Let’s Talk Ship - Valiant Lady Cruise Review
Let’s Talk Ship - Valiant Lady Cruise Review
Valiant Lady Review | Cabins | Dining | Entertainment | Bars | Pools
We’ve been on a lot of ships over the years = from ultra traditional liners to the latest mega-ships, but Valiant Lady is something else. Virgin Voyages wanted to blow the cruise industry out of the water with their Adult Only cruises. So have they succeeded? Here is our expert opinion.
What We Really Thought About Valiant Lady - Our Personal Review
We stayed on Valiant Lady twice last year - once just overnight in port, and the other for a three-night cruise. Here is a roundup of our thoughts about our short-but-sweet experience of Valiant Lady - remember these are our own opinions, and others may have had a totally different experience.
For context, we are a married couple in our sixties (gulp, did I just admit to that?!), with over 30 cruises under our belts, on a variety of cruise lines. We are not necessarily in the demographic the brand is aimed at which is probably the 30-50 age bracket in the main. However, as septuagenarian Richard Branson said when he launched Virgin Voyages “its a fun ship for adults …we want young-at-heart people”. If that describes you, you will love it as we did.
What Are The Cabins Like On Valiant Lady?
Sea Terrace Cabin on Valiant Lady 2022 Image: Cruise Lowdown
The cabins on Valiant Lady are very contemporary in style, and quite minimalist, with lots of white wall space and navy upholstery (if made up as a sofa). We had a Ltd Sea Terrace on our overnighter and a Sea Terrace on our weekender. Both were exactly the same with the exception of the view, one of which was of the lifeboats.
LTD Sea Terrace Cabin on Valiant Lady 2022 showing Sea Bed
Cabins have been designed to be extremely versatile and high-tech with motion sensors and timers which adjust blinds, lighting and power on entry and exit. These also adjust depending on the time of day, for example drawing the curtains at night and opening them automatically in the morning (which might be embarrasing if you are dockside and sleeping in the altogether). The adjustable SeaBed, curtains and balcony doors can also be activated by buttons on the cabin walls. There is also an ipad in the cabin from which you can control lights, curtains etc., order stuff like extra towels or room service and find out whats going on, plus select movies to cast to the TV. There are USB ports available, but no UK plug outlets, so remember to take a US or EU adapter with you (although we found one had been left for us this time).. There are no tea/coffee making facilities - but then why would you need that when you can “shake for champagne” (an option for ordering a bottle of Moët by shaking your mobile phone).
There is a Glam Zone in each cabin (dressing table) but personally I found it to be a bit dark to put on makeup. It’s a shaped desk/dressing table with a big round mirror above with mood lighting.
The bathrooms are lovely and new, and the shower has a glass door and rain shower head plus handheld shower both of which are hot and strong. The towels are lovely and fluffy - always a good sign (although I did find the hand towels to be a bit reminiscent of tea towels). In the shower there are wall mounted dispensers for shampoo, conditioner and body wash - all of which I personally found to smell rather masculine.
All Virgin Voyages cabins were given a mini glow up pre-launch (see here ) with some wood accents added which elevate them even further and adds some warmth, including panelling behind the generous TV, an arm rest and a side table. There is also a leather occasional chair with a deceptively sloped seat. Took me by surprise every time I sat on it.
Our cabin slept three and had an unobtrusive bed secreted away in the ceiling, which could pull down for a third wheel.
Being a Sea Terrace cabin, we had a balcony with a little metal table and two chairs plus, of course, the trademark Virgin Voyages signature red hammock, each of which is hand made and has a label containing the name of the person who made it.
Storage
There is hanging space behind a voile curtain above which there is a shelf. There are also hidden “Do not Disturb” and “Make up my cabin” switches on the wall behind the curtain. We comfortably stored a medium suitcase and two little cabin cases behind here. Additionally, there is a single-door wardrobe with both shelves and drawers (one shelf holds the life jackets and on another you will find spare towels); and the safe and hairdryer are also in this cupboard. There is also a “secret” wood-fronted drawer under the sofa (or the platform alongside if the bed has been made up as a double). This may be used to store bedding in the day if the bed is converted, but you could equally use it as extra storage.
