Does Virgin Voyages Have a Drink Package?
Virgin Voyages does not offer a traditional drink package. Instead, Virgin offers what they call “Bar Tab”, a pre-purchased credit for premium drinks. Bar Tab can be purchased before your cruise in increments of $100 with bonus bar credit for additional drinks.
Bar Tab can used for a wide range of beverages onboard the ship and at Virgin Voyages’ exclusive private destination, The Beach Club at Bimini including bottles of wine, wine by the glass, cocktails and mocktails, beer, specialty coffee, smoothies, and pressed juices.
Bar Tab is shareable with friends for a social experience, but unused credits are not refundable.
Pre-purchasing bar tab ensures budget management, hassle-free enjoyment, and the opportunity to try new drinks with bonus bar tab credit.
Virgin Voyages includes essential drinks in the cost of the cruise fare, which means water (sparkling water too!), soft drinks, non-pressed juices, and drip coffee are complimentary.
Are We At Sea drink in the On The Rocks bar onboard Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages has been making waves in the cruise industry, positioning itself as a game-changer for modern travelers. With its adult-focused itineraries, cutting-edge design, and a no-tipping necessary policy, it promises an experience like no other on the high seas. Among its unique offerings, the Bar Tab feature stands out as a hallmark of Virgin Voyages' commitment to convenience, luxury, and fun. Although this is a departure from the unlimited drinks package found of many other cruise lines, let's dive into why you may actually prefer the Bar Tab approach for your next Virgin Voyages cruise.
What is the Bar Tab?
At its core, the Bar Tab is prepaid beverage credit designed exclusively for use on premium beverages like bottles of wine, wine by the glass, cocktails, beer, non-alcoholic drinks, speciality coffee, smoothies, and pressed juices throughout your journey on the cruise ship and the Bimini Beach Club. Unlike traditional drink packages offered by other cruise lines, Virgin Voyages adds a touch of luxury by giving guests the freedom to explore an extensive menu of drinks without hassle. To sweeten the deal, Virgin Voyages offers a bonus bar credit on every Bar Tab purchase, enhancing the value and allowing passengers to sip a little more luxury at no extra cost.
How Does Bar Tab Work?
How Do I Pre-Purchase Bar Tab?
Acquiring a Bar Tab is as easy as it is convenient. Sailors can purchase their Bar Tab through the Virgin Voyages app by accessing 'My Account' on the Virgin Voyages website, or by reaching out to your trusted travel agent or “First Mate”. Available in increments of $100, $200, or $300, each purchase level comes with its own bonus amount, adding $10, $25, or $50, respectively, to your Bar Tab balance.
How Do I Use Bar Tab?
The Bar Tab is your key to unlocking an array of alcoholic beverages and other drink options on board and at The Beach Club at Bimini. From artisanal cocktails, fine wines, and craft beers to specialty coffees, fresh pressed juices, and even non-alcoholic options, the Bar Tab covers all drink purchases. Exclusive offerings like bottomless brunch, the cheeky Shake for Champagne service, and corkage fees for personal bottles are also included, ensuring every drink desire is just a request away. However, it's important to note that the Bar Tab cannot be used for purchasing duty-free bottles of liquor or covering non-drink related expenses. One of the best parts of cruising with Virgin Voyages is that many amenities that other cruise lines have an extra charge for are included in the cost of your cruise fare. Virgin includes: basic drinks on board — water, soft drinks, non-pressed juices, and drip coffee; group fitness classes, basic WiFi, and tips.
How Much Do Premium Drinks Cost?
Below are the average drink prices, which include a tip, for alcoholic and premium beverages onboard Virgin’s ships:
Beer, $6-$7
Cocktails, $11
Glass of Wine, $11
Speciality Coffee, $4
Cold-pressed Juice or Smoothie: $10
(Please note: Drink offerings may vary and the above list is just an average estimate for a premium alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink cost.)
Can I Share my Bar Tab? Is Bar Tab Refundable?
Virgin Voyages understands that cruising is often a social experience. Therefore, they've made it possible for you to share your Bar Tab with friends or other passengers, making it easier to enjoy your favorite drinks on board with new acquaintances without fretting over the bill. If you need to share the bar tab on your booking with another person in your cabin, just pop down to Sailor Services and ask them to merge your on board spending. It's worth mentioning that unused Bar Tab credits are not refundable at the end of the voyage, encouraging guests to fully embrace the array of beverages offered.
What are the Benefits of Pre-Purchasing a Virgin Voyages Bar Tab?
Financial - The most immediate benefit of pre-purchasing your Bar Tab is financial. By setting aside a budget for drinks, you can better manage your overall vacation expenses. The added bonus credit also means you get more bang for your buck, allowing for an extra toast (or two) on the house.
Convenience - Having your Bar Tab sorted before stepping aboard ensures a seamless start to your vacation. It keeps the focus on enjoyment rather than tracking your spending. This convenience factor is a significant enhancement to the overall experience.
Social - Virgin Voyages cruises are social by design, and the Bar Tab feature complements this perfectly. The ease of sharing your Bar Tab fosters a welcoming, communal atmosphere, making it easier to connect with fellow travelers over a shared love for premium alcoholic drinks or mocktails and good company. Many travelers prefer this approach over traditional drink packages offered on other cruise lines, which requires both people in a cabin to purchase the drink package.
What Happens if I Spend All of my Pre-Paid Bar Tab?
Any purchases of bar drinks above and beyond what you have pre-paid will be charged to the credit card linked to your Sailor account. You will simply use your Sailor bracelet or “wearable” as Virgin called them to scan for your drink as normal. You can check your Sailor account with the Virgin Voyages app while onboard to see charges, remaining bar credit, and other credits like Sailor Loot.
What are the Top Tips for Maximizing Bar Tab?
To make the most of your Bar Tab, consider experimenting with new beverages you might not typically choose. The inclusive nature of the Bar Tab means you can explore without the risk of wasting money on drinks you don't enjoy. Additionally, attend special events like the bottomless brunch or themed tastings to experience the best value and variety. Keep an eye on your Bar Tab balance through the app to ensure you use the full amount without exceeding your limit.
Virgin Voyages' Bar Tab is more than just a convenient way to enjoy drinks on your cruise; it's a testament to the brand's commitment to creating a carefree, luxurious, and highly social vacation experience. With the added value of bonus credits and the flexibility it offers, the Bar Tab is an essential component of the Virgin Voyages adventure.
Reach out here for the most lucrative offer available: $300 off the cruise fare and $600 in Sailor Loot onboard credit on Sea Terrace cabins and above (Lock It In rate and Limited View excluded). This deal must be booked directly with Curated by Laura Poe, so reach out before this offer sails away!
