- Richard’s Rooftop, the VIP lounge on board Virgin Voyages’ adults-only cruise ship, was my first stop.
- The lounge is exclusively for suite guests. It has beds with shade, swimming pools and a bar.
- Suites for two on a Mediterranean cruise lasting seven days cost between $8,000 to $20,000.
My first adults-only trip was a real treat. I felt like a star. As I lay on a large outdoor bed at the quietest part of the top deck and gazed out to the ocean, servers brought me ahi-tuna and frozen drinks.
Richard’s Rooftop is the VIP lounge aboard Virgin Voyages cruise ships. The adults-only cruise company’s exclusive hideaway, reserved for passengers in suites (known as “rockstars” to the cruise line), is reserved exclusively for passengers who stay in suites.
Prices can vary depending on ship, dates and itinerary. However, a Virgin Voyages representative told Business Insider that the entry-level rates for two suites on Mediterranean cruises in the summer of 2008 were around $8,000. Suites can cost as much as $20,000.
Although I did not book a suite on Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady, I was able to access the lounge for a seven-day Mediterranean Cruise in August 2023. It was the most relaxing area of the ship for me.
The rooftop lounge is located at Deck 16’s front.
Virgin Voyages granted Business Insider exclusive access to the lounge, which is normally reserved for guests of their VIP suites. Joey Hadden/Business Insider
Virgin Voyages claims that the lounge is named after and inspired by Virgin Group founder Richard Branson.
Passengers must scan their room keys to gain entry.
The space inside was awash with cabanas and pool chairs. There were also two whirlpools and hot tubs. I even saw several round loungers which felt like beds.
Iridescent glass dividers gave the white furniture a colourful touch. Tom Dixon’s designer created stunning details.
Crew members served the guests in their favourite spots. Each group of seats featured a menu with food and drinks for the rooftop bar.
The reporter is enjoying a virgin strawberry Daiquiri at Richard’s Rooftop. Joey Hadden/Business Insider
I ordered the non-alcoholic strawberry daiquiri and a tuna poké bowl. Both were delicious and refreshing.
There was enough space in the lounge to find a place where I could not hear or see anyone else.
The outdoor public spaces were more crowded, noisy, and shady than the VIP lounge.
The service was personal, and there were no crowds at the pools. Crew members visited guests frequently to check if they needed more refreshments.
Richard’s Rooftop, with its more private, peaceful vibe, was the only spot on the ship where I could lay in the sun while feeling like I was in my bed at the same time. It was the most relaxing part of the cruise.
If I had the money, I would consider upgrading to a Suite the next time I go on a Virgin Voyages cruise.
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