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Virgin Voyages Athens (Piraeus) Cruise Reviews

1 - 10 of 244 Virgin Voyages Athens (Piraeus) Cruise Reviews

Sail Date: May 2024

Review for a Europe - Eastern Mediterranean Cruise on Resilient Lady

Virgin Voyages is an adult only cruise line. Previously, we've only sailed with Carnival, Norwegian, and Royal Caribbean. We can say that Virgin overall is the best brand. The restaurants are all upscale casual dining. The common eating areas are above average. There are a lot of options for excursions and all of the ones we've taken have been great. The best one on this trip was visiting Krka ... Read More

Embarkation was well organized. We were on the ship by 1:30pm. Our sea terrace cabin was ready when we got on board. Functional, with enough storage space. After the safety briefing ( which was very quick ), we made some changes to our dinner times. Even if you don't get your preferred time on the app, it's easy to change. Don't miss the sailaway party poolside. Amazing restaurants ... Read More

A week of relaxation visiting interesting places in the Adriatic and Ionian seas. The staff Is very friendly, willing and polite. They couldn't be better. It was very interesting and encouraging to see so many different nationalities working on the ship like a well tuned team. The food goes excellent regarding quality, quantity and variety. The large number of restaurants to choose from, ... Read More

Review for a Europe - River Cruise Cruise on Resilient Lady

Everything about the cruise was top notch, it was so well organised,silky smooth and stress free. The restaurants were all great as were the bars and live music. We especially loved the relaxed atmosphere at the Dock at the rear of the boat. The pool area was a bit more crowded and lively but there was plenty of space all around the ship to relax in peace and quiet. Three generations of people in ... Read More

Traveled with children

Staff, food quality and cleanliness good. Entertainment shows quality was average. Not enough on offer at times to suit. If time did not suit, then there was not another offering so never got to see all. Often clashed with allotted dinner times or length of service times so meant missed out. Not enough seating in many areas including on the rocks, social, karaoke, pool areas - struggled to ... Read More

This cruise blew us away. Gorgeous ship - clean, beautiful, fun. Each space was unique and well kept. Amazing staff - everyone was happy, cheerful, and eager to help in any way they could. All our needs were tended to, we wanted for nothing. Great itinerary - breathtaking destinations with plenty of time to explore each. There were excursions available for every interest and activity level. We ... Read More

Staff - were generally very good and helpful. A special mention to our (female Mexican) Server Mila (Milana) in the Pink Agave - she is a little diamond! Restaurants - all good, with good quality fare. The only one we found below expectations was the Korean BBQ - very noisy (you could do without the drinking games, the ridiculous antics from another table were very disruptive to the point we ... Read More

Absolutely loved the Rock Star Cheeky Corner Suite Cabin. Never had so much space in a cruise cabin before. Also, if you ever have the opportunity to be a Rock Star on one of Virgin’s ships, DO IT! Everything about this experience is absolutely amazing. The free onboard entertainment was a bit cheesy and could definitely use an upgrade. However, the paid performance of “Another Rose” was ... Read More

The ship was beautiful, the staff were kind and competent, and the experience was unparalleled to any cruise we had previously been on! Having such a fun, clean, and well run home to return to when we were so far from our own, made our trip so much more incredible! The shows were higher quality than I’ve seen on and offshore. Shout out to Xenia & Cici for befriending us throughout the trip and ... Read More

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Starry Nights in Greece & Croatia

Cruise Itinerary

Life onboard resilient lady.

Built like a super yacht and styled like a chic hotel for adult only guests, welcome aboard Resilient Lady. Read more

With wellbeing at the centre of your onboard experience, you can be totally active, completely relaxed or somewhere in-between. Read more

Cutting edge, boundary pushing productions, the epic Scarlet night and pop up performances make for lively onboard entertainment. Read more

Forget formal dining rooms and enjoy all inclusive, made to order dining at more than 20 city style eateries and restaurants. Read more

We’ve partnered with some of the industry's most esteemed mixologists to offer quality drinks without the premium price tag. Read more

We've taken care of all the details — so all you have to do is kick back and have the relaxing vacation you deserve. Read more

Resilient Lady Reviews (4) Most Recent 'Resilient Lady' Reviews

Virgin Voyages Worldwide (2024-26)

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How to island hop in Greece with Virgin Voyages

Post date: Mar 4 2024

Date: Mar 4 2024

By: Travelweek

Saying you’re going to the “Greek islands” is kind of like saying you’re going to “the Caribbean.” While the generalization certainly paints a vague picture in people’s minds, it doesn’t really do much else. There are over 100 inhabited islands in Greece, each of which has a distinct character, aesthetic, and culture.

The best Greek island to visit no matter what kind of traveler you are

From the whitewashed walls of Santorini to the glitzy club scene of Mykonos and the relaxing beaches of Corfu, there’s something for every kind of traveler in the Greek islands. The best part? You don’t have to choose just one. When you  cruise the Greek islands , you get a taste of everything the Aegean has to offer on one voyage. These are the best islands to visit in Greece.

