Booking a Virgin Voyages cruise is exciting. No kids, stylish cabins, signature balcony hammocks, and an adults-only vibe designed for relaxation and fun. But make the wrong cabin choice, and your dream cruise could turn into a frustrating experience with sleepless nights, obstructed views, or nonstop noise.
Before you book, it’s crucial to know which cabins to avoid and which offer the best value. To save you the hassle, I analyzed thousands of real reviews from Cruise Critic, TripAdvisor, and social media to bring you an unbiased, cruiser-backed ranking of Virgin Voyages’ best and worst cabins.
Looking for a spacious suite with unbeatable ocean views? A quiet retreat away from high-traffic areas? Or simply the best value for your money? This guide breaks it all down so you can book with confidence and enjoy every moment of your cruise.
Virgin Voyages Cruise Cabins Ranked from Worst to Best
Not every cabin on Virgin Voyages ships delivers the same experience. Some offer unbeatable luxury, while others come with major drawbacks. The worst cabins are typically located under noisy public areas, next to high-traffic walkways, or have obstructed views that can leave you feeling shortchanged.
The best cabins provide extra space, better privacy, and stunning balcony views, but not all are easy to find.
If you are wondering whether to splurge on the RockStar experience or balance comfort and cost, this ranking breaks down exactly which cabins are worth it and which ones to skip.
Cabins Above or Below Entertainment Venues (The Manor & The Red Room)
The worst cabin locations on most cruise ships, including Virgin Voyages, are above or below entertainment venues. On Virgin ships, these are XL Sea Terrace and Ltd Sea View cabins on Decks 5 and 8 toward the front of the vessel. It’s not just thumping nightclub music; rehearsals during the day also add to the noise.
As an adults-only cruise line, Virgin Voyages embraces late-night energy, and nowhere is that more evident than The Manor and The Red Room. These high-energy venues host DJ sets, risqué performances, and live music into the early hours—amazing for party lovers, but a nightmare if your cabin is too close!
Cruisers report hearing music from The Red Room or The Manor until the early hours, making light sleepers miserable. Even earplugs won’t drown out the thumping. A better alternative is to opt for mid-ship on Deck 9 or higher for a quieter stay.
Cabins Under the Galley
A quiet cruise experience is priceless, but staying under The Galley on Deck 14 can mean late-night noise from rolling carts and early-morning prep sounds. The Galley is a food-hall-style dining area that replaces the traditional cruise buffet found on most other cruise lines. Instead of a self-serve buffet, The Galley offers a collection of made-to-order food stations with fresh, high-quality options available throughout the day.
Guests in cabins below The Galley often report persistent clattering from kitchen activities, disrupting sleep for light sleepers.
One cruiser mentioned being woken up daily at 5 a.m. by heavy movements overhead, saying it “sounded like a bowling alley.” If peace is a priority, consider a mid-ship location on a lower deck or opt for cabins directly above or below other staterooms for better insulation from noise.
Cabins to avoid are Sea Terrace staterooms from the center of the ship to the aft. Cabins at the front aren’t any quieter, as they’re directly beneath the pool deck.
Cabins Above Busy Bars & Lounges
With no kids onboard, Virgin Voyages leans into a vibrant, adults-only social scene. Bars like The Dock House and The Loose Cannon stay lively well past midnight, filled with cruisers enjoying craft cocktails, live music, and late-night conversations. Great for nightlife lovers—not so great if your cabin is right above!
Staying above bars like The Dock House and The Loose Cannon means music, laughter, and foot traffic well past midnight. Even with soundproofing, some cruisers report feeling bass vibrations through the floors, making sleep difficult. These cabins are on Deck 8 from the ship’s center to the aft.
Like the cabins above the Red Room or The Manor, choose a mid-ship cabin on Deck 9 or higher, away from clubs and bars.
Cabins Near the Gym or Fitness Center
A cabin near the gym might sound convenient, but early morning workouts bring thudding treadmills, clanking weights, and constant foot traffic. Noise starts as early as 6 a.m., and some guests report hearing loud music from fitness classes.
Cruisers have mentioned waking up to what felt like weights being dropped right above their heads, making relaxation impossible.
A better alternative: Choose a mid-ship cabin between Decks 9 and 13, away from public venues, to ensure a quieter stay.
Limited View Sea Terrace Cabins
A cabin with an obstructed view may snag you a cheaper deal but don’t expect picture-perfect ocean vistas. Limited View Sea Terrace cabins on Deck 8 on Scarlet Lady, Brilliant Lady, Valiant Lady, and Resilient Lady have parts of the ship structures blocking the view. Some guests feel they paid for a balcony that doesn’t deliver the full experience.
Reviews on cruise forums reveal that Limited View Sea Terrace cabins are a hit or miss. Some cruisers regret paying extra for a less-than-picture-perfect view. It’s also possible that an entire lifeboat blocks your view. It’s important to note that some balconies have metal, not glass, railings that also block views.
