Going on your first Virgin Voyages Sailing promises an exciting adventure, but packing appropriately can make your journey more enjoyable. From essential documents and cabin must-haves to stylish daytime attire and unique themed party gear, there’s much to consider when preparing for your voyage. Whether this is your first cruise or not, this guide will help you pack efficiently, ensuring you’re ready for everything from poolside relaxation to shore excursions and special onboard events.
Essential Documents and Preparations
Before you grab your suitcase, you should ensure you have all your Travel documents organized.
What Documents Do I Need to Board Virgin Voyages?
Bringing the correct travel documents is critical. Virgin Voyages recommends sailing with a passport, even on closed-loop cruises, which is a little different from other cruise lines in the industry. Your passport is your primary ID and should be valid for at least six months beyond travel dates.
Credit cards and Currency
While much is included in your Virgin Voyages fare, you will still encounter some costs. Cocktails, special seminars, spa treatments, and shore excursions can add up, so plan accordingly. When ordering room service, it is a good idea to bring a mix of credit cards for onboard spending and cash for any additional tips.
Virgin Voyages has a cashless system on board. All expenses get charged to your room, so keeping track of your spending is easy. Consider setting a budget beforehand to avoid surprises.
Travel Insurance
First-time cruisers might need to realize the importance of Travel Insurance. Travel insurance offers peace of mind by covering unexpected situations. It can handle medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and even lost luggage. Given the unpredictable nature of travel, having a robust travel insurance policy is advisable.
Check that your policy covers activities you plan to do on your trip. Read the terms carefully to understand what is included so you’re fully protected during your voyage. Need a place to start? We recommend Allianz Travel Insurance to all of our clients.
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What to have in a Carryon Bag
For your carryon bag on a Virgin Voyages cruise, it’s essential to pack items that you’ll need immediately upon boarding or that are important to keep with you. Throw these items in your carry-on bag or hand luggage, no matter your boarding time. You never know when your checked luggage may arrive at your cabin!
Passport: Make sure your passport is easily accessible, as you’ll need it for check-in and boarding.
Boarding Documents: Any printed or digital tickets, boarding passes, and confirmation details.
Travel Insurance Information: Keep your policy details and emergency contact numbers handy.
Prescription Medications: Bring enough for the duration of the cruise, plus a few extra days.
Over-the-counter medications: Motion sickness pills, pain relievers, and other medications.
Wallet/Purse: Keep your credit cards, cash, and identification in a secure part of your bag.
Phone and Charger: Your phone will be essential for communication, taking photos, and using the Virgin Voyages app.
Portable Battery Pack: If your phone runs low on battery before you access your stateroom.
Camera: If you prefer to use a camera separate from your phone.
Swimwear and Cover-Up: If you plan to hit the pool or relax by the water as soon as you board.
Change of Clothes: A fresh outfit for dinner or activities if your luggage arrives at your stateroom later.
Sunglasses and Hat: These are for sun protection if you spend time on deck.
Sunscreen: Reef-safe, if possible, for immediate sun protection.
Two Bottles on Wine: Virgin Voyages allows you to bring two bottles of wine or champagne on board! Grab two delicious bottles of Moet Chandon and throw them in your fridge to cool for a fun first night.
Must-Have Outfits and Accessories
To fully enjoy your Virgin Voyages cruise, pack various must-have outfits and accessories that cater to the ship’s unique events, varying temperatures, and personal style. This will ensure you’re both comfortable and stylish throughout your journey. Virgin Voyages’ dress code is not strict, but if you like to have fun, you will want to bring these special items.
Pajamas for the first day
There’s a late-night pj party on the first night of your Virgin Voyages cruise. Bring your coziest or funniest pajamas to wear to this casual, fun event. Imagine dancing under the stars in your PJs with new friends—a unique and memorable start to your cruise.
Whether you have goofy cartoon pajamas or chic silk sleepwear, remember to pack something sleep-approved! Welcome to your first taste of Virgin’s Adult-by-design experience!
Pack a Red Outfit for Scarlet Night
Scarlet Night is one of Virgin Voyages’ signature events, replacing formal nights on other cruise lines. You must join in the fun by wearing a bold red outfit. Whether it’s a stunning red dress, a sleek suit, or something more casual, embracing the red theme will make you blend in with the festivities and stand out in the crowd. Remember to accessorize with red shoes or jewelry to complete the look.