Corfu – Best island for beaches

Corfu’s unique geography  lends itself to having some of the best beaches in the Greek islands. The cove-lined coastline is defined by a tranquil sheltered bay and narrow strips of land full of trees and plants. This means you can bask in the sun while also enjoying the shade. Beaches vary in character, too, from pebbled strands like Paleokastritsa Beach to sandy stretches of coastline like Canal d’Amour, famous for its hidden coves and caves.

Santorini – Best island for photo-ops

Santorini  is an island that needs no introduction, because it’s probably already all over your Instagram feed. Famous for its whitewashed Cycladian architecture, this island was built to be in front of a camera. From the blue-domed churches and white rooftops of Oia, to cliffside views of the caldera islands from Imerovigli Village, it’s tough to find a place in Santorini that  doesn’t  make for  an epic photo-op .

Crete – Best island for food

While you can find great traditional Greek food all over the country, Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, has one of the richest and most distinct culinary scenes. It all starts with  raki , the traditional welcome drink that accompanies most meals on Crete. After a shot (or three) to tickle your palate, try a plate of  dakos , Crete’s popular appetizer made with a twice-baked barley rusk and topped with olive oil and local cheese. Then indulge in  kleftiko  (baked lamb) or  ahinosalata  (sea urchin), a Cretan specialty.

Rhodes – Best island for culture

The Colossus of Rhodes might not have stood on the island for many centuries, but  Rhodes  is still one of the best Greek islands to visit for culture. The center of it all is the medieval citadel in Rhodes Old Town, where you can walk along the battlements with a view of Byzantine churches, synagogues, minarets, and Roman ruins. Check out the Archaeological Museum for a crash course in the island’s ancient history, or visit the Modern Greek Art Museum to get a sense of how the Greek artistic tradition is still going strong today.

Mykonos – Best island for nightlife

Mykonos  could be semi-accurately called the Ibiza of the Greek islands. Sure, it has beautiful beaches and plenty of photo-worthy architecture, but where the island really shines is its nightlife and party scene. The heart of the action is in Mykonos Town, home to the island’s most popping bars and nightclubs, and beaches like Elia Beach, Psarou Beach, and Super Paradise Beach, are home to lively outdoor parties both day and night.

Walk in Odysseus’ footsteps…but with Virgin Voyages

The best part about visiting the Greek islands via cruise is that you don’t need to pick and choose which ones to visit, which to skip, and figure out how to get between them. Our 7-night Greek Island Glow voyage is the best Greek islands tour on the Aegean, starting in Piraeus (Athens) and visiting picturesque Santorini, the historic hub of Rhodes, Bodrum in Turkey, and overnighting on lively Mykonos before heading back to Athens. From the Byzantine ruins of Rhodes to the bucolic hills of Santorini and the epic nightlife of Mykonos, you’ll see more of Greece in a week than you ever thought possible. To visit Crete, Greece’s largest island, check out our  Modern Med to Ancient Aegean  trip. This 11-night odyssey sails from Barcelona to Cannes, Ajaccio, Cagliari, Sardinia, Sicily, Valletta, Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, and ends in Athens. If you think it sounds like a whirlwind journey, you’re right. If you think it sounds like the island-hopping trip of a lifetime, you’re also right.

Go island-hopping in Greece on our  Greek island voyage .

Tags: Virgin Voyages, VV HDS 2

Starry Nights in Greece & Croatia

10-night round-trip sailing from Athens

Late-night glam in Greece

Our 10-night sailing from Athens is the dreamiest voyage for any explorer – whether snapping photos in breathtaking Santorini, snorkeling the blue-green waters of Dubrovnik, cocktail-ladened merriment at a world-renowned beach club in Mykonos, or experiencing beguiling Bodrum — where dazzling waters are perfectly paired with unbelievable views and world-class cuisine.

Starry Nights in Greece & Croatia • 10 Nights

Sailing on Resilient Lady

  Day 1

Piraeus (Athens)

Departs at 06:00 PM, All aboard 2 hrs before departure

  Day 2

09:00 AM - 10:00 PM, local time

  Day 3

08:00 AM - 08:00 PM, local time

  Day 4

Arrives at 09:00 AM

  Day 5

Departs at 02:00 PM

  Day 6

  Day 7

  Day 8

09:00 AM - 07:00 PM, local time

  Day 9

09:00 AM - 08:00 PM, local time

  Day 10

  Day 11

Arrives at 06:30 AM

The Virgin Voyages Experience

From captivating coasts to laid-back island vibes, the exclusively adult cruise vacation of your dreams is here.

Hassle-free embarkation

Pre-upload your travel docs to the Virgin Voyages app, get Ready to Sail before leaving home, and make boarding a (sea)breeze in just a few minutes.

Late stays and overnights

No more rushing from A to Sea. Our itineraries feature late stays and overnights, so you can explore it all from morning to night (and morning again).

