Virgin Voyages Was VERY Different To What I’d Expected. Here’s How
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- Опубліковано 19 чер 2024
- Virgin Voyages has had a rush of cruise reviews but there are, in my view, 6 issues that most Virgin Voyages cruise reviews have under-played or glossed over, so in this I talk and show the 6 things that surprised me most about Virgin Voyages having cruised on them, are not the ones that I thought I would have at all - also I think that have not been spoken about enough.
I travelled as a guest of Virgin Voyages on a 4-night cruise out of Portsmouth UK. So, in this I also answer if I will be using my own money to cruise with them having experienced Scarlet Lady and these 6 issues that I feel have been underplayed, not discussed enough and reported on.
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#VirginVoyages #VirginCruises #VirginVoyagesCruise
00:00 Start
00:59 Ship Issue
05:41 Food Issue
10:34 Crew Issue
13:00 Entertainment Issue
15:33 Partying Issue
18:00 Passenger Issue
I like the "buffet - not buffet". This solves food safety issues related to guests who fail to consider others in self serve situations. No unwashed hands touching the food. No sneezing/breathing on the food.
Sean Wanlass, I’ll take my chances with the crew vs the many unsanitary and thoughtless passengers. I’ve seen some pretty crazy and disgusting behaviors from passengers over time. Plus, the crew are wearing masks and probably have to adhere to safety rules that passengers do not, as well as being regularly tested.
@@seanwan30 Hope you’re doing well! ✌🏻
@@seanwan30 how are you?
I think Covid pretty much shut down the self serve buffet. The last cruise I just went on (RC) had people serving the food. I think this curves waste and is more hygienic.
@@vickyburton2434 Actually a few lines had started this before covid. I noticed because I hate buffets because there are people who don't understand the Shared part of shared spaces.
The crew were soooo lovely, definitely was a surprise to me too. I mean the crew are always lovely... but these were extra lovely!
Were you on the same cruise as him?
😪I can watch tee
I think I was on a couple of cruises before? Not sure, close by but not the same date :-)
I read on Google news crew members are encouraged to interact with Guest not like other ships.
@@EmmaCruises was
I've been on two Virgin cruises as a solo traveler. I so agree with Gary that the food is incredible. I especially enjoyed Pink Agave , the Wake, and the Test Kitchen. Although not having a reservation, I could eat at all restaurants without much waiting. I usually ate breakfast and lunch at the Galley. One thing I missed as a solo traveler was opportunities to engage with other passengers. Because of the pool configuration and no main dining option, I did find social contact to be somewhat limited. BTW...the service was terrific. The crew quickly knew my preferences and name. And the crew is quite engaging. AND at 72 years of age, I finally got a tattoo I love on board. Entertainment was also varied and quite unique from what you would find on other cruise lines. I also found the cost less than most premium lines.
I think you’re very brave as I’m going on my first cruise in 3 weeks and feel quite nervous too plus I’m a little shy x
My husband and I (LGBT Couple) just got back from an 8 night Caribbean cruise on the Virgin Valiant Lady (March 2023). While the cabins could have been designed better and the app can be quirky and does needs a revamp, I need to express that the most important aspect of a Virgin cruise is the fun and inclusive overall experience. 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.
Thanks for sharing. My partner and I are going in December 23.
O
@@sheilaholdren97108
Iu
Ew, alphabet people.
As soon as I heard 18+ (dont remember if it was this video or your other Virgin video), I immediately grabbed my phone and started looking at prices. I've only been on Carnival, and I enjoy the party atmosphere. I'm not a party person per se, but I find it fun to watch other people having a blast dancing and having fun. My only complaint has been the amount of young children running around, unattended by an adult.
I'm already more excited about planning a cruise on Virgin with my SO than what I was about the Carnival cruise I just got off of (had a lovely mother/daughter cruise with my mom). And really, the prices aren't really all that different from Carnival's when you take into consideration everything that is included in the price...gratuities, wifi, soft drinks/tea/juice. From what I've seen from the few minutes of searching I did, alcoholic beverages are about the same price they are on Carnival, if not a bit lower, without having to buy a drink package.
I definitely think Virgin is going to be my next cruise.
