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Sailing From The Virgin Voyages Terminal In Miami


Are you booking a cruise with Virgin Voyages from Miami, Florida? You’ll need to know which port terminal you are sailing from, and where can you park nearby if you’re driving.

I’ve got you covered. Here’s everything you need to know about getting to Miami for your Virgin Voyages cruise.

Port of Miami

Where does Virgin Voyages sail from in Miami?

Virgin Voyages sails from Terminal V at the Port of Miami. This is Virgin Voyages’ own terminal, named for the cruise line, and it’s the closest terminal to mainland Miami.

However, due to the road directions, that doesn’t mean it’s the first one you’ll get to when driving to the port. Other terminals are first on the one-way system.

The full Virgin Voyages Miami port address is:

Terminal V, 718 N Cruise Boulevard, Miami, FL 33132.

To be clear, the name ‘Terminal V’ is because it’s Virgin’s cruise port. It’s not a numbered system using Roman numerals.

Terminal V is one of the newest at the Port of Miami, having opened in February 2022. It’s a very modern space that makes you feel like you’re on vacation from the second you arrive in the building.

The company Arquitectonica designed the terminal to reflect the Virgin Voyages ships as well as the Miami surroundings, blending both into a uniquely styled building.

Virgin Voyages Terminal V

Where is the port for Virgin Voyages in Miami?

Terminal V for Virgin Voyages cruises is situated on Dodge Island. This is an artificial island connected to mainland Miami by Port Boulevard Bridge. As you arrive on Dodge Island, Terminal V is directly on your left, but you’ll need to follow the road system to get to it.

Here it is on a map:

It’s also possible to get to the port via Watson Island, adjacent to the port island. A lot of sat nav systems may take you this way, since you arrive on the island on the correct side for the terminal.

If you’re flying into Miami Airport, the cruise port is in a really convenient location only ten miles away. The drive is along major roads, so it only takes an average of 17 minutes in either direction.

If you’re driving, put the directions into your navigation system for Parking Garage G. This will take you where you need to go, unless you decide to park elsewhere.

Where To Park For A Virgin Voyages Cruise From Miami

If you want to drive to the terminal for your Virgin Voyages cruise, book your cruise parking in advance to guarantee yourself a space. There are a few good options that you can choose from, including official parking at the site.

1. PortMiami Official Port Parking

PortMiami Official Port Parking
  • Distance from port: 0 miles
  • Cost: From $22 per day

The most convenient option for parking at the Port of Miami is… to park at the Port of Miami! Each cruise terminal has its own parking garage, which you can drive straight up to.

Parking Garage G is the one you want for Terminal V. Then you’re at the port and ready to begin embarkation. It also means that, at the end of your cruise, it’s easy to get back to your car with all your luggage.

However, it is the most expensive option. Rates can vary, but you should expect to pay around $22 per day. For a seven-day cruise, that’s over $150, so it’s important to budget for it.

Still, a lot of people prefer this choice because it is so convenient, and takes away some of the stress of getting to the port. Plus, crime rates are extremely low, because the only people who visit the garages tend to be cruise passengers.

2. Safe Cruise Parking

Safe Cruise Parking
Photo: Safe Cruise Parking
  • Distance from port: 2.5 miles
  • Cost: From $10 per day

Safe Cruise Parking is an independent parking lot with a gate. It is monitored by security 24/7, so you can leave your vehicle without worrying about it. It’s situated around two and a half miles from the terminal, so it’s a little far. But there’s a free shuttle taking you there every 30 minutes, and the shuttle will also bring you back on disembarkation day.

Prices start from around $10 per day before tax, so expect to pay closer to $90 for a week-long cruise.

That’s a pretty hefty saving compared to the parking at the port, especially since the shuttle is free. You just need to decide if the convenience of parking at the port is worth an extra $60 or so.

3. Premier Cruise Parking

Premier Cruise Parking
Photo: Premier Cruise Parking
  • Distance from port: 2 miles
  • Cost: From $11 per day

Premier Cruise Parking is a parking garage situated a couple of miles from the Port of Miami. It’s an enclosed garage, so is a good choice if you don’t want to return to your car and burn yourself on the seat due to the blazing Miami sun.

Rates are reasonable, starting from around $11 per day before tax, so approximately $100 for a week-long stay. That’s still a lot cheaper than parking at the terminal, so if you want to save money, this is a solid option. Plus, a free shuttle will take you to and from the cruise port.

4. WeParkIn Miami

WeParkIn Miami
  • Distance from port: 1.5 miles
  • Cost: From $10 per day

WeParkIn Miami is another parking garage situated in Downtown Miami that provides alternative parking, and is one of the closest options to the port. However, with the free shuttle you don’t really notice the difference between this and the garages/lots that are a mile farther out – the travel distance is very similar.

Prices are again very reasonable, from around $10 per day before tax, so around $90 per week on average. However, prices do vary by date, so WeParkIn may be more expensive at certain times of the year due to high demand.

5. JetPort Park And Ride Center

JetPort Park And Ride Center
  • Distance from port: 10 miles
  • Cost: From $9 per day

If you want the cheapest parking possible, one of the best options is the JetPort Park and Ride Center situated close to Miami International Airport. You’ll pay around $9 per day before tax, so a seven-day cruise normally comes in at around $75. That’s half the price of what you’d pay if you parked at the terminal.

Just a heads up: there is a shuttle service to and from JetPort that only takes ten minutes, but it has a limit of four passengers per booking. If you’re travelling with a larger party, you may prefer to drop off your fellow travellers and luggage at the port, then drive back to JetPort yourself to park and get the shuttle.

Final word

The Virgin Voyages Terminal V is really easy to get to, but you can shop around if you want to get a cheaper deal than parking right at the terminal itself.

Shuttle buses from the other parking garages are free and quick, but a lot of people prefer to pay the extra and park right at the terminal for convenience. They are both good options, so it’s up to you.

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

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What To Wear On A Virgin Voyages Cruise


Virgin Voyages is not the same as every other cruise line. There are a lot of things they like to do differently, including their dress code.