Keeping it local

We’ve teamed up with locals in each of our ports to reveal sides of places you’ve yet to explore — from the people who know the destinations best.

The places you'll go

Bright blue skies, sand-fringed shores, and a bustling street art scene — few places are as colorful as this ever-evolving city.

From the hills of Oia to the Caldera coast, this island is known for its fiery, orange and pick sunsets and postcard-worthy beaches.

Boasting Aegean character from its ancient ruins to its flower-filled cafes, Bodrum is the ultimate spot for a seaside getaway.

Known for its hip beach clubs and electric nightlife, this famous Greek Isle has a notably quiet side, too — and it's truly spectacular.

Exuding historical seaside romance, Dubrovnik adds a splash of vibrant, youthful energy to the breathtaking Croatian coastline.

A breathtaking gem of the Balkans, this coastal Montenegro city is where museums and churches weave in and out of cafe-strewn squares and Venetial palaces.

Venture beyond the island's famous emerald-capped mountains to find historical monuments, bustling streets, and hip beach clubs.

We have even more in our curated catalog.

It’s electric — your bike & day out.

Save your incline energy now that you have a sweet E-bike to do all the strenuous work. Instead, harness that moxie by soaking up the incredible views around the Cycladic caldera. By zipping through narrow streets in old-timey villages, you can humbly brag that you’re burning calories — not emissions. Your tour includes riding to a local winery so, in addition to tasting amazing quaffables, you’ll be surrounded by fragrant citrus and earthy minerals in a splendid volcanic valley.

Energy Level

• Save energy (yours and emissions) and let your E-bike do all the strenuous work so you can concentrate on the scenery
• Take in fantastic views of the surrounding volcanic landscape
• Visit a vineyard to sample some of Santorini’s best wines and delicacies
• Please be aware this Shore Thing is not wheelchair accessible
• This Shore Thing is not suitable for pregnant Sailors
• Closed-toed shoes are required
• Sailors must wear suitable clothing and footwear for this activity (hiking, biking, trekking, rappelling, ziplining, yoga, etc.)
• Sailors should know how to ride a bike
• Sailors should be in good physical condition to participate
• This Shore Thing is weather dependent
• Includes light bites
• Sailors booked on Shore Things through Virgin Voyages do not need to book a tender ride
• Tender rides can add up to 30 minutes each way to the duration of a Shore Thing — please plan accordingly
• This Shore Thing operator has received third-party certification based on the Global Sustainable Tourism Council criteria

Got a mate you think would ❤️ this shore experience?

Bodrum market & culinary experience.

With a chef leading the way, you'll take in the sounds, aromas, and textures of a local market while walking through colorful stalls of jams, olives, and other delicacies you'll use on your culinary escapade. You’ll pass by charming homes in the village before entering the restaurant where these goods will be transformed into edible art — Turkish cuisine. As your chef goes over style and technique, you’ll help prepare a meal. Say şerefe as you clink a wine glass (or two) and feast family-style.

• Learn the skills and techniques used to prepare a traditional Turkish meal from a local chef
• Wander into a world of vivid colors, aromas, and textures, passing stalls of olives, homemade jams, spices, vegetables, and fruits
• The village homes are replicas of the original stone dwellings used centuries ago
• With a wine glass in hand, cheers to yourself and the sous chef crew as you enjoy your culinary family-style creation
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Lunch is included
• Approximately 30-minute drive to/from the port and your Shore Things destination
• Please keep in mind that cancellations made within 72 hours or less are subject to a 100% cancellation penalty
• The local currency is the Turkish Lira ₺
• Unlimited wine is included

Beach Hopping the South Coast of Mykonos

It’s your vacation and it’s time to get fancy. To get the maximum exposure to the best beaches of Mykonos, set sail to the South Coast on a boat where you’ll stop by the stunning shores of Platis Gialos, Paradise Beach, and Elia Beach. Your captain will drop anchor at some of the best spots including the Super Paradise Beach, remote islets (weather permitting), and stunning postcard-worthy sea-scapes.

• You can now brag “I’m on a boat” by sailing around the South Coast in style
• A captain will choose your island destinations from the most famous to the hidden islets
• Visit incredible islands like Paradise Island, Platis Gialos, and Elia Beach
• Lunch and adult beverages are included
• Sailors prone to motion sickness should take precautions prior to this Shore Thing
• Sailors should know how to swim
• A change of clothes is recommended
• The order of sites visited may vary
• Not all listed sites on this Shore Things are guaranteed
• Anchoring boat to swim is dependent on the sea conditions and is at the discretion of the captain for safety reasons
• Sailors on a Shore Thing will arrive at Athinos Port to meet their guide and will return to Fira Port by cable car at the completion of their tour

Dubrovnik From Different Angles

Peeking at the nearby islands dotting the ocean and the huge rocky cliffs that cut the shore, you'll rise to the top of Mount Srd on a cable car. Climb the famous stairway at Pile Gate and follow your guide along the southern part of the walls. Spot the Minčeta, St. John's, and Bokar Fortresses, see the Maritime Museum and gaze at the traditional orange rooftops that give Dubrovnik's Old Town an exceptional (and stunning) look. Then, head back down and explore the medieval city from within.

