Getting Ready for Your Virgin Voyages Cruise: What to Pack and What to Leave Behind
So, you’ve got your Virgin Voyages cruise all set, and now you’re staring at that empty suitcase, wondering what in the world to pack. Don’t fret! Whether it’s your very first cruise or your first time sailing with Virgin Voyages, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a friendly guide to help you pack for your unforgettable journey:
**1. Most Important – Don’t Forget Something Red!**
At Virgin Voyages, they do things a bit differently. Forget about formal nights; they have “Scarlet Night.” It’s your chance to shine in red, and it doesn’t have to be fancy. It could be a red suit, a shirt, a dress, or even a cute little red hair bow. As long as it’s in the red family – maroon, ruby, vermillion, cherry – it’s perfect. Just remember, things can get wet during the pool party, so maybe leave your expensive silk dress at home and opt for something less pricey.
**2. Pack Some Pyjamas**
Your PJs aren’t just for bedtime on Virgin Voyages. The first night features a late-night disco, either on the dock or in the Dockhouse. It can get pretty hot and sweaty, especially in Miami, so consider something more comfortable than your old t-shirt and holey shorts. We saw all kinds of stylish sleepwear, from cute PJs to sexy slips. You might want to grab some affordable and cute PJs for this occasion, which might just become a regular part of your nighttime routine.
**3. Don’t Forget Fabulous Swimwear**
The ship’s swimming pool might be on the small side, but it’s your chance to show off your stunning swimwear. There are shallow shelves on either side of the pool, so you’ll be on display most of the time. And if there’s beach time on your voyage, you’ll want swimwear that makes you feel fantastic. Also, consider bringing swimwear for Scarlet Night. While you don’t have to strip down, some folks do take a dip, and you wouldn’t want to miss out just because you’re wearing your best bra.
**4. Serious and Silly Workout Gear**
If you’re planning to stay active on your cruise, remember to pack your sneakers and a sports bra. Virgin Voyages offers unique and fun ways to stay in shape, from boyband dance classes and dodgeball on the basketball court to HIIT classes, spin sessions, and even bungee workouts. Don’t forget the “VHS workout” – an 80’s themed class with pop music, neon, and shake weights. So, grab some neon or lycra to get in the mood and maybe even throw on those leg warmers. It’s all about having a blast while you break a sweat.
**5 – Pick A Party Outfit or Two**
Virgin Voyages doesn’t have a strict dress code. You can totally rock shorts and a t-shirt the whole time if that’s your jam. But hey, why not jazz things up a bit? Throw in a snazzy shirt, a cute dress, or some glitzy jewelry for those special moments, like dinner, drinks, or dancing. You’ve got to snap that iconic shot at The Manor nightclub’s entrance corridor, so bring a glitzy outfit for that extra wow factor!
**6 – Choose Your Casual Clothes Carefully**
Listen up, folks. You’ll be indulging in some seriously delicious food on the cruise. So, make sure your pants or shorts have a little extra room for that inevitable food baby. We all love to eat, right? Also, if you’re cruising during the hot months, avoid polyester – it can make you feel sticky. Opt for comfy cotton or cooling linen fabrics instead.
**7 – Choose A Reef Safe Sun Screen**
Planning to take a dip in the beautiful sea? Whether you’re cruising in the Mediterranean or the Caribbean, it’s best to protect our precious reefs and marine life. Go for a reef-safe sun cream with minerals like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. They’re eco-friendly and still offer high sun protection. Just remember to use a lotion instead of a spray to avoid inhaling those minerals.
**8 – Speciality Gear for Your Shore Thing Excursions**
Got exciting shore excursions lined up? Don’t forget to pack your essentials. If you have water shoes, bring them along to avoid rental fees. For snorkeling adventures, a long-sleeve swimsuit is a smart choice. And if you’re planning some rugged adventures, leave your pricey activewear at home. Instead, bring along some old clothes you don’t mind getting dirty or donating. This way, you won’t have to worry about packing them on the way back.
**9 – Take Two Bottles of Wine**
When it comes to packing for your Virgin Voyages cruise, think about bringing a couple of bottles of wine with you. It’s a great idea because there are some rules about what food and drinks you can bring on board, but you’re in luck – you can bring two bottles of wine per cabin. Whether you’re on a budget or just want to enjoy a glass in the comfort of your own room, having some wine handy is a nice touch. Don’t stress about opening those bottles either; every room is equipped with a cool bottle opener/corkscrew. Oh, and if you plan to bring some bubbly, don’t forget a clip-on stopper to keep it fresh.
**10 – Remember a Refillable Water Bottle**
Water, soda, and other basic beverages are included on Virgin Voyages. So when you’re at a bar, The Galley, or a restaurant, they’ve got you covered with glasses. But if you’re hitting the gym, exploring the ship, or simply like having water within arm’s reach, you’ll want to carry your own refillable water bottle. The ship has water filling stations, but they don’t have cups nearby, so having your own bottle is super handy. We even discovered that filling our bottles in The Galley with some ice and our favorite Coca-Cola products made for a refreshing, all-day drink.
**11 – Pack Your Passport**
You’d think this one’s a no-brainer, but it’s worth repeating: don’t forget your passport! While some cruise lines might let you cruise with just another form of ID and your birth certificate, Virgin Voyages insists on a passport. Whether you’re flying internationally to reach your cruise port or taking a domestic flight or drive within the States, make sure to include your passport on your packing list. You won’t want to be left behind!
**12 – Don’t Forget Your Phone**
We get it; it’s liberating to unplug during a vacation. However, when you’re cruising with Virgin Voyages, it’s a smart move to keep your smartphone with you. They’ve got a nifty app that can come in handy. Sure, it might have a few glitches, but when it works, it’s a game-changer. You can use it to book restaurant reservations, sign up for workout classes, check out the day’s activities, and receive important notifications. It’s like your personal cruise concierge. You can technically cruise without it; Sailor Services can assist with most things. But trust us, having the app on your phone will make your voyage much more enjoyable.
That’s it, fellow voyagers! Pack these essentials, and you’ll be ready to make the most of your Virgin Voyages adventure. Bon voyage! 🚢✨
With these packing tips, you’ll be ready for the adventure of a lifetime on your Virgin Voyages cruise. Remember to keep it fun, fashionable, and, most importantly, unforgettable!
