Virgin Voyages vs. Celebrity: Adults-Only Cool or Modern Luxury?
No kids. No formal nights. No buffet lines. A tattoo parlor on board and a drag brunch on Sunday. That's Virgin Voyages. Now picture a sleek ship with a rooftop garden, a world-class spa and dinners you'll talk about for weeks. That's Celebrity. Both are stylish, grown-up cruises, but their personalities couldn't be more different.
Quick answer: Choose Virgin Voyages for an adults-only, party-meets-boutique vibe with all restaurants included. Choose Celebrity for refined modern luxury, a calmer pace and the option to bring the whole family.
At a glance
| Virgin Voyages | Celebrity |
|---|---|---|
Who sails | Adults only (18+) | All ages, adult-leaning |
Fleet | 4 sister ships: Scarlet, Valiant, Resilient and Brilliant Lady | Larger fleet; Edge class including Celebrity Xcel |
Included | All 20+ restaurants, basic Wi-Fi, basic drinks, group fitness | Main dining; All Included fares add drinks and Wi-Fi |
Beach day | The Beach Club at Bimini | Traditional ports worldwide |
Daily gratuity | $20 prepaid or $22 onboard | $19.50 per person |
Best for | Couples, friends, nightlife lovers | Foodies, honeymooners, families with older kids |
Why people choose Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages rewrote the cruise playbook. The entire ship is adults only, every restaurant is included in your fare, and basic Wi-Fi, soft drinks and group fitness classes come standard. Entertainment is quirky and immersive rather than traditional production shows, and the vibe ranges from wellness mornings to late-night parties.
Caribbean sailings often stop at The Beach Club at Bimini, Virgin's laid-back beach destination. In 2026, Brilliant Lady added Virgin's first Alaska season, so the line now reaches well beyond the Caribbean and Mediterranean.
Why people choose Celebrity
Celebrity is modern luxury with a softer touch. Its Edge-class ships, including Celebrity Xcel, feature sleek design, a beautiful spa, great specialty dining and the Magic Carpet, a platform that moves along the side of the ship. It's ideal for romantic trips, food lovers and families with older kids who still want a calm, elegant vacation.
My take as your travel advisor
Virgin is a fantastic pick for couples and friend groups in their 30s to 50s who want energy and zero kids. Celebrity is my go-to for honeymoons, anniversaries and travelers who want a more traditional luxury feel. Price the two carefully: Virgin includes more up front, while Celebrity's All Included fares can close the gap.
Which should you book?
Choose Virgin Voyages if you want an adults-only ship, included dining and a fun, social atmosphere.
Choose Celebrity if you want refined luxury, a quieter pace or need to bring kids.
Frequently asked questions
Is Virgin Voyages all-inclusive? Not fully. Dining, basic drinks, basic Wi-Fi and fitness classes are included, but alcohol, excursions and gratuities cost extra.
Can kids sail on Virgin Voyages? No. All guests must be 18 or older.
Which is better for a honeymoon? Both work. Celebrity is more romantic and classic; Virgin is more playful and social.
Planning a grown-up getaway? I'll compare Virgin Voyages and Celebrity sailings with every perk priced in, at no extra cost. Get your free quote or call or text (618) 772-9206.
Glenn Sunnquist
Owner, SIX18 Travel LLC
Certified Travel Advisor
CLIA Member
Cruise & Resort Vacation Specialist





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