Additional Coverage:
- I went on an adults-only cruise for the first time, and 8 things surprised me (businessinsider.com)
Forget Kid-Free, This Adults-Only Cruise Made Me Feel Like a Kid Again
My first cruise experience? Let’s just say it wasn’t exactly relaxing.
Screaming kids, crowded pools – I swore I’d never set foot on another cruise ship. Then I heard whispers of Virgin Voyages, an adults-only luxury line.
Intrigued, I booked a seven-night Mediterranean cruise on the Valiant Lady in August 2023. Spoiler alert: it completely changed my mind about cruising.
From the moment I stepped on board, I was struck by the ship’s futuristic, stylish design. Think vibrant pops of color, iridescent panels, and modern art.
Rainbow-hued lighting bathed the decks and elevators, creating a whimsical atmosphere that instantly sparked a sense of childlike wonder. And the best part?
No actual children in sight.
My cabin, though compact at 225 square feet, felt surprisingly spacious thanks to some clever design tricks. A transforming bed, tucked-away ottoman, and sleek nightstand maximized the space.
But the real highlight was the balcony, complete with a hammock perfect for ocean-view relaxation. Two years later, I still dream about those peaceful moments swaying above the waves.
Now, picture this: a playground on a cruise ship. Not a kiddie pool and slide situation, but a full-blown adult playground with jumbo-sized swings and seesaws.
Add in a giant chess set, boxing ring, and a net suspended over the ocean, and you’ve got a recipe for pure, unadulterated fun. Surrounded by fellow adults, I embraced my inner child, swinging, playing games, and rediscovering the simple joy of play.
The fun continued indoors with a retro arcade and a game room stocked with classic board games like Mouse Trap and Clue. I even stumbled upon a tattoo parlor – apparently, a cruise ship first! While I resisted the urge to get inked this time, the temptation was definitely there.
One of the biggest surprises? The all-inclusive dining.
Unlike my previous cruise experience, every restaurant on board was included in the ticket price. From Mediterranean seafood and steak to sushi and pasta, I indulged in a culinary adventure without worrying about the bill.
While I anticipated a party atmosphere, the communal decks were surprisingly serene during the day. A bartender explained that Mediterranean cruises tend to attract a more relaxed crowd than Caribbean cruises. This meant peaceful poolside lounging with the option of a silent or music-filled pool deck.
My adults-only cruise wasn’t just a vacation; it was a chance to reconnect with my inner child. Playing games, enjoying delicious food without financial worries, and basking in the ship’s vibrant atmosphere allowed me to let loose and rediscover a sense of playfulness I hadn’t felt in years. I’ll definitely be cruising with Virgin Voyages again – and who knows, maybe next time I’ll even get that tattoo.
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- I went on an adults-only cruise for the first time, and 8 things surprised me (businessinsider.com)