I agree!!! just got back from a carnival cruise. Was my first cruise ever. And I was surprised by the kids hanging the bar, 10 year olds on the dance floor twerking with adults, and kids hopping into the hot tub with me and a group of adults discussing adult things. I will be looking into Virgin cruises just to enjoy my vacation without dealing with other peoples children.
Sounds good ! Hope it works out for you
I totally agree ... Some of us want to engage kids but it's a task to be a refree all the time and we miss at times.
Having said that people who wanna go to relax should avoid family cruises. We destroy peace 😆
I love that you spoke as to your own likes and expectations but conceded that others may have a different view and then you presented those different views without questioning their validity
Very serious review.....bravo on the detail
That is an excellent point! I think that is what makes Gary so successful in this area of media. It’s not that others are dismissive, he just has a way of discussing things that shows appreciation and respect for the myriad tastes that cruise lines have to appeal.
My first cruise was with Virgin. I was super concerned about feeling too crowded. I have issues with cramped spaces. This was never an issue on Virgin. The idea of a massive dining room sets my teeth on edge. Evrything said here is accurate but really the crews attitude is infectious. I have never been more relaxed then I was on that cruise.
I have my own pet peeves and describing a crew as infectious triggers flags for me hahah. But I then understand what you are saying of course.
Thank you for the thorough evaluation of the Virgin ship. Always glad to know what is an adult only ship.
We went on Scarlet Lady from the UK. We stayed in a Rock Star suite and loved it.
We have cruised on every major cruise line and some of the smaller ones like Silverseas.
Virgin Voyages has now become our favourite cruise line, we loved everything about it!
The cruise industry got a little boring until Virgin Voyages came along……..
1¹¹¹
I've been booked for a while to go on the Scarlet Lady. A lot of the complaints seem to just be based on preference, not actual problems. I'm a bit younger than the average cruise demographic and I like seeing new concepts and ideas to try and include those of us who feel like adult cruises are only catering to retired folks.
Agree. It’s definitely about preferences rather than age , of course they are often interlinked.. thanks for watching and commenting !
I wouldn't say cruises are just for older folks. If you want a light atmosphere, the newer ships from Carnival/NCL and Royal Caribbean have lots of variety of activities like waterslides, dry slides, rope courses, Sky diving, rock climbing, laser tag, surfiing. I'm assuming as a younger person, you would be into physical activities. And if you wanna avoid retired folks, I would avoid Holland America/Celebrity/Princess as those lines do attract older clientele.
@@ethanshelbyskateboarding9980 What a ridiculous statement.
@@ethanshelbyskateboarding9980 Only allowing wealthy people on board? Is it supposed to be free? There is cost of entry for just about everything.
Did you go on the cruise? Did you enjoy it?
You've sold me! Looked much more mellow and relaxing than I would have thought. Really like the more casual dining options- vegetarian, Mexican, and Italian is right up my alley!
I think that some ships are just too large, and Virgin is proving that not everyone needs zip lining and bumper cars, shopping mall sized lobbies and anything over 3000 passengers. I much prefer the midsized ships and places to gather my thoughts with a cocktail, book or a small group of friends. I can envision a week on a Virgin ship then continuing on with a week on a Celebrity or Princess ship.
Definitely sounds like a great plan!
I agree but it still looks like a posh shopping centre or a new airport terminal with lots of bars and restaurants in it. ie the opposite of relaxing.
Agree
It's fine to try to be all things to all people but probably not necessary if there is a void in the market. Viking has its crowd and that's perfectly fine
And in the US cruise capital there is a void for the active adult who wants to be around other active adults and may not want to even commit 7 days to a cruise
These young professionals head off to Cabo, Vegas and Cancun for 4 days...max...with pockets full of cash to burn
With the right social media push this product will move
They pressed the right buttons on design, decor, free wifi and gratuities
What you did not figure out from the small video is that actually virgin provides the feel of smaller ships with the way it was designed… You don’t have the feel of the mega ships like the old
No the ship instead looks like a try hard hipster boutique hotel with far too much gym and not enough water to cool down.
Didn't hear too many negatives. I'm there for the food. I'll be looking forward to a future cruise.
This video totally convinced me to look into Virgin Voyages! I really thought it would be all about partying and getting drunk, which is why I never looked at any of their cruises. I just don't like how I can't pick my specific cabin, which is quite important to me.