Find out more about Cabins on Valiant Lady in my related post HERE
What Is The Food Like On Valiant Lady?
Without doubt we were served some of the best food we have ever had at sea, on standard/premium lines at least. Each of the restaurants has a personality of its own and the vibe of each is enhanced by the decor and ambient music choice. The menus are clearly labelled and sailors (guests) are asked if they have any food allergies before ordering. There is plenty of choice, but the menus do not change - athough as you are generally only encouraged to book once in each restaurant in advance, this isn’t a problem and you will soon know your favourites. The dishes are interesting, the sides exciting and portions generous - no bland food on this ship.
For experienced cruisers note: there is no MDR or traditional buffet (The Galley is the closest you will get with it’s separate food stations). Neither are there extra-cost speciality restaurants - all restaurants are included in the cruise price, Meal times are flexible from early to around 9 pm or later, and restaurants are booked/cancelled on the App (although you can go to Sailor Services or the Restaurant itself. The different types of snacks available around the ship are great - stone baked pizza, cheesy hotdogs, pretzels with cheese and chillies, candy in jars, proper ice cream, cakes and cookies etc. Indeed it was the quality and variety of food that primarily converted John to this alternative to a more traditional cruise.
We ate in The Wake (for dinner, brunch and a lunch); Razzle Dazzle (Vegetarian-forward with options for carnivores) and The Galley for breakfast; Pink Agave, the upscale Mexican restaurant for one dinner, plus The Pizza Place in between. The only meal that disappointed me on this ship was our very first breakfast in The Galley, where we had ordered the full English - the bacon wasn’t at all crisp and the sausage undercooked and it just looked unappealing. I really think this was a one-off as it was a day when everyone boarded before 8 am and wanted breakfast at the same time so they were overwhelmed as everything is cooked to order.
Our absolute favourite restaurant was The Wake (elevated Steak & Seafood grill). On any other ship this would be an extra cost speciality restaurant, but not on Virgin Voyages, where it is complimentary. It is very popular and, as I mentioned before, you are encouraged to visit each restaurant only once for dinner. My tip would be to opt for lunch which has a very similar menu to dinner; and the best thing is you can visit as often as you want for brunch/lunch.
See my Restaurant Guide for details of venues and menu.
What Are The Bars Like on Valiant Lady?
There is a bar to suit everyone on Valiant Lady. The Social Club is a sort of sports bar with TVs showing matches, various games tables and a mini diner serving hotdogs and pretzels - it also hosted Karaoke when we were onboard. Sip is the popular champagne bar which also hosts afternoon tea at additional cost. I had a fabulous signature cocktail here called a Double Agent - lethal but delicious, and poured with a bit of drama from a teapot - great for a boomerang photo. It is definitely the place for pre (and post) dinner bubbles. Each restaurant has its own discreet bar which you can visit whether or not you are booked to eat at the venue Pink Agave has the Mezcal Bar with huge selection of tequila and, of course, Mezcal. There is the Red Bar in Razzle Dazzle and the Martini Bar in The Wake for example. We loved On the Rocks in the evening, cocktails were potent and there was some great entertainment, althoughI found it a bit soulless and dark in the daytime as it’s tucked behind the staircase of The Roundabout. The Dock and The Dock House have a great laid back vibe and also serve small plates alongside the drinks which help soak up the alcohol. For more of a pub vibe, head to Loose Cannon where you will probably find a saucy quiz or trivia going on. On deck there are various options including Gym & Tonic (guess what their speciality is?!) and the Aquatic Bar by the pool. There is a wide collection of wine (some in cans), and bottled beer. You can also get Draught lagers or pale beer in some bars, but not bitter if that is your preference. Cocktails are created using premium alcohol - no ready-mademixes here just proper mixology.
See my Guide to Bars with drinks menus
What Entertainment Is Onboard Valiant Lady?
