Understanding Virgin Voyages Additional Costs: Gratuities, Dining, Drinks, Wi-Fi and Excursions
- Jayson R.
- Mar 15
- 3 min read
Booking a Virgin Voyages cruise promises a unique and stylish travel experience. Yet, like many cruise lines, the base fare does not cover every expense on board. Knowing what additional costs to expect helps you budget better and enjoy your trip without surprises. This guide breaks down the main extras you’ll encounter on a Virgin Voyages cruise, including gratuities, specialty dining, drinks, Wi-Fi, and excursions.
Gratuities on Virgin Voyages
Gratuities are a common part of cruising, and Virgin Voyages handles them with some flexibility. The standard gratuity rate is $15 per person per day, which covers the hardworking crew who make your voyage smooth and enjoyable.
You have two options for paying gratuities:
Prepay at a discounted rate: Virgin Voyages offers a prepaid gratuity option at $2 per person per day. This is a significant saving compared to the standard rate and helps you avoid handling tips during your cruise.
Pay before embarkation at the standard rate: If you prefer to wait, you can pay the full gratuity amount before boarding. This option gives you more control but costs more.
Choosing to prepay gratuities is a smart way to budget your trip and avoid surprises at the end. If you skip prepayment, expect to pay the full gratuity amount before you board.
Specialty Dining and Celebrations
Virgin Voyages stands out by including specialty dining in the fare package. Unlike many cruise lines that charge extra for specialty restaurants, Virgin Voyages offers these experiences without additional fees. This means you can enjoy a variety of unique dining options without worrying about extra charges.
For birthdays or celebrations, Virgin Voyages allows you to add these to your fare package. This makes special occasions easier to plan and enjoy without hidden costs.
If you are traveling with a group and want to arrange specialty dining together, you should contact your Virgin Voyages FirstMate (travel agent) at 303-616-5429. They can help organize group dining experiences to make your trip more memorable.
Drinks and Beverage Costs
Virgin Voyages includes some beverages in the cruise fare, but many drinks, especially alcoholic beverages, come at an extra cost. It’s wise to budget for drinks if you plan to enjoy cocktails, wines, or specialty coffees.
While the cruise offers drink packages, these are optional and can be purchased based on your preferences. If you want to save money, consider limiting your drink purchases or choosing a package that fits your consumption habits.
Wi-Fi Options on Virgin Voyages
Staying connected at sea is important for many travelers. Virgin Voyages includes basic Wi-Fi in the fare, which supports one device with low streaming capabilities. This is perfect for checking emails, social media, or light browsing.
If you need faster or more robust internet access, Virgin Voyages offers premium Wi-Fi packages. These packages allow higher speeds and can be shared among cabin mates, making them a good option for groups or families.
Purchasing a premium package depends on your internet needs. For example, if you plan to stream videos or work remotely, upgrading is a smart choice. Otherwise, the basic Wi-Fi should cover casual use.
Excursions and Shore Activities
Virgin Voyages provides excursions through their app, offering a convenient way to book activities at ports of call. These excursions vary in price depending on the destination and activity type.
If you want more affordable or additional options beyond what the app offers, you can reach out to Jayson at 303-616-5429. He can help you find excursions that fit your budget and interests, potentially saving you money and expanding your choices.
Booking excursions ahead of time ensures you get the experiences you want without last-minute stress or sold-out tours.
Budgeting for Your Virgin Voyages Cruise
When planning your budget, consider these key extras:
Gratuities: $2 per day prepaid or $15 per day standard rate
Specialty dining: Included, but group arrangements require coordination
Drinks: Optional packages or pay-as-you-go
Wi-Fi: Basic included, premium packages extra
Excursions: Prices vary, with options for affordable alternatives
By understanding these costs, you can plan your spending and enjoy your cruise without unexpected expenses.
Virgin Voyages offers a fresh approach to cruising with many inclusions, but knowing what extras to expect helps you make the most of your trip. Contact your FirstMate or Jayson for personalized assistance with dining and excursions to tailor your experience perfectly.
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