My (Very Honest) Virgin Voyages Review - A Hit and A Miss

[@unicornwitchprincess1004]

I have a bunch of friends that are entertainers on the Virgin Cruises and they LOVE working on this ship! For context, most of them suffered extensively while performing on Disney Cruise Lines. So you are correct, Virgin is a more moral and human well-being-centered cruise.

[@leahwilton785]

I am a performer myself. I've never worked on a cruise, but I have heard lots of ish that my friends have had to go through on their cruise jobs (including someone who's entire cast was fired on the LAST DAY of their contract???). I'm very glad to hear that Virgin seems to be a better employer

[@wilsjane]

@@leahwilton785 Virgin are a good company to work both for and with. Unlike many companies, they resolve problems, rather than just hire and fire. When it comes to technical items, such as engines and kitchen equipment uniformity is good, making maintenance and repair a whole lot easier, particularly when it comes to knowledge and spares. However, the common architectural and decor design of their ships is a huge mistake, removing the desire to take another cruise and enjoy the differences. It makes it more like the layout common in supermarkets, which can soon become boring. If they had trialled one ship first the poor sea views and tinted glass shortcomings would have been resolved before the next ship was completed. They are now in a position where resolving the issues will cost millions. The uninspiring interior decor and poorly thought out restaurants come into the same category. The term "Uniform standard of mediocrity springs to mind".

[@tulinfirenze1990]

I think people that work for Disney just suffer in general.

[@dragonetafireball]

Yeah I have a niche skill set in theatre tech and keep getting told I should consider working for Disney Cruise because they’re one of the few employers where I could get on the job experience in it and everything I’ve heard about them as employers is not great

[@stedydubdetroit]

Thanks for that share 🙏🏽

[@justoverit]

Ive never wanted to go on a cruise in my life, but if i did, this would be it. PURELY because of the no kids. Having only adults looking for a good time would automatically make this a better experience.

[@gdutfulkbhh7537]

After sunburn, the most common issue a cruise ship’s doctor is consulted about is sexually transmitted diseases. Just saying!

[@suiterd62]

Bah, humbug!

[@justoverit]

​@@suiterd62thank you anonymous parent lmao

[@ElGrandoCaymano]

So true

[@shogun2215]

@@suiterd62 Spot the embittered parent who silently regrets having children because all their childless friends are happier, richer and freer.

[@WelfareChrist]

when the camera pans from the lounge chair to the view, which is a row of grey and red lifeboats, I laughed out loud.

[@NashvilleNative-0]

at 15:32

[@jeremyanderson1139]

I would personally cruise with Virgin Voyages since they've got all-inclusive dining and no kids

[@oceancat0450]

No kids!? I’m there!!!!!

[@roxmattern60]

I went on a virgin cruise a few weeks ago. I really liked it. They do not have buffets but the gallery is better then any cruise ships quick meals. The gallery had something for everyone

[@Akinto710]

This is literally the only reason I'm thinking about doing my first cruise. I didn't know it was that common to bring kids on cruises, seems like an awful time.

[@ctlt-pg4tm]

So does Princess, Norwegian and Celebrity. Looks to me like Virgin IS marketing to "kids." Like 27 year old kids. No thank you, i'll pass

[@robertschnobert9090]

I always assumed most cruises don't allow kids, because of all the drug abuse, usually alcohol. But I guess exposing their children to drugs is not a big deal for some parents hahaha 🌈

[@BlakeMcBride]

I'm not a cruise person, but I really enjoy your reviews and process. Keep up the great work, Jake!

[@nekrugderzweite8298]

Same

[@Whyzee12]

I honestly think there’s a chance more non-cruise people watch this videos 😂 I’m not one either but I love these

[@Pie4life123]

Stupid review he literally was paired with a gay night club and is happy ? He even at the end says “fun people to mingle with” like no I don’t want some gay dude dancing with me or a drag queen it’s 2023 but gay isn’t pushed on u

[@lorddrayvon1426]

All I can think is how this is a weird unintentional crossover between BSF videos. You have them being majority owned by Bain Capital who killed Toys R Us, many similarities to Disney and Disney Cruises, and then you have Resorts World as owned by Genting.

[@richardc488]

I dont know where the hell this guy cruises, but its not your standard cruise line. This food was superior

[@Luke_Go]

Please stay this honest. So many of the KZbinrs I watch start to become overly positive to get free stuff - and I just don't trust them anymore.

[@BrightSunFilms]

Well, I hope that despite us getting this trip for free, I've still stayed honest and fair. Now, I may never get invited back, but that's the price of doing these videos haha!

[@Luke_Go]

@@BrightSunFilms Yes - you have been honest and fair. I really hope that you continue to produce videos like this. If anybody from Disney or Virgin reads this comment: I rather have this kind of review than an "ad" which I won't believe/watch! (best example: Disney's Starcruiser, where most viewers don't believe super-positive influencers anymore)

[@Ramonatho]

Things like layout and noise are things I haven't heard other reviews mention, I appreciate that. I still think this ship holds a lot of the right vibes for me.

