin. Great review Tony!!
I appreciate your disclosure of weight issues/limitations which was what was making me hesitant about booking with Virgin. Now I think I would be OK about booking.
The room service was awesome. You can order anything you wanted for a $5 fee. Loved it!
We watched this ship leave Miami the night before our cruise, absolutely a beautiful ship at night!
Great review!! As a fluffy cruiser, I had similar concerns. It would be nice to be kid free on a cruise and I mean even our grown kids lol. Thanks for the info and the entertainment!
We’ve been on Virgin and absolutely loved it. We are going again in February! Can’t wait! Glad you enjoyed it!
As someone who also does circus as a hobby, I'm so happy to see another circus person (picked up on it even before you mentioned you were a juggler when you called the performances "circus arts")! Thanks for a great, in-depth review! I've been really curious about Virgin Voyages especially because they allegedly have solid vegan options.
I am very interested in cruising on a VV ship. I’m solo, female and vegan. That’s what sells me, the fact I can get a variety of vegan foods throughout the ship. I’d really like to do a repositioning cruise but at this moment, I’m not sure if VV does these kinds of cruises because I haven’t researched it yet. AND… get a great price on a balcony cabin (must have.) Would love to do a transatlantic, either direction, or even other parts of the world. Guess I better start looking! Good review and thanks.
I freaking love this!!! Thanks for sharing…I was excited to try them out next year but now I am online looking at schedules!! 🙌🏻
Sincerely, a 45 year old fluffy gurl
Great review, Tony. I love the adults only aspect. And I've been told I'm too open minded (is that even possible?) so it isn't likely any venue or entertainment would have me clutching pearls.
Love, love love a veggie forward restaurant and couldn't care less that they offer bacon too. To each their own!
At the moment I'm on the fluffy side of life but my budget is not. I will definitely give some thought to trying the Scarlet Lady though.
About your style of review: I appreciate so much that, when you find something negative to mention, you always emphasize that it's just your opinion and still try to put a positive spin on whatever the subject is. You're always kind. The world needs more of that.
Be well.
I don't think Virgin Voyages is for me, but you get my thumbs up for the Fire Juggling 🔥. I always love your reviews and even though I haven't been able to go on my first cruise yet I have developed a love for cruising because of your genuine love for it and how well you share youe experiences with us. And I appreciate what you and Jenny do. My kids and husband even know who you guys are. Great review as always 👏
We were on the Scarlet Lady in November 2021. It's a very interesting departure from regular cruising. I'm on the fence about whether I would go on another Virgin Voyages cruise. While I loved the food itself, I did not like the idea of having to make restaurant reservations months ahead of time. We found that part of it to be inflexible and ended up having to eat later than we normally do. They take the sustainability thing too far by not making water available to purchase pre-cruise or from any venue on the ship. This was the first cruise we've been on where I had to bring a large Yeti water bottle to fill up each night in the galley so we'd have plenty of water in our stateroom.
Staterooms for us supplied a carafe of regular and a carafe of sparkling water each day with ice each evening.
@@dawnmeade2172 We had those too but that's not enough water for us. On a Royal Caribbean cruise, I buy a case of bottled water pre-cruise and we order more from room service if needed. We can also take those bottled waters with us when we go off the ship on a shorex.
Awesome review! I too wondered if I would fit in on a Virgin cruise. Now after hearing your review I feel comfortable giving it a try. I embrace diversity. Thanks for your honest report.
This is the kind of cruise I want to try! The price tag might be a bit high, but once you consider all the included amenities and excursions, it's probably a wash. Bonus that there isn't a focus on gambling, partying and kids. The fact that it's so accommodating for plus size folks is an added bonus!
I appreciated your review 👍🏻. I went on Scarlet Lady in May 2022. Loved it!
Never had better food on any cruise line. Just awesome. The staff couldn’t have been more accommodating. The vibe was intimate and welcoming.