Pack Hot and Cold Weather Pajamas
While the ship’s climate-controlled interiors are comfortable, temperatures can vary. Bring both light, breathable pajamas for warm nights and cozy, warm pajamas for when the air conditioning feels a bit chilly. This way, you’ll sleep comfortably, no matter the temperature in your cabin or as you transition between different climates during your cruise. If you would rather – a robe is perfect when hanging out on the balcony in your PJs
Pack Workout Shoes and Clothing
Virgin Voyages offers a variety of group fitness classes and state-of-the-art gym facilities, so packing workout shoes and athletic wear is essential if you plan to stay active during your cruise. Choose comfortable, moisture-wicking clothes for indoor workouts and outdoor activities like jogging on the track or participating in a sunrise yoga session on deck.
Pack Something 80s and 90s
Since we are talking about fitness classes, pack some 80s and 90s gear to participate in the VHS Workout or 90s Boyband dance class. Both workout classes are so much fun.
Don’t Forget Warm Clothes for Air-Conditioned Spaces
The ship’s public areas, such as restaurants, theaters, and lounges, can sometimes be chilly depending on the time of year and air conditioning. Packing a light sweater, cardigan, or jacket that you can easily throw on when moving between different parts of the ship is a good idea. This will keep you comfortable and allow you to enjoy every part of the ship without feeling chilly.
Choose Your Casual Clothes Carefully
Daytime on the ship is typically relaxed, so pack comfortable, casual, stylish, and versatile clothes. Consider breathable fabrics like cotton or linen that keep you cool as you explore the ship or enjoy shore excursions. A pair of shorts, t-shirts, casual dresses, and comfortable shoes will give you plenty of options for different activities without overpacking.
Pick a Party Outfit or Two
Virgin Voyages is known for its lively nightlife, with themed parties and entertainment every night. Packing one or two cocktail dresses or party outfits will ensure you’re ready to dance the night away. Whether you prefer something sleek and chic or bold and eye-catching, choose outfits that make you feel confident and ready to enjoy the evening. Pack appropriate footwear, like stylish flats or heels, to keep you comfortable moving from party to party.
Onboard Essentials and Extras
Even though Virgin Voyages has everything you need on board, I found that bringing these few items helped elevate my first Virgin Voyages cruise.
Pack a Music Speaker for Your Stateroom
Pack a portable music speaker to bring the party to your stateroom experience. Whether you’re getting ready for a night out, unwinding after a day of exploring, or setting the mood with background music, a small Bluetooth speaker will let you enjoy your favorite tunes with better sound quality than your phone’s speaker. Just be mindful of the volume to respect your neighbors and the ship’s quiet hours.
Take Two Bottles of Wine
Virgin Voyages allows each Sailor to bring two bottles of wine or champagne onboard, which can be a great way to enjoy a glass or two in the privacy of your stateroom or on your balcony. Bringing your wine also allows you to indulge in your favorite varietals, bring a rare bottle on board, or try something new without paying cruise ship prices. Ensure you stay within 750 ml bottles of wine, or it may be confiscated.
Remember a Refillable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is key to enjoying your cruise, especially in warm climates or after participating in onboard activities. A refillable water bottle is not only environmentally friendly, reducing the use of single-use plastics, but it also ensures easy access to water throughout the day. You can fill it up at water stations around the ship, and it’s also handy for shore excursions. You are allowed to bring small quantities of water onboard, but it cannot be in a plastic bottle.
Stay Well with Motion Sickness Medicine
Even if you don’t usually get motion sickness, it’s one of the most essential cruise tips to pack some medication or natural remedies just in case. The ship’s motion can vary depending on the weather and sea conditions, and having something on hand will help you feel prepared if you start to feel queasy. Options include over-the-counter pills, acupressure bands, or ginger candies, which are known to help with nausea.
Make Sure You Have Your Necessities (Or PAY Big Time)
While the ship’s stores carry a range of items, essentials like sunscreen, toiletries, and other personal care products are often sold at a premium. Pack all the necessities you’ll need for the cruise to avoid paying higher prices. This includes items like toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and any specific brands or products you prefer. It’s better to have everything you need than to be caught off guard by unexpected expenses.
