What's poppin', globetrotters? It's your travel companion, Sara, and boy, do I have some juicy deets to spill! From August 20th-28th 2022, I took a sail on the wild side with Virgin Voyages, and let me tell you, the entertainment was no joke! It was a whimsical journey, gliding along the Mediterranean, port hopping from Barcelona to Ibiza with my fabulous entourage: Ciara, Joe, and my better half, Calum.
Get ready for an entertainment rundown that's more sparkling than a sequin dress at a disco party. They have it all: dancing under the stars in our PJs, partaking in a Scarlet Night extravaganza draped in red, basking in the heart-thumping rhythms at Heartbeat, and being mesmerized by the acrobatic twists and turns of Duel Reality. Not to forget our taste of the absurdly entertaining UNTITLED DANCE SHOW PARTY THING. We had our share of laughter, astonishment, and glitter-filled memories — and of course, a dash of drama here and there (what's a holiday without a bit of spice, am I right?).
But hey, don't think it was all rainbows and unicorn floats. There were moments of dislike (I'll save that tea for later), and events we missed out on (sob!). Despite the FOMO, I've got to hand it to Virgin Voyages for crafting a shipload of fun and fab experiences that hit the sweet spot between glam and chill. So buckle up, darlings, as I take you on a rollercoaster ride of our ship shenanigans — no glitter spared! And spoiler alert: There's a surprise twist at the end (Hint: Joe isn’t just my bestie...he’s also a Virgin Voyages performer!). Can't wait for you to dive in with me. To glam, to chill, to Virgin Voyages — let's set sail!
This post contains affiliate links; we may earn commission from qualifying purchases.
The UNTITLED DANCE SHOW PARTY THING - An Eccentric Jamboree of Dazzling Absurdity!
Oh, you night owls are going to adore this one! Now, when you think of your typical cruise ship entertainment, you're probably imagining jazz hands, sequins, and show tunes, right? Well, toss that idea overboard, because UNTITLED DANCE SHOW PARTY THING is here to shake things up with a hefty dose of the unexpected!
Crafted by the creative masterminds Sam Pinkleton & Ani Taj, this experience was a psychedelic mix of music-video aesthetics and club scene energy — think more neon lights and avant-garde dance moves, less jazz hands and show tunes. And boy, did it deliver! It's not every day you find yourself in an absurdist dance party sipping on cocktails and wondering what dimension you've stumbled into.
And the cast, bless their dedicated hearts, they absolutely smashed it! You could tell they poured every ounce of energy into making the show as vibrant and wild as possible. My bestie Joe, yep, that Joe, delivered a performance that left us all with our jaws on the floor — he was dazzling, daring, and downright fabulous. He owned that stage like a boss!
Oh, and did I mention the drinks? Oh, honey, they're not part of the all-inclusive package — so prepare your wallet and your liver! But trust me, a cocktail or two definitely added an extra layer of fizz to the funky fiesta. They even tried to teach us some of the dance moves, but let's just say I proved once again why I'm a travel blogger and not a Broadway dancer. Two left feet, who?
The only tiny caveat — this madcap shindig kicks off around 10 pm and keeps the party pulsing till the early hours of 2 am. For those of you who love to get your beauty sleep, it might seem like a daunting prospect. But darlings, take it from me, it's worth every yawn the next morning. In fact, it's worth its weight in glitter and glam! So if you ever find yourself aboard the Scarlet Lady, do yourself a favor and swing by the UNTITLED DANCE SHOW PARTY THING. Trust me; you won't regret it. After all, sleep is for the weak, right?
Boogie Nights at Studio 72: A Disco Odyssey
Once the sun had set and the indigo night unfurled its mysterious shroud, our euphoric odyssey into the shimmering heart of Virgin Voyages' Studio 72 truly began. The star-studded atmosphere pulsed with a contagious energy, capturing that once-in-a-lifetime sensation of vacation bliss on a dance floor that never seemed to sleep. Time spiraled backward to the halcyon days of the 70s and early 80s, as Studio 72 spun its magical tale. Groovy disco tunes flowed like a glistening river, their four-on-the-floor beats echoing through the soul, sparking a sensation of boundless joy, a nostalgic nod to a bygone era of bell bottoms and lava lamps.
Hands waved, feet moved, and bodies swirled in rhythm until the early hours, powered by infectious melodies and the collective elation of the crowd. It was as though the voyage itself became a living, breathing entity, pulsating to the soundtrack of an everlasting dance party. Strangers and friends, united by the rhythmic cadence, became fellow time-travelers in this retro-inspired revelry.
Even though Calum and I stumbled back into our cabin at the ungodly hour of 2 am, eyes heavy but hearts light, I can assure you, it was all worth it. I mean, who needs sleep when you can dance the night away, right? And yes, I did have to double-take at the $12 price tag for a small vodka and lemonade (Yikes! Is it made with unicorn tears?), but no worries — this girl can party just as hard with a soda in hand.
