If you’re someone who’s been skeptical about cruising maybe you picture loud announcements, rigid dining schedules, or cheesy activities Scarlet Lady might change your mind. Virgin Voyages set out to flip the script on traditional cruising, and they’ve done it pretty well.
Atmosphere: No Kids, No Rules
The biggest difference? No kids. This is an 18+ ship, and it shows in the design and vibe. You’ll find hammocks on private balconies, tattoo studios, and group fitness classes instead of waterslides or cartoon mascots.
The overall feel is relaxed and modern. No dress codes, no fixed dinner times, no formal nights. It’s built for people who want a vacation without the usual cruise traditions.
Cabins
Rooms are minimal, but well thought out. The Sea Terrace cabins come with those signature red hammocks and plenty of sunlight. The lighting adjusts depending on the time of day, and you can control everything TV, curtains, lights through a tablet.
Suites, called “RockStar Quarters,” come with extra perks like access to a private sundeck and priority everything.
Dining: All Included, All Over the Ship
One of Scarlet Lady’s biggest strengths is the dining. There are no buffets. Instead, over 20 eateries serve made-to-order meals—all included. Options range from Korean BBQ at Gunbae, to vegan-forward dishes at Razzle Dazzle, to upscale seafood at The Wake.
Everything is cooked fresh and plated like a restaurant would serve it. You don’t pay extra unless you’re ordering premium drinks.
Entertainment and Activities
Virgin goes off-script here too. There’s no big central theater shows pop up in unexpected places, with edgy themes and immersive performances. Some are acrobatic, some are interactive, and some feel more like indie nightlife events than cruise shows.
By day, you can hit up a spin class, take a meditation session, or hang out at the pool with a cocktail and DJ set. The Red Room transforms from a theater to a dance floor, and The Manor nightclub has a two-level, mirror-filled entrance you’ve probably seen on Instagram.
Destinations
Scarlet Lady sails mostly short itineraries (4–5 nights) out of Miami to the Caribbean, including Virgin’s private beach club in Bimini, Bahamas. This stop is quiet, breezy, and designed for max chill—white sand, clear water, food included, and a laid-back party vibe if you want it.
The Bottom Line
This ship is for adults who want a fun, flexible vacation without the outdated cruise structure. No kids, no buffets, no rigid schedules just good food, great energy, and a ship that feels more like a resort than a floating hotel.
