Scarlet Lady vs. Valiant Lady: The Ultimate Comparison
When it comes to Virgin Voyages’ stunning cruise ships, the Scarlet Lady and Valiant Lady stand out as two top-tier contenders. Both ships promise unforgettable experiences, but which one should you choose for your next voyage? I’ve done the legwork, diving into user reviews, forums, and competitor insights to give you a complete comparison of these two sister ships. Let’s break it down step by step to help you decide which ship is the ultimate winner for your style of travel.
1. Ship Sizes and Capacities
Both ships are nearly identical in size and layout, being part of Virgin Voyages’ Lady Class fleet. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Scarlet Lady | Valiant Lady |
|---|---|---|
| Gross Tonnage | 110,000 GT | 110,000 GT |
| Length | 278 meters | 278 meters |
| Passenger Capacity | 2,770 sailors | 2,770 sailors |
| Crew | 1,160 crew members | 1,160 crew members |
Winner: Tie
The Scarlet Lady and Valiant Lady are identical in size and capacity, offering the same intimate yet lively atmosphere.
2. Itineraries and Destinations
The itineraries are where these two ships start to diverge:
- Scarlet Lady: Primarily sails from Miami, offering short Caribbean trips to destinations like Bimini (Bahamas), Key West, and Cozumel.
- Valiant Lady: Sails from Barcelona (summer) and Miami (winter), offering Mediterranean itineraries with stops in Ibiza, Cannes, and Toulon, plus Caribbean routes in the winter months.
Winner: Valiant Lady
While the Scarlet Lady focuses exclusively on the Caribbean, the Valiant Lady’s Mediterranean itineraries add a unique flair for those seeking European adventures.
3. Cabin Differences
Scarlet Lady:
- Cabin Features: Modern cabin design with smart technology, mood lighting, and convertible beds. Most cabins include a balcony with a hammock.
- Best Cabins: “RockStar” suites offer expansive spaces, premium amenities, and exclusive access to private areas.
- Considerations: Standard cabins are noted to be compact but efficiently designed.
Valiant Lady:
- Cabin Features: Similar to Scarlet Lady, with contemporary aesthetics, smart controls, and balconies equipped with hammocks.
- Best Cabins: “Mega RockStar” suites provide luxurious accommodations with added perks like personal assistants and exclusive deck access.
- Considerations: Some guests mention that standard cabins, while stylish, can feel small for extended stays. Condé Nast Traveler
Pricing:
Prices vary based on itinerary, season, and cabin selection. For accurate pricing, it’s recommended to consult Virgin Voyages’ official website or contact a travel advisor.
User Verdicts:
Travelers commend the chic design and innovative features of the cabins. The hammocks on balconies are a favorite among guests. However, some note that standard cabins may feel compact, suggesting that those desiring more space consider suite options.
4. Shore Excursions
Shore Excursions on Scarlet Lady:
- Bimini Beach Club: Exclusive beach club with vibrant entertainment and relaxing vibes.
- Cozumel Cultural Tour: Explore Mayan ruins and enjoy authentic local cuisine.
- Puerto Plata Adventure: Visit iconic landmarks, ride the cable car, and sample local food.
Bonus: Here are the top excursions for Scarlet Lady that you should not miss
Shore Excursions on Valiant Lady:
- Marseille Historical Walk: Stroll through historic districts and local markets.
- Cannes Coastal Cruise: Scenic boat ride along the French Riviera.
- Mallorca Wine Tasting: Tour vineyards with guided wine tastings.
- Ibiza Nightlife Experience: VIP access to Ibiza’s iconic nightlife spots.
| Category | Scarlet Lady | Valiant Lady |
|---|---|---|
| Best for Relaxation | Beach Club at Bimini | Ibiza Sunset Parties |
| Best for Culture | Mayan Ruins (Mexico) | French Vineyards |
| Adventure Highlights | Snorkeling, diving | Scenic hikes |
User Feedback and Considerations
While many travelers have positive experiences with Virgin Voyages’ shore excursions, some have noted discrepancies between the advertised descriptions and the actual experiences. Discussions on forums like Cruise Critic mention that certain excursions did not meet expectations, leading to disappointment.
Additionally, a YouTube review titled “MISLED & OVERPRICED? Virgin Voyages Shore Excursions” discusses instances where excursions were perceived as overpriced or not as described.
4. Recommendations
- Research Thoroughly: Before booking, review detailed descriptions and seek out recent traveler reviews to ensure the excursion aligns with your interests.
- Manage Expectations: Be aware that some excursions may differ from their descriptions; consider reaching out to Virgin Voyages or past participants for clarification.
- Explore Alternatives: If an excursion seems questionable, consider independent tours or exploring the port city on your own to tailor the experience to your preferences.
By carefully selecting and planning your shore excursions, you can enhance your cruise experience aboard the Scarlet Lady or Valiant Lady, ensuring memorable and fulfilling adventures at each destination.