Our night stretched into the wee hours, with the beats fading only as the clock struck 2am. My body craved sleep's sweet surrender, the fatigue serving as a proud badge of an evening well spent under the glimmering disco ball. Yet, the allure of the all-night disco tugged relentlessly at my soul, reminding me of the ceaseless groove and the carnival of colors that was Studio 72.
Amidst all the shindig, there was Joe - a magnetic force, gliding effortlessly through the crowd like a comet. He danced and laughed, connecting with everyone, while never betraying a drop of sweat. His charisma was like a beacon in the sea of disco lights, a testament to his prowess as a dancer and conversationalist. Even the most peculiar characters in the crowd couldn't dampen his shine. His vivacity added another layer to the mystique of Studio 72, a mesmerizing confluence of sounds, lights, and people in a time and space where the groove seemed unending.
Heartbeat: Glitter, Grooves, and Gallivanting till Dawn
Picture this: It's another thrilling night aboard Virgin Voyages, and we're about to launch into Heartbeat, one of the high-energy, pulsating experiences that this fabulous cruise has to offer. Straight from Brooklyn's famed House of Yes, Heartbeat is no ordinary dance party. It's an electrifying extravaganza of artistic expression that ricochets off the mirrored halls and spills into The Manor with the vibrancy of a supernova. A genre-bending medley of house, groove, funk, pop, and disco spins on the decks, ensuring that no matter which era of music gets your foot tapping, you'll be catered to.
My camera roll? Absolutely bursting with snippets of this riotous celebration. The memories encapsulated in pixelated form - from the kinetic dancers to the radiant performers, every moment was a snapshot of uninhibited joy. Shout out to the Heartbeat cast, those tireless groovers who, even in the early morning hours, kept the energy up, their faces aglow with smiles and exuberance. Their passion was infectious, engaging everyone in the room, making us all feel part of this vivacious spectacle.
Then there was the night - or should I say morning - when Calum and I finally collapsed onto our bed, our bodies weary but our spirits high from the Heartbeat experience. And you know what? Heartbeat may not be everyone's cup of tea, but that's the beauty of it. That's the beauty of Virgin Voyages. They offer everything and anything, catering to all tastes and preferences. So whether you're a disco devotee, a funk aficionado, or a pop enthusiast, there's always a beat waiting for you to groove to, always an adventure ready to sweep you off your feet.
Dual Reality: A Love Story Soaring High and Twirling in the Skies!
Well, my loves, from the dance floor, we made our way to a realm of breathtaking passion and gravity-defying performances in Dual Reality. And let me tell you, it wasn't just a spectacle — it was an emotion-laden rollercoaster that left me awe-struck!
Brought to life by the ingenious minds at The 7 Fingers, Dual Reality spun a fast-paced, whimsical retelling of Romeo and Juliet, but with a dazzling circus twist. Two groups, each as graceful and mesmerizing as the other, grappled with the desire to rise above each other through a series of death-defying acts that had my heart in my mouth.
Every flip, every spin, and every leap across the stage had me at the edge of my seat, my eyes wide, and my jaw dropped in disbelief. It was a beautiful symphony of skill, strength, and sheer tenacity, all woven together with an underlying love story that would make even Shakespeare give a standing ovation. It was, without a doubt, an entertainment masterpiece by Virgin Voyages that left me spellbound and craving for more!
The 'Missed But Not Forgotten' Extravaganzas: A Quick Peek at Virgin Voyages' Other Entertainments
Even the most vivacious party animals need to catch a breather, right? As much as we revealed in the late-night shenanigans, there were some shows we had to sit out — beauty sleep is still a thing, you know! But fear not, there's no shortage of glamor and thrill in Virgin Voyages' entertainment roster.
First up, "Ships in the Night." This spectacle by The 7 Fingers uses ethereal technology and electrifying choreography to delve into the significance of connections made on personal journeys. Think philosophical thoughts meet futuristic tech — definitely on my list for next time!
Then, there's "It's a Ship Show!" Imagine The Manor transforming into a chic supper club, where a variety hour meets a late-night talk show. Food, live music, comedy, and a sprinkle of the unexpected — it's got it all!
And finally, for those seeking a more laid-back vibe, "Festival Stage Acts" is just the ticket. Comedians, magicians, and unique artists put on a show that's constantly rotating, ensuring each night brings something fresh and exciting.
So even if you're like us and decide to hit the snooze button occasionally, rest assured, you'll never be short of unforgettable entertainment aboard Virgin Voyages!
The Unsung Heroes of Fun: From Cozy PJs to Glitzy Casinos!
Don't be fooled, darlings — Virgin Voyages isn't all about heart-pounding music and theatrical spectacles (though we do adore those!). No, there's a plethora of smaller entertainments that cater to all your cruise desires, whether you're a party person or a chill-out champion.