• Get a bird's-eye view of Dubrovnik and the glittering Adriatic Sea as you rise to the top of Mount Srd on a cable car
• Make your way to the top of the City Walls and see ancient Fortresses, the Maritime Museum, gorgeous natural sights
• Stroll Dubrovnik's Old Town at your own pace after seeing it from above (and after your guided tour)
• Sailors must be able to navigate steps throughout this Shore Thing
• This experience is not recommended for Sailors with a fear of heights
• Please be aware this Shore Thing is not recommended for people that are claustrophobic
• This experience is not suitable for Sailors with vertigo
• Sailors should expect long periods of walking and standing

Town of Perast & Ćatovića Mlini

Explore Montenegro's cultural, historical, and religious influences on a scenic journey to the Town of Perast. There, you'll marvel at the Baroque architecture of the Church of St. Nicholas and get fascinating views of Our Lady of the Rocks, one of the two islets built on Boka Bay. Traveling to the small village of Morinj for an exquisite lunch and wine, you'll reach the charming Ćatovića Mlini, a 200-year-old, family-owned olive and grain grinding mill turned into a world-class establishment.

• Have lunch at Ćatovića Mlini, a 200-year-old, family-owned mill turned into a world-class establishment
• Travel to Morinj, a small village traditionally known for its olive and grain grinding mill
• See the beautiful Our Lady of the Rocks islet said to be built around a rock where an image of the Madonna was found in 1452
• Admire the Baroque architecture of Perast's Church of St. Nicholas
• Sailors should expect to walk uphill and/or over uneven pavement

Corfu, Old Town & Distillery Experience

Check out the city highlights on a chill ride around Corfu before taking a short walking tour of its Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll the Esplanade, the former exclusive-to-only-the-aristocracy Liston promenade, and see the Old Fortress, Durrell Gardens, and Palace of St. Michael and St. George — aka the former residence of the British High Commissioner. Then, visit the famous Lazaris Distillery to taste the yummy Koum Kouat and Limoncello locally produced on the island.

• Get a nice view of the Pontikonisi and Vlacherna Monastery on your way to Benitses, where you'll visit the Lazaris Distillery to sip on local flavors
• Cross off famous spots like the Old Fortress, the Durrell Gardens, and the Palace of St. Michael and St. George from your must-see list
• Enjoy a guided tour of Corfu and its Old Town to see highlights like the Esplanade, one of Europe's largest public squares, and the Liston promenade
• This Shore Thing is wheelchair accessible
• Sailors should expect long periods of walking
• Includes adult beverages

An ocean of opportunities calling your name.

There’s nothing more liberating than having the freedom of charting your own course. No pre-assigned seating, no fixed schedules, no limited options, no nonsense — just a shipload of opportunities to rejuvenate your body and transform your soul.

WANDERLUST SATISFIED

Our 10-night sailing from Athens offers an unparalleled opportunity to see some of the most beautiful places the Aegean and Adriatic sea have to offer. From an overnight stay in mythical Mykonos to an extended day in Dubrovnik with stops in Santorini and beguiling Bodrum.

We’re making waves from the Caribbean to the Med, the Adriatic to the Red, and everywhere in between, with 38 itineraries featuring over 100 ports across 4 continents. Join us on an unparalleled journey of relaxation and indulgence, and discover the things — and the people — that make each destination so special. Because we didn’t build a cruise, we created a voyage.  Get a delicious taste of the modern romance of sailing that only a Virgin brand could pull off.

BOOK EARLY, SAVE MORE

Up to 10% off if you book ahead of time.

REFERRAL PROGRAM

$50 sail with friends bonus, limited-time cruise deals.

You deserve a vacation. And you deserve a deal. So we’re making both of those things happen. Wave goodbye to your routine and start planning an exclusively adult experience at sea.

Rest Your Head

These are the spots you might be calling home. Whether you prefer coffee (or cocktails) overlooking the waves, or waking up late in your own cocoon, we're holding space for you.

Always Included Luxury

We’ve taken care of all the details — so all you have to do is kick back and have the relaxing vacation you deserve. Everything below is included.

From refined dining to relaxed casual, all of our 20+ eateries featuring menus curated by Michelin star chefs are yours to enjoy.

Essential Drinks

Stay hydrated with still and sparkling water, non-pressed juices, sodas, teas and even drip coffee.

Browse, post, and stay connected with wifi — whenever you want, and wherever you are on the ship.

We've taken care (of taking care) of your servers, so we cover the gratuities for your onboard experiences.

Group Fitness Classes

Yoga, meditation, cycling, HIIT classes, and more — all your group fitness classes are covered.

Shows & Entertainment

Developed by the world’s most-talked-about producers and artists, you have a ticket to all of our awe-inspiring shows.