[@ColdSid]

I agree .. it’s definitely something different .. however I don’t think they will make a big hit if they keep their future ships as adult only

[@RedRoseSeptember22]

Yeah that would bug me big time, I'm not a huge party person and the constant thumping of the bass would aggrivate me especially if I'm trying to sleep. Virgin isn't for me.

[@RedRoseSeptember22]

@@ColdSid Adults only is one of their best selling points, there's plenty of other cruise lines for families. Adults need somewhere fun to go too.

[@alice45-fgd-456drt]

@@ColdSid You are entirely underestimating how glad people are to find a venue that isn't made for children :) More and more companies are understanding that people don't want to have to cater to screaming children everywhere they go, and most of the adult only travelling options are immensely popular. Also likely will lower the rate of disease that tends to spread like wildfire on cruise ships, which is likely a pull for people too.

[@Ultimaton100]

@@alice45-fgd-456drtMost viruses spread on cruise ships have been traced back to adult passengers or crew. Just an FYI.

[@squarepotatoes]

The passengers and crew being chill and being themselves sounds amazing I'm so painfully socially awkward and love the idea of being able to just go and party it up

[@andreamckinney8808]

We are introverts and VV is the one time when we party. It’s nice to be able to just let loose.

[@MaryWall-hc6de]

Hi Jacob, it’s Karley’s Mom. We ran into your dad yesterday and he told me about your travel reviews. I’m now a travel agent, so I really appreciate your reviews. I can’t be everywhere, although I’d like to be. 😂 Thanks for your honest review of Virgin. I have had mixed reviews, and you explained very well the pros and cons, and also shared a good visual of what the vibe of the ship would be like. Is Celebrity your favourite? I have only experience the Enchanted Princess. I need to experience them all if I want to sell them. You don’t know it but we are so proud of what you have accomplished!!!! Incredible!! It sure would be nice to visit with you and your parents some time and my girls to catch up. It’s been way too long! Wishing you all the best! Mary

[@BrightSunTravels]

Hey Mary! What a pleasure it is to hear from you, let alone here haha! Celebrity definitely has a pretty strong value proposition though I still think DCL has a better overall product. I’ll be interested to try out the new Explora Journeys to see what they’re like. Super appreciate the kind words though & hope to catch up one day!

[@orgasmapop4028]

Mary might not know how to check KZbin notifications me thinks.

[@Nightmare-cr3iw]

Not going to lie, hearing him called "Jacob" instead of "Jake" threw me for a loop LOL.

[@DenverDashCam]

I just returned from a 6 night voyage a week ago and had a pretty different experience. I really enjoyed all the food we had, and found the small portions helpful as we were able to try the majority of the menu. We are late breakfasts in the Wake or Razzle Dazzle most of the days, and then snacked primarily on the eateries outside of the Galley in the afternoons. The food in Bimini was also really good. Untitled Dance Show Party Thing was by far my least favorite show, but Duel Reality and the Miss Behave show were both great. We booked a guaranteed rate limited view Sea Terrace but received a free upgrade to a standard Sea Terrace. We paid $2220, and received a $300 bar tab as part of a promotion. For that price, it would be very hard to beat on any other cruise line when considering tips and wifi were included. We also are booked on the 8 night itinerary that you experinced for November. This is in a standard Sea Terrace and we paid $2400 and will be receiving $400 of Sailor Loot through promotions.

[@jesterbonbon]

honestly i have found myself endeared by this review! as someone who has never cruised before the adults only vibe and emphasis on trying everything seems like itd be a fun introduction to the experience if i ever wanted to try

[@Kathryncurriekc]

Disagree

[@ItsAllAboutTheAvs]

I love these videos! I especially appreciate your disclosure about the details of your contract in the beginning. It offers great insight into the reviews you see online as a whole, particularly with the “not letting them see the video first” part. Great work!

[@AudreyMichele]

this style of video has a chokehold on me- no matter what the topic is! the depth and passion on your end is what makes them so watchable! i always skip through videos, but these i can watch all the way through. great job 👏🏼

[@WendyS18]

Thank you for this comprehensive review! If you’re thinking of dropping this much money on a cruise it’s really helpful to have honest and fair reviews like this.

[@BrightSunFilms]

100% agree.

[@davidlylejones]

You're spot on about the people being what makes Virgin Voyages unique - both sailors and crew. I just got off my fourth voyage last week. I've made lifelong, close friendships from my times onboard. It is fantastic for solo travelers, especially the solo insider. And I love how people are generally so open and accepting onboard. You can just be yourself there. It is so refreshing.

[@erinaustin2157]

@davidlyejones can u tell me what the average age range is?