Fancy a starlit soirée with a comfy twist? Then the "PJ Party" is your scene. Dressed in our snuggliest onesies (glamor comes in all forms, you know), we could've danced and laughed with our fellow cruisers under the twinkling night sky. Cozy spots to lounge, hilarious company, and divas owning the dance floor — what more could you want?
If you're more of a night owl with a penchant for glitz, then "The Manor" is your haven. Think of a two-story, three-bar space that oozes '70s punk vibe and theatrical flair. A word of warning: their groundbreaking shows may have you ditching your early morning workouts (and we thought we were the party animals!).
For those who love a game of chance, "The Casino" is a whirlwind of entertainment. With districts to suit your slot machine preferences and classic games like blackjack and roulette, it's a gambler's dream. And for beginners? Grab a drink, sit back, and let their friendly dealers show you the ropes.
From a gentle stroll around the ship to a game of chess or grooving to the on-board music, Virgin Voyages and their talented cast ensure there's something for everyone. Even for us "old souls" who sometimes chose sleep over the late-night fun (blame the beauty sleep!), we were never short of amazing experiences to dive into. We're keeping these gems in our pocket for our next voyage — so stay tuned!
Scarlet Night: When Virgin Voyages Paint the Town Red!
Settle in, folks, because I'm about to spill the tea on the pièce de résistance of Virgin Voyages — the grand, glam, and gloriously red "Scarlet Night"! This event is like stepping into an epic, love-infused carnival, a captivating saga between the mystical Goddess of the Sea and the Sailor who stole her heart.
First things first: getting dolled up for the evening. Yours truly rocked a top-notch glam red dress (to match the night's fiery theme, of course), while Calum showed some serious team spirit in his Liverpool REDS ensemble (best football team ever, in case you didn't know!).
Upon hitting the ship's main deck, your senses are overwhelmed with a dazzling spectacle. Performers adorned in glittering red makeup (because, darling, EVERYONE can rock a bit of sparkle) descend the grand staircase, signaling the start of an unforgettable night.
This wave of scarlet performers floods the ship, ensuring that every corner radiates with their high-energy performances. But the pièce de résistance? The pool deck on level 15. Picture this: a massive inflatable octopus, setting the perfect backdrop for some stunning photos with the gang (shout out to Calum for his excellent photography skills!).
The energy only ramps up from here. The dancers hit the deck, the upbeat tunes from the Top 100 blast from the speakers, and before you know it, you're part of the wildest pool party you've ever seen. Joe, Ciara, and I embraced the madness and dove right in. As for Calum, he played the role of shoe and bag holder to perfection (what a gentleman!).
The night could've easily rolled on until dawn, but our weary bodies finally called it a day around midnight. After all, even party animals like us need to recharge once in a while. So, while the Scarlet Night was every bit the red-hot extravaganza it promised to be, I was secretly glad for a chance to rest my dancing feet. Stay tuned, voyagers, because this whirlwind of a trip isn't over yet!
A Voyage of Delights and Dances: The Virgin Voyages Entertainment Extravaganza
What a whirlwind it's been, immersing ourselves in the cornucopia of entertainment on Virgin Voyages. It's a cavalcade of performances, each one crafted with care, and executed with an exceptional fervor that lights up the whole ship. Every member of the crew and the cast has poured their hearts into making these experiences the very best they can be. Among the many stars that shone bright during our voyage, one in particular stood out: our dear friend Joe, who turned each performance he was a part of into a spectacular show.
Oh, the nights we spent at Scarlet Night were pure magic. Dressed to the nines, basking in the vibrant atmosphere, it was like a beautiful, high-octane dream. Starting from the heart of the action and climbing to the heights of excitement, every moment was a thrill. And the flexibility of it all - to dance till dawn or call it a night at 10pm - it's all up to you!
However, it wasn't all perfect. The promise of Dual Reality fell a little short, with missed juggles and forgotten steps marrying an otherwise exciting spectacle. And the late start times - not ideal for early birds like us, especially when you're held captive until the show ends, even if nature calls.
Despite missing out on some experiences - like the casino, which in hindsight, would have added an extra splash of fun - we cherished every moment of our voyage. And to have shared this adventure with the love of my life, Calum, and our bestie Ciara - I couldn't have asked for more.
So here's to you, Virgin Voyages, for the laughter, the dancing, the unforgettable performances, and the memories we've made. Thank you for making our vacation a 9/10 whirl of delights. We're leaving the ship, but we're taking a piece of this magnificent voyage in our hearts. Until next time, keep the magic alive, and the dance floor grooving!
That's all for this post! If you've been on a Virgin Voyages cruise before and discovered any hidden treasures or have tips to share, I'd be thrilled to hear about them. If you're in the process of planning a trip and have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out. Assisting fellow travellers is always a pleasure, and I make it a point to respond to every email I receive (sara@sarajourneys.com). Until we meet again, journey safely!
P.S. For those curious to see more, you can find all our travel photos on the SaraJourneysMore Instagram page.