Our agent booked us specific cabins - 4 months before sailing. Maybe you were trying too soon or too late?
@@irinab7524 It seems like you can only book a specific room when you book through a travel agent or contact them directly, not through the normal booking process.
I booked a specific cabin, too, but I called. If you call, they can check whether the cabin you want is available on that cruise; just make sure you don’t opt for an upgrade. We had originally booked a cabin in the front, but we agreed to the upgrade option and were moved to midship, which was a much better location, so it worked out.
A great update. I don't believe Virgin Voyages is for us but interesting how lines can be so different. That's why your channel is so beneficial to watch.
I've never had any interest in going on a cruise, but you and Emma might convince me to try Virgin
I was just thinking the same. This actually looks appealing to me. Dare I say a more modern approach and less traditional
Same!
Hey, I also watch her channel. I aaalmost considered a cruise but have a slight fear of massive crowds while cooped up on a ship at sea. He mentioned that Virgin seems to do away with that feeling so this feels much more up my alley. I watched Emma's reviews too and the ship seems noticeably more user friendly if you're a bit nervous around massive crowds. CEO Richard Branson was smart to break up the swimming areas into smaller individual places so crowd control seems better. No wonder Gary said the atmosphere felt like those little boutique cruises he likes to go on. I'm still thinking about my first cruise and it's very likely it'll be with Virgin.
I really think it’s great that a cruise line is trying something new. I love cruising but a lot of the experience can be similar between ships, and I feel if you’re looking at bringing new cruisers onboard for the future you need to change things around.
I’m 34 and I know a LOT of people who have no interest in cruising for different reasons.
This is a voyage, not a cruise which makes it very special and unique
Right, cruise is a journey, a floating hotel, if you have to visit cities or places near the sea there is no better choice (indeed, I would say that it is better than a hotel since it takes you to your destination and provides you an accommodation all included for the holiday period )
it's definitely the best choice to visit the places near the coasts (as soon you leave you are already on vacation and you don't have to worry about anything besides having fun)
This cruiseship is "up my alley." It provides a refreshing take on cruising and appeals to future/younger generations who would never consider cruising. Can't wait to book a trip!
I've never cruised, and I kind of always thought my first one would be either a Regent or expedition cruise. But this sounds amazing! I love the diversity of people and experiences, and the boho atmosphere. This sounds really enjoyable!
I was also invited along the past week and had a great time. I agree with nearly all of these points. The Wake was my favourite along with Extra Virgin, the service was absolutely fantastic and I've already booked to go back!
Thanks for watching. Great to hear. Those 2 restaurants were definitely 👍🏻👍🏻
Thanks so much for this episode! When my Virgin cruise was canceled in 2020 I was heart broken, and the mixed reviews since left me skeptical if I would ever enjoy a future sailing. Now you’ve got me bursting with anticipation for my two sailing in 2022! I appreciate that you covered all the most “controversial” of Virgin’s cruise experiences and gave an holistic view of what to expect. …and the food looked amazing! Thanks!
Thank you for an outstanding and thorough review, Gary. These kinds of videos are so helpful with determining which cruises fit your needs.
I love the description of the spacial changes and them being more devided up. It makes me feel like the spaces would be more welcoming and less overwhelming. I love the variety of smaller shops for food and dessert and so on for the same reasons.
I love your commentary and insights on this cruise line. I’m really looking forward to trying this cruise line out. I especially like the fact that this cruise line is adults-only. Not that there’s anything wrong with cruise lines that allow children but sometimes it makes for a more peaceful cruise and that’s something that appeals to me during a vacation.
This is my favourite series yet! Thank you for covering. Researching for our 1st cruise, and this helps me make that Jump- Virgin it is.
Thanks for watching and great to hear 😀
Hi Gary, I think you have a very fair and accurate review of the voyage that we were on. I totally agree that the food and the crew were two of the greatest assets that the company has. We totally loved our time aboard as first time cruisers. We loved the relaxed flexibility on offer regarding entertainment and dining.
We also spoke to quite a few people who were complaining at the lack of west end theatre shows, traditional cruise ship crooners etc. They found it difficult to adapt to a less traditional cruise experience. There were even more who were pleasantly surprised at the refreshing change and this was from a wide range of age ranges. We are in our early 40’s but spoke at length with people from multiple demographics. We definitely can’t wait to be back onboard in warm climes next year.
