Why Gen Z is Ditching Resorts for Virgin Voyages

The travel landscape is shifting. For Gen Z, the generation that values authentic experiences over cookie-cutter packages, the tired all-inclusive resort just isn’t cutting it anymore. They’re trading predictable buffets and family-filled pools for something with more style, more substance, and more value. They’re looking for a vacation that’s not just a trip, but a vibe. And in 2025, they’re finding it at sea with Virgin Voyages.

This isn’t your grandparents’ cruise. Virgin Voyages has ripped up the rulebook, creating a floating boutique hotel experience that speaks directly to the desires of a younger, savvier traveler. It’s a world where design is deliberate, freedom is paramount, and the experience is everything. From its tech-forward approach to its unbeatable value, here’s the breakdown of why Gen Z is ditching land vacations and flocking to Virgin Voyages.

The Vibe is Everything: An Adults-Only Playground

Let’s start with the game-changer: Virgin Voyages is strictly 18+. This isn’t just about creating a space to party (though you can definitely do that); it’s about curating a consistently sophisticated and contemporary atmosphere. There are no kids’ clubs or children splashing in the pool—just chic, thoughtfully designed spaces where you can connect with like-minded people.

This adults-only policy allows for a different kind of freedom. The entertainment is edgier, the conversations are more engaging, and the overall ambiance is just… cooler. You can relax in a hammock on your Sea Terrace, sip a cocktail at a stylish lounge, or dance the night away at a themed party without the distractions of a family resort. It’s a space designed for adults to be themselves, creating a relaxed, “chill” vibe that feels both luxurious and laid-back.

Gram-Worthy by Design: Your Floating Boutique Hotel

For a generation that documents life in stunning visuals, aesthetics matter. Virgin Voyages understood the assignment. The ships are masterpieces of modern, yacht-inspired design, created by a collective of world-renowned designers who had never worked on cruise ships before. The result? Every corner is an Instagram-worthy moment waiting to happen.

Forget gaudy carpets and dated decor. Think sleek lines, transformational spaces that shift from day to night, and vibrant art installations. From the iconic red hammocks on the Sea Terrace balconies to the futuristic look of The Test Kitchen restaurant and the dazzling entryway of The Manor nightclub, the ship itself is a core part of the experience. This isn’t just a way to get from one port to another; it’s a floating boutique hotel designed to be seen, shared, and experienced.

No Hidden Fees, Just Good Times: The Value Proposition

Gen Z is financially savvy. They demand transparency and hate the feeling of being “nickeled and dimed.” This is where Virgin Voyages’ “Always Included Luxury” model becomes a massive draw. The price you see is largely the price you pay, with over $1,000 in value bundled into every fare.

Here’s what’s always included:

• All 20+ Eateries: No specialty dining upcharges. Ever. From the upscale steak and seafood at The Wake to the lively Korean BBQ at Gunbae, it’s all on the house.
• Essential Drinks: Still and sparkling water, non-pressed juices, sodas, teas, and drip coffee are complimentary.
• All Gratuities: Tips for the incredible crew are already taken care of.
• Unlimited WiFi: Basic WiFi is included, so you can stay connected and post that perfect sunset shot without racking up insane fees.
• Group Fitness Classes: All group workouts—from sunrise yoga and bungee classes to 80s-themed aerobics—are included.

This transparent pricing model removes the financial anxiety that can ruin a vacation. You can explore, indulge, and enjoy yourself without constantly doing mental math or worrying about a shocking bill at the end of your trip. For a generation that values smart spending, this straightforward approach is a breath of fresh air.

Tech-Forward & Seamless: A Vacation on Your Terms

As digital natives, Gen Z expects technology to make life easier, and their vacation is no exception. Virgin Voyages is built with a tech-forward mindset that delivers a seamless, personalized experience.

It starts with The Band, a sleek, wearable bracelet that acts as your room key, wallet, and ship ID. In your cabin, a tablet controls everything from the mood lighting and curtains to requesting fresh towels. And the Virgin Voyages App is your command center for the entire voyage—you use it to book dining reservations, sign up for fitness classes, and see what’s happening around the ship. This level of integration puts you in complete control, letting you curate your vacation on your own terms, right from your phone.

Experiences Over Things: Memories That Last

More than any generation before, Gen Z prioritizes spending on experiences rather than material goods. A vacation has to be more than just a pretty place; it has to be a story worth telling. Virgin Voyages delivers this in spades with unique experiences you simply can’t find anywhere else.

• Get Inked at Sea: Want the ultimate souvenir? Squid Ink is the first-ever tattoo parlor on a cruise ship, featuring world-class guest artists.
• Entertainment That Engages: Say goodbye to tired Broadway revues. Virgin’s entertainment is immersive and interactive. Shows like Duel Reality and parties like the legendary, ship-wide Scarlet Night are events you become a part of.
• A Vibe for Every Mood: You can belt out tunes in a private karaoke booth at The Groupie, play free retro games in The Arcade, or just chill out at the vinyl record shop, Voyage Vinyl.
• Wellness Your Way: The “detox and retox” philosophy is woven into the fabric of the ship. You can start your day with an intense HIIT class (included) and end it with a handcrafted cocktail, finding your perfect balance.

A Smarter, More Conscious Way to Travel

Finally, Virgin Voyages resonates with Gen Z’s desire to align their spending with their values. The brand’s commitment to sustainability—like banning single-use plastics and using smart tech to conserve energy—is a major plus for environmentally conscious travelers. It’s a chance to have an incredible vacation while feeling good about the company you’re supporting.

From its Instagrammable design and adults-only freedom to its transparent value and tech-savvy approach, Virgin Voyages is perfectly in sync with the priorities of the modern Gen Z traveler. It’s more than a vacation; it’s an experience, a community, and a vibe. And in 2025, it’s the only place to be.