Before you cruise with Virgin Voyages

How do I check in for my Virgin Voyages cruise?
Check-in is done entirely online, via the Virgin Voyages Sailor App or through the "Manage My Trip" of Virgin Voyages' website. We'd recommend downloading the Sailor App (iOS and Android) as soon as your booking is confirmed, as it's essential for the rest of the process.

When can I check in?
Your check-in window opens 45 days before departure. Guests booked in RockStar Quarters get earlier access, with their window opening 60 days before sailing.

Why should I check in the moment my window opens?
Terminal arrival slots are allocated in the order guests check in, so getting your documents and photo uploaded as early as possible means a better choice of arrival time. We always suggest checking in on day one of your window.

What do I need to complete check-in?
Your passport details and a clear photo of yourself taken in the app. Doing this promptly once your window opens helps you avoid any last-minute hold-ups.

What should I do before my check-in window opens?
Get the Sailor App downloaded and your booking reference linked at least a week in advance, so you're ready to check in the second your window becomes available.

What is my boarding pass?
Once check-in is complete, your boarding pass, digital cabin key, and muster drill confirmation all appear within the Sailor App. Everything must be finalised in the app before you arrive at the terminal.

Sailing in RockStar Quarters?
Make the most of your 60-day check-in window; it's designed to get you priority terminal access and a smoother, coordinated private transfer.

Passports are required for all cruises. Please check that your passport has at least 6 months validity from the return date of your trip. If you or any member of your party is not a British citizen or holds a non-British passport, you must check passport and visa requirements with the Embassy or Consulate of the country(ies) to or through which you are intending to travel. Please always refer to the Foreign Travel Advice by Gov.uk here.

While it is not a a condition of booking that all guests hold fully comprehensive travel insurance that specifically covers cruise holidays, it is strongly recommended that Guests hold adequate cover due to the potential for unexpected events before, during, and after a cruise. Furthermore, given Virgin's strict non-refundable payment terms, it is advisable to hold adequate coverage. Cover must be valid for the entire duration of your chosen itinerary, provides full health coverage for all pre-existing conditions and the costs of medical repatriations, plus specific cover for covid-19 related issues. It should also include Personal Luggage insurance since there is limited liability for loss or damage. Please refer to our trusted partner Just Travel Cover who offer comprehensive cover options from multiple insurers, have no upper age limit, and cover for hundreds of pre-existing medical conditions.

What power sockets will I find in my cabin?
Cabins come equipped with a range of sockets for international guests. UK travellers will be pleased to know standard UK 3-pin sockets are fitted as standard, so no adapter is needed for your usual plugs. European and US-style sockets are also provided at the desk and vanity areas.

Is there USB charging?
Yes, USB-A and USB-C ports are built into the bedside lights and desk units, so devices like phones, tablets, and smartwatches can charge without extra plugs or bricks. The bedside charging point is a particularly nice touch, keeping your phone within reach overnight.

Can I bring my own extension lead or power strip?
Unfortunately not. Power strips, extension cords, and surge protectors aren't permitted onboard and will be removed at the terminal security check if found in your luggage, so it's best not to pack them.

Is there a formal dress code onboard?
No, Virgin Voyages has moved away from traditional cruise dress rules altogether. There are no formal nights and no requirement for jackets or ties.

What's suitable to wear during the day?
Daytime is casual and relaxed, think resort wear, swimwear, activewear, shorts, and tees around the pools, gym, and casual dining spots.

What about evenings?
Evenings lean smart-casual with a nightlife edge, similar to a stylish evening out in a city like London or Miami. It's your chance to dress it up or keep it simple, whatever suits you.

What's Scarlet Night?
Virgin's signature party night, where the only "rule" is to wear something red if you'd like to join in. It's optional, but most guests get involved in some way, whether that's a red accessory or a full outfit.

Do I still need to pack formal outfits?
Not at all. Without formal nights, you can skip the tuxedos and ball gowns entirely, freeing up valuable luggage space. The dress code is built around individual style, so however you choose to dress, you'll fit right in.

What's my luggage allowance?
Each guest can bring up to two checked bags. These need to be labelled with your official Virgin Voyages luggage tags, printed via the Sailor App ahead of time, and handed over at the terminal on arrival.

What can I take as hand luggage?
One carry-on bag plus a personal item is allowed per guest. Carry-on items are screened at the terminal, so pack as you would for a flight.

Am I allowed to bring wine onboard?
Yes, up to two bottles of wine or Champagne (750ml) per cabin are permitted in your hand luggage. You're also welcome to enjoy it in a specialty restaurant, though a small corkage fee (roughly $15) may apply. Spirits, beer, and open containers aren't permitted.

What items aren't allowed onboard?
A few restrictions to be aware of:

• Appliances like irons, steamers, heated blankets, and coffee makers, due to fire safety.
• Power strips, extension leads, and surge-protected adapters, which will be confiscated at security.
• Drones, weapons, and illegal substances, including CBD or marijuana products, even where legal at home.

What should go in my carry-on for embarkation day?
Pack medication, swimwear, chargers, and your travel documents in your hand luggage. Checked bags typically arrive at your cabin later in the day, so keeping essentials with you means you can head straight for the Pool Deck or The Dock without delay.

Are gratuities part of my fare?
No, gratuities are charged separately, under Virgin Voyages' current VoyageFair Choices fare structure.

How are gratuities charged?
You have the choice to prepay before departure at $20 USD per guest, per night, or have them added to your onboard account at $22 USD per guest, per night. Prepaying gets you the lower rate, while paying onboard keeps things flexible and visible on your final bill.

Will I be expected to tip further?
No, there's no obligation to tip at bars, restaurants, or your cabin host beyond the daily charge. Should you wish to give more, this is entirely optional and must be in cash (US dollars preferred), as tips can't be charged to your account or wristband.

Are there any other gratuity charges to be aware of?
Yes, a 20% gratuity is added automatically to individual purchases involving bartenders, servers, or spa therapists, such as drinks or treatments. This sits separately from the daily service charge.

Can my dietary needs be catered for?
Yes, Virgin Voyages accommodates a broad range of requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal, and kosher diets, as well as severe allergies such as nuts, dairy, or shellfish. Since all 20+ dining venues cook fresh to order rather than using bulk-prepared food, the kitchen teams can adapt dishes and guide you through safe menu choices at spots like The Wake, Razzle Dazzle (great for plant-based options), and Extra Virgin.

How do I let the team know about my requirements?
Add your dietary details in the Sailor App, either right after booking or during check-in, under your profile's dietary section. The earlier this is done, the more time the ship's teams have to prepare and stock accordingly.

What if my requirement is more complex or medical?
For anything more serious, such as coeliac protocols or severe allergies, it's best to contact Sailor Services directly, ideally at least 45 days before sailing, to ensure the right measures are in place.

Do I need to mention it again once I'm onboard?
Yes, it's worth reminding your server or host at the start of each meal, even at more relaxed venues like The Galley, so your order can be handled correctly every time.

Is it safe for guests with coeliac disease?
Because meals are cooked fresh rather than mass-prepared, the risk of cross-contamination is lower than on many traditional cruise lines. Registering your needs early via the Sailor App remains the most important step for a stress-free dining experience.