Rock That Boat
The No BullSHIP Guide to Virgin Voyages
Craving an escape without a set agenda and where “no kids allowed” is guaranteed? Think spa and barista-crafted flat whites with ocean views, Michelin-inspired eats without buffets (or lines), and shows that make Broadway blush.
If you’re nodding along (and maybe smirking a little), Virgin Voyages might just be your next perfect getaway or workation destination. I’m sharing five deliciously honest reasons for coming aboard those red-hot Lady Ships – especially if you’ve ever muttered “I don’t do cruises”.
Ocean Escapes Without BS
This isn’t your (grand)mother’s cruise line (though she might love it if she’s cool). My No Bull SHIP Guide cuts through the fluff, showing you Virgin Voyages adults-only, high-style, and highly personalizable ships.
Yes, there are no kids, I’m not kidding!
In this no bullship mini-guide you’ll learn
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How Virgin Voyages rocks their boats with delicious food worth sailing for, stylish design that makes waves and one-of-a-kind live shows and events. I’ve experienced these floating grown-up playgrounds solo, coupled up, and with my crew (but always blissfully kid-free).
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How you can be yourself on a cruise and still have a great time — whether you’re the do-it-all energizer bunny (my BFF Audry), the people-watching wallflower (me), or anyone in between. Something is happening for everyone, and there are plenty of pretty places to hide and relax.
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The Sea Terrace Hammock that changes EVERYTHING (not just babies like to be rocked to sleep). It’s THE picture-perfect place to chill and enjoy those ocean views.
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How all-inclusive gourmet dining can be both delicious and healthy – if you skip the bone marrow bearnaise at my favorite floating steak restaurant ‘The Wake’ or have the willpower not to eat freshly made gelato at the ‘Lick Me ‘Til… Icecream’ shop.
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The costly mistake most DIY bookers make trying to save money (and how to actually score the best deals).
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Why you’ll love their fair fares and happy crew – no awkward tipping or surprise charges. [Tips included = instant stellar service]
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How I became a rockstar without Jagger’s moves – I tell you how to maximize a top-level cabin upgrade: prime access to shows, restaurants, unlimited real champagne, and that VIP-only deck with sunset views that’ll make your Instagram followers weep.
“(You booking us on Virgin Voyages was) THE best Mother-Daughter Trip! We had an amazing time. Let’s do it again soon.
— Audry Nafziger, Montecito, California
*Eastern Caribbean Antilles from Puerto Rico, Spring 2024
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“Love traveling with you, Sandra. Especially love your extras, insider perks and concierge level of curated travel services.”
—Romy Schorr of RomyRaves.com, Los Angeles CA -
“Amazing cruise from the beginning to the end! Clear messages, organized, exactly how was planned and much more! We highly recommend Sandra and her team.”
—Miriam and Hugo Riffel-Dalinger, Altadena CA -
“The Portugal river cruise and ship was amazing. Excellent food. Thank you for your personal service. It is very much appreciated.”
—Betty Whyte, Long Beach CA -
“Sandra helped my mother and I find the perfect trip with Virgin Voyages! This cruise came with so many opportunities to relax, try excellent food, and enjoy fun excursions at each island we visited. We loved choosing our own adventures throughout the cruise, whether that meant playing games, watching a live show, visiting the spa, or going out to explore our next stop! Each restaurant provided a unique dining experience with many delicious options as well. Thanks to Sandra's recommendations, we had a wonderful trip that was both restful and exciting!”
Aria Nafziger, Boston MA -
“We had the most fabulous and stress-free trip to Italy thanks to Sandra and Ted. Every adventure we had in the cities we visited was planned out meticulously to add charming and unique details for us to enjoy. The hotels were chosen specifically to be out of the way of tourists so that we could immerse ourselves in the local life. Our trip was way more than we ever imagined!”
—Dawn, Carl and Kaitlyn Trustee, Coto de Caza CA -
“Our Italy tour was an amazing experience! Inside Travel Experiences planned and coordinated our son’s choir performances in beautiful cathedrals, churches, a last minute bonus recital in a beautiful jewel box of a chapel, and a gorgeous converted church auditorium. Along with the amazing venues and performance opportunities we had gracious and knowledgeable tour guides who showed us the sites, they shared rich history and beautiful art. This trip will live in our hearts forever because we experienced magnificent, sacred spaces, we took in the art and architecture, and it all came to life with the music made by our student musicians. We were on the “shadow tour” while our son traveled with the student group. We saw every performance and had a great balance of tours and free time to explore on our own. Quality hotel accommodations, amazing meals together, and great restaurant recommendations when we were on our own. Highly recommend!”
