Your Ultimate Guide to What to Pack for your Virgin Voyage

What to Pack for Your Virgin Voyage

How to dress the part for any Virgin Voyage Event

Your Ultimate Virgin Voyages Packing Guide

Virgin Voyages Packing | Scarlet Lady Packing | Valiant Lady Packing | Brilliant Lady Packing

What to Pack, What to Wear - Packing tips for Virgin Voyages Travellers in UK & USA

Ahoy Sailors

Well this is exciting, isn’t it?! You’ve taken the plunge and booked your first Virgin Voyage and are now at the planning stage.

Which ladyship have you booked - the lovely Scarlet Lady? Or perhaps Valiant Lady or sister ship Resilient Lady caught your eye? Maybe you are one of the lucky people to be the first onboard new Brilliant Lady? It matters not - they are all fabulous and you are guaranteed THE BEST time. Now it’s time to start planning your time onboard - and I’m here to help with your packing inspiration. You probably have a generic packing list (toiletries, electrical items and te h etc), and even maybe a cruise-specific list. However, if you want to know how to pack for Virgin Voyages cruise, from the ideal Scarlet Night outfit to your essential Virgin Voyages themed evening outfits, check out this Virgin Voyages packing list

What is the Dress Code on Virgin Voyages?

What is Virgin Voyages dress code? If you’ve read my frequently asked questions posts you will know that, unlike on traditional ships, there really is no strict dress code on Virgin Voyages. No formal nights, no recommended dress for restaurants. Freedom of choice (and freedom of expression) is the name of the game. So if you really want to live in sportswear, go ahead. Shorts for dinner? No problem. Sequins more your vibe? You won’t be alone.

There is an acceptance of individuality on a Virgin Voyage unlike on any other cruise line, and you can wear exactly what you want and no one will bat an eye. So if that’s the case, what’s the point of this article, you may be wondering?

The truth is, whilst you can pretty much “come as you are” on a Virgin Voyage, to make your experience even more special, you are going to want to dress the part - whether that’s just to dine, to party or to be your Bimini Beach Club best. If you are planning to go all in and to join in the spectacular special events onboard, then you will need to elevate your packing game! Here is some suggested Virgin Voyages attire for casual and evening wear.

Day Wear

See red when you pack for your Virgin Cruise. Image: Cruise Lowdown

Generally your usual beach/resort wear will suffice. However, Virgin Voyages go big on fitness - a huge variety of classes are included from sunrise yoga to boyband dance classes and even a bungee class; and whilst no one will mind you turning up in your old sweats and baggy vest tops, you might decide this is time to up your fitness wear game.

Same with swimwear - the pool and whirlpools are very much communal areas with lots of beautiful people strutting their stuff; and let’s not forget Bimini if that’s on your itinerary. This beach club exudes exclusive Ibiza or Miami fashionista vibes, so go through your wardrobe carefully.

Themed Day Time Classes

All fitness classes are included in your Virgin Voyages fare, and even if you aren’t a fitness-freak or gym-bunny on dry land, you may be tempted by, as I was, at least some of the onboard offerings.

VHS Workout

It’s all about the 80s baby! Dig out those neon leg-warmers!

This was such a fun class - so much so that you pretty much forgot how hard you were working in this 45 minute class. Virgin Voyages’ VHS-inspired workout is a retro fitness experience that transports you back to the vibrant 80s and 90s, complete with neon lights and high-energy beats. Designed to channel nostalgia and fun, this unique class combines cardio, strength, and dance moves, all set to classic tracks that keep the energy high. The suggested attire? Think bold and bright: neon spandex leggings, leg warmers, oversized graphic tees, and sweatbands to complete the vintage vibe. You could double up and use some of the items you pack for Klub Rubiks (well if it is scheduled first - no one wants to wear sweaty fitness gear to a club!). Whether you’re there for the sweat or the aesthetic, this workout promises a great time and unforgettable vibes.