[@davidlylejones]

@@erinaustin2157 Wide age range. I’d say a lot of 30s-50s, but a handful of 20-somethings and depending on the particular sailing quite a few people 60s/70s. In Virgin speak, anyone “young at heart”

[@Naoki09]

I've never thought about going on a cruise alone, I always have felt that I needed to convince some friends to come with me. That's really awesome that it seems like it's a fun solo experience and I might have to give it a shot sometime soon.

[@kevinbutler7619]

I'm sailing solo in July for my birthday. I can't wait to try them.

[@erinaustin2157]

@@davidlylejones Tu! I’m going to look into there cruises more :)

[@spongeheadred2476]

I just sailed a 5 day Scarlet Lady and it was the best of my 10 cruises. I booked another 5 day next month, same ship. The Food court was disappointing but the vast majority of the food was outstanding especially Pink Agave, Test Kitchen, Room Service. I upgraded to an XL Terrace and it had a roomy bathroom. I agree some of the spaces are not very interesting and look cheap, especially Extra Virgin restaurant looks like a church basement, no good signage at elevators and stairs. I was on deck 8 forward and had to get another room due the loud music from Red Room below. The good out weighed the bad: Great service, fun crowd, interesting food options, pools stay open during evening, really great shows, very nice room with hammock on balcony/mood lighting, no kids allowed, free wi-fi, no pressure to tip when buying drinks, just scan wristband, fresh squeezed tangerine juice! I do miss some aspects of Celebrity cruises, but am sticking to Virgin Voyages for now.

[@blueshift22]

Having sailed Virgin several times now, I don’t ever desire to travel on any other cruise-line. As you pointed out, the experience/vibe/entertainment is something so unique… and the group of sailors truly forms a community aboard every time. I have had some amazing days and nights on Virgin because of the crew and my fellow passengers. It’s unlike any other vacation I’ve had in that regard. Most of the areas you criticize I praise, I’ve had great dining experiences …easily exceeding the experience I’ve had on five other cruise lines. Similarly, I enjoy the design, materials, and lighting used throughout the ship. The only criticism I agree with you on is that the Athletic Club, at the rear of the ship, is an under-realized space… and could definitely benefit from an infinity pool. But a handful of minor design missteps doesn’t take away from the epic memories and friends I’ve made aboard Valiant & Scarlet.

[@kylev.1163]

I just got off my first cruise with Carnival. It was fantastic. People call it the spirit airlines of cruises but the whole experience was truly electric to me. Even with kids running around, it's just great to see so many people having so much fun, especially the kids who will remember it forever. The high price to pay a seemingly grey experience with Virgin, as you put it, seems depressing in itself. Definately not a price I would pay if a boat already feels so crowded not even at half capacity and without kids. I hope Virgin steps it up, but I'm more than happy to continue cruising with Carnival.

[@Anolaana]

Yeah I don't think Carnival is spirit-tier bad. They're like Southwest tier, budget but you can still get good quality. The only problem is you run the risk of a pipe flood, which seems to only happen on Carnival (at least in reported media coverage)!

[@a_goblue2023]

I’d go with Royal Caribbean over Carnival or NCL

[@danthekarman]

@@a_goblue2023i haven’t been on a cruise but from the videos on youtube Royal Carribean has everybody beat. Then it’s virgin. Then ncl then it’s carnival. Comparing value. Things to do. And many different food options. Royal also has the biggest ship. I like that. More area and spaces to explore.

[@thatoneguyyouforgotthenameof]

I have no idea how I manage to watch so many of these videos as if I’m planning on going on any of these cruises

[@Ellie-rx3jt]

They're a British cruise line catering to a younger crowd who want an adults only space to party and get absolutely plastered. Knowing my countrymen (emphasis on the men part) I feel like that perfectly explains the double high glass walls between you and the ocean 😅

[@orangeants]

Is it meant for a British audience when it’s leaving from Miami? Virgin doesn’t really cater to just Britain anymore at all

[@lutherabel2618]

@@orangeants Most British are too poor to cruise. But maybe the design elements remain regardless.

[@user-cc7vx7sw4z]

@@orangeantsare drunk Americans really any better?

[@samanthadare5725]

We have been on a number of cruises with the other major operators. We went on our first Virgin Voyages cruise in June, we loved everything about it, the food, staff, services, entertainment. The vibe of the ship was really good, we loved it so much that we booked another cruise before we got off the ship. I can’t imagine us going to any other cruise line at this point.

[@Hadesdrew]

I really like this review series. I'd love to see a tier list of the different cruises or a grouping of pricing like value cruises or premium

[@skycaptain3344]

Regarding facing inwards rather than towards the ocean, this seems to be a major problem with multiple lines’ new ships. The standout with still emphasizing the ocean to me is Holland America. Their ships, along with Royal Caribbean’s somewhat older Radiance-class ships, are some of my favorites.