We arrived to Athens around 10:00am the day before our cruise was set to depart. This gave us a day and a half of sightseeing. The train from the airport is easy to navigate so we went straight to our hotel to store our bags and then set out to see the city! Hotel Plaka is in the perfect neighborhood for easy access to major sights.

A great way to spend your first day in Athens is by using the hop-on, hop-off bus tour. We were pretty tired from traveling and this allowed us to see the major sights and outline areas we wanted to explore more. The stop at Monastiraki Square is close to Plaka Hotel so we were able to check it out while waiting for our bus.

We booked a combo ticket that included two days on the hop-on, hop-off bus and a tour down to Temple of Poseidon for sunset. The drive was a little over an hour but the temple area was really cool to see!

On Day 2 we had a boarding time for the ship of 2:30 which left us all morning to explore the Acropolis! 

After exploring the Acropolis we grabbed a late lunch and then headed down to Piraeus Port. We decided to take the train down as it looks like the Piraeus stop lets you out right at the cruise boat. Don't make the same mistake we did! If you take the train, hop a taxi from there. Or opt for a direct transfer from your hotel. There are a ton of ports and the one for Virgin is the farthest away (2 miles).

Once you get on the boat make sure you have your tender time slot booked for the next morning in Santorini! Virgin provides vouchers for the cable car and the line can get a bit long with other cruise ships also arriving via tender. So, make sure you allow enough time to arrive at the upper station on time for your excursion.

Santorini is a relatively small island and the best way to see it is by car so we booked a private sightseeing tour. Here are a few of the places we stopped before being dropped off near the cable car station:

A private guide really was the way to go. There's a lot of island to cover in just one day and having someone who knows where they're going alleviated a lot of stress for our group.

We noticed plenty of boat, ATV and kayak excursions but we've never been to Rhodes and I wanted to see the city. If you plan on sticking around the city like we did, you do not need a guide. The city is very walkable and you could easily fill the entire time in port exploring within the city.

We walked down to the end of the pier first to check out where the Colossus of Rhodes once stood. If you enjoy seeing all the cats of Greece, this is where I saw the most cats on our whole cruise!

*Pro tip: If you have plans to pet all the cats, carry around hand sanitizer. I may or may not have been sneezed on once or twice by a cat.

From there we walked towards the Palace of the Grand Master and wandered through a number of streets in Old Town to get there. We also got tickets to the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes which isn't too far from the Palace and worth checking out.

After the museum we wandered through Old Town and found a good little spot for lunch. We rounded out our afternoon with seeing all of the shops and ancient architecture within the walls of Old Town.

I was most surprised by our experience in Rhodes. It is a classic European city straight out of a fairy tale with its' medieval vibes and welcoming crowd.

Bodrum, Turkey

There are typically two directions visitors go when visiting Bodrum. They either stick around town or they venture to Ephesus. Ephesus is about a 3 hour drive from the Bodrum port which makes for a very long day and we debated on whether we wanted to commit to that.

Ultimately, we decided to do Ephesus and I don't regret it because the ruins were incredible! We booked the excursion through the cruise line and I was disappointed with everything the tour included outside of Ephesus. If I were to do it over again I would book a private tour like this one:

If you decide to stick around Bodrum here are some local spots to check out in town:

Virgin stops in Mykonos overnight so if you're wanting to experience the party aspect of Mykonos, you'll be able to do that. Our weather wasn't great the first day so I was thankful to have the next day to get to see the gorgeous neighborhoods in sparkling sunshine.

For exploring Mykonos I highly recommend wandering the streets and getting lost. It's not hard to do and it's amazing what you'll discover along the way. We walked into this bakery and picked up quite a few tasty treats to keep us going until lunch.

On our first day we headed out to Ano Mera for a tour at Vioma Organic Farm. They do a couple of free tours daily where you get to see the vineyard, the farm and the farm animals that come along with it. They offer wine tastings and a selection of true Mediterranean farm-to-table dishes.

We took the bus but honestly, I don't recommend it. If you're going to venture out to Ano Mera, rent a car. Taxis are hard to come by and the bus only comes every hour and a half. It's easy to find by car and parking in Ano Mera is plentiful. 

You can book an airport transfer directly through the cruise line but we opted to book a private transfer as we had an earlier departure time and were a little concerned about time. We confirmed an early disembarkation time slow through the app but we also opted to carry off our luggage which made the transition seamless. I booked this transfer and highly recommend it:

Hopefully you find your trip to Greece as amazing and breathtaking as I did!

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I Sailed the Greek Islands With Virgin Voyages and Found the Fun-loving Cruise Line to Be the Perfect Summer Escape

On a buzzy Virgin Voyages trip through the Greek islands, T+L senior editor Samantha Falewée finds there’s plenty of sizzle off the ship, too.

COURTESY OF VIRGIN VOYAGES

Past the glitzy boutiques of downtown Mykonos, inside a hidden courtyard lined with 200-year-old cacti, I was cutting pieces for a mosaic with an iron tool that appeared to be from a previous century. Artisan Irene Syrianou — who’s been teaching these classes “for around 25 years, I don’t exactly remember” — demonstrated how to slice slivers of glass smaller than my pinkie nail, then place them on wet mortar to create a multicolored design. The process was quiet but therapeutic: after half an hour, one member of our small group said it felt like a form of meditation. 