Me on Scarlet Lady

In this guide, I’ll take you through the dress code for your Virgin Voyages sailing, and let you know what else you might want to pack.

What is the dress code on Virgin Voyages?

There is no formal dress code for Virgin Voyages, other than not turning up to restaurants in a bathing suit or flip-flops. Guests are encouraged to wear whatever they feel comfortable in, provided it is a full outfit with shoes.

This is very different from a number of cruise lines. Some will put a smart casual dress code in place for restaurants, asking you to avoid wearing T-shirts and shorts to sit-down meals. Of course, many cruise lines don’t enforce it, but most guests feel obliged to follow it.

Virgin Voyages’ own policy is that “your casual threads are probably nice enough to pass for dinner in any eatery.” So you’re encouraged to wear whatever you wish in the restaurants.

Guest on Virgin Voyages The Dock

The only request is to turn up in a full outfit with some form of shoes on. Don’t walk into the restaurants straight from the pool, while you’re dripping wet and either barefooted or wearing flip-flops.

This policy is the same on all four ships in the fleet: Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, Resilient Lady and Brilliant Lady.

Suggested read: 9 Things You Should Never Wear On A Cruise

Is there a formal night on Virgin Voyages?

There is no formal night on Virgin Voyages. Guests are welcome to wear their casual clothing to restaurants on every night of their cruise. There are some themed nights, but these are optional. The theme applies to the parties after dinner, rather than the restaurants themselves.

If you’re intimidated by the formality of cruises, you don’t need to be. Most cruise lines these days are very relaxed. There are always restaurants and bars you can go to where the dress code is not being followed.

Virgin Voyages takes this one step further, by getting rid of formal nights altogether. There’s no pressure at all to avoid parts of the ship if you want to stay in your casual clothing. You can wear what you like (within reason) on every night of the cruise.

Guests on Virgin Voyages The Pizza Place

Do people dress up on Virgin Voyages?

A lot of people still choose to dress up on their Virgin Voyages cruises. Instead of formal suits and dresses, it tends to be what you’d wear to dinner on a typical vacation or a nightclub outfit: smart casual, with a splash of colour to impress.

Some people do go all-out, but more for the themed nights and not just for dinner. So trust me, you can wear any casual outfit and you won’t stand out.

Theme nights

Instead of formal nights, Virgin Voyages has themed nights. These are advertised as taking place on every sailing, but if you book a short cruise, they may not be available.

You can check in advance by downloading the Sailor App before you sail. This will show you the entertainment schedule for your cruise.

Pyjama Party

Typically held on the first night of a cruise, the pyjama party is exactly how it sounds. Get out onto the pool deck and dance around in your cosiest PJs!

Don’t take your best set – you’re likely to get hot and sweaty under the evening sun as you dance around, so you don’t want to spoil them. Maybe pack an extra set just for the PJ night.

To be clear: this is a full-blown party, not a ‘typical’ pyjama party where you relax and watch movies. Don’t come expecting a quiet event!

Scarlet Night

Scarlet Night is the big night on your cruise. It’s often held on the second-last night, but that can vary, so check the Sailor App for details when you’ve booked.

This is all about wearing red. Either a full red outfit or just a splash of red will do. And don’t worry if you don’t own anything red – you’ll still be allowed to join the party!

Check out this video to see what you can expect on Scarlet Night…

Secret Party

Sometimes, Virgin Voyages hosts secret parties that are invite-only. There’s not a lot of detail about these online, as they’re very hush-hush!

The way to get an invite is to be noticed by the crew. If you like the idea of an exclusive event, take your most striking outfits and make sure you’re the life of the party.

Other outfits to pack for a Virgin Voyages cruise

Here’s a quick checklist of some other outfits to remember for your Virgin Voyages cruise.

Swimwear

Many people want to look their best during the day on a Virgin Voyages cruise, so don’t forget your chic swimwear. Again, wear what makes you comfortable, but a lot of people like to dress to impress.

80s workout gear

Virgin Voyages sailings have a lot of fitness classes that you can sign up for. So if you’re interested, pack your gym gear. A fun one is the retro 80s workout. Some people bring their own 80s workout outfit especially for this, so feel free to join in.

No swimwear?

At The Perch on your Virgin ship, topless sunbathing is permitted. If you don’t want tan lines, this is the place to go!

Virgin Voyages The Perch

Final word

You don’t need to worry about a formal dress code for Virgin Voyages. But there is still a checklist of things to pack, including something red and your PJs for those fun-packed party nights.

Overall, Virgin Voyages is a relaxed cruise line where adults can let their hair down. If for you that involves glamming up, then go for it. But if you just want to wear a nice T-shirt and jeans, that’s totally fine too.

You should also consider other things like the weather, the destinations you’re visiting and the activities you plan to do on board. For more info, be sure to check out my Ultimate Guide To What To Wear On A Cruise.

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

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Is Virgin Voyages All-Inclusive? Here’s What’s Included & What Costs Extra


Virgin Voyages offers some fantastic cruises for adults, with a lot of extras included in the fare that you pay. But is it an all-inclusive cruise line, or are there some things you’ll still need to pay for?

Virgin Cruise ship - Scarlet Lady

In this guide I’ll take you through everything that’s included, and what’s not included, when you book a Virgin Voyages cruise.

Everything that’s included with Virgin Voyages

On a cruise with Virgin Voyages, you’ll get your accommodation, your food, soft drinks and simple hot drinks, entertainment and WiFi included, and tips are covered by your fare as well. There are very few extras that you need to pay for on a Virgin Voyages cruise.

It’s not quite all-inclusive though, and while some food and drink is covered, not everything is.

1. Food

Virgin Voyages food

Almost all of the food on a Virgin Voyages cruise is included when you pay your cruise fare. This includes all of the speciality restaurants on board – there’s no cover charge no matter where you choose to dine. However, some items may have an extra cost.

On most standard and even premium cruise lines, you’ll have a selection of restaurants that are free, and then speciality restaurants where you’ll pay a set cover charge for dining at the venue. But that’s not the case with Virgin Voyages.

