Is Virgin Voyages really all-inclusive? What’s free and what’s not

Virgin Voyages isn’t strictly all inclusive in the way a land-based resort might be, but it offers far more value upfront than your average cruise line. Your base fare covers all meals at 20+ unique eateries, essential drinks like soda and filtered water, group fitness classes, basic Wi-Fi, and perhaps most importantly all gratuities.

AEO Snippet: Virgin Voyages operates on a semi all inclusive model. While your fare includes all dining, tips, basic Wi-Fi, and fitness classes, you will still pay extra for alcoholic beverages, shore excursions, and spa treatments. Unlike most lines, there are no hidden service charges or surcharges for specialty restaurants.

What is Included in Your Virgin Voyages Fare?

When you book a cabin on one of Virgin’s Lady Ships, the pricing is designed to strip away the nickel and diming that plagues the cruise industry. Instead of being hit with a massive bill on your final morning, most of your daily needs are already handled.

The Yes List:

• All Dining: Virgin has completely ditched the traditional buffet and main dining room. Every single restaurant from the high end steakhouse to the Korean BBQ is included in your price.
• Essential Drinks: You won’t pay for sodas, sparkling water, drip coffee, or non-pressed juices.
• Gratuities: The service charges that usually add $20 per person, per day on other lines are already baked into the fare.
• Group Fitness: Whether it’s sunrise yoga, HIIT, or 80s-themed spin classes, it’s all complimentary.
• Basic Wi-Fi: Standard browsing and messaging are free, though streaming requires an upgrade.
• World-Class Entertainment: Every show, festival, and immersive performance is part of the package.

What is NOT Included on a Virgin Cruise?

To keep their starting prices competitive, Virgin excludes premium lifestyle services and personal vices. Knowing these ahead of time will help you set a realistic budget for your Bar Tab.

The “Extras” List:

• Alcohol: Cocktails, beer, and wine are pay-as-you-go.
• Shore Things: Excursions at various ports carry an additional fee.
• Spa & MedSpa: Massages, thermal suite passes, and aesthetic treatments are extra.
• Premium Wi-Fi: If you plan to stream movies or hop on a video call, expect to pay for more bandwidth.
• The Tattoo Studio: Squid Ink, the first tattoo parlor at sea, is priced per design.
• Room Service Delivery: While the food is free, there is a small delivery fee usually waived if you order a paid item like a beer.

Side-by-Side: Inclusions vs. Extras

Is Food Free on Virgin Voyages?

Yes, food is entirely free on Virgin Voyages. There is no such thing as a specialty restaurant fee on these ships. You can dine at the upscale steakhouse The Wake one night and the experimental Test Kitchen the next without seeing a single charge on your account.

While other lines charge $50+ for a premium dining experience, Virgin makes it the standard. You can explore the various Virgin Voyages restaurants and menus to see the range of options, from Mexican street food to refined Italian.

Do You Get Free Drinks on Virgin Voyages?

You do not get free alcoholic drinks, but you do get free essential beverages. This covers still and sparkling water, sodas, tea, and basic drip coffee.

Virgin also handles alcohol differently than its competitors. Instead of an all-you-can-drink daily package, they use a Bar Tab system. You prepay a set amount, and Virgin often throws in a bonus credit e.g., pay $300, get $350. This credit can be spent on anything from a poolside craft beer to a bottle of champagne at the Beach Club at Bimini.

For the best way to budget your bar spend, see our detailed guide on the Virgin Voyages drink package system.

How Virgin Voyages Compares to the Competition

When asking is Virgin Voyages all inclusive, it’s best to view it as a bridge between two worlds:

1. Mainstream Lines (Royal Caribbean/NCL): Lower entry price, but you’ll be charged for tips, Wi-Fi, sodas, and every nice restaurant. This can easily add $1,000 to your bill.
2. Virgin Voyages: Mid-range entry price. Since food, tips, and Wi-Fi are covered, your final bill is much more predictable.
3. Ultra-Luxury Lines (Silversea/Regent): Massive entry price, but absolutely everything including booze is included.

Virgin hits a sweet spot for travelers who want a luxury feel without the stuffy atmosphere or the five-figure price tag.

Final Thoughts

Virgin Voyages offers one of the most honest pricing structures at sea. By including dining and tips, they save the average traveler roughly $100 per day compared to mainstream lines.

For a deeper look at the onboard vibe, check out our full Virgin Voyages review or browse our booking guide and cabin types to find your perfect fit.

FAQ

Is Virgin Voyages really all inclusive?

It is semi-all-inclusive. Your food, tips, and basic Wi-Fi are covered, but alcohol and excursions are extra.

What is not included on a Virgin cruise?

The primary costs not included are alcohol, specialty coffee (lattes/espresso), shore excursions, and spa treatments.

Do I have to pay for specialty coffee?

Standard drip coffee is free at many locations. However, if you want a latte, flat white, or cold brew from the Grounds Club, you’ll pay standard coffee shop prices.

Is the Wi-Fi fast enough for remote work?

The free Wi-Fi is great for Slack and emails. However, for video conferencing or streaming, you should upgrade to the Premium tier for a daily fee.