What a wonderful review! Virgin was never on my radar, but now I would love to give it a try! The cabins leave much to be desired for me, but the smaller venues and exceptional food is right up my alley! Oh…and I saw a good number of seniors, too!!! Lois 😊
Have recently returned to Australia from my (our) first cruise ever on Virgin Voyages around the Carribean. What a surprise it was ! The Crew treated everyone as real friends and the activities for those of us over 60 was remarkably good, I felt likewe had our own personal trainers on board. Cannot recommend Virgin highly enough and will be back next year, with personal friends. Well done Virgin !!
Thank you for the review and acknowledging that the trip was paid by Virgin. I hope that Virgin can prosper when being launched at such a difficult time for travel.
First thing, I like Gary's reviews. But unless I missed it, his acknowledgement of not paying for it was slipped in at the end by saying if/when I'm paying....
@@brucemiller2057 0:33 he mentions he was invited by Virgin
Such a wonderful explanation of what Virgin cruises is all about! I've seen other reviews but never got a full picture. While my take on Virgin is much improved now, I think I'm still going to save my money for a transatlantic cruise on the Queen Mary II!!! I'm SO looking forward to the classic experience which you've shown. Thank you, Gary!
Thanks! QM2 Crossing is fabulous
This is one of the best reviews I’ve seen on Virgin and I’ve watched quite a few...thanks!!
I really like the design with small more intimate venues. I do not like being around large crowds in dining rooms, theaters, or buffet areas. Plus, there is far more variety to choose from, so there should be areas that most guests would enjoy.
Only problem is the higher cost.
MASTERCLASS in how one does a proper product review.... especially a new product
BRAVO!!!!!
Thank you kindly!
Such a pleasure watching your videos. Always informative, honest, and a bit quirky, which I love. You seem to be a pretty friendly, all around good guy, too. Thanks for making such helpful and enjoyable videos!
Thank you for pointing about the afternoon tea! I have always loved Virgins quirky and fun tea on board Virgin Atlantic's planes and was hoping they would do something fun on their ships as well. I have asked so many "sailors" and you are the only one who knew about it! Bravo on another excellent video with lots of great information. I can't wait to sail on her in the Caribbean!
Thanks for watching 😀 The afternoon tea was fab. I think they may eventually move to including afternoon tea as paying doesn’t fit with their line that all food is included. So one to watch. It was very good
A great, honest review. As wonderful as this line seems to be it is important to remember it still won't be for everyone, as we've seen. The best bit seems to be though that you can make your experience of it what you want It's good to see it really won't be as crazy all the time as it appeared on launch - I like a party as much as the next millennial but one of the best things about cruising can be sat on deck in quiet enjoying the view and the sea breeze, it seems like there is still space on this ship for that. The food does seem to be the standout star, I was very impressed with what I ate on the previous UK preview, and I'm excited to see how that translates to the full cruise experience, especially for those with dietary requirements.
Very helpful and interesting, thank you Gary. The staff might have been briefed to look out for you especially because you were an invited influencer, so that might have helped with the VIP treatment of everybody remembering your preferences...
Hi, Gary! I’ve subscribed to your channel for 2 years now. Watched and rewatched your reviews since that time, but two months ago, I finally booked my first cruise! I’ll be sailing on Scarlet Lady next summer in the Mediterranean, so naturally I was doubly excited for this vid. After seeing how cozy the venues are and that pools aren’t a focal point on this ship, I am 100% affirmed in my decision. Thanks for doing all the “leg work.” I know that I’ll have the time of my life. Cheers!
Thanks for watching so much. And so pleased this has confirmed your decision!!!
I'm in the same boat, we never felt cruising was for us as young people but kept saying we need to try one anyway. Had been watching Gary's videos trying to find the best options and discovered that Virgin does, in fact, seem to be for us and are planning to book for the Mediterranean next year as well! Perhaps we'll see you on board!
Thanks for the video. I love how you tell the straight facts. And then phrase your comment in a way for the viewer to decide how they feel about it.
Very glad they are so accommodating with alcohol free beverages.
Enjoyed your evaluation of the ship itself. Now looking forward to learning more about the cabins and excursions.
I love the different food venues and that they are included in the cruise fare. I will go with an open mind and experience this line for myself. Great video.