Instead, all of the dining options are included, and then each menu will have some premium items that you can choose or add to your meal if you want to. But you absolutely don’t have to.

Scarlet Lady Pizza Restaurant

So for example, when dining at Extra Virgin you can choose your starter, main course and dessert from almost anything on the menu, but if you want to make your meal a little more special, you can add some fresh truffles to your dish for $15.

All of the ships have over 20 dining options so you’ve plenty of choices without paying extra, just make sure you book in advance to secure a table. And the late-night snack bar is open 24/7 for pizza and noodles and that’s included too.

Room service has a small charge

On a Virgin Voyages cruise, there’s a $5 delivery fee for room service, but then items are either included as normal or cost the same as they would elsewhere on the ship. This means all foods are free, as are soft drinks, water and basic tea or coffee. You just need to pay the $5 delivery every time you order.

Virgin Voyages Cheeky Corner Suite

Having breakfast in bed is, therefore, a great choice on a Virgin Voyages cruise because you’re only paying a small fee, the food is completely included.

The room service menu isn’t as extensive as you’d get in a restaurant but there are still lots of choices, and a lot of options for lighter bites during the rest of the day too.

2. Drinks

Virgin Voyages On The Rocks

Soft drinks are included on a Virgin Voyages cruise – but alcoholic drinks and many speciality drinks are not. There is no option for a drinks package either, although you can save money by pre-loading a bar tab before you cruise.

The prices of drinks on a Virgin Voyages cruise are similar to many of the American cruise lines – you’ll pay around $5 to $8 for a beer, between $12 and $17 for a cocktail, and anywhere from $7 up to $22 for a glass of wine.

beers

Speciality coffees aren’t too bad though – usually between $3 and $5. Hot chocolate is $4 which is a little more expensive than you’d maybe pay on other cruise lines.

Instead of a drinks package, Virgin Voyages lets you prepay for a bar tab, and will then give you bonus money. For every $300 that you pre-load onto your bar tab, you get a free $50.

It’s not as good as having your drinks included, but it’s still better than being forced to pay full price without any kind of special offer.

Drinks on Virgin Voyages

Other free drinks

A selection of ‘basic bevvies’ are included for free, including filtered still and sparkling water, soft drinks, fruit juices and simple teas and drip coffees. Any other drinks on the ship need to be paid for, although these basic bevvies are free when you order room service (and pay the delivery charge).

This is great value, compared to other cruise lines. While most cruise lines will offer free water, and maybe tea, coffee and juices during breakfast or from the buffet, you’ll normally have to pay for them. And soft drinks are definitely not included as standard.

At best you might usually get a soda drinks package for around $8-12 per day, so if you’re someone who doesn’t drink alcohol and you’re happy sticking to sodas and the basic teas and coffees that are included, Virgin Voyages’ cruise fares are great value.

3. Entertainment

Virgin Voyages The Red Room

A Virgin Voyages cruise includes almost all of your entertainment at no extra cost, including live shows, parties and DJ sets. The only experiences that have an additional cost are the Another Rose acrobatics spectacular on Resilient Lady, and some eating and drinking classes held at different times across the fleet.

All of the shows on Scarlet Lady and Valiant Lady, and those planned for Brilliant Lady, will be free. Another Rose is a special attraction on Resilient Lady and so there is an entry fee, though it hasn’t been disclosed how much that’ll be yet.

show on Scarlet Lady

On pretty much any cruise line, the live shows are included so the fact that most are included with Virgin Voyages isn’t anything particularly noteworthy.

However, Virgin Voyages does work with more renowned DJs for party nights, and so the live events tend to be a little more premium and spectacular. As such, you are still getting more value for your fare.

4. Gratuities

Barista making a coffee on Virgin Voyages Grounds Club

Unlike on most cruise lines, tips are included in your fare when you book a Virgin Voyages cruise. There’s no expectation to pay additional daily gratuities or even to tip crew members individually for good service.

Crew members working for Virgin Voyages are paid a higher salary than on other cruise lines and so don’t need to be tipped. They’re really well looked after – they get more perks than crew on other cruise lines as well, and work hard to offer a high level of service.

Sometimes they’ll even turn down a tip!

5. WiFi

wifi

WiFi is included as standard on a Virgin Voyages cruise, which is a nice advantage over many other cruise lines. There is the option to upgrade to Premium WiFi if you want to do more intensive tasks such as streaming movies and music during your cruise.

Basic WiFi is free to all guests and is designed for simple web browsing, or checking emails and messages. It’s not very fast and you’re likely to be frustrated if you were expecting cable-type speeds, but that’s a common problem with cruise ship WiFi.

The upgrade to Premium internet varies in cost – a one-day pass is often $15 but you can usually get a Premium Voyage pass for your entire cruise for a lower price, sometimes with a discounted rate.

That’s still really affordable compared to many other cruise lines.

6. Bimini Beach Club

Bimini Beach Club

Access to the Bimini Beach Club is included with Virgin Voyages, but if you want a cabana then you’ll need to pay extra. The Bimini Beach Club operates as a sort of private destination for all guests on the cruise ship, but you’ll have to pay for drinks while you’re there.

Bimini is a popular cruise port for all cruise lines, but the Bimini Beach Club is only open to Virgin Voyages guests while a Virgin ship is in port. It’s an upmarket resort with six bars and direct access to the beach, as well as a pool if you’d prefer a freshwater dip.

The food is free while you’re at Bimini Beach Club but drinks have to be paid for and cabanas cost $350 per day to hire.

Read more: 7 Secrets To Know About Bimini Beach Club

What’s not included

As we’ve established, there are a lot of things included with Virgin Voyages, but it’s not a completely all-inclusive cruise line.

Here’s a quick rundown of everything you’ll need to pay extra for (if you want it):

  • Premium menu items in all restaurants
  • Alcoholic drinks, speciality teas and coffees and pressed juices
  • Premium WiFi access
  • Select entertainment shows and classes
  • Shore excursions
  • Spa treatments

Apart from the drinks that you buy, the highest costs on the ship are the shore excursions and the spa treatments. Excursion costs vary by port and what the activity is, and spa treatments start at around $175 for a facial and go up to around $400 for a 125-minute full-body treatment.