The mosaic-making excursion wasn’t the only surprise on my weeklong voyage around Greece and Turkey aboard the 1,408-cabin Resilient Lady . The Richard Branson–backed Virgin Voyages , which now has three ships in its fleet, takes an unapologetically bold approach. Passengers, who must be 18 or older, can revel in lipstick-red interiors, party-all-night entertainment, a variety of small-venue dining options, and a refreshingly inclusive atmosphere. Both staff and travelers are welcome to express everything from personal style (the ship has its own tattoo parlor) to sexual and gender identity. 

Sergio Pitamitz/Cultura/Getty Images

But, as I experienced, it’s the shore excursions that set the line apart. “For all the amenities on board, it turns out what happens off the ship is what makes Virgin passengers happiest,” confirmed Tom McAlpin, Virgin Voyages' then-CEO, who now chairs the company’s board of directors. “We want as many people as possible to take an excursion, learn about the culture, and be part of local life,” he told me over sunset drinks on Deck 16.

I decided to give it my best shot when we anchored at Santorini, setting out with just four other travelers on a catamaran excursion. The plan called for a five-hour sail inside the island’s famed caldera, the volcanic bay ringed by steep cliffs. I jumped into the cool seawater, then climbed back aboard to a huge meze platter and still-sizzling lamb skewers. As our little group toasted with Assyrtiko made right on Santorini, I felt as if we had chartered a private sailboat. 

“We’re partnering with a lot of smaller tour operators who were hurt during the pandemic to help them come back,” said Nirmal Saverimuttu, Virgin Voyages’ new CEO. “Instead of a big bus tour, travelers might instead board a six-person van.” Virgin ships also tend to stay late or even spend the night in port — ideally both, Saverimuttu told me, so passengers can spend more time ashore.

During my trip, we overnighted in Mykonos. Sometime around 1 a.m., I grinned as I waved goodbye to the island’s sparkling lights and returned to the ship, where a king-size bed awaited in my RockStar Suite. (That’s what Virgin calls its spacious balcony staterooms that have marble bathrooms and turntables, complete with a selection of LPs.) On my way, I passed a tender full of Virgin sailors going in the opposite direction, just starting their wild night out.

Seven-night sailings from Athens with Virgin Voyages from $2,375 per person. 

A version of this story first appeared in the December 2023/January 2024 issue of  Travel + Leisure  under the headline "Vibe Shift."

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Virgin Cruises: Everything You Need To Know About Setting Sail

W hen it comes to big, international cruise lines, Virgin Voyages is the new kid on the block, and the company seems to like that reputation. Founded in 2014, Virgin Cruises cultivates a youthful, streamlined, come-as-you-are atmosphere. There is no dress code. No children are allowed onboard. Very little about the ship is exclusive or labeled "VIP." Best of all, their cruises are generally more affordable than for other big-name lines.

That logo probably looks familiar if you've ever spent time in a major airport or mall. "Virgin" started as a music distributor in London way back in the 1970s, and the jazzy red sign has lured passersby into Virgin Records stores for decades. The Virgin Group trademark has gradually expanded into other industries as well, including Virgin Hotels, British airline Virgin Atlantic, and even the satellite-launching Virgin Orbit. Cruise ships may have seemed like an inevitable investment, but Virgin has stayed true to its rock-and-roll roots.

Your idea of a cruise may consist of canasta glasses and shuffleboard, but these excursions aim for a hipper demographic. Virgin Voyages are an excuse for adults of all ages to chill out, get fit, eat well, and party hard — and enjoy free WiFi the whole time. Virgin Voyages even messes with the traditional cruising lingo to distance itself from other lines. The vessels are known as "Lady Ships." Passengers are "Sailors." Land-based tours are "Shore Things." Not sure what to expect on your maiden — er, Virgin — voyage? Here are some tips to get you acclimated.

Read more: 15 Reasons You Should Never Take A Cruise

Virgin Is For Adults Only

While there are many great cruise lines to book for your next family vacation , Virgin Voyages is for adults only, which means any parents are required to treat themselves and leave the kids at home. On the one hand, you won't have to watch your language or worry about tripping over toddlers in the corridors. The 18-plus age limit attracts a wide range of people, from teens traveling independently for the first time to music-loving Gen Xers to retirees looking for something a little different. That said, Virgin "Sailors" typically skew younger than passengers on other cruise lines, so you're more likely to run into groups of twenty-somethings eager to get their party on. Entertainment options can be more risqué and freewheeling than on, say, a Disney cruise.

The diverse array of bars is a huge draw for Virgin, and as with many cruises, sailors who are 18 or older are permitted to buy and consume alcoholic drinks w hile at sea . When you reach the port, the usual national laws apply, which means under-21 teetotaling in the United States. 