Thanks Gary for another great review. I was sceptical of Virgin cruises, but appreciated your experience of service, food, wellness, little partying, no kids (yeah) and intimacy. Virgin will now be ON my list of adventures.
The main pool deck on most cruise ships is linked to their buffet. Getting away from that model really works for me.
I love the great music, sip and cool off design.
After having watched this video, and only this one, on VV my initial reaction seems to be: a premium, super-Norwegian. As I have cruised everything from Pullmantur to Silverseas (and enjoyed all as I temper expectations to each line), VV definitely seems like one to try out.
A really comprehensive review, so thank you for the upload. Very excited as I have booked a cruise with Virgin next March. Looking forward to it even more now.
Really great insight Gary to the Virgin Voyages. I love all the different things that they have compared to the traditional ships. Virgin has always tried to be different from the market and I personally think they have achieved this. The variety of different food outlets is great, the different designs of each eating and drinking area look fantastic. The food looks great! Now I have seen your video I would consider going on a Virgin cruise. It was good to see the mixed age groups as well. Bravo Virgin and thanks Gary for a really interesting insight where you covered pretty much everything.
Fantastic video, very helpful. I'll admit I haven't had the kindest view towards this line, given some of the (what now appears to be) rubbish in other media. It's good to get a view from experience. Thanks.
Thanks for taking time to slowly walk through venues. Decor really looks quite attractive...and current
Thank you for all the work you put in to this video, you answered all of our questions as we are going on her in March. Cheers and thanks again
I watched both videos regarding this cruise and it is not my intent to be insulting but these are both the best descriptions i have ever seen for an isolated cruise. I would actually feel very comfortable approaching this cruise as i think i would get on with no surprises whatsoever. Thank you for that! Why would a compliment be insulting? I know this is what you do and i follow you because you address every issue that matters to me. You don't go on about something that is probably not repeatable or about personal things that would have no bearing on someone else's cruise. But, maybe because this is new, you takjed about things that are often skipped.
Thanks for a great video and!
Thank you for not changing your style of presenting the ship even though your cruise was paid for. I am really glad that I have found you on UA-cam because I have never cruised b4 & your vedios are so throughal.
Thank you for your video Gary, it has been soo helpful. I always wanted to go on a cruise but had no one to go with, then virgin voyages advert came up on tv and I googled it. Then your video con UA-cam came up on my phone and here I am disembarked today after my first ever cruise 🚢 and already booked for the next one.
Thanks for sharing your experiences and perspective. This has opened my eyes to the possibility of cruising with this line in the future. I have traveled often on traditional cruise lines and enjoy that. As long as I was expecting something different with this cruise line, I think I would enjoy the unique approach you had highlighted. Initially,I would be a bit overwhelmed discovering everything available on board but I'm sure it would soon feel comfortable and enjoyable.
Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching..
I like that the crew members are allowed to express more individuality. A happy and passionate crew who don’t hate their jobs definitely makes for a more pleasant voyage for the cruisers!
I wish the Fat Cat lines (Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Cunard) would realize this obvious FACT...
Enjoyed your very thorough review of the ship. I am booked for early February and was not sure I would like the ship. After listening and watching your review I can honestly say now that I’m looking forward to sailing on her!
Excellent review video! Lots of great insights 👍🏻 thank you! I like Virgin’s new take on cruising, I hope there will be even more innovations and new cruise lines that will challenge the norm.
Thanks for watching! Great to hear your feedback. I agree, new entrants and new things is always a good thing
Looking forward to our cruise on the Scarlet Lady in September. I feel bad for those who were disappointed by having to try 'new' food while on the ship. If I'm spending that much on the trip, I certainly don't want to eat the same stuff I've eaten before.
I think they can show some consideration by having vats of chicken nuggets and ranch dressing freely available for the socially-backward and benighted.
Thank you for all the great info Gary! Certainly solidifies my decision to get on the ball and schedule my Virgin Cruise(I have a good amount of credit from my cancelled cruise in 2020-gotta take advantage of it while it lasts)..
Some neat concepts ! Would def try it out. Thanks for the video
The way I see it, Virgin is great for people like me who love being on ships but hate the traditional cruising concept. I love the freedom and casual vibe they have. I don't like their itineraries but I absolutely want to do a transatlantic cruise with them one day.
