Skip to content
Ahoy, fellow cruisers and future Sailors! Welcome to the CamJon Travel blog, where we, as Virgin Voyages Gold Tier First Mates (that’s Virgin’s term for top travel advisors!), are excited to dive deep into Virgin Voyages’ refreshing approach to onboard beverages. If you’ve been searching for the “Virgin Voyages drink package” or comparing “Virgin cruise drinks package” options, let us introduce you to the smart and flexible Bar Tab system – a key part of the Virgin Voyages difference.
What is the Virgin Voyages Bar Tab? Ditching the Drink Package Dilemma
Unlike many cruise lines that push restrictive, often expensive “all-inclusive” drink packages, Virgin Voyages uses a prepaid beverage credit system called the Bar Tab. Think of it as putting money behind the bar before you even step onboard, but with a bonus boost from Virgin!
This system is designed for flexibility and fairness, aligning with Virgin’s overall value proposition which already includes essential drinks like filtered still and sparkling water, non-pressed juices, sodas (from a fountain dispenser), basic tea, and drip coffee in your voyage fare. Your Bar Tab is specifically for the premium stuff: handcrafted cocktails, global wines, craft beers, specialty coffees (like lattes and cappuccinos), fresh-pressed juices, smoothies, and even treating your mates.
Unlock Bonus Credit: Current Bar Tab Tiers (2025)
The real magic of the Bar Tab happens when you pre-purchase it before your voyage (at least 24 hours prior to sailing). Virgin rewards your planning with bonus onboard credit, stretching your beverage budget further. Here are the current tiers available as of early 2025:
| Purchase Amount | Bonus Credit | Total Credit to Spend |
|---|---|---|
| $200 | $25 | $225 |
| $300 | $50 | $350 |
| $500 | $100 | $600 |
| $750 | $175 | $925 |
| $1,000 | $250 | $1,250 |
To put that bonus into perspective, getting $225 to spend for just $200 is like getting roughly 2-3 extra cocktails or 5-6 extra specialty coffees for free, based on average prices. The $350 credit for a $300 purchase could equate to around 4-5 complimentary cocktails or nearly a dozen beers. The value increases with the higher tiers, making pre-planning even more rewarding.
A Note for Loyal Sailors: If you’re part of Virgin Voyages’ Sailing Club and hold Sea Blazer or Sea Rover status, you receive an enhanced bonus on the $300 Bar Tab purchase. Sea Blazers (sailed in 2021) get a $125 bonus (total $425 credit), and Sea Rovers (sailed frequently in 2022-23) get a $100 bonus (total $400 credit). This special loyalty bonus replaces the standard $50 bonus on the $300 tier for eligible sailors, often making the $300 purchase the best value proposition for them.
Bar Tab vs. The Competition: Flexibility Rules the Waves
How does the Virgin Voyages Bar Tab truly stack up against the traditional “cruise drinks package” offerings from major competitors? The key difference lies in philosophy and structure, often making the Bar Tab a more flexible and less pressured option.
- Flexibility & Sharing vs. Mandatory Purchase: The Bar Tab is optional and shareable. You buy what you think you’ll use for the cabin. Contrast this with Royal Caribbean’s Deluxe Package, Carnival’s CHEERS!, and Celebrity’s Classic/Premium packages, which typically require all adults (21+) in the same stateroom to purchase the package if one person does. This forces non-drinkers or light drinkers into potentially unnecessary expense. NCL’s More At Sea package also has this mandatory purchase rule for adults.
- Simple Credit vs. Daily Limits & Caps: The Bar Tab is a straightforward credit pool. You spend it as you go, on drinks of any price, until it runs out. Competitor packages often have daily per-person costs (ranging from $75 to over $100 per day, plus gratuities) and sometimes per-drink price caps. For example, Royal Caribbean’s Deluxe package often has a $14 limit per drink, Carnival’s CHEERS! has a $20 limit per drink and a strict 15 alcoholic drinks per day maximum, and Celebrity’s Classic and Premium packages have $10 and $17 limits respectively. While NCL recently removed their $15 cap, their package still involves a daily cost structure and mandatory gratuities. The Bar Tab’s lack of such restrictions offers greater freedom.
- Included Tips vs. Added Gratuities: Virgin Voyages includes tips in all menu prices, including drinks purchased with the Bar Tab. Most competitor packages require an additional 18-20% gratuity charge calculated on the *total retail value* of the package, adding a significant hidden cost. This makes the Bar Tab’s “what you see is what you pay” pricing more transparent and often more economical when comparing the final cost.