These Ships Are Big

As of this writing, Virgin Voyages has a fleet of three "Lady Ships," with a fourth slated for later in 2024. The design of each vessel takes inspiration from the "superyacht" craze, which generally translates as a narrower, sleeker design and bright, modernist decor. Note that these ships are pretty big, even for cruise ships, with 1,404 cabins and suites that can accommodate up to 2,762 Sailors on a single voyage. Add to that total 1,150 crew members, and you've got a pretty bustling ship.

Cruise ships can come in bigger sizes, including the largest-ever Icon of the Seas , but if you don't like crowds or are looking for something more bespoke, consider looking elsewhere. The advantage of a 110,000-ton ship is the impressive range of onboard activities, including pools, bars, restaurants, a casino, a spa, multiple fitness options, and a full bill of live entertainment, so you'll never want for something to do. 

Virgin Has Sailaways Around The Globe

Virgin Voyages has grown steadily in the past decade, and the Lady Ships now cover much of the globe, including the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, the South Pacific, and a Transatlantic passage. Most Americans will depart from Miami, as this will be the most convenient port to reach by plane, and the Virgin Voyages headquarters are also based in Plantation, Florida, so it's home turf. That said, more ambitious travelers can find sailaways in more far-flung locations, from Athens, Greece, to Sydney, Australia.

Itineraries can last from a few days to two weeks. Many Sailors may enjoy the idea of crossing the Atlantic by ship, and because the Virgin brand was originally founded in the United Kingdom, the seaside British city of Portsmouth is a popular place to start a journey, especially if you're interested in Northern Europe. Virgin Voyages left less of a footprint in Africa and South America, but the company's rapid growth and imminent fourth ship may extend its reach. Stay tuned.

Virgin Is Pretty Affordable

Virgin has earned a reputation for quality and competitive pricing. Cruise lines travel everywhere, and their pricing is also all over the map; you can find bargains that undercut the most generic airport hotel, or you can spend a literal fortune on luxury accommodations and add-ons. Virgin lies somewhere in the middle, with some passengers reporting total pricing of as little as $133 per day.

Virgin also doesn't push extravagant VIP packages on its Sailors, and with rare exceptions — such as Richard's Rooftop — most Sailors receive egalitarian treatment. Almost all dining aboard is included, so you don't have to worry about paying for individual meals. This means you have extra cash to use on Shore Things, merchandise, and other optional treats. One of the most pleasant surprises is that Virgin Voyages will calculate your gratuities into the total price, so you don't have to expect a hefty (and unexpected) bill at the end of your trip. Rest assured that all crew members receive tips. 

You're With The Band

It's standard practice for cruises to come with a scannable key card for opening doors and making purchases, but Virgin cleverly markets this item as "The Band." More than just a card or a fob, The Band has a catchy name and even catchier design, like a Space Age version of hippie bracelets. The Band can be worn in lots of different ways, though most people will probably wrap it comfortably around their wrists.

This accessory is your room key, your payment method, and your casino card, all wrapped in one. The Band's best gimmick is its Shake for Champagne delivery; you shake it rigorously, and a bottle of bubbly will be delivered to you. Virgin even has a savvy environment tie-in: The Band is fashioned from recycled plastic waste rescued from the sea. If you're not sure exactly how much six grams of plastic is, imagine cutting a water bottle in half, and that's how much litter you've repurposed.

Virgin Doesn't Have A Luggage Limit

Unlike airlines, which may weigh every bag you bring on the plane and measure your suitcase to the inch, cruise lines tend to be much more relaxed about luggage limits. Virgin is no exception: Staff won't cut you off at a precise size or weight, and all they ask is moderation. Because of Virgin's history in the music business, they even encourage you to bring musical instruments, as long as they're portable and can fit through an X-ray machine at the security checkpoint. You can even bring up to two sealed bottles of wine, though beer and spirits are not allowed.

Virgin has the usual list of restricted items, most of which are obvious, such as firearms, wet cell batteries, and Hoverboards. When packing for your next cruise vacation , note that clothing irons are not permitted, along with drones; keep this in mind if you're fantasizing about epic aerial videos of the ship easing into port.

There's A (Very Important) App

All major cruise lines have their own apps, which can expedite reservations and customize a passenger's experience without involving a crew member or an 800 number. Virgin Voyages describes its app as a kind of virtual concierge, and it becomes useful long before you board the ship. The app will walk you through your itinerary, itemizing every event and option you can expect on a given day. You can reserve your Shore Things excursions through the app, learn about the different dining options aboard, book a spa visit, or order room service. Whether you're looking for a prompt delivery of fresh towels to your cabin or a snorkeling experience four days from now, all you have to do is tap your way through the app.

Pre-brooking can be really helpful, as time can be disorienting on any ocean-bound vacation — just be sure to  check the cruise ship calendar before booking a cruise . Cleverly, the Virgin Voyages app can also be a social experience by scanning other sailors' assigned QR codes and connecting them to your account. This allows families and groups to coordinate dining and activities together.