Virgin Voyages Redemption Spa

None of these are essential though – if you’re happy drinking soft drinks, you don’t mind exploring ports on your own without an arranged excursion and you don’t need shore excursions then you can cruise without paying a penny extra.

Overall, is it good value? Yes and no…

I’ve established that a Virgin Voyages cruise includes a lot more than many other cruise lines do, but is it good value? That depends on what you want from a cruise and how much you’re paying in order to get everything included.

There aren’t too many cruise lines that offer the same style of cruising as Virgin Voyages, but let’s take a look at how they compare against Celebrity Cruises – another premium, contemporary cruise line.

Virgin Voyages Celebrity Cruises
7-night Caribbean cruise, Balcony Cabin Approximately $3,000 total Approximately $2,600 total
Speciality restaurants included? Yes, except premium items $45-75 per person, per meal
Soft drinks Included $30 per person, per day for non-alcoholic drinks package
Tips Included $17.50 per person, per day
Basic WiFi Cost Included $15 per device, per day

While a Celebrity Cruise appears to be cheaper upfront, if you pay for 2 speciality dining visits and buy a soft drinks package and the basic WiFi, your total cost would actually be closer to $3,600 – more than what you’d pay with Virgin Voyages.

So yes – for the style of cruising and everything that’s included, I think it’s fair to say it’s good value.

Final word

It’s not easy to compare cruise lines since they all include different things – some you’ll pay for tips, some you won’t, some offer drinks packages and so on.

That’s why it’s always worth looking into what a cruise line gives you, and working out whether it’s good value.

Virgin Voyages may not be all-inclusive but it’s certainly ‘more inclusive’ compared to other cruise lines, and well worth considering if you want a lively adults-only all-inclusive cruise.

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

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A Guide To Virgin Voyages Bimini Beach Club


If you book a cruise in the Bahamas, you’ll often find that your itinerary includes a trip to a private island, where only guests from the ship are permitted.

Royal Caribbean has CocoCay and Labadee, Carnival has Half Moon Cay and Princess Cays and so on. But the Virgin Voyages’ Beach Club at Bimini is a little different – it’s private, but it’s not a secluded resort that’s closed off.

Aerial view of Bimini Beach Club

Let’s take you through some Virgin Voyages Bimini Beach Club photos, what the Beaqch Club is, and how to get the most out of your cruise to this unique destination.

The Beach Club resort explained

The Bimini Islands are in the Bahamas. The islands are close to the US coast (about 50 miles from Florida), and are around 110 miles to the west of Nassau, the capital of the country.

The Beach Club is a private resort at Bimini that covers four and a half acres of land. Rather than being a private island, or a private resort that is separated from the rest of the island, it’s just a resort that is open only to select guests. Those guests are free to explore the rest of Bimini if they wish.

The facilities at the Beach Club are shared. Whenever a Virgin Voyages ship is docked in Bimini, the resort is exclusively available for guests of that ship. If there’s no ship in port, then the resort is open to other guests of Resorts World.

With the proximity of the Bimini Islands to the coast of Florida, there are often short-haul ferries that bring guests to the resort on days when a Virgin ship is not docked. So it’s possible to enjoy the Beach Club without being on an ocean cruise.

Lovely view of Bimini Beach

Activities at the resort

Virgin Voyages’ guests (called sailors) will find a lot to enjoy at the Beach Club. It’s essentially an upmarket beach resort, so the obvious attractions include relaxing on a private beach and grabbing a drink at one of the bars.

There are six bars at the resort in total, each of which has ample comfy seating nearby. Whether you want to sit in a deep-cushioned booth, swing in a wicker chair over the pool or just lie in a hammock, you’ll find plenty of cosy spots to pass the day.

And yes, there is a pool if you would prefer to sit there rather than down on the sand – you have the choice of both.

Bimini Beach Club Bar

There’s a shack that rents out water sports equipment too, for any guests who want to try their hand at snorkelling or paddle boarding. 

You can also go shipwreck diving. There’s an old World War 1 ship called SS Sapona, that ran aground in the 1920s during a hurricane and has remained stuck since. It’s now filled with wildlife, so it makes for an excellent excursion from the shore.

Virgin Voyages is a cruise line that’s only for adults. The Beach Club reflects that atmosphere, with a vibe that feels similar to an upmarket resort you’d find in Ibiza.

During the day, expect a place of tranquillity and relaxation. This includes optional yoga and meditation sessions on the beach, and a quiet space where you can enjoy self-reflection away from the bustle of the bars.

Bimini Beach Club pool area

But at night the party starts, both at the beach and around the pool. With renowned live DJs performing for guests, beach bonfires and more, there’s a lively atmosphere long into the evening.

And you’ll have time to enjoy them, because on a Virgin cruise your ship will stay in dock for longer. Rather than having to get back on board between 3pm and 5pm like you would at most destinations, you can stay at the resort until the evening to see the sunset and experience the party atmosphere.

Food’s free – drinks aren’t

Virgin sailors who head to the Beach Club will be able to enjoy complimentary food, including barbecue options and some tropical salads and fruits. Drinks are not included, and will need to be paid for. You can use your credit card or pay in US dollars.

Suggested read: Virgin Voyages Drinks Packages

Unlike with some private resorts, it’s not really convenient to head back to the ship from the Beach Club if you want to return again after lunch. You will have enough time to do so, with the longer stay in port, but it’s a 20-minute journey in each direction on foot. Bus transfers are available, but you may have to wait.

So it’s best to make the most of your time and enjoy the free food at the resort if you can.

Bimini Beach Club lounge area

Cabana rental – luxurious but pricey

There are cabanas that you can rent at Bimini Beach Club. There are three options: Bimini Beach, Bimini Grove and Bimini Lagoon. All cabanas cost $350 per day, and include a round of drinks as part of the price you pay.