[@randommars]

The pure joy of all of us in the pool at scarlet night def shows how the atmosphere and the people it attracts is what makes it special ❤. You’re totally right about the weird things that haven’t been fixed (notice the version number of the app in your screenshot)… I’m optimistic. I sailed at 2250 capacity and I was scared going into it, but surprisingly it worked (besides the pool). You didn’t mention it in the vid, but going to Wake or Razzle for breakfast/lunch instead of Galley is my recommendation. Galley for me gets old quick, and while you may want quick service, those restaurants deliver a fairly efficient meal besides the typical dinner. Great review!

[@JC-vw6nr]

I love love love virgin Virgin Voyages, we have been on both the Scarlet Lady and Valiant Lady. We thought the food was fabulous, but our favorites changed from Scarlet to Valiant. On Scarlet, we loved Extra Virgin and Pink Agave. On Valiant we loved Gunbae & Razzle Dazzle. Test Kitchen was excellent on both, (I preferred menu B). The only things that brought us to the Galley were the Ramen & Sushi. You are correct that the people are what really makes this brand shine! Also, when considering the cost, you have to remember tipping is included, and you are not constantly hounded by photographers or pushy upselling. The hammocks were also terrific. We are looking forward to the transatlantic sailing from Barcelona in October.

[@onelapfilms]

I went on my first cruise December 2022. I choose Virgin because I wanted no kids running down the hallways or teenager being disrespectful. You mentioned the people being great and staff being themselves and I totally agree with you. It is something that makes the cruise outstanding. I did find the food to be a little disappointing unless you dined at one of the main restaurants. The app is crap and if you don't make reservation as soon as the app allows you, you can be screwed. We didn't realize how import that was and had reservation at 9:00 and 10:00 PM. I liked the cabins and ship more that you did. I liked the many little hang-out places and the simple decor but you have to learn were the bathrooms are because there are little to no signage to help you. After a couple of days, it is really easy to find your way around. I mean the ship isn't very big. Thanks for all you detailed video. I want to book another VV cruise and want to maximize the fun so I am always wanted to learn more about things that I may have skipped.

[@AnonymousUser-ww6ns]

I booked my resvations with sailor services immediately. However the app is little better but still not perfect

[@michaeldavidsmith3179]

Admittedly, my first cruise was on the Scarlett Lady a couple months ago. We paid $2.4k on a 6 night cruise but, to be honest, I really loved it. The 18+ sold it for me. I don’t have another experience to compare it to, but the food, shows and accommodations were great for me. I didn’t have to many issues with the app, but it was annoying in regards to looking at your itinerary and not having a ship map, although, I found my way around relatively quickly. But, what you said about the people was completely true. Passengers and actors and staff were amazing. We found so many friends we’d see night after night and the crew was exceptional. From service staff to the entertainers I have zero complaints. I just think of it as in a week, could I spend that amount of money for an amazing show every night and really good food? No. Not to mention being in the middle of the ocean having such an amazing experience. I never wanted to go on a cruise before this, and now i’m planning out my next. So, I guess Virgin to me is the gold standard.

[@TedLedbetter]

Great review! I'm a big fan of Royal Caribbean but have been interested in Virgin since their announcement. The liminal space, bad ocean views, and CRAZY price have me re-thinking. The lack of pools and push for fitness is interesting. It feels like the whole ship was designed for Instagram posts. I wonder if the market share they are going for is enough to sustain them long term? I hope they stay around long enough to try them and the more competition the better! Keep up the reviews! 👍

[@bararobberbaron859]

I realize your comment is old and you may have forgotten writing it at all, but I have to say, Virgin (who is pretty much divested beyond the name/theming) is rich, Bain Capital is insanely wealth and Blackrock has essentially infinite money. They may want to cut their losses and sell these ships or move them to different routes or redesign parts of the interior, but I can't imagine they ever go bankrupt. Hell, Blackrock investing 550 million is basically a rounding error to them.

[@FFlyDDrum1]

Seeing and connecting with the sea is one reason I like cruising. Sad to see this ship blocked that!

[@stevent9665]

Same here, we noticed it on our VV sailing and was one of the dissapointments with the ship. Highly suggest you never go on an Oasis class ship. They are even worse. Everything is pointed inside and away from the sea. It's like you are in a giant mall.

[@limeyosu2000]

Who wants to see glass and lifeboats ??

[@mikede2464]

The design of modern cruise ships are the most bizarre frustrating parts of the experience. It is as if they purposely, with intention, want you to feel like you're in a mall. I fear that one day in the future, as more of these plexiglass surrounded ships are made, cruising will be a thing of the past for me.

[@cruisecrazy7066]

Excellent video. Very professional. No face shots. No music. Good camera work. You get an "A".

[@shookya6976]

The design is just so perplexing. How you can fail at form and functionality so hard is honestly impressive.

[@mitchellmcknight8690]

jake going off on the app, absolutely KILLED ME. love your content sir!!!

