12 Things You MUST Do As Soon As You Board Virgin Voyages

So, you’ve just stepped onto your Virgin Voyages cruise for the first time—now what?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler but new to Virgin or this is your first-ever cruise, the first few hours onboard are crucial for setting up an amazing trip.

Unlike traditional cruises, Virgin Voyages does things differently, and this guide will walk you through exactly what to do as soon as you board.

Virgin Voyages is all about adult-only, modern, and hassle-free cruising, and understanding how things work upfront will help you maximize your experience and avoid common first-time mistakes.

This blog post is designed to be your step-by-step guide to ensure you’re fully prepared, comfortable, and ready to make the most of your first day at sea.

Don’t forget there is a VIDEO version of this blog post! You can watch it by clicking here or below!

1. Meet the Happenings Cast

The Happenings Cast is Virgin Voyages’ version of a cruise director team—but they’re much cooler than your typical cruise staff.

• They are in charge of entertainment, activities, and events throughout the sailing.
• As soon as you board, introduce yourself to them.
• They are often stationed at the entrance, greeting Sailors as they embark.
• They might invite you to secret events or exclusive activities if you get to know them.

Pro tip: The Happenings Cast gives out exclusive pins, but you have to earn them by attending their events and engaging with them.

2. Drop Your Bags & Check Out Your Cabin

Unlike other cruise lines where cabins aren’t ready until later in the day, your room is ready as soon as you board.

• Drop off your bags so you can start exploring comfortably.
• Your cabin steward will stop by to introduce themselves. LET THEM GIVE YOU A TOUR! It’s helpful!
• Set your room preferences right away, such as:
  • Bed configuration: If you need the beds separated, ask now.
  • Water type: Sparkling or still? You can request both.
  • Extra hangers or ice buckets: If needed, request them immediately.
  • Steamer rental: Irons aren’t allowed, but you can request a steamer to be loaned to you (for free).
  • Room tour: Ask for tips on using your cabin’s features, like the in-room tablet for lighting, A/C, and TV controls.

Pro tip: Before you leave your cabin, put the “Do Not Disturb” sign on so you won’t be interrupted later when you return to rest.

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3. Watch the Safety Video

Virgin Voyages makes safety drills quick and painless, but you must watch the safety video before checking in at your assigned muster station.

Once the video is watched, you’ll just check in at your designated muster station later.

Watch it on your cabin’s TV (this is the easiest way, instead of your phone).

The muster drill usually happens around 4:00 – 4:30 PM.

4. Connect to the Free Wi-Fi

Virgin Voyages provides free Wi-Fi for all Sailors, but the login process can be tricky. Here’s how to do it right:

1. Turn off your VPN (the app won’t work if it’s on).
2. Log in using your birthday & cabin number (if it doesn’t prompt for this, restart your device).
3. Manually visit the Wi-Fi login page if needed it’s www.vv-wifi.com

Bookmark important pages in the app, such as restaurant reservations, event bookings, and your daily schedule.

Watch: Want a Play-by-Play?

If you prefer a visual walkthrough, watch my YouTube video where I break down everything you need to do after boarding by clicking here or below!

OR if you’re just looking for some inspo! See the curated list of Amazon items I’ve put together (and use!) for Virgin Voyages.

5. Book Activities & Entertainment

While Virgin Voyages has moved to a more spontaneous cruising model, there are still some activities that require reservations:

• Workout classes (popular ones fill up fast)
• Some shows & entertainment (depends on your sailing)
• Special events like the Grog Walk (bar crawl) and Bubbles & Chicken (champagne & fried chicken party)

Check the app frequently—schedules may shift in the first few hours onboard.

6. Reserve Your Brunch & Dinners

Dining is a huge part of the Virgin Voyages experience, and while many reservations can be made in advance, you should confirm everything now.

• If you didn’t pre-book, reserve your brunches and dinners ASAP.
• If you need assistance, crew members sometimes set up a help desk in The Galley or Razzle Dazzle.

Pro tip: Book your dining 60 days in advance next time—especially if you book with me, since I have access to extra perks.

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Until I was proven wrong by a *TOP 100* Virgin Voyages travel agent who beat every price I compared.

Learn more by clicking here!

Not sure if we can get you the best deal? Learn more about us in Virgin Voyages Facebook group by clicking here!

Bottom Line:

• Put your phone in Airplane Mode – Avoid surprise roaming charges.

• Meet the Happenings Cast – They host the fun events & may invite you to secret shows.

• Drop your bags & meet your cabin steward – Set up bed preferences, ice, and borrow a steamer.

• Watch the safety video – Required before your muster check-in.

• Connect to Wi-Fi & book activities – Secure spots for workouts, shows, and events.

• Check your wallet in the app – Bar Tab & Sailor Loot take time to appear.

• Attend muster & take motion sickness meds – Do this before you feel sick.