On the plus side, some guests say the cruise deal was worth it and saved nearly $1,000 compared to standard terrace cabins. Others said they booked a limited-view balcony and ended up on Deck 10 with a perfect view. And many Limited View Sea Terrace cabins have the iconic full-size red hammocks.
Forward Front-Facing Cabins
A front-facing cruise ship cabin offers sweeping ocean views, but the trade-off? More motion than in almost any other location on the ship. These cabins take the brunt of rough seas, making them a poor choice for anyone prone to seasickness. Strong winds can also make balconies toward the front of the ship less enjoyable.
Cruisers mention feeling every wave and sudden movement, with some saying they had to take seasickness medication daily. Others reported feeling like they were on a rollercoaster when the sea got rough.
Lower Deck Cabins
Cruise fares for lower decks are great for budget-friendly guests on a Virgin cruise ship. But being closer to engines and mechanical areas means more vibration and noise, especially at night. Some cruisers report that in rough seas, motion can feel more intense.
If you’re a light sleeper or prone to seasickness, it may be best to book a standard cabin on a higher deck (not Deck 8 or Deck 14). In contrast, cruise passengers report that noise in the cabins was minimal, and the hum and vibrations provided “white noise” that helped them sleep.
Standard Insider Cabins for Families, Couples, or Solo Cruisers
Looking for a budget-friendly option on a Virgin Voyage cruise ship? The Insider Cabin category offers a cozy space to rest. But, with no windows and limited space, you might find it dark and cramped, especially on longer sailings with multiple guests. Cabin fever may become a real issue!
Virgin offers fewer Insider Cabins than other lines, and guests describe them as compact, with limited storage and small bathrooms.
Virgin Voyages ships also have Solo Insider Cabins. Despite their limited size, single travelers rate them as a good value for money, especially on port-intensive cruise itineraries. Also, their midship interior location makes them some of the quietest cabins onboard.
The Social Insider (Four-Person Interior Cabin)
Looking to travel with friends or family on a budget? Social Insider cabins are one of the most affordable ways to cruise with a group. However, expect to make compromises in terms of privacy, space, and comfort. With bunk beds, a tight cabin layout, and limited storage, it can feel like a dorm room rather than a relaxing retreat, according to some passengers.
Cruisers report that moving around is difficult, and the lack of personal space makes longer cruises feel cramped. But if you plan on hitting The Manor every night and going on shore excursions, they’re ideal.
Solo Sea View Cabin
One of the best cabin types for single guests is a Solo Sea View cabin. You get more room than an interior cabin and window with natural light, making it feel more open than an interior stateroom.
Cruisers mention that the large porthole window is a nice touch, but the space itself feels small for the price. However, you don’t pay a solo supplement for a double occupancy room like on some cruise lines.
Standard Sea Terrace (Entry-Level Balcony)
Standard cabins with a terrace are the most popular types on Virgin Voyages. Private balconies have cool hammocks, more space than you’d expect, and glass railings. The cabin layout has a queen-sized bed and flexible wardrobe, and the adjustable ambient lighting is a nice touch.
Some guests complain about the bathroom size, saying it’s compact and awkward. Also, other cruisers like the convertible seabed to extend the indoor space, but for others, it was more trouble than helpful.
A better alternative is to upgrade to an XL Sea Terrace, which provides more space without upgrading to a suite. But note—the balconies are the same size.
XL Sea Terrace (Larger Balcony Cabin)
An XL Sea Terrace gives you more living space and a larger bathroom than a Standard Sea Terrace. So, it can be an excellent upgrade if you want a little extra comfort. However, the balcony size isn’t significantly bigger, and some cruisers feel the additional cost isn’t always justified.
Cruisers mention that while the added space is nice, the difference from a Standard Sea Terrace isn’t as noticeable as expected. A better—albeit costlier—alternative is to consider a Seriously Suite. Or, you could save money by booking a Standard Sea Terrace in a prime location.
Central Sea Terrace Cabins
Booking a Central Sea Terrace Cabin puts you in one of the most desirable cabin locations on the ship. You’re close to elevators and top attractions, and with added stability, you can enjoy smooth sailing. However, choose a Central Sea Terrace away from high-traffic areas to avoid constant noise in the cabin.
The best Sea Terrace Cabins are on Deck 9 to Deck 13 but closer to the ship’s aft. Here, you’re farthest from stairwells and elevators.
Cheeky Corner Suite (Back Corner Balconies)
A cheeky corner suite puts you in a desirable cabin location if you want views of the ship’s wake. The luxurious Rockstar suite offers stunning wraparound balcony views and extra space, making it a dream cruise experience if you love outdoor living. However, its aft location means more motion, and some guests notice engine vibrations at night.
Many seasoned Virgin cruisers praise the expansive balcony but mention feeling a steady hum from the ship’s movement. For some, it’s not a deal breaker. If ship motion is a concern, choose a Seriously Suite on Deck 12 for Rockstar perks in a more central location.