[@Cheezitnator]

We have been on two cruises with them and I can't go back to any other line. I love the vibe and the staff even remembered us between the two. The app does suck but I never had an issue getting help by talking to staff. The food was amazing. Can confirm that the pizza is a standout and pink agave is one of the best restaurants. The cocktails are priced fairly too. We drank quite a bit and still spent more on excursions than booze.

[@JohnyPmusic2012]

We have been on the Scarlett Lady twice. Both in a "Rockstar Suite". The suite itself was fantastic and we really enjoyed the food. However, that's where it ends. Having been in a Celebrity Suite we felt that it fell short in comparison. I'll highlight to keep it short. -Although we had liquor in our cabin we had to pay for drinks at a bar and specialty coffees. On Celebrity it's included. - We just had basic wifi. On Celebrity we had premium included. - Richard's Rooftop is a waste of space. Never saw many people there. Again, we had to pay for drinks, there was no food service, the pool was a long walk down a flight of stairs, and there was no view. - It was literally standing room only in the pool. Our overall experience was good. The staff and food were great. We gave it two tries and decided that we would prefer to cruise with Celebrity. It's less expensive to purchase and less expensive to actuall be on board.

[@bripez]

The stairs instantly reminded me of the britanny ferries I used to go on as a kid and then jake specifically said they look like ferry stairs. Hes not wrong 😂

[@nickdoesnotlikepie]

I would love a more chill version of this. Get rid of the nightclubs and party atmosphere and just give a quiet modern relaxing experience

[@BrightSunFilms]

Probably more suited for a line like Viking then.

[@ohioguy1946]

Cruised on scarlet lady last year and loved it! Taking my soon to be wife on our honeymoon this September around the Mediterranean with Virgin Voyages again, can’t wait!!

[@Martys.Corner]

Finally someone here to see you and complementary cruise, and actually has an HONEST opinion of it.

[@Kwisten050]

I went on a VV cruise last December, and had a really good time. I also had problems with noise but for me it was being underneath The Galley, which they clean at night -scraping all the tables & chairs back and forth. They did move us when I i reached out to them via the app. I enjoyed the food. The venison at Test Kitchen was delicious! The pool is pretty tiny. All in all, though, we had a great time, and I've cruised with Celebrity, Princess, Oceania, and Regent in the past.

[@spaceshiplewis]

A full top deck for exercise because exercise is the reason people go on a cruise? Do people really exercise that much on a cruise?

[@Train115]

Honestly, I must say the exterior is much more unique than other cruise ships, so thats some credit I've gotta give to them.

[@Axelathetimelord]

I have been waiting for another cruise video!!! I've never been on one and don't really want to but I love cruise reviews in the background. The passion cruise people talk about cruises is so refreshing compared to other yt content!! Feels like Christmas

[@FreestyleTravelers]

Great review! Agreed that it is crazy they committed to this design without any test runs. We were on the fifth and sixth US sailing and the app never worked right back then, sad to see they have not fixed it!

[@jauipop]

Looks like a fun cruise if you look past the flaws. The one thing that prevents me going on cruises is the other passengers.

[@DivaChicluvsCena]

Thats why I love DCL personally. It looks like a classic ocean liner and I love it!

[@apkmax]

I appreciate the information and all of the details provided with this video. My husband and I (LGBT Couple) just got back from an 8 night Caribbean cruise on the Virgin Valiant Lady (March 2023). While the cabins could have been designed better and the app can be quirky and does needs a revamp, I need to express that the most important aspect of a Virgin cruise is the fun and inclusive overall experience. We have been on 15+ cruises as a couple and never have we felt more welcomed. The diversity of both the crew and the passengers made this the most fun and at the same time relaxing vacation we have had at sea. We are middle aged and not what I would consider Instagram gays and will still had an amazing time interacting with fellow sailors and the crew. I really hope that Virgin Voyages does well and is around for a long time.

[@chrischarlestaylor]

by far the best cruise line I have ever experienced, the food was outstanding, every.single.meal! Service was spectacular, far superior than any other line and exceeded all exceptions which were very high.

[@gerardmackay8909]

Looks like it has a giant ‘swingers party’ vibe to me. Also non stop party equals non stop noise and if the ship was full, and your cabin was positioned above/below a venue, throbbing like a boom box, they would have nowhere to transfer you too. Horses for courses! I can see the appeal for some but to me it looks like a garish, chrome and steel, dayglo nightmare.

[@TheDylanJoyce]

17:58 I don't know.... Your delivery on "Even CARNIVAL" is... had me dead!

[@willygonzalez139]

I have been on over 100 cruises, RCL, CCL, etc Virgin, by far, is the best cruise experience I’ve ever experienced, food, drinks, entertainment, crowd, quality of guests, service, etc etc, although I 100% disagree with your review, I would never cruise with another cruise line again…..