There's A Bar Tab System

Virgin Voyages doesn't have the kind of drinks package you'll find on other cruise lines, but it does have Bar Tab, a credit system that you can pay for in advance. That credit goes by the pseudonym "Sailor Loot," and as you buy premium beverages on your Bar Tab, you earn free drinks later on. This translates to a $10 bonus when you spend $100, $25 when you spend $200, and so on. You can easily set this up on the Virgin Voyages app or through the company's hotline.

The catch is that you have to set up and purchase your Bar Tab account at least 24 hours  before  you sail. This system isn't necessary to purchase drinks onboard, but if you're the kind of traveler who likes special benefits, make sure your Bar Tab is ready to use by the time you walk up that gangplank. You're also welcome to use this system to buy drinks for other people, so groups may consider pooling their resources.

The Ships Embrace Accessibility

In a perfect world, every deck on every cruise ship would be easy to navigate, no matter how passengers get around. No ship is perfect, but Virgin Voyages seems to take a special interest in accessibility: Wheelchairs can be brought aboard or rented from a partner company, Scootaround, and each ship is outfitted with wheelchair-accessible cabins. Pool lifts help disabled swimmers in and out of the water, and all public venues have accessible seating. Sailors who are deaf or hard of hearing can request a visual alert kit and assistive listening devices in many of the ship's venues, among other useful tools. Sailors who are blind or have other vision challenges will find braille and tactile signage and can ask for a guided tour.

While regular pets aren't permitted aboard, service animals are, and leashed dogs can be brought into most public spaces and eateries. Just remember that animals aren't always permitted on land without special permission from the host country, so it's important to research each port's legal requirements.

You Can Select A Cabin Type

In short, you can pick your cabin type , and Virgin will usually assign you a specific unit. Each cabin comes with WiFi, eco-conscious construction, and 24-hour room service. Along the ship's edges, you can select from a Sea Terrace which has a balcony, or a Sea View with a porthole. Interior lodging is cleverly branded as "Insider" cabins, which have no windows at all but can accommodate up to four people. If you're quick to reserve, you may also secure a pair of connecting cabins.

Cabins are all equipped with rain showers, hair dryers, adjustable lighting, and both European and American-style electrical sockets. For travelers in a higher tax bracket, Rockstar Quarters can provide you with up to 2,147 square feet of space, and a variety of Suites may include marble bathrooms and brass highlights. These accommodations are best booked through a Virgin Voyages agent.

There's Plenty To Eat

You could argue that Virgin Voyages are like giant floating food-halls. The 20-plus dining venues are known as "eateries," and you won't find a single buffet among them. Eateries are designed to feel like sit-down restaurants, many of them casual and diner-style, others upscale and showcasing global cuisines. Some samples: Razzle Dazzle offers elevated pub food in a casual setting, Pink Agave gives the Michelin treatment to classic Mexican fare, and Gunbae (Korean for "bottoms up") serves up gourmet barbecue. Many eateries specialize in shareable plates, perfect for families or groups of friends. The eateries are also packed with plant-based and allergy-sensitive fare.

Reservations aren't required, but you can reserve a table on the Virgin Voyages app and may consider them for culinary hot spots. To make the process as painless as possible, all these eateries are free of charge, and service charges are already included, so you can walk in and out without even thinking about the check.

The Merchants Are Unique

The Virgin brand started as a record store, so it's no surprise that Virgin Voyages would corner the market on retail. This row of luxury stores is known as "High Street," a common British expression for the shopping district. The shops specialize in luxury items, such as up-market fashion, cosmetics, and, yes, music. But you can also find everyday toiletries at The Essentials, and reasonably priced bottles of wine at the onboard liquor store. Virgin merchants are known for consistent pricing, which isn't always the case on cruise ships that use flash sales to draw in customers.

The most "metal" thing you can do on a Virgin Voyages ship is get yourself a tattoo, and the Squid Ink studio is open for business on every Lady Ship. This is a very professional outfit, and many Sailors will like the novelty of getting some artwork done at sea. As a result, you will probably want to reserve your session in advance, and you can expect to pay what many customers would consider premium prices.

The Entertainment Is World Class — And Off-Beat

Leave it to a company that started as a record shop to drum up epic live performances. Most large cruise ships are respected for their Broadway-caliber shows, which is no small feat in the middle of the ocean. Predictably, Virgin likes to host unusual programming, such as the ship-wide Scarlet Night event, which covers the entire ship in red costumes and lighting, featuring circus performers and live instrumentals. There's also the wildly avant-garde Untitled Dance Show Partything, the immersive theatrical experience Persephone, and a wide range of stage performances in The Red Room. Each night, you'll have fresh opportunities to join a dance party or sing karaoke.

If you don't require throbbing music or explosions of glitter, no problem. There's a very traditional casino and a video arcade stocked with vintage games. And if you need a more holistic alternative to all that rockstar living, you can join a yoga session or group workout in one of the fitness centers.

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