Thanks for the video!
Absolutely! Great to hear you found it interesting and helpful. Really appreciate you watching
Very thoughtful review. You covered all of my questions. Thank you.
I've been so curious about the Virgin cruises ship and if it's for us. Thank you very much for this review!
Ooh I've been waiting for your review. Excited to watch the vid and see what you thought. Edit- there is so much about this line I'm eager for. The food looks perfect (we don't enjoy standard cruise food) and the focus on wellness suits us to a T! Thanks for the great vid!
Thanks so much. Great to hear you found it interesting and helpful
This sounds great! I miss the vibe of the older smaller ships before the central atrium idea came along. I would love this
Thanks for the review, Gary. As someone who had only ever cruised with Cunard, I value these reviews of other lines. I think for me, the deal-breakers would be having to pay for afternoon tea, which is something I adore not only on a cruise ship, but in everyday life, and also not being able to have a consistent dining experience. As someone with GI issues, it's important to have dedicated dining staff that I only need to explain things too once.
Great Review! It seems like a top-notch adult focused wellness cruise ship. Which after the pandemic might end up being very popular with people looking to take off a few pounds in a nonjudgmental environment.
Thanks for another informative review Gary, lots to consider and will be great for many but not for us, thanks though for a great run through.
Glad you enjoyed it, and that it did help you confirm it is not for you. That is as important I think !
You answered a lot of my questions I had about this cruise line. Thank you
Great review. We may actually try it someday when we can afford it, and honestly it wasn't as much as I thought it would be. It cost about the same as what we normally spend, but we usually drive to the port and we couldn't practically do that with Miami.
Thanks so much for an awesome overview and review. It was the food that made us originally book the cruise back in 2019. It looked like they were really going to be a foodie line. We've had two cancellations and now sailing in a Cheeky Corner Suite in 2022. Really looking forward to sailing her, she does indeed look like the most unique ship we will have sailed. I love that you felt like you were having a small ship exeperience in a large ship. Thanks so much for all the great information!
How was the alcohol… was it high end or cheap liquor……
Did you go on your cruise yet? Love to hear your feedback.
@@angiegallegos7299 It was awesome.
@@dfair277 Actually editing the Scarlet Lady episode as we speak. Hope to have it out on our channel by Thursday. We do have a full Food Review, Cabin Review (Rock Star Suite) and our Cocktail Party currently on the channel for your viewing pleasure. On Thursday we should be releasing that review, probably titled "Why Virgin Voyages Might Surprise You."
Thank you for your indepth take on this cruise line!
I'm very interested in trying Virgin, so thank you for sharing your thoughts.
Great to hear this helped ! Thanks for watching
Fantastic presentation as always. This video certainly helped see all aspects of Virgin. I also thought it would be nothing but party time, I was surprised. Thanks for your hard work, liked and subscribed.
Having been traumatized by the food on a Disney Cruise, I find the dining options on the virgin ship very appealing.
We are going on Resilient Lady in October. Great food and trying new things are two things that sold me on booking this trip. We are 72 and very active. We also recently got back over $300 by watching prices. We use Vacations to Go which have always been great. I heard you mention them on one of your talks . Thank you for your videos. We have cruised about 7 times and always learn something new from you.
Very all inclusive, well done, thank you, enjoyed your great smiles.
Never thought id want to go on but now I do after this. The food and deck style looked so good!
Thank you so much for these videos. I just recently learned about this line, and it seems so fun. I’ve only been on the Disney Cruise Line, nearly 30 years ago, and I had lots of fun. VV would be ideal as a childless adult.
A well presentation of this ship and your likes. I sailed on the QM2 and this ship sounds very promising.
Very informative video, probably one of the best we’ve seen.
Thanks boys! Much appreciated and thanks for watching. Your ears may have been ringing mid morning as was discussing you with two guys I met here on Silhouette who watch my channel and said the other one they watch is yours. We discussed your losing your way on Britannia and your passion for a good drink 😀
Thanks for a great review, as usual. I'll be cruising on my first Virgin Voyage on a Transatlantic 14-night cruise in April 2024. I've been apprehensive just because it's my first time on Virgin....and such a long cruise. But, you're review, along with several other folks, has alleviated those concerns....I'm definitely excited about it.