[@ve2vfd]

I'm going to sail her this summer with a group of friends, looking forward to it. NCL has tried the "food court" thing on the Prima (sailed it a few weeks ago) and though the food is nice, their implementation is a hot mess. Hope Virgin does it better.

[@lout3921]

I just arrived today from the Valiant lady. I honestly think it's just ok. I do agree with you that you meet some really cool people and the no kid policy brings a nice mature environment but I might have to try Celebrity next time.

[@vampyrelilo]

Wow! We went to tutu about 6 years ago, bought a BEAUTIFUL bead work necklaces. I only wear it for extreme special occasions, otherwise we bought a stand display for it. We very happily paid full price with a heavy tip. These necklaces are breath taking works of art. Thankyou so much for doing this video!!!!!!

[@BNGamesYT]

The No kids part alone should be a +10 modifier in the score

[@Wonkt]

I was looking forward to this all week!

[@BrightSunFilms]

Hope I didn't disappoint!

[@Wonkt]

@@BrightSunFilms you succeeded expectations!

[@Moxy_1984]

Loving your cruise reviews! I've never been on a cruise before, so it's quite interesting!

[@BrightSunTravels]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@ruralrayne]

Cruised with Virgin for the first time, for free, during Thanksgiving of last year. Personally, i didn't face all the issues that you did; however, i do agree with some of the things you said, especially the app. I do absolutely agree with your conclusion about the experience and the people. i met so many amazing people on my sailing. I still talk to them

[@John_Locke_108]

If Virgin comped you in hopes of a getting a good review, mission failed. This does not look like a fun experience. Your reviews are terrific and real. Much appreciated.

[@rickhendrick4714]

I recently had the pleasure of experiencing a Virgin Voyages cruise, and I must say, it was an exceptional journey. While I have previously sailed with Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Lines, Virgin Voyages stands out as a truly remarkable cruise experience.

[@adamsaldana5462]

I would still try it. It's a shame the boat design isnt better.

[@MrsWilkins]

I’m a loyal Celebrity cruiser, age mid 50s, but I’ve always been interested in an adults-only cruise. I’ve heard, though, that Virgin is mostly a loud 24/7 party ship with “young adults behaving badly,” which is not my jam, either. Thank you for your honest review! The mediocre food review helps me decide to stay with Celebrity for now. 😊

[@map3384]

I totally agree with you. I’m a mid 50s married guy who loves Celebrity and this line isn’t for me.

[@nicholasfield6127]

I only went on Virgin once but I can tell you on my cruise it definitely wasn't young adults behaving badly. I honestly feel like people behaved better than anywhere else where I'm out in the general public.

[@LoderryPlaysPVP]

I absolutely love these reviews man, amazing job!

[@WaterWorld1]

What a great review. I believe the ships design is based on a Fincantieri design which MSC Seaside and NCL Prima have also bought into. However, I appreciate that each design is a little different.

[@SovietDictator]

Bain and Blackrock? It's hard to imagine a worse pair to give your money to.

[@BrightSunTravels]

Yeah…

[@SovietDictator]

@@BrightSunTravels I mean, it's not that most big businesses are that much better but the combination just kind of made me a little queasy.

[@MatTimmerman]

I was on Valiant Lady last year and had an incredible time. That being said, I thought the food situation was weirdly split. The dinners venues were spectacular. Even as a picky eater, I got talked into going to the Test Kitchen and they were able to offer me different options for some things I wouldn't touch. But on the opposite end of the spectrum, the Galley was pretty awful. The options were severely limited and any time I'd go there, it felt like 75% of the stalls were closed. Breakfast options were also really limited, with only a couple of the restaurants available in the morning and the Galley still being really limited. I was in a suite (no delivery fee) so I ended up ordering in most mornings, but even then the options were pretty limited.

[@andreamckinney8808]

You should try this one out again. We LOVE VV! A lot of the complaints have been ironed out and the deck is definitely not empty in the afternoons anymore.

[@Powertampa]

A running track right next to the high-sulfur exhaust, how healthy xD

[@joannapolowy4647]

I had a great time on Scarlet Lady. My husband and I are Chefs and loved the food.

[@Ant-Alpha]

The way that Valiant Lady is laid out might be a direct correlation to other KZbinrs mentioning that this line is best suited for Singles and Couples. The areas are more secluded to allow a little more privacy from your typical major groups that you would have in open areas on other cruise lines.

[@letzrock1675]

Thanks for mentioning the piece about obstructed views on the ship. How a company with so much capital could go and design a ship like this that actively prevents you from enjoying your view of the ocean seems absolutely asinine.