The only difference between the three types of cabana is their location. Bimini Beach cabanas are situated at the beach, Bimini Grove cabanas overlook the hammock groves that are part of the Beach Club, and the Bimini Lagoon cabanas are close to the swimming pool.

Beach view of Bimini Beach Club cabana

Richard’s Retreat for the RockStars

Richard’s Retreat is an area of the Bimini Beach Club that is reserved for guests staying in the RockStar Suites on the ship. These sailors are able to relax in an exclusive terrace area which has loungers, its own bar and private cabanas.

There’s also a dedicated DJ for this ‘retreat within a retreat’. Guests don’t even have to leave if they want a bite to eat, as they can order food for delivery to their cabana.

This area is reserved for RockStar Suite guests only, but there may be occasions when they are not all used. When this happens, the cabanas are released to other guests to book on a first-come first-served basis. So you might be able to snap one up if you’re lucky.

Take a look at this video to learn more about Richard’s Retreat on Bimini.

So Virgin doesn’t own the resort…

The Beach Club at Bimini is owned by Resorts World, which in turn is owned by the Genting Group. Virgin Voyages worked with Resorts World to build the Beach Club, but they are not owners. Instead, they are contractually given exclusive use whenever a ship is in port.

The Genting Group parent company is a huge organisation based in Malaysia. It owns a large number of resorts and casinos around the world, including casinos throughout the UK, Malaysia and the US.

Other cruise lines visit the island but not the resort

Virgin Voyages is not the only cruise line to travel to Bimini, but it is the only cruise line with access to the Beach Club. Other cruise lines that visit Bimini include Carnival, Celebrity, Holland America and Royal Caribbean.

The pier is capable of hosting more than one cruise ship at a time, but it’s rare that you’ll have two ships docked on the same day. There may be ferries bringing casual guests to the island though, so you may not be the only group present on the island at once.

That’s why having access to a resort like the Beach Club is great, as you’re guaranteed a slice of tranquillity away from bigger crowds.

View of the Bimini beach at night

Don’t fancy the resort? Bimini has others!

While Virgin Voyages guests will usually want to make the most of the Bimini Beach Club day pass, there is plenty to see and do on the island for all cruise guests.

There are other resorts that cruise passengers can buy a day pass for. These resorts are similar to the Beach Club, offering comfortable seating areas, private beach access and luxurious pools.

Although these resorts often host parties in the evening, it’s unlikely that your ship will be in port long enough for you to enjoy them. That’s what makes a Virgin Voyages cruise to Bimini that extra bit special. The longer hours in port are ideal if you want to see the island at night, and not feel like you’re rushed.

The SS Sapona shipwreck can be visited on excursions led by other cruise lines too, and there are companies hiring out water sports equipment as well. The waters around Bimini are exceptionally clear, so it is a popular spot for snorkelling and scuba diving.

Walkable beaches

You can easily walk to the beach from Bimini cruise port. There are some excellent beaches as soon as you reach the beginning of the pier. The Beach Club for Virgin Voyages’ cruise guests is also within walking distance, although there are bus shuttles to make it easier.

North Bimini island, where the ships dock, is not extremely big so you can see most of the beaches and resorts on foot if you’re comfortable walking. Cruise line excursions that include a resort day pass will often provide transfers too, so you can get to your private beach quickly and set up for the day.

Passport rules for US citizens

US citizens travelling on a cruise to the Bahamas (including Bimini) don’t need a passport, but they do need other forms of ID including a photo ID and usually a birth certificate. It’s often easier to take a passport, since this is the only ID you would need.

Cruise lines generally recommend that you sail with a passport, as it’s easier to rebook any travel if there are delays or cancellations to your itinerary.

Of course, any guests travelling from outside the US need a passport to get into the US before they sail, so a passport to sail to Bimini would again be required.

Sunset at Bimini Beach Club

Final word

Guests sailing to Bimini’s Beach Club with Virgin Voyages will love the exclusive luxury that the resort has to offer. You also have the freedom to wander the rest of Bimini, unlike other private resorts which are often fenced off.

If you’re sailing to Bimini with another cruise line, you won’t be able to attend the Beach Club. However, you may get a day pass to another resort where you can enjoy similar experiences. It’s not quite the same, especially with the late-night parties that Beach Club offers to Virgin sailors, but it’s still a great destination to explore.

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Virgin Voyages Drink Packages & Prices


When you book a cruise, you’ll usually make a decision about whether to buy an all-inclusive drinks package or pay for your drinks individually.

But how does this work on Virgin Voyages? I was lucky enough to be one of the first people aboard Scarlet Lady, so in this guide, I’ll explain everything you need to know about drinking on a Virgin Voyages cruise.

Virgin Voyages doesn’t offer drink packages

Unlike most other cruise lines, Virgin Voyages does not offer a drinks package. You will not find any type of all-inclusive drinks deals on a Virgin Voyages cruise. Instead, you can purchase a ‘Bar Tab’ to cover the cost of drinks.

The Bar Tab explained

With the Virgin Voyages Bar Tab, you select how much money you want to add to it. You can then use this to pay for drinks during your cruise.

You can use your Bar Tab at every bar and restaurant on Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, Resilient Lady or Brilliant Lady, as well as on Virgin Voyages’ private resort, Bimini Beach Club.

You also get bonus credit when you preload your Bar Tab before you cruise:

  • Add $200, get a free $25 for a total of $225
  • Add $300, get a free $50 for a total of $350
  • Add $500, get a free $100 for a total of $600
  • Add $750, get a free $175 for a total of $925
  • Add $1,000, get a free $250 for a total of $1,250

While cruise lines generally don’t let people share drinks packages, you can share a Virgin Voyages Bar Tab. You can just buy one for your cabin and use it to buy drinks for whoever you like.

To start your bar tab, just log in to the Virgin Voyages website and head to the My Account section.

Read more: Virgin Voyages Bar Tab vs. Traditional Cruise Drink Packages

Manor Nightclub  on Scarlet Lady

Are the drinks expensive? Not really…

The good news is that drinks prices with Virgin Voyages are actually pretty reasonable. There’s also a good selection of soft drinks that are free of charge.