Entertainment in Red Room - Image Virgin Voyages
We couldn’t get to see all we wanted to due to lack of time, but what we saw we loved. Every show is exciting, vibrant, modern and fun.There was a host of free fitness and wellness classes throughout the day, including On-the-Upswing Bungee class and the Fun-sounding VHS Workout (80s style aerobic class (don’t forget the headbands and leg warmers), which we didn’t have time to try. Other options included The Grog Walk, Cocktail Making etc. which carried an extra fee. There were also Risky Quizzness and Salty Trivia, DJ sets, live music in The Dock House and On The Rocks; Dual Reality, Untitled DanceShowPartyThing in Red Room and Cocktails and Revelry with The Diva in The Manor.
See my post on Entertainment to find out more
Outside Decks on Valiant Lady
Whilst on our trip it was a bit too cold and rainy to make the most of the outdoor facilities very much, we did in the interest of research explore each deck, if in most cases only superficially.
Deck 17
Of all the spaces on this vessel to fly in the face of traditional cruise ships, the outdoor decks are the most innovative.
Starting at the top on Deck 17, you will find The Perch, the Outdoor Yoga Studio and The Runway.
Offering 360 degree ocean views, The Perch is a secluded sundeck which is perfect for sunrise and/or sunset yoga.
The Runway is a stand-alone running track which forms a halo at the top of the ship where Sailors can run, skate or simply strut their stuff with fabulous sea views.
Deck 16
This is THE place to be for the beautiful people (of course I mean US!). It is perfect for fitness lovers, sun worshippers and VIPs. Great for people watching too! From mid-ships to aft, Deck 16 is dedicated to the body-beautiful.
Valiant Lady Training Camp Image: Cruise Lowdown
At the very back of the ship (Aft) on Deck 16 you will find The Net - a suspended catamaran net where you can hang out (literally) over the ocean (if you dare), and The Athletic Club Bar.
The Athletic Club/Training Camp are also spaces like on no other ship (apart from sister ships Scarlet Lady and Resilient Lady. The Athletic Club is an outdoor training zone incorporating a boxing ring, strength and gymnastic equipment, and a sports area. Inspired by New York sports clubs of the 1920s, the Athletic Club features oversized outdoor play equipment, the largest daybed at sea, cabanas for relaxation and a sports bar, The Training Camp offers complimentary group fitness classes. It’s mad and totally irresistible - I challenge you not to take a playful swipe at the punch bag or have a go on the swing and see-saw.
On the starboard side of Deck 16 is a private hideaway called The Cabanas where, for a hefty supplement, you can tuck yourself away in one of the private white wooden cabanas with a double daybed, seating and your own fridge to keep those bubbles on ice. We didn’t see anyone renting one but then it wasn’t really the weather for it. We did pop our heads round to see what you got for your money - and in our opinion it isn’t worth it unless perhaps under the Miami sun when sun beds were at a premium.
Sun Bar on Valiant Lady - Image: Virgin Voyages
Midships-Forward is home to the sun-worshipping sanctuary known as the Sun Club which features a spacious sunbathing area, incorporating the Sun Bar and the Sun Club Cafe which is an outdoor eatery so you can re-fuel without giving up the rays. There are two circular stairways leading down to the pool deck below on Deck 15. This area was pretty empty on our trip but I imagine would be very popular on a sunny day.
The very front of the ship is dedicated to the exclusive area known as Richard’s Rooftop. Richard’s Rooftop is a chic outdoor lounge which is reserved for Valiant Lady’s suite guests. Although we were shown the area on our press visit (and very nice it was too), we were denied access on our second trip given our humble sea-terrace accommodation. If you do book a Rockstar Suite of higher you can expect a daily champagne soirée and complimentary cocktail parties.
Deck 15
This is what on other ships would be known as the ‘pool deck’. There is only one swimming pool on Valiant Lady plus what is claimed to be the biggest whirlpool at sea.