Bungee Class

The bungee class at Virgin Voyages offers a thrilling and gravity-defying workout, combining core strength and fun aerial movements as you bounce and glide with the support of bungee cords. Whilst no special attire is required other than your usual workout gear, I just wanted to highlight that it is essential to book as soon as you board (or even in the terminal if you can get the app on wifi) as this class is so popular and books up quickly. Each class is limited to 6-8 participants , although several classes are scheduled across the voyage.

I didn’t think I would be agile enough to try this, but my daughter managed to secure the last place and absolutely loved it.

Boy-Band Dance Off

Don’t miss the Boyband Dance Class - Usual fitness gear or elevate with your best hip-hop wear

I did join my daughter for this one which, in our case, was an N-Sync tribute (to Bye, Bye, Bye). Held on the sports deck, there are no limited numbers - all are welcome. One of the happenings team leads dancers through the basics of a routine before splitting into teams to practice and to put their own spin on it. The class culminates with group dance-offs. Time to channel your inner pop diva - and just go for it. No particular gear required, athough some experienced voyagers had bought dance wear and accessories with them. So if you hip-hop at home, throw those baggy dance pants into your case.

Evening Wear

Again, if you don’t want to change for dinner, you don’t have to. Jeans, shorts, sportswear - all are acceptable, but a lot of your fellow sailors will go all out to dress to impress. When I said there is no formal night - you could switch that up and say EVERY night is an occasion to dress up, and believe me a lot will.

So if you enjoy putting on your finery there is plenty of opportunity to give the rhinestones an outing. In fact, one of my daughter’s friends who is a drag wedding celebrant, wore his full gorgeous getup including bright red bouffant wig, sequinned leotard and killer heels on a couple of evenings and looked fabulous, giving the resident Diva a run for her money.

There is a club night in The Manor every evening till the early hours - so pack what you would for a night out.

Theme Nights and Special Events

While Virgin Voyages maintains a relaxed dress code across its ships, themed events provide the opportunity to express yourself. If you really want an immersive Virgin Voyages experience, then pay special attention to which theme nights, parties and classes are advertised for your sailing. Most, if not all, are common to each of the Ladyships, and you don’t want to be caught out or be disappointed by not having packed the right clothing or accessories. None are compulsory, but it is fun when more people embrace the occasions.

Pyjama Party

Pack some nightwear you can wear in public! We opted to glam up in toning pjs.

You say Pajama, I say Pyjama! The big event on the first night of your Virgin Voyage is the Pyjama (PJ) Deck Party from late into the early hours. Most people change their outfits once dinner and the evening shows are complete, but no one would mine you wearing your comfies around the ship during the evening.

Here are some suggestions for your PJ Party attire - you can decide whether you want to go warm and comfy, or glamorous and sexy (your itinerary might also play a part in your decision making process):

Animal onesie
Character PJs
Baby Doll Nightie
Sophisticated satin or feather trimmed negligees or pyjamas
Nightshirts
Jogger bottoms and tee shirt
Dressing gown or wrap
Fluffy slippers
Heeled bedroom mules
And don’t forget your teddy bear (optional).

Klub Rubiks

Bright is Right for an 80’s/90s Club night - choose neon hats, jewellery, t shirts and don’t forget the glow sticks.

Klub Rubiks is Virgin Voyages’ vibrant 1980s-themed late night party, offering a lively atmosphere filled with nostalgic music, dance performances, and unique surprises. Enjoy dancers with Rubik’s cube heads, interpretive acts set to classic ’80s hits, and special appearances by the Happenings Cast and The Diva. It’s a high-energy event with a fabulous laser show that you won’t want to miss.

Klub Rubiks provides an excellent opportunity for you to embrace the spirit of the ’80s. Donning attire inspired by the decade—think neon colours, leg warmers, bold patterns, and the ubiquitous glow sticks — can enhance the experience and contribute to the festive atmosphere. However, participation in themed attire is entirely optional, and guests are welcome to dress as they feel comfortable, and even just be an observer from the upper level of The Manor.

