At The Travel Village, we’re lucky to have travel experts like Becca, who share their firsthand insights from exciting destinations around the world. Recently, Becca embarked on an adventure aboard Resilient Lady, an amazing Virgin Voyages cruise, her journey highlighted what makes Virgin Voyages unique.
This trip is extra special as it’s the 50th Anniversary Celebration Voyage
Day 1
The adventure started with a seamless check in at Portsmouth, setting a positive tone for the journey ahead. First impressions of a Resilient Lady Cruise? Wow! It’s unlike anything I’ve experienced before. The design is sleek, modern, and incredibly easy to navigate. I’m staying in a sea terrace cabin on Deck 13, which comes with the famous Virgin hammock, that I can confirm is extremely comfy!
Even the safety video was fun, set entirely to music, which is a refreshing change. Sailaway was a party to remember! Free champagne, incredible music, and everyone dancing. The energy was infectious.
Dinner was at a Mexican restaurant. We were treated to a mix of starters brought out to share, followed by an enormous steak that left me stuffed. The day ended with a Pyjama Party. And although I was a little nervous about what it would be like, it turned out to be an amazing time. Everyone, in their PJs, partying the night away, it was all in good fun!
Day 2
Today was a sea day, and it quickly became clear what sets Virgin Voyages apart from other cruises, the food. The variety is mind-blowing. Whether you’re craving toasties, pizza, burgers, salads, bao buns, or even Korean dishes, it’s all there. You can also grab snacks like hummus and sweets from stations scattered around the ship.
For breakfast, we ate at the Galley, which is the ship’s main food outlet. Lunch was tapas at the Dockside Bar, and the prawn was divine.
Today’s highlight was a Q&A session with Sir Richard Branson and Boy George! Hearing them share stories from the music business and their passion for travel was truly inspiring. To top it off, Boy George treated us to a live set in the evening, a once in a lifetime experience!
We had a dinner reservation, but we missed it due to the Q&A and couldn’t rebook through the app. However, we decided to try our luck at Razzle Dazzle, and they managed to squeeze us in. This restaurant has a South American flair, and I had the lamb shank with smoked creme brulee, easily my favourite meal so far.
Day 3
Waking up in Amsterdam today! I decided to try the room service for breakfast, which, by the way, is free (yes, you read that right!). There is a $10 cover charge, but here’s a little hack, if you order something under $5, like a latte or a beer (maybe not for breakfast), the charge is waived, so you only pay for what you ordered.
It was super easy to order through the app, and everything arrived promptly. Perfect way to start the day before exploring the city!
Days 4 & 5
Unfortunately, I pulled my back getting off a sunbed, which led me to a place no one really wants to visit, the medical centre. However, I was really impressed with how well equipped and professional it was. I was seen within a few hours, given two injections, and prescribed medication for what turned out to be a trapped nerve.
The medical staff checked in on me regularly, even sending ice to the cabin. I was also able to order room service while resting. While I missed a couple of days, including the much talked about Scarlet Night, I felt well cared for throughout the ordeal. Plus, I now have the perfect excuse to book another cruise to experience everything I missed!
Looking back, Virgin Voyages exceeded all my expectations. The food was hands down the best I’ve ever had at sea, with a variety of options. One thing I questioned before I embarked, is a Resilient Lady Cruise for any age? and I was overwhelmed with the diversity onboard. From those in their 20s to passengers my parents’ age, the crowd was a mix of all ages and backgrounds, making it feel like anyone can enjoy this experience.
Would I go on another Virgin Voyages Cruise? Absolutely, and especially a Resilient Lady Cruise! In fact, I’m already planning my next one.
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