Midships-forward is where the Aquatic Club is situated - a place for poolside lounging, splashing and soaking up the sun (if it shows it’s face). This is the main pool area with a central swimming pool and lots of sunbathing space. The pool is quite small, especially as it is the only one on the ship. There is a paddling/wading area between the sun beds and the pool itself. I imagine this area would feel quite cramped on a busy cruise, although on ours it was empty.
Enjoying the Aquatic Club Pool on Valiant Lady Image: Cruise Lowdown
We were lucky on one morning of our three-night cruise in early April, and the sun did make a brief appearance while we were exploring this deck. The pool was deserted and steam was drifting up from the water. I dipped a toe in and it was like a warm bath. We decided to take the plunge (sorry, not sorry), and went for a swim. It was absolutely gorgeous; the pool was roomy (well with only two of you in it), and had the warmest water of any cruise pool I’ve ventured into. Presumably, it is cooler when sailing in warmer climes, and also far busier.
The Well Being Pool on Valiant Lady Image: Cruise Lowdown
On this open deck, immediately outside the gym ‘B-Complex’, is The Well-Being Pool, a huge whirlpool (claimed to be the biggest at sea). Adjacent to it are two plunge pools, an artistic adult-playground and fitness apparatus called MyBeast. You will also find the aptly-named Gym &Tonic Bar.
A Word About The App
Hmm - this is an area that potentially needs some work. It s a great idea - but temperamental. Once we had our booking reference we were able to access the App pre-cruise to carry out our pre-boarding requirements and upload documentation. We were also able to pre-book restaurants, but whilst we could see the Events schedule, we were unable to book any of the activities in advance of boarding.
There were also unscheduled changes to our cruise which had an impact on the App - the addition of Sailor Loot (OBC) which appeared on one day and disappeared the next; plus the itinerary, which still showed three nights, four days throughout the cruise meaning daily schedules were out of sync which became confusing.
The App gives you the opportunity to add a credit card for payment and opt to pay for your companion. However once you do this, only one of you can see the wallet and what has been spent. There doesn’t appear to be an option to share this information, which you may wish to do if trying to keep tabs on your sailor loot.
The App is the main means of booking meals, shows, classes and excursions. However, it repeatedly crashed, presumably due to poor WiFi, resulting in long queues at Sailor Services.
Information regarding capacity and opening hours often proved to be incorrect. Shows always appeared to be fully booked, as were restaurants. For example, when we checked capacity for The Wake brunch on our last morning it showed it to be unavailable. However when I double-checked in person, I was told that there was no need to book for brunch - in fact it was virtually empty, with more staff than diners.
Summary
So what did we really think of Valiant Lady, and indeed Virgin Voyages? We really enjoyed our short cruise and would definitely return for a longer voyage on a warmer itinerary. Whilst the cabin wasn’t exactly luxurious, it was contemporary, functional and attractive. It was really the food that made Valiant Lady stand out for us, in all respects: quality, choice, variety of cuisines and portion size. We knew what to expect from Virgin Voyages, and embraced the differences, However if you like a cruise to be more traditional it might not be for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Difference Between Scarlet Lady and Valiant Lady?
I’ve been on both and they are pretty much identical. They share the fact that they feel so different from a traditional cruise ship. It is mainly their itineraries that differ.
How Much Does it Cost to Cruise on Valiant Lady?
Our European four-night Weekender in April 2022 was a very modest £430 pp in a Sea Terrace (Balcony) cabin. A 7 Nights Greek Islands cruise in June is currently £1300 pp.($1200 US). Worth noting there is always some sort of offer on.
How many passengers are on the Valiant Lady?
At maximum capacity there are 2770 sailors on board.
Valiant Lady Itineraries
Virgin Voyages’ second ship, Valiant Lady, sails 7-night Mediterranean itineraries out of Barcelona, Spain during season, and then joins her sister ship, Scarlet Lady in the Caribbean for the remainder of the year. These Sailings include four feature itineraries that all offer overnight and late night stops across some of the hottest destinations in France, Italy and Spain.
Hopefully this article will have covered most things you want to know. However check out my related post here where I have tried to answer the most common questions HERE. Need to know more? Leave your question in comments below and I will find out for you.