[@nancycruiseaholic]

We tried Virgin a year ago. I found the food itself to be the best part, especially most cruise lines have had a decline in food quality. Getting the food, as you mentioned was a pain. I missed the buffet. Some of the places in the galley had odd varying hours. Pizza took an hour to get and I had to order a whole pizza. I just would've liked grab a slice and go option. It was hard to get a reservation unless you booked well in advance for the sit down restaurants. I understand how you felt about the noise and I felt they played music at a much higher volume than any cruise I've been on. Pool was also very tiny and cloudy.

[@wildmaknae_]

I'm really not a demographic for cruises (being Russian among other things, although I did enjoy some of shorter cruises in Baltic region like Viking Line and St.Petersburg-Helsinki-Stockholm-Tallinn-St.Petersburg), but I can't stop watching these videos for some reason. This voyage actually looks like a dream with no kids concept and just, adults being adults. I hope I'll be able to go there. Thanks for the video!

[@jec6613]

A common theme I've seen with all of the improvements suggested to Virgin's ships, yours and others, is topweight. It seems very much like the naval architect had to make a lot of compromises to keep the ship stable, as almost everything suggested would put a lot of weight high up in the ship.

[@papagnom]

Good review but I thought the entertainment wasn’t very good but the food was amazing

[@JulesLoesch]

Of the 35 cruises I have been on, mainly with Carnival, Royal, and NCL, VV has been my favorite overall, and I have 2 more booked with them! Hopefully, little has changed in recent months, so I will still be just as happy on VV.

[@stephenedwards9341]

I love Ben and David videos and this was just as good! Well done!

[@GreenAppelPie]

Not bad but I’ll stick with Princess. I did like some of the lighting and glass details. That is not a luxury line though. What a poorly designed ship. I didn’t see any ‘promenade’ interiors. The most important thing is the lack of interiors signage, it’s just not safe or convenient.

[@impulse565]

Wife and I went on the 2nd voyage of the Scarlett Lady; was an amazing experience, would def sail again (different port visits though, they were questionable)

[@andersenpeters]

I wonder if The Galley was planned originally as a self-service/buffet style option but they awkwardly altered it for COVID?

[@MRBenchwork]

No. It was designed that way from the start. I've spoken with several crew members in the know about it. It was done specifically because it saves on food waste and thus money.

[@alexwbl]

A realy like your Videos your Voice Qualitiy is perfect combining with the Video Quality! Could you add an Information about the kind of fuel the vessel has? And if you could smell the burned fuel?

[@soulssister1show488]

The main reason I am crushing is to see the ocean every day/ not to have an indoor party for 8 days, why would I pay for ocean view cabin when I can’t see the ocean????

[@Bosko57]

I cruised on Virgin last spring and have to say I hated it I have been on over 15 cruises and several cruise lines, and it was a terrible experience. I have a restricted diet and it was almost impossible to eat on the ship. I was able to get a vegan meal at the Italian restaurant, but you are only allowed to eat at each restaurant once! Upstairs where there are always buffets on other cruise lines, there was a grouping of "cafes," with zero flexibility with their menus. I couldn't even get a rice and bean burrito at the Mexican "cafe" because it wasn't on their limited menu. I have never been so hungry on a cruse ship. A terrible experience.

[@rivervisual7802]

We sailed to Puerto Plata in July and are sailing to Cozumel in a week on them. Other than a small-ish pool,I loved the ship ,food and the cruise.

[@lucypng211]

I loved virgin voyages ans disagree with your review on food. Our food was fantastic and a main reason we booked again for next year!

[@LlamaBobby]

Great review! Can definitely say between this and your room video, my interest in Virgin has either dropped to zero or been heightened, depending on who I was to go with. I feel like due to the food and lousy esthetics, my girlfriend and I would hate it. However, I have a friend that works at WDW that wants to try it (we met on a DCL cruise), and based on the entertainment and overall vibe and atmosphere, him and I would enjoy it. As always thanks again for the great review!

[@benmoorhouse1988]

Great, objective review. I love so much about the ship design but the staterooms from inside cabin right up to the top suites isn't good enough. I wasn't aware of the link to Disney Cruises and The World, but that is very interesting! I'd love to see how The World HOA deals with their ever ageing ship. I cannot believe they've locked themselves into four almost identical ships, as anyone can see there are things that could be changed for the better. Without even taking into account improvements, each ship should surely offer a slightly unique experience. One area I see them struggling with is itineraries. The Caribbean is clearly the brand's home, but I can't even imagine 'the Virgin way' working as well in the Mediterranean. The brand and ships would never suit Alaska or Northern Europe, so where exactly do they plan to put four ships, especially if their Caribbean core business is operating at ~30% occupancy?

[@robertsammons1]

I haven’t done Caribbean but done several of them in the med and found the virgin experience to be as expected, you dont get their island of course but they do try to have more unique excursions and ports. Agreed on Northern Europe, it just wouldn’t work as too much is outside. I did a Portsmouth to canaries cruise in march with them and the bad weather put massive pressure on the inside areas of the ship

[@staciebrooks1328]

My husband and I did two Virgin Mediterranean cruises out of Barcelona and both were outstanding.