— Kjersten, Jeff + Sawyer Damron, Ladera Ranch CA -
“Sandra and Ted can and will deliver a bier-inspired tour like you could never believe! Sincerely one of the greatest trips of my life. From the incredibly-hospitable people and serene countryside to the blissful biergartens, each minute spent in their care will rejuvenate your spirit and quench your thirst! Do yourself a favor and reach out to Inside Europe next time you're hankering for a taste of the good stuff! Cheers!.”
—Andrew Link, Head Brewer Commonspace, Los Angeles CA -
“Another incredible trip!!! Thank you Sandra for all the tips and perks for our family adventures in Greece, Italy and Portugal!!!”
— Andrea Krautman, Montecito, CA
Featured In
Catch this Cruise Guide if…
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You’re looking for an honest review of Virgin Voyages with clear pros and cons from someone who’s been aboard repeatedly (and paid for it).
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You’re curious about these new ships on the dock: based mainly in Miami, but also across Europe, the Caribbean, and soon to come to NYC, Canada, California, South America, and Alaska.
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You’re a coffee snob, wine lover and serious foodie like me or, if you’re not, you still prefer freshly made-to-order meals and don’t want to pay for water or soft drinks. (All restaurants are included, and I’ll share my favorites worth every delicious calorie.)
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You’re ready to splurge, but only for those optional add-ons worth it to you: from a crystal bed massage to correctly spelled tattoos and vintage LV bags.
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You want to escape it all but keep in touch with work, the family, and everyday life. (Yes, there’s premium wifi, but honestly, the basic, free package works for most)
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You hate being nickle and dimed (or worse getting ripped off having to pay for water and soft drinks, not on Virgin!). There are 18 bars on board. Love that Virgin prices their drinks fairly: $5 for a barista-made flat, and actually drinkable wines start at $9. Ted paid $15 for a perfect top-shelf martini: stirred, not shaken.
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You’re a gym rat (IRL or in your dreams). There’s plenty of workout space and free group classes to get or stay in shape, or at least think about it.
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Find that ideal nauti(cal) ‘present’ – for the holidays, a reunion, or just because. Cruising brings everyone you like together on one boat, but it doesn’t mean you’re all forced to have the same (dining) schedule.
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Don’t know which itinerary is right for you (and not the choice for XXL bachelorette parties at sea). I’ve got that intel for you, and with Virgin paying me a commission while you pay the same, it’s a win-win for all.
Virgin Voyages is more about the ship experience than the time at the destinations. Some itineraries are honestly just meh — if you’re hoping to truly see Tuscany, for example (a few hours here don’t do it). But getting the intel on where to go, why and when, that‘s what you got me for!!
AHOY? Oh Buoy…
Hey there, nice to sea you. I make SHip happen.
I’m Sandra, a casual-luxe travel concierge and very frequent Virgin voyager.
Welcome to my insider’s look at the newest cruise line on the docks. I’m a certified VV Gold Level First Mate who’s sailed all three Virgin ships, investing my time and money to experience cruising the Virgin Way from Europe to and across the Caribbean.
As a serial world traveler, I’ve soared, wandered, and sailed across all continents. I’m on the finish line to visit over 100 countries before 50 – solo, with family, friends, and clients (over 5,000 happy ones since 2007).
I don’t just live to travel but (create) travel for a living. My career in tourism started over 20 years ago and I’m frequently featured as a trusted source in the media and at industry events.
I love to make ship happen – from yacht charters to expedition cruises. But you won’t find me or my clients on mass-market mega-ships like Carnival or NCL (been there and barely survived, never again).
While I have (a little too much) fun with nautical puns ever since I came across Richard Branson’s cruise line, I still cringe at Virgin Voyages’ official “Ahoy, Sailor” greeting. Because, oh, buoy, that’s taking it too far, even for me.
In my guide, you’ll read and see what it’s like to cruise on these red-hot ships and why I recommend Virgin Voyages to most of my friends and some of our clients at Inside Travel Experiences.
I also share what you need to know about making your Virgin Voyage exceptional(ly affordable).
Ready to sea for yourself?
*German-style, without the sales BS.
