A Festive Christmas Adventure Aboard Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady
The Scarlet Lady is Virgin Voyages’ flagship cruise liner, boasting modern design, sustainability-focused features, and an adults-only atmosphere. With over 20 unique dining options, multiple entertainment venues, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a luxurious spa, the ship caters to a wide range of preferences and lifestyles.
One of the most impressive aspects of the Scarlet Lady was the efficiency of the boarding process. From check-in to stepping onboard, everything was streamlined and stress-free, setting the tone for a fabulous journey.
Dining Highlights:
The dining options aboard the Scarlet Lady were above average, with standout experiences at Extra Virgin and Pink Agave.
Extra Virgin offers exquisite Italian cuisine, and we chose Pink Agave, the ship’s upscale Mexican restaurant, for our Christmas dinner. The vibrant flavors and exceptional service made the evening truly special.
While the dining experience was excellent overall, I’d love to see more vegetable-forward options, especially for selective eaters.
Cabin Experience:
Initially, my cabin was located above the nightclub, with speakers mounted on the ceiling causing vibrations and noise throughout the evening. Thankfully, I was able to switch rooms mid-trip, ensuring restful nights for the remainder of the journey. Pro tip: double-check your cabin’s location when booking to avoid noise disturbances.
Ports of Call:
Costa Maya, Mexico
Excursion: Chacchoben Ruins Tour
Review: While the ruins were fascinating, the excursion involved significant time on the bus, and we only had 20 minutes to explore the site. The included “resort” stop for food was extremely basic, with non-functional bathrooms, which detracted from the overall experience.
Roatán, Honduras
Excursion: VIP Turquoise Bay Tour
Review: This was a much better experience, thanks to an excellent driver and guide. The resort offered good amenities, though the lunch wasn’t to my taste. Fortunately, the snack bar’s sweets were delightful. The water conditions were less than ideal due to recent storms but still enjoyable.
Bimini, Bahamas
Stop: Virgin Voyages Beach Club
Review: The resort was gorgeous, with crystal-clear waters and pristine facilities. While it was too cold for swimming, the atmosphere was relaxing. The food wasn’t memorable, so I opted to dine back on the ship.
Packing Tips and Cruise Insights:
Many cruise packing lists recommend items that might go unused. One standout item I loved was the magnetic cruise fan, which attaches to the cabin wall.
Be aware that Virgin Voyages prohibits plug extenders, even those marketed as “cruise-approved” on Amazon.
If you’re prone to motion sickness, Virgin’s medical center offers free motion sickness pills, accessible even outside of regular hours.
Hosting a Group Event on the Scarlet Lady:
The Scarlet Lady is an ideal venue for group events, from corporate retreats to milestone celebrations. With customizable dining experiences, state-of-the-art meeting spaces, and unique entertainment options, you can create a memorable event at sea. Here are a few tips for planning:
Book Early: Secure the best cabins and dining reservations well in advance.
Personalize the Experience: Work with the ship’s event coordinators to tailor activities and menus.
Leverage Onboard Amenities: Utilize the Scarlet Lady’s fitness, spa, and entertainment options to enhance your group’s experience.
Final Thoughts:
Despite a few minor hiccups, this Virgin Voyages cruise was a wonderful way to celebrate Christmas. The Scarlet Lady’s modern design, attentive staff, and diverse dining options made for a memorable journey. Whether you’re planning a personal vacation or a group event, this ship delivers a unique and luxurious experience.