At Least Two Swimsuits
Packaging at least two swimsuits is perfect with multiple pools, hot tubs, and water-related activities on board, plus the opportunity to relax on beach excursions. This way, you’ll always have a dry suit ready, even if the other is still drying. Consider bringing different styles for variety and to match different activities, whether it’s lounging by the pool, participating in water sports, or enjoying the ship’s spa facilities.
Proper clothes for shore Things
These essential items will ensure you’re ready for any shore excursion and provide comfort and convenience as you explore new destinations on your Virgin Voyages cruise.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Comfortable walking shoes are necessary for any shore excursion, whether exploring historic sites, hiking through nature, or strolling through local markets. Choose shoes that offer good support, are broken in to prevent blisters, and have non-slip soles for added safety on various terrains. If your excursions involve a lot of walking or uneven surfaces, consider packing a pair of sturdy, lightweight sneakers or hiking shoes, depending on the activity.
Outfits for Excursions
The right outfit can make all the difference in your comfort and enjoyment during excursions. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing that will keep you cool in warm weather, such as moisture-wicking shirts, shorts, or convertible pants. For cooler climates or evening excursions, bring layers like a light jacket or a fleece that you can easily remove or add as needed. Consider the cultural norms of the places you’ll visit and pack outfits appropriate for visiting religious or cultural sites where more modest attire may be required.
Swim Shoes
Swim shoes are essential if your excursions include water activities like snorkeling, kayaking, or exploring rocky beaches. These shoes protect your feet from sharp rocks, coral, or hot sand while providing a better grip in wet conditions. They’re also quick-drying and lightweight, making them easy to pack and wear in water and land.
Dry Bag
A dry bag is an intelligent addition to your shore excursion gear, especially if you plan to engage in water activities or have a chance of rain. These waterproof bags keep your valuables, such as your phone, camera, and wallet, safe from water damage. Dry bags come in various sizes, so you can choose one that fits your needs—a small bag for your electronics or a larger one for clothes and towels.
Light Backpack or Beach Bag
A light backpack or beach bag is perfect for carrying all your essentials during shore excursions. It should be spacious enough to hold sunscreen, a water bottle, snacks, a camera, and any souvenirs you might pick up. Look for a bag that’s comfortable to wear for long periods, with padded straps and multiple compartments to keep your belongings organized. If you’re heading to the beach, a water-resistant or sand-proof beach bag is ideal for protecting your belongings.
Things NOT to Pack on Virgin Voyages
Even though cruise ships allow you to bring many personal items, some are banned for safety reasons, and others aren’t necessary, as the ship provides everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Leave the Hair Dryer at home.
Packaging a hair dryer for your Virgin Voyages cruise is unnecessary. Every stateroom is equipped with one, saving you space in your luggage. This lets you focus on packing more important items, knowing you’ll have what you need to style your hair in your room.
Take Out the Toiletries
Basic toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion are provided in every stateroom so you can leave them at home. Unless you prefer specific brands or need special products, you can save space in your luggage by relying on what the ship provides. If you have particular preferences, consider bringing travel-sized versions instead.
Say No to the Beach Towels
Virgin Voyages provides beach towels for both onboard use and shore excursions, so there’s no need to pack your own. These towels are readily available and can be exchanged for fresh ones. This frees up space in your luggage and ensures you don’t have to worry about keeping track of your towel during excursions.
Don’t bring the hot curlers, Steamer, or iron.
For safety reasons, items like heated rollers, clothing irons, and steamers are prohibited on Virgin Voyages. These items pose a fire hazard and are not allowed in staterooms. Instead, rely on the ship’s laundry and pressing services to freshen up your clothes or remove wrinkles during your cruise.
Ditch the Drone
Drones are not allowed on Virgin Voyages, so it’s best to leave them home. While they can be great for capturing aerial footage, drones are restricted for safety and privacy reasons. Instead, focus on bringing your camera or smartphone to capture your cruise memories from the ground.
Forget the Food
Virgin Voyages offers an incredible variety of dining options included in your fare, so there’s no need to bring your food. From gourmet restaurants to casual eateries, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Additionally, bringing outside food onboard is generally prohibited, so enjoy the diverse culinary offerings available to you instead.
Don’t bring a Kettle.
Kettles and other small kitchen appliances are not allowed in staterooms due to safety regulations. However, you won’t need them, as the ship offers a variety of beverage options throughout the day, including coffee and tea available in your stateroom or at the ship’s cafes and restaurants.