Beers such as Heineken, Amstel Light, Narragansett, and Kalik are all about $6-$7. Basic gin, rum and whisky cocktails are about $10. Wine prices vary of course, but there’s a good selection available for under $11.

This luxury cruise line’s signature drink is Champagne, which is available for just $9 a glass. If you’re feeling fancy, vintage Champagne can cost anywhere up to $1,000 a bottle.

Tips are included in all drinks prices on Virgin Voyages, so the price you see on the menu is the price you pay.

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Some drinks are included already

Virgin Voyages offer ‘basic bevvies’ for free. The included drinks are:

  • Filtered still and sparkling water
  • Fruit juices (not pressed)
  • Fizzy drinks and sodas
  • Teas and drip coffees
self service free drinks machine on Scarlet Lady

Virgin Voyages drink menus

Here’s what you can expect to see on the drinks menus on Virgin Voyages ships…

  • Draught Beer (12oz) – $6 to $8
  • Draught Beer (54oz) – $20 to $29
  • Can of Beer – $6 to $11
  • Spirit (single) – $6 to $25
  • Spirit (half bottle) – $45 to $55
  • Cocktails – $12 to $17
  • Bottle of Beer – $6 to $15
  • Glass of Wine – $7 to $22
  • Bottle of Wine – $28 to $1445
  • Glass of Champagne – $9 to $65
  • Bottle of Champagne – $48 to $445
  • Shots – $7 to $15
  • Red Bull – $5
  • Specialty Coffee – $3 to $5
  • Specialty Tea – $5
  • Hot Chocolate – $4

Virgin Voyages Mini Bar menu

The Virgin Voyages mini-bar menu includes not only beers, wines and cocktails, but also a sleep kit and an intimacy kit for when things get steamy!

Virgin Voyages Mini Bar Menu

Shake for Champagne

Champagne drinking is positively encouraged on-board Virgin Voyages’ glamorous ships. So much so, that the Virgin Voyages ‘Sailor app’ includes a ‘Shake for Champagne’ feature.

All you need to do is shake your phone to reveal the secret Champagne delivery button and a bottle of Möet will be delivered to your location anywhere on the ship.

It’s never too early for champagne and there’s always something to toast to while aboard Scarlet Lady. We want our Sailors to enjoy a glamorous holiday and what better way to feel like a RockStar than a sip of bubbly whenever and wherever you want it.

Tom Mcalpin, CEO of Virgin Voyages

Bringing your own drinks on a Virgin cruise

Guests ages 21 or over on Virgin Voyages cruises are allowed to bring two 750ml bottles of wine per cabin. You can’t bring any other alcohol such as beer or spirits, and the wine must be in your carry-on bag, not in your checked luggage.

You can also bring water or soft drinks on board if you wish, however, you really don’t need to as these are included in your cruise fare.

Virgin Voyages has banned single-use plastics from its ships. So, if you must bring your own water or soft drinks, steer clear of plastic bottles and opt for cans or cartons.

Virgin Voyages’ drinking age

Virgin Voyages is one of the few cruise lines with US departures that allows guests aged 18 or over to drink alcohol at sea. As soon as the ship is 12 nautical miles off the coast of the US and in international waters, the bar will be open for those aged 18, 19 and 20 in addition to the adults who are 21 or over.

It used to be the case that the cruise line only allowed 18- to 20-year-olds to cruise on itineraries in Europe, if they were married to another guest, an active member of the military or were sharing a cabin with someone aged over 21.

However, they have since relaxed the rules so under-21s can now cruise by themselves or as a group on all sailings.

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Scarlet Lady review

I was lucky enough to enjoy an overnight stay on Scarlet Lady. Click here to read my honest review of the ship.

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The 9 Best Cruise Lines For Singles Over 50 (To Suit Every Budget)


Considering the average cruise age is 47 years old, many cruise lines cater very well to guests over 50. And you’ll also be very well looked after if you’re travelling alone.

Whether you’re looking to spend time by yourself, wanting to make new friends or even looking for romance, there’s a cruise for you.

single woman over 50 on cruise ship

There are several organised group cruises for singles over 50, usually hosted by travel agencies. But you don’t need to join an organised singles only cruise group trip, there are also lots of cruises that are perfect for single people over 50.

If you’re seeking more information on organised solo traveller cruises, read more about how they work and your best options in my Guide to Solo Cruises.

If your main priority is to meet like-minded single people for fun and romance, you can read more about the best cruises singles to hook up here.

In general, any cruise is suitable for solo travellers over 50. A cruise is the perfect setting to make new friends with everything already planned out for you. You’ll enjoy delicious food, fantastic destinations and wonderful entertainment. Plus endless opportunities to meet new people means a cruise opens a world of relaxation for those over 50 looking to travel alone.

Singles cruises over 50 are very relaxed and friendly – there’s no need to be nervous. There will be lots of events to meet others, and so you don’t need to worry about being too shy.

Here are the best cruise lines to choose from that won’t have you feeling out of place.

The best cruise lines for single people over 50

1. Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is targeted at mature cruisers from the UK with activities and entertainment offered on board to reflect this.

The ships are mid-sized, and the daily programmes include painting, dancing, and cooking demonstrations, all of which offer the perfect way to spend time in the company of other people your age.

For single ladies looking to cruise with Fred. Olsen, you needn’t worry about not having a dance partner as each ship has gentlemen hosts in the evenings. There are female dance hosts, too. Each of the three ships in the fleet also offers solo cabins that are perfect for singles and have no single supplement.

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines

2. Azamara

For a spot of luxury, Azamara offers a great onboard experience for international singles over 50. Butler service, fine dining and a great choice of immersive, destination-focused itineraries are just some of the benefits guests can expect with the cruise line.

Azamara’s cruise ships have plenty of lounges, bars and spots to enjoy a coffee alone or mingle with fellow passengers. Shore excursions, while focused on the destinations you visit, are also a great place to form new friendships in an intimate group setting. And, while dining, you can opt for a seat at a larger table in the Discoveries Restaurant, which is a great way to meet fellow foodies and strike up a conversation!

