If you’re new to Virgin Voyages or you’ve been a couple times and still find yourself saying, “Wait, what?” then this is for you! I’m diving into the top mistakes I see over and over again. Let’s save you the trouble and get straight to it.

Virgin Voyages Mistakes

1. Not knowing what’s actually included

I say this every week and I’ll keep saying it. Don’t waste your money on stuff that’s already covered. Basic Wi-Fi? Included. Gratuities? Included. Group fitness, still water, sodas, drip coffee, teas? Yep. But listen carefully. That lavender oat milk latte? Not included. Neither are smoothies or booze. That’s what your bar tab is for. And the golden rule: use every dollar of your bar tab and Sailor Loot or kiss it goodbye at the end of the sailing.

2. Not booking things early

Dining reservations? It’s like The Hunger Games. I’m not being dramatic. Gunbae, Extra Virgin, they go fast. Same with shore things. Spa stuff too. Virgin’s testing pre-booking for spa, but until that’s a thing everywhere, book it the second you get on board. Best hack is to sit close to the ship when you’re waiting to board so you can hop on the Wi-Fi early and snag what you want in the app before everyone else!

3. Forgetting to plan for extras

Yes, a ton is included. But there are fun little extras that sneak up. Think: the Grog Walk, shot-for-shot, extra drinks, spa treatments, some events. That’s where Sailor Loot comes in. Blow it. That’s what it’s for. Buy a round, book the massage, grab the sunglasses. Don’t leave with unused credit!

Pay Attention!

4. Flying in the day of the cruise

I’ve said this on repeat for years. Do not fly in same day. I don’t care if you live in Atlanta and have 20 flight options. I don’t care if you swear you’re never late. Delays happen. People miss the ship. Fly in the day before and enjoy Miami. Sleep in. Start your trip relaxed. You’ll thank me!

5. Packing your passport in your suitcase

Don’t laugh. People do it. The porters will even ask you if you have everything you need. That’s how often it happens. Passport, meds, swimsuit, anything important needs to stay with you. Your luggage won’t beat you to your room, but you’ll be allowed in your cabin as soon as you board. Another reason I love Virgin!

More Virgin Voyages Mistakes

6. Skipping events

I can’t even tell you how many people say they didn’t go to Scarlet Night. Are you kidding me? That’s the whole vibe. Even if you don’t want to dance, at least go watch it. Stand on deck sixteen and take it all in. It’s electric. Same goes for the PJ party. It’s late, yes, but it’s fun, chill, and you can show up in literal pajamas. That’s the best part!

7. Forgetting to use your Sailor Loot and bar tab

Yes, I’m saying it again. Because someone always forgets. Use it. That’s all. Treat yourself.

8. Bringing the wrong documents

Virgin wants a passport. Yes, sometimes birth certificates work for closed-loop sailings, but don’t risk it. Just get the passport. Take a photo of it, too. You never know when a spontaneous trip to Paris is going to show up on your vision board!

9. Picking the wrong cabin

I’ve stayed on deck eight. It’s not terrible, but yes, you’ll hear some things. Deck fourteen? You’ll hear chairs. The real issue is people booking rooms that don’t fit their vibe or needs. That’s what a travel agent is for. One who actually knows Virgin. Hint hint!

10. Thinking Virgin is like other cruise lines

It’s not. You won’t be bombarded with sales pitches or have someone yelling over a loudspeaker about trivia. The captain? You won’t even know who he is. In fact, he’s probably in sneakers walking around like a guest. It’s also chill and elevated. Frankly, it’s a totally different kind of cruise experience. Know that going in and you’ll love it!

The Most Impactful Virgin Voyages Mistake

And the big one: Not booking with someone who knows Virgin

This one hits home. Firstly, so many people come to me after the fact saying they missed out on perks, booked the wrong cabin, or didn’t know something super basic. You need someone who’s been on forty sailings and counting. Someone who knows the ships, the tricks, the options. That’s me. Let me help.

If you made it this far, I hope you learned at least one new thing. Even my regulars know I always try to give you one golden nugget each time. Thanks for hanging out with me. You float our boat!