Virgin Voyages - Mayan Sol

Scarlet Lady Cruise Review

Cruises: 7+ cruises
Reviews: 2
Helpful Votes: 46

Overall rating:

4.4 out of 5
Scarlet Lady

5 Night Dominican Daze (Miami Roundtrip)

Sail date: October 15, 2021

Ship: Scarlet Lady

Traveled as: Singles/Friends

Reviewed: 3 years ago

Review summary

Virgin Voyages is the cruise line who set out to take cruising to the next level. The level of service and attention to detail is noticed from the moment you get on board. The food choices, the basic wifi and gratuities already included are really major improvements compared to other lines. The technology and modern touches of almost every space of the ship is really cool and useful. The only gripe a person may have is the lack of traditional entertainment. This doesn’t mean there isn’t entertainment, but it is isn’t as “grand” as other lines….but it doesn’t look like it was intended to be that way. It’s different but still good. Overall, can’t wait to go on my next one.

Embarkation

2 out of 5
Long lines for check-in and same day Covid testing. App not dependable. Took about 5 hours before getting on board.

Ship experiences

Food and Dining

5 out of 5
So many options for dining. Can dine at a different restaurant each day. Lots of options for those with dietary restrictions. Vegan and gluten-free options clearly marked and available at almost every restaurant.

Onboard Activities

4 out of 5
A lot of options for wellness including pools, jacuzzis, fitness centers, running track, game and arcade rooms and more

Entertainment

4 out of 5
Entertainment is very different on this line. Less about big Broadway shows and more about mini entertainment offerings throughout the ship. Don’t be surprised to find a musician sitting out on the patio and playing an acoustic guitar or a singer singing in a hallway. It’s different but nice. The Red Room is home to a production called Duel Reality. Very interesting show and features captivating acrobatics and storyline. Scarlet night replaces formal night and it’s a winner. Wear a splash of red. Very different but fun. Each night, there is some form of outdoor entertainment whether it be bands by the pool or pajama party, there is something to keep you entertained.

Service and Staff

5 out of 5
Everyone is super attentive and ready to help!

Ship Quality

5 out of 5
Very modern, clean and sleek. Amazing looking and well laid out ship.

Cabin / Stateroom

4 out of 5
Very nice and sleek cabin. Simple, modern, versatile and well thought out. Good size overall for the sea terrace cabin. Loved the balcony with the hammock. Nice touch. Mood lighting, automatic window curtains, movie selections and temperature controls from a tablet was very cool. The only space that is a little tight is the bathroom. It’s a nice bathroom just a bit tight.

Ship tip

Be open to a new way to cruise. There is no cruise line to compare this to. It’s different but in a good way. A lot of the extras (basic wifi, gratuities, speciality dining, etc) is already included in the price. Bookings for dining and excursions could fill up. Try to reserve as soon as you can.

Ports of call

The Beach Club (Virgin Voyages), Bimini Bahamas

5 out of 5
Very nice private area for virgin voyages while having access to the rest of the island. Able to rent golf cart and tour the island.

Miami, Florida

4 out of 5

Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

4 out of 5
Switched to Costa Maya.

Disembarkation

5 out of 5
Very simple process. I’d advise waiting until 10a to disembark to allow the crowds who can’t wait to get off, to go. During this time, you can enjoy breakfast.

Traveler Photos

Dining onboard Virgin Voyages The Beach Club at Bimini Dining onboard Virgin Voyages Costa Maya Dining onboard Virgin Voyages The Beach Club at Bimini Long lines at embarkation The Beach Club at Bimini Dining onboard Virgin Voyages Unique Design of Virgin Voyages ship Dining onboard Virgin Voyages
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10 Comments

JourneyWithJosh    3 years ago

Thanks for this review. I'm scheduled for a Feb '22 jaunt

GerryBCruisin    3 years ago

Thanks for taking the time to share your review of the Scarlet Lady and the great pictures !

garsny    3 years ago

I was just on it.Agree with most of your review.Was not cruise like enough for me.Glad to experience,but wouldn't do again.Not worth the luxury cruise price.

izrgreen    3 years ago

Thank you for taking the time to write a review

cruising2004    3 years ago

Thank you for sharing your experience

Dadm    3 years ago

We were parked next to her recently. Very impressive look to the ship. A hammock on every balcony. Their Red and Grey Colors are very modern. Aft section has sun beds, umbrellas, tables and a bar. Hopefully we will see some pics.

jameeh    3 years ago

This cruiseline is still finding its audience. It takes a newcomer to shake things up and get competitors to review and enhance their own product offerings. Virgin Cruises won't appeal to everybody, nor does it need to. I think they are good for the overall cruise experience and will spur innovation in the industry.

MargieRita    3 years ago

Thx for the review of this new cruise line. Going to give this one a try one day.

Curt34    3 years ago

Glad you enjoyed your cruise. Thanks for the review.

javawoody    3 years ago

Sounds interesting, glad you had a great time

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