Scarlet Night

Essentials for Virgin Voyages Scarlet Night

Scarlet Night is Virgin Voyages’ iconic onboard celebration, known for its vibrant and lively atmosphere. Sailors are encouraged to embrace the theme by wearing red, creating a sea of scarlet across the ship. There is even a pop up Scarlet Night Photo Booth to capture your bootylicious-ness.

Whether you opt for a bold red dress, a smart red shirt, or simply accessorise with red ties, scarves, or jewellery, the event is all about creative self-expression.

There’s no strict dress code, so you can go as simple or extravagant as you like – from casual red accents to statement-making ensembles covered in sequins. The goal is to immerse yourself in the evening’s unique energy and join in the fun with your fellow sailors.

Scarlet Night is a chance to celebrate in style while letting your personality shine, all in the signature Virgin Voyages way: relaxed, vibrant, and unforgettable.

Red outfit ideas for Scarlet Night

Pack at least one bright red item - even if it’s only an accessory such as a bag, hair clip or bow tie. Other suggestions include scarlet, sequinned cocktail, evening dresses or jumpsuits; embellished waistcoats, velvet jackets, jeans or trousers; vermillion bow ties, red socks, red shoes, trainers or high tops. Maybe you prefer a LBD but with just a slash of bright red lip - sometimes less is more.

Scarlet Night Pool Party

Join in the fun at the Pool Party - just make sure you dress wisely!

Scarlet Night’s festivities culminate in an electrifying pool party, a highlight of Virgin Voyages’ signature event. As the evening unfolds, the ship’s energy shifts to the Aquatic Club pool deck (weather permitting), where live music, spirited performances, and vibrant lighting create an unforgettable atmosphere.

The pool party invites guests to fully immerse themselves in the Scarlet Night experience—whether that’s dancing under the stars, enjoying the entertainment, or even taking a dip in the pool. With everyone dressed in red, the space transforms into a sea of scarlet energy, complete with a inflateable sea monster/octopus.

For this portion of the night, you have two choices - take the chance that your Scarlet Night attire is both waterproof and colour-safe and go for it or go change into a more pool-friendly outfit.

Whilst for my first pool party I did keep on my very expensive red sequin dress, I had to remain on the periphery when I would much rather have jumped straight in.

For those who had got the memo, there were a range of far more appropriate outfits, ranging from stylish red swimwear to casual and comfortable outfits and fancy dress, perfect for dancing, mingling and more importantly splashing! If you plan to enjoy the water, pack a swimsuit to fully join in the fun. Scarlet Night’s pool party is an energetic celebration that truly defines Virgin Voyages’ playful and inclusive spirit.

“We Fancy”

This is Virgin Voyages unique take on glamour and glitz at sea.

When it comes to unforgettable nights aboard Virgin Voyages, the relatively new “We Fancy” event truly stands out. This glamorous soirée, held in The Manor – the ship’s chic nightclub – invites guests to let loose and embrace their inner sparkle. With a golden, glittering theme, it’s an event that promises plenty of dazzle, decadence, and dancing.

While there’s no strict dress code, the “We Fancy” night encourages sailors to come dressed in their most glamorous attire. Think gold, metallics, and plenty of sparkle. Whether it’s a shimmering sequined dress, a sharp metallic suit, or accessories that shine with glitter, the aim is to embody the event’s spirit of luxury and creativity. It’s the perfect opportunity to break out the boldest, most eye-catching outfits you’ve packed. I saw one Sailor in a very heavy (and heavily embellished) Gladiator-style armoured top, which would taken up much of his baggage allowance).

For those who enjoy a more understated look, don’t worry – you can still join the fun with a subtle touch of glamour. A golden belt, sparkling shoes, or a touch of glittering makeup can go a long way. The key is to feel confident and embrace the celebratory vibe, whether you go all out or keep it a little more low-key.

At “We Fancy,” it’s all about having fun and expressing your unique style in a space full of energy, music, and glitter. So, whatever your approach to fashion, this is one night where you can shine—literally and figuratively and create lasting memories aboard the ship. It’s all about the Insta baby!

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What to Wear on Your Virgin Voyage