Ahoy, lovely readers! As you know, Brian and I are always on the lookout for the next great adventure. And this time, we found it aboard a Virgin Voyages Mediterranean Cruise. To say it was a game-changer would be a massive understatement. This wasn’t just a voyage – it was a journey through love, laughter, and the lap of luxury.
An Athenian Beginning
Our adventure kicked off in the heart of Athens. We had never been to the city before, but we instantly felt at home in it. There’s something magical about seeing the Acropolis illuminated at night and we enjoyed seeing the wonderful history that the city had to offer. We stayed in Athens for 2 nights before departing on the cruise to help adjust to the time zone change. (More on that in separate article!)
After arriving to the dock via private car (arranged by our personal Virgin Rockstar agent), we were impressed by the smooth check-in process. After verifying our passport and a few other details, we were given some stylish wristbands with an RFID chip. These are used onboard to identify yourself, pay for any on-ship extras, get into your cabin, and a host of other things. Once checked-in, our bags were taken onto the ship and we strolled aboard, champaign in hand!
The Ship – A Floating Masterpiece
Virgin’s Resilient Lady ship isn’t just new, it’s revolutionary. Every corner, every lounge, every room felt like it was crafted with attention to detail. There’s a certain flair to Virgin’s ships, an unmistakable blend of cutting-edge design and upscale elegance. This was our first experience aboard one of their vessels, and we were in awe from the moment we set foot on the ship. Its newness was evident in every gleaming surface and innovative touch. We loved that every bar, restaurant, entertainment space, and common area had its own unique vibe.
Our Brilliant Suite – Truly Rockstar Level!
Brian and I booked a Rockstar Level cabin called the Brilliant Suite. Settling into the Brilliant Suite was like discovering a luxurious haven. Roomy, with contemporary décor and thoughtful amenities, it was a space that truly lived up to its name. The crown jewel? A vast private balcony offering unobstructed sea views. Every morning, we’d sit there, coffee in hand, watching the sunrise paint the Mediterranean horizon.
And then there’s the Rockstar agent. More than just a concierge, this personal guide and helper ensured that our every need was met. Whether we wanted to book a show, reserve a table at one of the ship’s trendy restaurants, or seek out the best activities, our Rockstar agent was always on call.
Freestyle Dining – A Foodie’s Dream
One thing we must dive into straight away is the freestyle dining. Gone are the days of fixed seating and restrictive mealtimes. At Virgin, it’s all about choice, and boy, did we have plenty to choose from!
Every night, we dined at a different restaurant, from upscale Italian to eclectic international fare, and each meal was more delicious than the last. The best part? It’s all included in your fare. No surprise bills or pesky up-charges. Brian’s favorite was the Test Kitchen, where they do innovate and highly technical cuisine, while I was in love with the fresh Mexican options at Pink Agave. And for those who know me, yes, I did indulge in dessert (or two) every single night!
The Relaxed Vibe and Onboard Experience
Many cruises have a set itinerary, dress codes, and formal nights. Not here. Virgin has truly redefined the cruise experience. The atmosphere is laid-back, and the emphasis is on personal choice. Want to spend the day at the spa and the evening dancing under the stars? Do it. Prefer a day of shore excursions followed by a quiet evening with a movie under the stars? That’s okay too.
One aspect of Virgin that really stood out was its clientele. With no kids onboard, the ship had an energetic, adult-centric vibe. Most of our fellow sailors were on the younger side, adding a dynamic and fun element to the whole journey.
Virgin offers a plethora of activities, catering to varied tastes. Our personal favorites included the Scarlet Night party – a vibrant celebration that had everyone dancing under the stars. The drag queen bingo wasn’t just entertaining; it was downright hilarious, and the private magic show we were lucky enough to be invited to left us both spellbound (pun intended!).
Speaking of the staff, their friendliness and professionalism elevated our experience. Always ready with a smile and eager to assist, they made us feel at home from day one.
The Destinations – Oh, The Places We Saw!
Brian and I journeyed on the 7-night Greek Island Glow itinerary. From the breathtaking sunsets of Santorini to the historic streets of Rhodes, each port brought its own magic. Bodrum was an unexpected delight with its laid-back vibe and vibrant bazaars. Mykonos, with its iconic windmills and beach parties, was every bit as fabulous as we’d hoped. We were particularly excited to have an overnight stay on the island as part of our cruise trip—see a separate article on that.
Redefining Cruising
To sum it up, Virgin Voyages isn’t just another cruise line. They’ve taken the cruise experience, flipped it on its head, sprinkled some magic, and presented it in a way that speaks to today’s traveler. It’s fresh, it’s fun, and it’s fabulously gay-friendly. As a married couple, we felt welcomed, celebrated, and part of the Virgin family. As we disembarked in Athens, we left with heavy hearts but memories that will last a lifetime. Virgin Voyages, you’ve won us over. Until the next adventure!
Cheers to love, travels, and endless horizons!
Conor & Brian