Azamara also offers special singles rates and promotions so be sure to look out for those.

Azamara Onward

3. Holland America Line

Many senior cruisers recommend Holland America Line as they cater to a mature audience very well. The cruise line offers enrichment programs that are suited to the interests of the over 50s.

For solo travellers seeking a holiday that is unique and offers the chance to spend a long time away from home, Holland America is very popular for bucket-list destinations such as Alaska and Antarctica.

If you’re looking at booking a singles cabin, the newest HAL shipsKoningsdam, Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam – each offer a selection of 12 solo cabins. Each of these boasts ocean views and measures up to 172 square feet.

Holland America's single cabin

4. Saga Ocean

Saga Ocean cruises have been built to cater exclusively for an audience of people aged 50 and over. In fact, 50 is the minimum age to cruise with this cruise line.

As well as this, Saga is also one of the most solo-friendly lines. Dedicated solo cabins feature on both the ships – Spirit of Discovery and Spirit of Adventure – and solo passengers can also attend social events and gatherings strictly for singles only.

As for exploring while ashore, Saga Ocean cruises also offer solo travellers the chance to buddy up on excursions which is an ideal way to meet fellow like-minded travellers.

Saga’s fares may seem high, but they include pretty much everything – including a car to pick you up from home and take you to the port.

5. Cunard

Cunard is a great choice for those seeking a traditional cruise experience while travelling alone. Ballroom dancing, educational lectures and formal dress codes are just some of the features of a Cunard sailing that retired people most enjoy.

A keen dancer travelling alone can enjoy a waltz or two as Cunard has gentlemen hosts who will gladly take the ladies for a spin on the dancefloor in the evenings.

Cruises with Cunard can offer the chance to be entertained by shows inspired by West-End and Broadway theatre and cabaret, alongside speaker programmes which have seen the likes of Sir Michael Parkinson, former royal correspondent Jennie Bond, and politician Martin Bell.

Cunard solo traveller

6. Virgin Voyages

If you’re looking for something different, Virgin Voyages is a tongue-in-cheek cruise line that’s strictly adults only.

Fellow foodies, fitness fanatics and cruisers looking to enjoy day-to-evening entertainment will enjoy the lifestyle onboard as well as the chance to let loose with activities including sunrise yoga, 90s Boyband dance classes and a ‘shake for champagne’ novelty on the ship’s app.

The cruise line might not be best for those who shy away from technology or a more modern cruise experience, as the cabin lighting and electricals are all controlled from a tablet and much of the cruise experience is centred around using the cruise line’s app.

However, if you’re young at heart and seeking an energetic, fun and lively atmosphere with no kids on board, Virgin Voyages might just be the option for you! 

Scarlet Lady

7. Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line was the first line to offer solo cruisers their own cabin option and has won ‘Best Cruise Line for Solo Travellers’ for six years in a row by Porthole Magazine.

The Studio Staterooms available provide solo travellers with exclusive access to the Studio Lounge, only available for other solo guests. This offers complimentary refreshments and a quiet place to relax and hang out with new-found friends.

As well as great accommodation choices for those travelling alone, Norwegian Cruise Line offers chances for solo cruisers to socialise with others as most sailings offer singles meet-ups and bar crawls around the ship.

From 2024 there are a lot more solo cabins offered across the fleet, too.

Studio Lounge

8. P&O Cruises

For those looking to experience a quintessentially British cruise line, P&O Cruises is aimed at a UK audience with familiar touches to make guests feel right at home – great for those travelling alone in particular. 

There are two ships in the cruise line’s fleet which are adult-only – Arcadia and Aurora. With British officers, a proper cup of tea (which you can make in your cabin!), pubs to visit and food geared to British tastes you can mingle with fellow singles just as you would at home, except while sailing.

For ballroom dance fans, look out for Strictly Come Dancing-themed cruises with P&O Cruises, perfect for enjoying your interests while aboard and meeting fellow fans!

Suggested read: P&O Cruises With No Single Supplement

Single cabin on Britannia

9. Riviera Travel

Ocean cruises aren’t the only option for single cruisers over 50 either. River cruising is fast becoming a great choice for those looking to travel alone. With smaller capacities making it easier to get to know guests on board and ships which dock right into the heart of city centres, river cruises are ideal for solo travellers.

A popular cruise line for solos is Riviera Travel. The cruise line has been offering singles-only river cruises since 2018 which opens the ships up exclusively to solo travellers in all cabin categories without any additional single supplements. Perfect for splashing out on a suite if you’re feeling indulgent!

Danube river cruise

Useful things to know about cruising solo

If you’ve never cruised solo before, there might be some things you’re unsure of – so it’s worth explaining the basics as to how they work.

Firstly, you won’t be sharing a cabin with anyone if you book solo. Don’t worry about being placed in a cabin with a stranger, that doesn’t happen.

However if you book a cabin intended for two people, you’ll have to pay a single supplement – which might mean paying as much as double the per-person fare.

The cruise line knows it’s losing money by booking one person in a two-person room so you have to make up for the shortfall. That’s why it’s worth looking for single cabins which won’t have that huge supplement attached.

When it comes to dining, it will vary not just by cruise line but by who’s onboard too. You can always get a table on your own if you want, but if you don’t ask for it, you might be placed with other solo travellers in the main dining room instead. Or you might not – but you can always let the maitre d’ know your preferences.

And look out in the day’s planner to see what events and activities are planned for solo passengers. Some will be attended by the crew to help facilitate things but others might just be a venue, and these can get awkward, especially if it’s a bar. You don’t know who’s there to attend the event and who just wants a drink.

To conclude

There are plenty of options when it comes to choosing a solo cruise. Whether you want to sail along the river or the ocean; enjoy luxury or experience a more freestyle lifestyle onboard – there’s bound to be one to suit you.

Keeping an eye on solo traveller deals – making the most of reduced or excluded single supplement fees is a great way to save money on your cruise fare.