Winner: Valiant Lady
While both ships excel, the Valiant Lady’s diverse Mediterranean offerings give it an edge.
5. Pricing
Pricing varies by season, destination, and cabin type. Here’s a general comparison:
- Scarlet Lady: Caribbean cruises start at around $800 per person for a 4-night trip.
- Valiant Lady: Mediterranean itineraries are slightly pricier, starting at $1,200 per person for a 7-night trip.
Winner: Scarlet Lady
If budget is a concern, the Scarlet Lady’s shorter Caribbean routes offer more affordability.
6. Dining Experiences
Virgin Voyages is renowned for its dining innovations. Both ships share the same incredible array of restaurants, with no additional charges for specialty dining.
Highlights:
- The Wake: A glamorous steak and seafood restaurant.
- Razzle Dazzle: Vegetarian-forward dishes with a playful twist.
- Gunbae: The first Korean BBQ at sea.
- Test Kitchen: Experimental and Instagram-worthy meals.
Winner: Tie
The culinary offerings are identical on both ships, ensuring world-class dining regardless of your choice.
7. Entertainment and Nightlife
Scarlet Lady:
- The Manor: A two-level venue inspired by 1970s punk, serving as a bar, theater, and nightclub. It hosts various performances and late-night dance parties.
- The Red Room: An innovative, shape-shifting theater that accommodates different configurations for diverse shows, including acrobatic performances and interactive productions.
- Happenings: Unscheduled improv acts and performances by the crew occur throughout the ship, adding spontaneity to the experience.
- Scarlet Night: A signature themed party where guests are encouraged to wear red, featuring music, dancing, and poolside festivities.
Valiant Lady:
- The Manor: Similar to Scarlet Lady, this venue offers dynamic performances and transforms into a nightclub with live DJs.
- The Red Room: Hosts unique shows, including acrobatic retellings of classic stories and interactive theater experiences.
- Scarlet Night: A lively event featuring music, dancing, and pool parties, encouraging guests to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere.
User Verdicts:
Guests appreciate the innovative and diverse entertainment options on both ships. The absence of traditional Broadway-style shows is noted, with a preference for more interactive and contemporary performances. The Manor and The Red Room receive praise for their unique designs and engaging shows.
Winner: Valiant Lady
The additional regional touches in entertainment give the Valiant Lady a slight edge.
8. Family-Friendly vs. Adults-Only
Both ships maintain Virgin Voyages’ signature adults-only policy, catering exclusively to travelers aged 18+.
Winner: Tie
Perfect for couples, solo travelers, and groups of friends seeking a child-free experience.
9. Rewards and Loyalty Points
Virgin Voyages’ Sailor Loot loyalty program applies to both ships equally, offering onboard credits and perks for repeat sailors.
Winner: Tie
No differences in loyalty benefits.
Onboard Amenities
Both Ships:
- Dining: Approximately 20 eateries with diverse cuisines, all included in the fare. Notable venues include The Wake (steak and seafood), Razzle Dazzle (vegetarian-forward), Gunbae (Korean BBQ), and The Test Kitchen (experimental dining).
- Wellness: The Redemption Spa offers hydrotherapy pools, mud rooms, salt caves, and a sauna. Fitness facilities include gyms, outdoor workout areas, and group classes like yoga and Pilates.
- Unique Features: Both ships boast an onboard tattoo parlor, The Brig (a walk-the-plank experience), and The Athletic Club with a boxing ring and oversized gaming areas.
User Verdicts:
Guests highlight the exceptional quality and variety of dining options, appreciating the absence of traditional buffets. The wellness facilities receive positive feedback for their comprehensive offerings. Unique amenities like the tattoo parlor add an unconventional flair that resonates with many travelers.
Suggestions:
- Entertainment: Engage with the diverse shows and participate in themed nights for a memorable experience.
- Cabins: If space is a priority, consider upgrading to a suite. Utilize the smart features to customize your environment.
- Amenities: Explore the various dining venues to fully appreciate the culinary diversity. Take advantage of the wellness classes and unique onboard activities to enrich your voyage.
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Size and Capacity | Tie |
| Itineraries | Valiant Lady |
| Shore Excursions | Valiant Lady |
| Pricing | Scarlet Lady |
| Dining | Tie |
| Entertainment | Valiant Lady |
| Family-Friendly Policy | Tie |
| Rewards | Tie |
If you’re drawn to the Caribbean and want a budget-friendly option, the Scarlet Lady is your go-to. However, if you crave Mediterranean charm and diverse excursions, the Valiant Lady takes the crown.
Sources
- Virgin Voyages Official Website: https://www.virginvoyages.com
- Cruise Critic User Reviews: https://www.cruisecritic.com
- Reddit Cruise Forums: https://www.reddit.com/r/cruise
