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Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady Review: Is the Hype Real?
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Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, December 29th 2025 at 0:08 GMT by Travel + Leisure- 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
- 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady: A Disruptive Cruise Experience – Is It Worth the Hype?
Virgin Voyages has been making waves in the cruise industry, promising a radically different experience than traditional lines. Their first ship, Scarlet Lady, launched in 2021 and quickly garnered attention for its design-focused aesthetic, adult-only policy (no kids allowed!), all-inclusive perks, and a commitment to sustainability. Travel + Leisure recently published a comprehensive review of the Scarlet Lady experience, and it paints a picture of both compelling innovation and some areas where Virgin Voyages still has room to grow.
The core philosophy behind Virgin Voyages is clear: they're not selling cruises; they’re selling “voyages.” This distinction informs nearly every aspect of the ship, from its design to its entertainment offerings. The overall aesthetic leans heavily into a chic, nautical-industrial vibe – think exposed metal, reclaimed wood, and a deliberate lack of overly polished surfaces. The design is spearheaded by Tom Stringer Design, with further contributions from various artists and designers, creating an atmosphere that feels more akin to a stylish boutique hotel than a traditional cruise ship. The review highlights the intentionality behind this aesthetic; it's designed to appeal to a sophisticated traveler who appreciates curated experiences and visual interest.
Beyond the Aesthetics: What Makes Virgin Voyages Different?
The all-inclusive nature of the fare is a significant draw. Basic drinks (including alcohol), gratuities, group fitness classes, and even Wi-Fi are included in the price – a substantial value proposition compared to many other cruise lines where these costs can quickly add up. This transparency allows guests to relax and enjoy themselves without constantly worrying about extra charges. The review notes that while premium experiences like specialty dining restaurants do incur additional fees, the baseline inclusions provide genuine financial relief for travelers.
Dining is a central pillar of the Virgin Voyages experience. Instead of sprawling buffet halls, Scarlet Lady boasts six distinct eateries, each with its own unique concept and culinary focus. These include The Wake (steakhouse), Pink Agave (Mexican), Razzle Dazzle (vegetarian-forward), Gunbae (Korean BBQ), Test Kitchen (experimental cuisine), and Dock House (Mediterranean). The review praises the quality of the food across all venues, emphasizing fresh ingredients, creative presentations, and a clear passion for culinary excellence. The variety caters to diverse palates, making it easy for even picky eaters to find something they love. The absence of traditional buffets is intentional; Virgin Voyages aims to elevate the dining experience and reduce food waste.
Entertainment on Scarlet Lady also deviates from cruise ship norms. Instead of large-scale Broadway-style productions, guests can enjoy immersive performances like "Duel Reality," a contemporary dance and acrobatic show incorporating augmented reality elements, or “The Athenian,” a playful take on Greek mythology that unfolds throughout the ship’s hallways. These shows are smaller in scale but often more innovative and engaging than typical cruise entertainment. Live music is prevalent, with intimate venues offering a range of genres from jazz to electronic music. The review highlights the effort put into creating unique and memorable experiences rather than relying on predictable cruise fare.
The Downsides & Areas for Improvement:
While overwhelmingly positive, the Travel + Leisure review isn't without its criticisms. One recurring theme is the ship’s size. While Scarlet Lady is smaller than many mega-ships, it still feels crowded at times, particularly around popular areas like the pool deck and the gym. The lack of expansive outdoor space can be a drawback for those seeking sprawling sunbathing options.
Another point raised is the inconsistent service quality. While most crew members were friendly and helpful, some interactions felt rushed or impersonal. This could be attributed to growing pains as Virgin Voyages refines its operational processes. The review also mentions that while the all-inclusive nature is a plus, navigating the app required for certain services (like ordering drinks) can be clunky and occasionally frustrating.
Finally, the "adults only" policy, while appealing to many, does limit appeal for families with children. This is by design, but it's a crucial factor for potential cruisers to consider. The review notes that the ship’s vibe caters heavily towards millennials and Gen Z travelers seeking a party atmosphere and curated experiences.
Sustainability & Social Responsibility:
Virgin Voyages places a strong emphasis on sustainability and responsible tourism. The ship utilizes innovative technologies to reduce emissions, minimizes plastic waste, and partners with local communities in port destinations. They've also committed to supporting crew welfare programs and ethical sourcing practices. This commitment resonates with increasingly conscious travelers who want their vacations to have a positive impact.
The Verdict:
The Travel + Leisure review concludes that Scarlet Lady represents a genuine departure from the traditional cruise experience. It’s a stylish, innovative ship offering high-quality food, unique entertainment, and an all-inclusive value proposition. While some operational kinks need ironing out and space can be tight, the overall experience is compelling for travelers seeking something different. If you're looking for a vibrant, design-forward vacation with a focus on culinary excellence and immersive experiences – and are comfortable without children onboard – Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady is definitely worth considering. It’s not just a cruise; it’s an attempt to redefine what cruising can be.
To read the full review and see more photos, visit: [ https://www.travelandleisure.com/celebrity-apex-ship-review-11870870 ]
Read the Full Travel + Leisure Article at:
[ https://www.travelandleisure.com/celebrity-apex-ship-review-11870870 ]