[@leeprosser4682]

Loved my first Virgin Voyages Mediterranean cruise, in October 23, so much that I have booked another one. Had zero problems with the app. Really enjoyed the dining. I feel that it was worth the money to have a kid free cruise, with specialty dining included every night and a great crew. I liked the bar tab concept too, rather than a drinks package. The running/walking track was one of my favorite places on the ship, both first thing in the morning as you’re heading into port and in the evening if I felt like an after dinner stroll. I liked the cabin, (loved the balcony hammock), would definitely have preferred normal beds though. The convertible sofa/bed idea means that someone (me) is sleeping with a sofa arm in their face. I’d like to think that if they’d done a mock up of this idea on land, for people to trial living in for a week, that it wouldn’t have made it onto the ships lol

[@axelsander80]

Just spent some days at the Scarlet Lady. Great ship. No complaints.

[@PiaAdora]

I’ve never found Celebrity to be cheaper than Virgin in practice, when you apply promotions etc. But, I agree that Celebrity offers a slightly more elevated experience.

[@traceymarshall5886]

I was on valiant lady for 4 weeks last year...did the med, transatlantic barcelona to miami and her mermaiden caribbean cruise. I will be on her again in a couple of weeks for her transatlantic. In october i will be on resiliant lady adriatic and athens to dubai trip. I pretty much agree with everything you say. However i do like the room layout. I agree with the design points you mention. Although i only have royal carribbean to compare to...and its a better product. Ive not been on NCL prima or celebrity - i found my virgin cruises much cheaper to celebrity. I also love it for the people, the average age, and the zero kids. Like you said...thats what makes it and its a pity their ship design cannot be improve for the next couple of years as they are carbon copy. I think they should change resilient lady based on the feedback.....or make improvements in the common space. We had to do yoga most days in the gym as the top deck was too wet

[@simon5005]

A perfect example of self-confidence gone gravely wrong. This couldn't be further from my idea of a nice ocean voyage. I've been cruising since 2005, before it became an obsession with many people, and it's clear to me that the competition with the Lines is eventually going to be a huge mistake. The constant "bigger and better" is just going to keep prices going higher and higher and also start eliminating a lot of people who simply cannot afford to cruise anymore. I'm sticking to the smaller, older ships which stick more to the traditional style..........which makes them cheaper and more kid-free!!! 😁

[@noname-JS]

I'M SO CANCELLING MY VALIANT LADY RESERVATION. I WAS SUPPOSED TO BE ON BRILLIANT LADY WHICH WAS CANCELLED. THANKS FOR THIS!!!

[@amberts180]

The score was rough. The food wasn’t that bad.

[@GeneralJackRipper]

A Valiant effort, but I'm not going to go on a cruise ship in order to work out.

[@es0516]

I’ve recently gotten interested in trying a cruise, I think I would pick Virgin. The ship not being full is a pro to me, I can be very finicky when it comes to dealing with crowds (sometimes I’m fine, other days I’m overwhelmed). But the tiny bathroom is a bit upsetting lol. The rooms are interesting and I think overall for a short trip I wouldn’t mind the unique layouts.

[@Whyzee12]

Someone found some inspiration from Doug DeMuro for his review style ;) In all seriousness, love these videos Jake! I’ve never been interested in cruises, so these in depth looks are super interesting to me. It’s like getting to go without actually having to 😂

[@BrightSunTravels]

Oh 100%! I really think it’s a cool idea to take his format and adapt it for travel related content!

[@Whyzee12]

@@BrightSunTravels completely agree. It totally works

[@nicholasfield6127]

Scarlett Lady is the only cruise ship I've been on, and I loved it. My biggest complaint was not having a view forward. I wanted a Titanic moment 😂

[@davidfence6939]

Personally have no desire to cruise with VV. The entertainment mostly looks horrible and would be a massive miss to me. If another line ever comes along with 18+ cruises and fixes VV's errors I could see them having to change to compete.

[@rpmnh]

I agree. The entertainment looks abysmal to me and I know that I wouldn’t partake in much of it. As such, the cruise doesn’t seem to be a good value for someone like me. What a shame.

[@rj-zn3cw]

What I have found with these cruise reviews is that they are constrained by the reviewer's life experiences. If this guy's idea of good food is a large plate of some standard American dish, he is most definitely not going to be able to appreciate more elevated food in smaller portions. It all comes down to what one is used to and what one values. I mean there are reviewers who swear by MSC and there are people who have great experiences on Margaritaville at Sea. It is all relative. If you have a well-rounded life experience. I do believe you will enjoy your time aboard Virgin.

[@reaperkollyns6495]

These videos are fascinating. I don't do boats or ocean, so it's like a glimpse into another world of odd technology and strange sea-dwelling creatures. Also, I feel after watching your videos, I could do a cruise ship layout better than these people.