In March of 2024, I took a cruise aboard the Scarlet Lady, the first ship in the Virgin Voyages fleet, Here is my quick review of that cruise and ship!
For those not familiar, Virgin Voyages is a fairly new cruise line with a different approach to cruising and its ship builds. Focused on a romantic feel, with smaller venues on board the ship, its certainly is a new take on cruising.
The Scarlet Lady launched in 2019 to much fanfare. A new cruise line with a new concept, giving even more options to a growing industry.
The ship itself stands out with its red color inside and out. You know, just by its look and colors this ship is special. Inside the ship, the venues are noticeably smaller than cruise ships of past. Mainly the dining areas, you will find yourself in a more intimate venue each night enjoying a different menu. I loved the food and the selection for all meals, especially at dinner. The one drawback is you are sitting in very close quarters to other passengers, which does give it somewhat of a crowded feel.
The sports bar and arcade is a neat venue with wings and popcorn pretty much all day, however, they only have two tvs. It becomes an issue when there is a popular game everyone wants to watch. There is nowhere to sit, or even stand! A massive drawback for sports fans.
Sadly, I felt this way about most events on board, karaoke was fun, but crowded, the casino was crowded and of course the pool deck was crowded (this goes for every contemporary cruise line.). Whenever there was a cruise line event going on, the hosting venue was stressed with passengers. As nice as the ship is, that seems to be a common observation by many cruisers.
The balcony staterooms have the same issue as the bathrooms and shower are tiny. The living space is alright, typical in the industry with a new twist on lighting and layout. Id certainly be comfortable booking a balcony again.
The 5 night cruise went to Puerto Plata Dominican Republic and Bimini island, which has a beach club exclusive to VV guests. It has a great beach and pool area. A nice itinerary with a lot to do.
In closing, VV has great service and food, a cool, hip and romantic atmosphere and interesting events and entertainment on board. Very unique and exclusive to VV.
The drawbacks are smaller venues and new twists on dining that some people don't care for. (switching dining rooms every night).
I do recommend sailing on Virgin Voyages and I look forward to exploring their newer ships and longer itineraries. Let me know how I can help!