Thanks for this video Gary. I find your reviews so comprehensive and clear. I appreciate that you find balance between the positives and negatives of each cruise experience, present your own opinions and give concrete examples of why you have reached those opinions. Without question, I know that Virgin lines is not for me, but I can appreciate that they appeal to lots of cruisers who have other expectations of what constitutes a fabulous vacation at sea. As a consumer, variety and choice are wonderful! And really, wouldn't life be boring if we all had the same tastes and preferences? Best wishes. :-)
Thanks for watching and the kind comments. I think balance is really important- as nothing is ever black & white.. I was aware on this especially that showing who it is and is not for (in my opinion) was even more important
We recently cruised on the Valient Lady and loved every bit of it!!!
Thank you Gary!! This was so very informative and helpful! I can’t wait for my Virgin Voyage 😁
Wonderful detailed video. I want to point out that this is Sir Richard's style of offering privacy and variety to attract and retain customers: small different venues. The Clubhouses have also been all designed to offer privacy.
Thank you, Gary B., for such an extensive review of the Virgin ships. I love the fact that the food quality is very good. Love the variety of venues. LOVE the "non-buffet" = ingenious. AND if one is going to eat all this great food, one needs to get out there and exercise which I love on this ship. Now the one thing for me doing this in a warm climate...I'd need a pool to do laps in. I don't laze about in pools. BUT I could forego this aspect for this multi-zone areas. I may party a tiny bit, but I'm definitely not a party animal. Love the smaller venues. Could care less about the central atrium. Love the eclectic decor, food & more individualism in the STAFF. I feel more relaxed when large ship lines cater somewhat to their staff. I have cruised a fair amount and what ruins my experience is if I get the impression that the staff doesn't appear to be respected or they are keyed up or stressed about their personal reviews from the “sailors” and or tips. I get that they are employees BUT I respect the fact that these employees/managers do this repeatedly. I listened to this review and your other review. Love NOT having the same serving staff every night. IF I hadn't seen these reviews, I wouldn't even have considered going on a Virgin Voyages. Now I am very curious, and this is now on my list to experience. Fitness & Wellness is the way to go.
Very through review! Not my cup of tea, but I can appreciate it
Thanks for watching. It’s good too that it helped you confirm it’s not for you as that is as important to me as helping people know a line is right for them. I’m slightly obsessed with people getting on the right line for them 😀
Hello Gari, and thank you for all your reviews which are always truly interesting. I'm no cruise expert myself (though I do enjoy sailing) as I've only been on three cruises in my life: one at 15, another at 35, and the last one in Tasmania at 60. I am impressed by everything you've said about Virgin, which I fully agree with, including the delicious food and the small spaces that I really like a lot. Especially regarding the observation I had made that their ships are designed for the tropics, something I realized recently while in Tasmania. I appreciate the festive yet not overdone atmosphere, casual but not sloppy, and above all a brand with a strong yet respectful personality, and I really enjoyed my time on the Resilient Lady.
For me, the real weakness of Virgin is the lack of variety in their South Pacific itineraries, with many short cruises always going to the same places (Tasmania, Melbourne) and not enough, for instance, to New Zealand, or not at all to the South Pacific islands, even though I completely agree with your observation that their ships are not suited for temperate zones like New Zealand's fjords or Tasmania.
I would love to go on this ship especially liked the private areas. So good to see new concepts. Thanks for this informative video.
I do not doubt your review, I am just suspect of the experience a person receives when asked to review it vs. a random person's experience. I do appreciate your content!
Love this channel. So comprehensive.
Thanks for the video. I really enjoy your videos. I am hoping to make your list next time you put it out. Take care
I rather like the small-venue approach. I like the variety, and it might somewhat offset some of the downsides of the mega-ships.
My first impression is that of a huge, very upscale shopping mall with little cafés and such throughout. (That's not negative because I love those!)
We sail Virgin next February, this vlog had great insight on what we can experience, thanks Gary.
TYVM! Seems like a fine experience although I don't see it beating out alternatives to where I will ever sail on it myself.
Great review. Looks like the options would be a great fit for me
Your cruise seemed a perfect fit for me all around. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for watching!
This really sounds like what I've been looking for in my first cruise. The idea of smaller venues, in this age of Covid, is a great idea.