Additional Tips and Resources
These additional tips and resources are designed to help you fully prepare for your Virgin Voyages cruise, ensuring you have all the information and tools you need for a smooth and enjoyable experience from start to finish.
Gratuity and Tips Are Included, but Bring Extra Cash
One of the perks of sailing with Virgin Voyages is that gratuities and tips are already included in your cruise fare. This means you don’t need to worry about tipping the staff for every service, allowing you to enjoy your vacation without the added concern of calculating tips. However, bringing extra cash to reward exceptional service or small purchases during shore excursions is always a good idea. Cash on hand also comes in handy when visiting destinations where credit cards are not widely accepted.
Get Top Tips in the Virgin Voyages Insider Guide
The Virgin Voyages Insider Guide is a valuable resource with tips, tricks, and insider information to help you maximize your cruise experience. From dining recommendations and activity highlights to hidden gems and special events, this guide offers a wealth of knowledge to enhance your journey. It’s a must-read for first-time sailors and seasoned cruisers looking to discover something new. Check it out before you set sail to maximize your enjoyment onboard and during shore excursions.
Enroll in our Our Free Virgin Voyages e-course.
Get the most out of your Virgin Voyages cruise by enrolling in our free e-course. This easy-to-follow course is packed with expert tips, insider advice, and practical information to help you prepare for your trip. From packing lists to the best onboard activities, you’ll gain everything necessary to ensure a smooth and unforgettable experience. Complete it at your own pace and set sail with confidence. Sign up today!
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Why Not Join Our Sunset Chasers Travel Lounge Facebook Group?
If you want to connect with other sailors, share tips, ask questions, or get excited about your upcoming cruise, consider joining our Sunset Chasers Travel Louge Facebook Group. This community of fellow travelers is a great place to exchange experiences, get recommendations, and stay up-to-date with the latest news and updates about travel. You can engage with like-minded individuals and enhance your cruise planning experience.
Book Your Virgin Voyages Cruise Today
Now is perfect if you haven’t already booked your Virgin Voyages cruise. Sunset Chasers can offer you $100 in Sailor loot for any Balcony room or above! Just click this link or schedule a consultation call with us today! Hiring us as your travel agent gives you access to our insider tips and tricks for enjoying the Scarlet Lady and her sister ships.
Final Thoughts
When packing for your Virgin Voyages cruise, a little preparation goes a long way. By focusing on the essentials—such as the right outfits, onboard extras, and proper gear for shore excursions—you’ll be ready to enjoy everything this unique cruise experience offers. Remember, while there are some items you won’t need to bring, making smart choices about what to pack will ensure you’re comfortable, well-prepared, and fully immerse yourself in the adventure ahead. Whether it’s your first time sailing with Virgin Voyages or you’re a seasoned cruiser, being mindful of what’s in your suitcase can make all the difference in creating an unforgettable journey. So, pack smart, explore confidently, and prepare to make unforgettable memories on the high seas.
Frequently Asked Questions
When packing for a Virgin Voyages cruise, it’s essential to know what items are prohibited, what to wear, and other important details to make your trip enjoyable. Below are the answers to some common questions to help you prepare.
What items are prohibited on a Virgin Voyages cruise?
You can’t bring certain items on board. Curling irons are not allowed, though straighteners are permissible. Other prohibited items include certain electrical appliances and hazardous materials. It’s always best to check Virgin Voyages’ latest restricted items list to avoid any surprises at the port.
What should I wear to theme nights on Virgin Voyages?
Virgin Voyages often hosts fun and engaging theme nights. While the themes can vary, it’s a great idea to bring versatile outfits that fit a variety of themes. Think of chic tropical attire, funky retro styles, or elegant evening wear. This way, you can make the most of these special nights without overpacking.
Is there a traditional dress code for dining or events like the Scarlet Night on Virgin Voyages?
Yes, there are some dress codes to keep in mind. Smart casual attire is generally appropriate for dining. For events like Scarlet Night, you might want to wear something more special—think elevated evening wear with a touch of flair. This helps set the tone for a memorable evening.
What are some essential items to include in my packing list for a Virgin Voyages cruise?
Some essential items include comfortable walking shoes, swimsuits, sunscreen, and evening wear for dining and events. Additionally, travel-sized toiletries and any personal medications are a must. It’s also a good idea to bring a reusable water bottle and a backpack for excursions. With the right items, you’ll be ready for relaxation and adventure.