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

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Virgin Voyages Bar Tab vs. Traditional Cruise Line Drink Packages


This is a guest post by David Todd, Co-Founder and Director of VV Insider

As you prepare for your upcoming cruise with Virgin Voyages, you’ll no doubt be considering how to make the most of the beverage options on board.

With 22 different bars on board each of the Virgin Voyages ships; Scarlet, Valiant, Resilient and the upcoming Brilliant Lady offer a huge variety of alcoholic and specialty soft drinks to match any taste and budget.

One thing to consider though is the cost; unlike most other cruise line brands, Virgin Voyages does not offer a one-cost all-you-can-drink package.

Instead, Virgin offers sailors the option to pre-purchase a type of on-board credit called ‘Bar Tab’.  

What is a Bar Tab on Virgin Voyages?

There are two types of on-board credit on Virgin Voyages….

Firstly there is ‘Sailor Loot’ which is a type of promotional credit that sailors can spend on anything on board.

We mean anything – drinks, upcharge food in restaurants, merchandise, shore excursions (called Shore Things on VV) and even tattoos in the ‘at sea’ on-board tattoo parlour!

Secondly, ‘Bar Tab’ credit can exclusively be used on bar purchases. Meaning any beverages purchased on board, including at restaurants, will be deducted from the Bar Tab before eating away at your Sailor Loot or being debited from your onboard account.

You can not use Bar Tab on any alcohol-based event, however. 

In contrast with a traditional all-you-can-drink cruise package, there are some advantages to the way Virgin do things with its Bar Tab:

Inclusive

There are no restrictions to what the Bar Tab can be used for, from top-shelf liquor to exclusive alcoholic milkshakes from The Social Club Bar, you are not restricted to selecting from a small selection of options.

Flexibility

Sailors can purchase Bar Tabs up to 24 hours before sailing and even share them with cabin mates, offering flexibility before your sail.

Transparent Pricing

With reasonable drink prices comparable to on-land pricing, sailors can estimate expenses easily and avoid unexpected charges. As with all things Virgin Voyages; tips are included in the price of the drink by default.

Variety

The Bar Tab covers a wide range of beverage options, ensuring there’s something for everyone, from cocktails to cold-pressed juices. Sailors can also use their credit to buy large / premium bottles of wine and spirits, pitchers of sangria and buckets of beers by the pool.

How To Save Money With a Bar Tab

To incentivise sailors topping-up their Bar Tab credit before sailing, Virgin Voyages offer an ‘extra credit’ incentive.

Depending on your loyalty status with the Virgin Voyages Sailing Club, you will receive an extra incentive for purchasing particular chunks of additional Bar Tab.

  • By topping up $100 you get a bonus of $10
  • By topping up $200 you get a bonus of $25
  • By topping up $300 you get a bonus of $50

(As of March 2024)

How To Get The Most Out Of The Virgin Voyages Bar Tab

As this is a fairly innovative way of introducing a drinks package, working out exactly how much money you can save is fairly complex. It comes down to how many ‘chunks’ of bar tab you should buy.

VV Insider have built a Bar Tab Calculator that helps work out exactly how much Bar Tab you should pre-purchase to make your money go further.

For other cruise line drinks packages, Cruise Mummy has put together a great comprehensive breakdown of drinks package calculators.

There are certainly some upsides to the traditional all-you-can-drink packages offered by other cruise lines, the VV Bar Tab falls short in a few areas:

Tracking your balance

Sailors must keep track of the amount left on their Bar Tab throughout the cruise, as any overspending will be debited from Sailor Loot or your onboard account / credit card.

Exclusions for alcohol-related events

Currently, the Bar Tab cannot be used for alcohol-related events like Grog Walk, Shot for Shot, or Mix it Up. This limitation is a disappointment for sailors who want to try these onboard activities without the additional expenses.

Use-it-or-lose-it policy

The Bar Tab operates on a “use-it-or-lose-it” policy, meaning any unused portion of the package expires at the end of the voyage and cannot be refunded or transferred. This can lead to pressure for cruisers to consume more drinks than they otherwise would, potentially resulting in wastage or overindulgence.

Extra costs

If you would normally drink enough to get the very most out of a traditional all-you-can-drink beverage package, it’s likely that you will spend more on drinks on Virgin Voyages than you might on other cruise lines, despite the extra credit offers.

Convenience

One of the most significant advantages of traditional drink packages is the convenience. With a pre-paid package, cruisers can enjoy their favourite beverages without worrying about individual prices at the bar.

Value for Money

For cruisers who drink a lot, a drink package can offer significant savings compared to purchasing drinks individually. By paying a flat fee upfront, travellers can indulge in a variety of beverages throughout the voyage without the fear of overspending or exceeding their budget.

Variety

Traditional drink packages allow cruisers to sample different drinks and flavours without additional costs. 

High prices

Despite offering value for money for heavy drinkers, traditional drink packages can come with a hefty price tag, especially for cruisers who may not fully utilise the package during their voyage. This high upfront cost can deter some travelers or those who prefer to consume drinks sparingly.

Limitations

While traditional drink packages offer a variety of beverage choices, they may also come with limitations on available options. Some packages may exclude premium brands, top-shelf liquors, or speciality cocktails, limiting the variety and quality of drinks available to cruisers.

Hidden costs and fine print

While traditional drink packages promise convenience and savings, they may also come with hidden costs and fine print. Additional fees, service charges, or restrictions on when and where the package can be used may diminish the perceived value of the package for some cruisers.

Soft drinks

Although some cruise lines offer soft drink packages it is often required that everyone sharing a cabin must buy an alcohol package if only one is needed regardless of what they drink. This could mean that non-drinkers or sober guests are forced to pay for an alcohol package that they do not want to use.

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Conclusion

It’s refreshing to see a different approach being made to drinks packages on board cruise ships. Although some guests that are heavy drinkers may find their money doesn’t stretch quite as far under Virgin’s Bar tab system, the benefits lie in its overall flexibility.

VV Insider’s Bar Tab Calculator is the best way to save money on your Virgin Voyages drinks costs. 

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