Virgin Voyages overhauls cruise fares, adds no-frills option

Virgin Voyages is making waves with a pricing shake-up — and not in a good way. 

When the adults-only cruise line launched in August 2021, people quickly became fans of its inclusive pricing structure. 

Although add-ons like alcoholic drinks, shore excursions, and spa treatments always cost extra, guests did not have to worry about Wi-Fi, essential drinks, and, most importantly, gratuities. 

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However, Virgin Voyages recently announced a new 3-tier pricing structure aimed at "...better price transparency, [making] fares easier to compare across the industry, [offering] more flexible and competitive options for different budgets, and — most importantly — [responding] to Sailors’ and advisors’ call for more choice."

The choice comes with a catch, though. As part of the updated pricing structure, Virgin Voyages is removing gratuities from its fares. Now, guests will be charged $20 per person, per day for prepaid tips, or $22 if settling gratuities onboard. 

Here's a look at Virgin Voyages' new pricing structure and why cheaper isn't always better. 

Virgin Voyages Base Fare

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Virgin Voyages' new base fare is the cheapest option of the three. As such, it's the most restrictive:

• Non-refundable fare
• Basic Wi-Fi (social media, messaging, and light browsing) for one device
• No name, cabin, or date changes
• Dining reservations open 15 days before sailing

According to Virgin, this "value-driven" option is ideal for guests who know their plans and "prefer straightforward sailings." 

Virgin Voyages Essential Fare

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The Essential Fare closely resembles Virgin's previous fares, though it is not identical:

• Classic Wi-Fi (social media, messaging, browsing, and audio calling) for one device
• Dining reservations open 45 days before sailing
• Can adjust voyage dates using a Future Voyage Credit
• Name changes permitted for guests 2-4

Passengers who want more flexibility may want to consider spending extra on Virgin's Essential Fare. 

Virgin Voyages Premium Fare

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Virgin's Premium Fare delivers elevated benefits and goes beyond what Sailors are used to:

• Dining reservations open 60 days before sailing
• Premium Wi-Fi (streaming and video capabilities) for two devices
• Bar Tab
• Access to a priority support line for pre-voyage booking
• Name changes permitted for all guests
• $15 in Premium Drinks included per Sailor per night

Although it isn't the same as a Rockstar or Mega Rockstar Suite, the Premium Fare gives guests a taste of VIP treatment for a fraction of the cost. 

RockStar and Mega RockStar Quarters

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The biggest change for RockStar and Mega RockStar Quarters (aka Virgin Voyages' suites) is that dining reservations will open 120 days before sailing. 

This means that suite guests will have first pick of the most coveted dining times on the ship, rather than potentially getting stuck with late, last-minute dinners. 

Other than that, RockStar passengers will get Classic Wi-Fi for one device, while Mega RockStar guests will get the cruise line's fastest "Work From Sea" connection for up to two devices. 

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Moreover, RockStar suites only get VIP priority service, while top-tier Mega RockStar Quarters receive Red Glove Service and a dedicated Mega RockStar Agent. 

Are drinks still included in Virgin Voyages' fare?

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Alcoholic drinks have never been included in Virgin's fare. 

However, though the tiered pricing structure is disappointing, guests don't have to worry about paying extra for essential drinks. 

Virgin Voyages' essential drinks include water, non-pressed juice, tea, drip coffee, and soda.

When will the new fares be available for booking?

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Virgin's three-tiered fare model will go live for all new bookings beginning October 7, 2025.

Note that the new structure only applies to guests booking Sea Terrace cabins or below.