The Cruise I Never Knew I Always Wanted: My First Solo Adventure with Virgin Voyages

Sea Terrace Room is a MUST!!! That balcony and hammock were such a dream to wake up to every morning!

When I first heard about Virgin Voyages, I pictured bold red ships, late-night parties, and maybe a touch too much champagne for my taste. As a solo traveler who doesn’t drink, I wasn’t sure it was for me. But after stepping onboard, I realized — this wasn’t just a cruise. It was my kind of cruise.

Adults Only = Instant Calm

One of the first things I noticed? No kids. None. Virgin Voyages is 18+, which means the pool stays serene, the hot tubs are conversation hubs instead of splash zones, and the overall vibe feels refreshingly grown-up.

💡 Amazon pick: The perfect carryon does exist!

Sailing Solo, Feeling Connected

I booked my own cabin (yes, they have solo rooms!) and instantly felt the difference. No awkward “table for one” moments — just a ship designed for connection without forcing it. The crew remembered my name, strangers became friends over sunrise yoga, and there were countless cozy corners to journal or read.

💡 Amazon picks:

No Buffets, No Rules (The Good Kind)

I loveeeeeee fresh made to order breakfast!

Instead of the dreaded buffet lines, Virgin serves up restaurant-quality dining in over 20 eateries. From Korean BBQ to a vegan café, every meal felt intentional — and there was always a fresh mocktail to go with it.

💡 Amazon pick: A collapsible water bottle for excursions and beach days.

Sober-Friendly, Zero Awkwardness

I never once felt pressure to drink. Whether it was sipping a crafted zero-proof cocktail at a show or enjoying coffee on deck at sunrise, it felt easy — even liberating — to travel without alcohol in the mix.

Solo cruise selfie on deck — pure joy at sea.

💡 Amazon pick: A Kindle to bring any and all books, spicy, fiction, romance, in the privacy of your screen!

So Much Fun Without a Drop

I filled my days and nights with trivia and puzzle contests, karaoke that had the whole lounge singing along, game nights that got delightfully competitive, and stargazing from the top deck with the ocean breeze in my hair.

💡 Amazon pick: A handheld fan will keep you on deck regardless of any temps!

Scarlet Night & Other Surprises

Can not take a serious picture to save my life!

Yes, Scarlet Night is as wild as it sounds — but it’s also for everyone. I danced, laughed, and enjoyed every second without a single drink. Turns out, the magic was in the atmosphere, not the alcohol.

💡 Amazon pick: A packable red dress or shirt so you’re ready for the theme night without overpacking.

Fitness at Sea (Yes, Really)

I’m one of those people who actually likes to work out on vacation. I hit an 80s aerobics class — complete with shake weights and retro playlists — did yoga on the roof deck with the sunrise, and took solo walks (and runs) around the ship’s track with panoramic ocean views.

💡 Amazon picks:

Theragun Mini to massage those feet after a night of dancing!

The Beach Club in Bimini

A heart shaped float is always a good idea!

A private island day that felt like a wellness retreat: hammock swings, crystal-clear water, and optional yoga on the sand. No wristbands, no gimmicks, just pure bliss.

💡 Amazon pick: The beach bag of my dreams!

Why I’d Do It Again (and Again)

Virgin Voyages gave me the balance I didn’t know I was looking for: energy without chaos, connection without pressure, and a space where solo and sober travelers can feel right at home.

Whether you’re cruising for the first time or looking for a new way to see the world, it might just be the cruise you never knew you always wanted.

Looking to book or learn more? Contact me!

From Sail Away to Scarlet Night – My Packing Recap

From my first steps onto the Scarlet Lady to the last sunrise at sea, everything I packed had a purpose. The right bag made embarkation a breeze, little luxuries made my cabin feel like home, and a few key outfits took me from lazy afternoons by the pool to dance-til-midnight theme nights. Here’s the full list of what came with me and earned its spot in my carry-on:

My First Solo Cruise with Virgin Voyages