My First Adults-Only Cruise: A $6,000 Indulgence Worth Every Penny

Intrigued by the prospect of a quieter cruise experience without the youthful exuberance of children, I decided to embark on a luxurious voyage with Virgin Voyages, a cruise line catering exclusively to adults.

This Mediterranean adventure, featuring a seven-day itinerary, came with a price tag of roughly $5,900, courtesy of a media rate provided to Business Insider.

Our journey began in Barcelona aboard the Valiant Lady, a vessel designed for up to 2,700 guests, and carried us to picturesque locations in Italy, France, and Spain.

Even now, two years later, I still find myself reminiscing about the opulent highlights that justified the expense.

A Visual Feast: The Ship's Art-Inspired Layout

The impressive 912-foot vessel boasted 17 decks, each filled with elegantly appointed staterooms, diverse dining venues, and engaging activities.

Each area exuded an air of sophistication, with stylish furnishings, eye-catching sculptures, and vibrant lighting.

The ship's design echoed the brand's hallmark bold red, complemented by equally daring hues of pink, green, blue, and purple, with many areas showcasing shimmering, iridescent surfaces lending a glamorous on-board ambiance.

Walking through the ship felt as though I was traversing an extravagant exhibition of contemporary art, presenting countless opportunities for photos that captured the essence of feeling pampered.

A Cabin That Embodied Luxury and Comfort

I opted for a mid-range cabin featuring a sea-facing terrace, priced at $5,910. More lavish than a porthole room but not quite a suite.

The 225-square-foot space impressed me with its open feel, featuring space-efficient design and chic modern decor that mirrored the communal areas.

Notable features included a sectional sofa that could be transformed into a plush queen-sized bed, and a cleverly concealed closet providing ample storage.

Upscale touches like a rainfall shower, and tablet-operated lights, curtains, and entertainment added to the feeling of luxury.

The Terrace: My Personal Haven

Initially, my sole desire was a panoramic vista to enjoy a gentle breeze, yet the terrace surpassed these expectations.

It provided two chairs, a small table, and a hammock that encouraged relaxation as I watched the sun dip below the horizon, admired passing islands, and previewed each port before disembarking.

A Tranquil Oasis: Adults-Only Spaces

Virgin Voyages exclusively hosts guests aged 18 and over. Traveling with a partner and unfettered by children, I relished the serene pool decks, leisurely dining experiences, and entertainment tailored to mature tastes.

The experience was precisely the tranquil retreat I sought.

Unexpected Entertainment: Fun for Adults

The ship offered plenty of recreational options for adults, with inviting indoor spaces dedicated to board games, puzzles, and nostalgic arcade games.

Outside, guests could choose between two large swimming pools and several smaller plunge pools.

I was particularly charmed by an adult-oriented playground featuring oversized swings, seesaws, and more—a delightful throwback to childhood pastimes sans children.

Adjacent to the playground, vintage-inspired fitness gear, including a boxing ring and martial arts equipment, provided a unique exercise experience that felt more like fun than exertion.

Port Stops: A Blend of the Familiar and the Unexpected

The cruise gave us access to a diverse array of Mediterranean port stops, each offering distinct attractions.

Of particular note was Marina di Carrara in Italy, where I toured the famed marble quarries once used by masters like Michelangelo.

Ibiza, however, was the most surprising stop. Renowned for its vibrant nightlife, it also revealed its historical charm, with its intricate old town, cobblestone streets, and extensive 16th-century fortifications.

At the Bastion of Santa Lucia, during the trip's last sunset, I was enveloped in a fairy-tale ending that concluded with an emotional appreciation of both the destinations and the unforgettable cruise.

Reflecting on the journey, the investment was immensely gratifying, and the longing for another Virgin Voyages cruise remains strong.