Seriously Suite (Most Common Rockstar Suite)
The Seriously Suite is a step up from the standard balcony cabins, offering more space and premium perks. Guests rave about the walk-in ‘peek-a-boo’ shower, spacious bathroom, and RockStar perks like priority boarding and exclusive lounge access. One traveler noted that the suite felt plush and well-appointed, but the minibar setup was confusing—only certain drinks were included.
If you’re considering an upgrade, this suite provides a larger balcony, premium amenities, and extra comfort without the ultra-premium Rockstar Quarters price tag. If the cost isn’t a dealbreaker, it’s a great mid-tier choice for extra indulgence.
Sweet Aft Suite: It’s All About the Deck
Some of the best suites in Rockstar Quarters are the Sweet Aft Suites. You’re at the center of the ship’s aft and get the best panoramic wake views and a ton of private balcony space. They also include mood lights, roomy rain showers, a complimentary minibar, and exclusive access to Richard’s Rooftop sundeck.
The only difference between the Sweet Aft Suites on different decks is the balcony size. Here’s what to expect:
- Sweet Aft Suite on Decks 8 and 9: The biggest terrace at the aft and least ship motion.
- Sweet Aft Suite on Decks 10 and 11: A slightly smaller terrace with slight motion in rough seas.
- Sweet Aft Suite on Decks 12 to 14: The smallest terrace from the Sweet Aft Suites range and the most motion when the ship is sailing.
There’s one Sweet Aft Suite on each deck between decks 8 and 14. In reality, there is little difference between the Sweet Aft Suites, and all seven of them on Virgin ships offer stunning wake views from spacious balconies.
Gorgeous Suite
A Gorgeous Suite delivers premium comfort with a sleek design and added perks. It’s in the smallest Mega Rockstar Quarters categories of suites. But don’t let that put you off if you can afford it. Apart from Rockstar perks, you get a double-depth balcony, outdoor shower, comfortable seating area, and lounge chairs.
Cruisers say the balcony space is a highlight, but the suite itself feels similar to the Brilliant Suite. So, some guests think the cost isn’t entirely justified. So, choosing between them depends on whether you prioritize outdoor spaces.
The Hidden Gem: Brilliant Suite
A Brilliant Suite is a common suite type that delivers RockStar perks and extra space without the Mega Rockstar price tag. At 482 square feet, it’s roomier than a Seriously Suite but lacks a significantly larger balcony. Cruisers say the added space is nice, but the upgrade cost isn’t always worth it. If you’re looking for a similar cruise experience, a Seriously Suite offers similar perks for less.
The Top-Tier Mega Rockstar Suites
Virgin Voyages’ Mega Rockstar Suites offer the most exclusive experience onboard, combining VIP perks with spacious layouts and oversized terraces. Guests enjoy Richard’s Rooftop access, a personal RockStar Agent (concierge service), a stocked bar, and priority everything.
The Posh Suites: Spacious and stylish, these suites feature a large living area, a rainfall shower, and an expansive terrace with lounge seating. It’s a great pick if you can afford luxury without going all-in on the Massive Suite. They have slightly less seating than the Fab Suite.
Fab Suites: A step up in size, Fab Suites offer more balcony space, an in-room bar, and a glam bathroom with a peek-a-boo shower. It is ideal for couples who love extra space and premium perks.
Massive Suites: The most extravagant option on Virgin Voyages cruises. Massive Suites boast two bedrooms, a vast terrace, a private music room, a bathtub, and an outdoor hot tub. Designed for VIPs who want the ultimate Rockstar treatment.
How to Choose the Best Cabins on a Virgin Voyages Cruise Ship
Virgin Voyages’ adults-only concept means staterooms cater to couples, solo travelers, and groups of friends rather than families. This makes cabin location even more important, depending on whether you want a high-energy experience near nightlife or a quieter retreat away from the action.
How can you snag the best deals and avoid surprise additions to your cruise bill? Here’s what I’ve discovered from researching cruiser feedback, expert reviews, and firsthand accounts:
Hidden costs: Rockstar Suites include some stocked bar items, but minibar refills and premium liquor come at an extra charge. Priority access perks may also require an additional fee.
Upgrades and bidding: Virgin Voyages sometimes offers bid-based upgrades, but success varies. Booking early often secures better deals than last-minute bidding.
Insider booking tips: Call Virgin to confirm cabin location, as some obstructed views aren’t clearly marked. Using mock bookings helps compare availability and pricing.
Accessibility and solo travelers: Accessible cabins are limited, so book early. Solo travelers can choose between Solo Insider and Solo Sea View, but a Standard Sea Terrace might offer better value.
Book Smart, Sail Better with Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages offers some of the most well-designed cruise ship cabins in the industry. A little research can help you find the perfect option for your budget. Wherever you sail, I hope this guide enables you to book with confidence and enjoy every moment at sea.
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