Can’t say I don’t also enjoy the big ship feel also, but I already put down money for my next virgin experience (and tomorrow I’ll try Margaritaville, (which is an entirely different thing )
I could see sailing on Virgin from Miami, but the attraction would definitely be the ship instead of the ports, although the proprietary beach club at Bimini looks gorgeous. I love the no MDR, multi-specialty restaurant vibe.. everything, including a lot of stuff in the "buffet" is its own specialty, and looks done to perfection.. Celebrity is playing with a hybrid concept on the Apex, with a few mini-MDRs that share some dishes and specialize with others.. I'll be on the Apex for 14 days at the end of October and I'll let you know what I think.. I don't mind the ultramodern vibes of the cabins but the furniture looks cheap to me, and I didn't see much in terms of storage.. maybe 5 nights worth.. I'd rather have 7 or 8 with 3 decent ports.. It is pricey, but since virtually everything is included, I'm sure if you deconstruct the cruise cost into pieces, you'll have something in line with a mid level cruise line like Princess or Celebrity... I am definitely intrigued by Branson's concept of cruising, and I'm sure they cross the line between sexy romantic and sexy gratuitous a few times... I'll just cover my wife's eyes... It seems definitely worth sailing at least once, because it is different and has a lot of positives.. did you have to book directly with the cruise line? don't see it on my travel agent's site..
One thing I did not like is the bars that were tucked away where you couldn't see anything but four walls - not even windows. These bars generally were empty every time I found one. I love the way Royal and Carnival have most of their bars on either side of the hallways. I sailed on the Valiant Lady last February in a Sea Terrace. The technology is It was a little smaller than staterooms on other cruise lines, but I liked it. I have another Valiant Lady cruise booked for November in a XL Sea Terrace. I got incredible deals on these two cruises and since I have noticed the cruises are more than twice what I paid at the time of booking. The showers were amazing! The water pressure is great! The food on this cruise line is the best I've had at sea.
I just recently found your channel, and find your reviews so thorough. Not sure Virgin would be for me but I do appreciate a lot about it. After Covid, I was quite worried about cruising. But your reviews are sorely tempting me again. Thanks for all of your reviews.
Thanks and welcome to the channel.
I have been watching your videos for a while but never subscribed, I was on Scarlet Lady 2 weeks ago & this video made me hit the subscribe button. Your review was very on point & I agree with all you said. We have been in many cruises from different companies & so far Virgin is our favorite.
Great review Tony, thanks!! I'm scheduled on the scarlet lady for the same itinerary in April 2023 and I was worried that I too may be too old at 52, plus going solo. But your review has me convinced that I'm going to have a great time and meet some very fun and interesting people. Yay!
How was your cruise? Did you enjoy it?
So glad the lobster roll saga has been rectified!! I still remember you two explaining what happened and I was so sad for you!! Then when Key West tried to stop welcoming the larger ships, I thought you'd never get another shot at them! As a 51 yr old married old lady who is fairly close to what I call fluffy status, I really appreciate the reviews. I watched Emma give her review from a tiny young human and probably would have never tried the line myself; however, your photos and explanations have turned my decision around I think. Going to look for other videos about the Lady you put out as well. Keep the great videos coming!
We have not done Virgin Voyages ...yet. What I found most intriguing is the dinner options. Sounds like fun! Also, adults only cruising sounds good as well. Not too sure I'm a fan of the decor but from what you showed it seem to constantly change. Seems like they listened to some cruisers in the past and are making small adjustments without changing their themes. Thanks for sharing :)
As for food he forgot to mention Gunbae. It's a Korean BBQ. Another delicious option and the only Korean BBQ on a ship.
Bravo on your magical fire juggling! 🤹♂️
Thank you for such a thorough review! I’d love to see more ‘cruising for fat people’ videos!
i would also like to see some 'cruise excursions for fat people' reviews. Thanks for attacking size-ism head on!