Scarlet Lady

Scarlet Lady is a cruise ship operated by Virgin Voyages and was the first ship in the cruise line's fleet. Delivered by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri in February 2020, she entered service in 2021 and carries around 2,770 guests, placing her in the mid sized category. Her planned debut was delayed by the COVID 19 pandemic, with her first official sailing taking place later than originally intended.

Scarlet Lady is exclusively for adults aged 18 and over, reflecting Virgin Voyages' approach to cruising. Her design takes inspiration from superyachts and contemporary hotels, with interiors created by a group of architecture and design studios including Roman and Williams, Tom Dixon's Design Research Studio, Concrete Amsterdam and Softroom. The result is a collection of spaces that feel more like individual venues than traditional cruise ship rooms.

Dining is one of the ship's defining features. There is no formal main dining room or assigned seating, and dining venues are included in the cruise fare. More than 20 options range from a panini shop, bakery and pastry counter to a taco venue, noodle bar, burger grill and sushi restaurant. A 24 hour American diner provides another casual choice, while Wake is a steak and seafood restaurant at the aft of the ship, with views over the wake.

Entertainment includes theatre productions, smaller live performances, a nightclub and a record shop. The ship also has pools, a spa, fitness facilities and group activities, giving guests plenty of ways to spend their time between meals and shows. Virgin Voyages also places emphasis on reducing waste, with food prepared to order and no traditional buffet restaurants.

Accommodation follows the contemporary style found throughout the ship. Around 86 per cent of cabins have balconies, while about 93 per cent offer an ocean view. The choice includes balcony cabins, oceanview and interior rooms, along with suites for guests wanting more space.

Scarlet Lady suits adults looking for a cruise with a relaxed dress code, varied dining and a different approach to traditional shipboard entertainment. The adults only setting and wide choice of restaurants and social spaces make her particularly appealing to couples, friends and solo travellers seeking a more contemporary cruise atmosphere.