Preparing for Your Virgin Voyages Adventure: Essential Costs Beyond the Cabin Fare
- Jayson R.
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
Booking a cabin on a Virgin Voyages cruise is an exciting first step toward a unique travel experience. Yet, many travelers find themselves surprised by the additional expenses that come after paying the cabin fare. Understanding these costs ahead of time helps you budget wisely and enjoy your trip without unexpected financial stress. This guide breaks down the key expenses you should prepare for beyond your cabin fare, including gratuities, shore excursions, bar tabs, shopping, flights, hotels, and transfers.
Gratuities and Service Charges
Virgin Voyages includes gratuities in the upfront price, which is a welcome change from many other cruise lines that add these fees later. However, there are a few exceptions and optional tipping opportunities to keep in mind:
Standard gratuities: Included in your cabin fare, covering dining staff, housekeeping, and general service.
Specialty services: If you use spa treatments, private dining, or personal trainers, expect to tip around 15-20% on those services.
Bartenders and bar staff: While gratuities are included, some travelers choose to tip extra for exceptional service, especially if you have a large bar tab.
Knowing this helps you avoid surprises and plan for any extra tipping you might want to do for standout service.
Shore Excursions and Activities
Virgin Voyages offers a wide range of shore excursions at each port, from adventurous hikes to cultural tours and culinary experiences. These excursions are not included in your cabin fare and can vary widely in price:
Typical excursion costs: Range from $50 to $200 per person depending on the activity and destination.
Booking in advance: You can book shore excursions online before your cruise, which helps with budgeting and securing spots on popular tours.
Independent exploration: If you prefer to explore on your own, factor in transportation, meals, and entrance fees to local attractions.
For example, a snorkeling trip in the Caribbean might cost $100, while a guided city tour in Europe could be $75. Planning your excursions early lets you decide which experiences are worth the splurge.
Bar Tab and Beverage Expenses
Virgin Voyages includes many dining options in the fare, but alcoholic drinks and specialty beverages are extra. Here’s what to expect:
Cocktails and alcohol: Prices vary by drink but expect $12 to $18 per cocktail.
Drink packages: Virgin Voyages offers beverage packages that can save money if you plan to enjoy multiple drinks daily. Packages typically start around $50 per day.
Non-alcoholic drinks: Some specialty coffees, smoothies, and bottled water may also cost extra.
If you enjoy cocktails or wine, budgeting for a bar tab or purchasing a drink package can help control costs and avoid surprises.
Sailor Loot and Onboard Shopping
Virgin Voyages offers a variety of merchandise and souvenirs, known as "Sailor Loot," including branded apparel, accessories, and unique gifts:
Typical prices: T-shirts and hats range from $25 to $50, while limited-edition items or jewelry can cost $100 or more.
Onboard boutiques: You’ll find shops selling luxury goods, beauty products, and designer items, often at prices comparable to retail stores.
Duty-free shopping: Some items like perfumes and spirits may be available duty-free, offering savings compared to land-based stores.
If you want to bring home a memento or gifts, set aside a budget for shopping to avoid overspending.
Flights to and from the Cruise Port
Virgin Voyages cruises depart from select ports, so you’ll likely need to book flights separately:
Flight costs: Depend on your departure city and destination port. For example, flights to Miami or Barcelona can range from $200 to $600 round-trip from major U.S. cities.
Booking tips: Look for deals early and consider flexible dates to save money.
Travel insurance: Consider purchasing insurance that covers flight delays or cancellations, especially if your cruise departure depends on your flight arrival.
Planning your flights early helps you find better prices and ensures you arrive on time for embarkation.
Optional Pre-Cruise and Post-Cruise Hotels
Many travelers choose to stay in a hotel before or after their cruise to relax or explore the departure city:
Hotel prices: Range widely depending on location and quality. Budget hotels may start around $80 per night, while luxury options can exceed $300.
Booking near the port: Staying close to the cruise terminal reduces transfer time and stress.
Package deals: Your TGG travel agents or Virgin Voyages partners offer hotel and cruise packages that include transfers.
If your flight arrives a day early or your return flight is late, budgeting for a hotel stay is a smart move.
Transfers Between Airport, Hotel, and Ship
Getting from the airport to your hotel or cruise terminal requires transportation planning:
Transfer options: Include taxis, rideshares, shuttles, or private transfers.
Typical costs: Taxi or rideshare rides can range from $20 to $90 depending on distance and city.
Pre-booked transfers: Some travelers prefer booking private transfers in advance for convenience and peace of mind.
Including transfer costs in your budget ensures smooth transitions between travel legs.
Summary of Additional Costs to Expect
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost Range |
|-------------------------------|-------------------------------------|
| Gratuities (optional extras) | $0 - $20 per service |
| Shore excursions | $50 - $200 per excursion |
| Bar tab and drinks | $12 - $50+ per day (or drink packages) |
| Sailor Loot and shopping | $25 - $150+ depending on purchases |
| Flights | $200 - $600 round-trip |
| Hotels (pre/post cruise) | $80 - $300+ per night |
| Transfers | $20 - $60 per trip |
Budgeting for these expenses helps you enjoy your Virgin Voyages cruise without financial surprises. Planning ahead means you can focus on the fun and adventure awaiting you.
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