- Pressure-Free Sipping: Because the Bar Tab isn’t a daily “use it or lose it” package per person, there’s less psychological pressure to drink excessively just to maximize value. Sailors often appreciate the relaxed, pay-for-what-you-enjoy atmosphere this fosters.
While very heavy drinkers *might* find a break-even point on a competitor’s top-tier unlimited package, many cruisers prefer the overall Virgin Voyages experience, including the fairness and flexibility inherent in the Bar Tab system.
What Can You Spend Your Bar Tab On? Sip, Savor, and Share!
Your Virgin Voyages Bar Tab unlocks a wide world of premium beverages across the ship and even ashore at their private beach club.
Premium Drinks Galore
- Alcoholic Beverages: Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails (from classics to signatures), an extensive list of wines by the glass or bottle, and a diverse selection of draught, craft, and canned beers. Virgin prides itself on using premium spirits; you won’t find generic “house” brands here.
- Premium Non-Alcoholic Options: The Bar Tab isn’t just for alcohol! Use it for barista-made specialty coffees (lattes, cappuccinos, cold brews) at Grounds Club, fresh-pressed juices and smoothies often found at places like the Gym & Tonic bar, sophisticated mocktails available at most bars, energy drinks like Red Bull, bottled Kombucha, and even fun floats from the Social Club. This broad coverage makes the Bar Tab valuable even for light drinkers or those who enjoy high-quality non-alcoholic treats.
Where Can You Use It?
Your Bar Tab is valid at virtually every location serving drinks onboard, including all bars and lounges (like On the Rocks, Sip, Draught Haus, The Athletic Club Bar), all restaurants (for drinks with your meal), and even for drinks ordered via Ship Eats (room service). Crucially, it’s also accepted ashore at Virgin Voyages’ exclusive Beach Club at Bimini in the Bahamas. You can even use it to cover the optional drink pairings offered at the unique Test Kitchen restaurant or the $25 corkage fee if you choose to bring your own allowed wine bottles (up to two 750ml bottles per cabin) to dinner.
What’s Not Covered?
It’s important to remember the Bar Tab is exclusively for beverage purchases consumed onboard or at the Beach Club at Bimini. It cannot be used for purchasing retail items like bottles of wine or spirits to take home, merchandise from the ship’s shops, spa treatments, shore excursions (“Shore Things”), casino play, or any other non-beverage onboard expense.
Putting Prices in Perspective (Tips Included!)
To help you estimate how far your Bar Tab might go, here are some typical prices for popular Virgin Voyages drinks, keeping in mind that tips are always included in the listed price:
| Drink Category | Examples | Typical Price Range (USD, Tip Included) |
|---|---|---|
| Beer (Draught/Can/Bottle) | Heineken, Corona, Kalik, Craft Selections | $7 – $9+ |
| Basic Cocktail | Vodka Soda (Absolut), Rum & Coke (Bacardi), Gin & Tonic (Beefeater) | $9 – $11 |
| Premium/Signature Cocktail | Old Fashioned, Martini, Ship Specialties | $12 – $17+ |
| Wine by the Glass | Various Reds, Whites, Rosés | $7 – $22+ (Many under $11) |
| Specialty Coffee | Latte, Cappuccino, Espresso, Cold Brew | $3 – $5 |
| Fresh Juice / Smoothie | Made-to-order at Gym & Tonic, etc. | $6 – $9 |
What Real Sailors Think: Bar Tab Reviews & Experiences
Feedback from fellow Sailors consistently highlights appreciation for the Bar Tab’s core principles. Many love the freedom from mandatory package purchases and the lack of pressure to over-consume often associated with traditional unlimited plans. The ability to share the credit with cabin mates or treat friends is frequently praised, fostering a more social atmosphere. The value provided by the pre-purchase bonus and the fairness of the reasonably priced drinks (with tips included) are also common positive points.
However, it’s wise to consider a few points. Because the Bar Tab is non-refundable, accurately estimating your consumption is important to avoid leaving unused credit behind. Some cruisers, particularly those who received large promotional Bar Tabs in the past, mention overestimating their needs. While heavy drinkers might mathematically break even on a competitor’s package, many still prefer Virgin’s overall ambiance and the Bar Tab’s less regimented feel. It simply requires a slight shift in mindset from thinking “unlimited” to managing a flexible credit.
A Note on the “Drink Like a VIP” Unlimited Trial
You may have heard that Virgin Voyages has been testing an unlimited drink package called “Drink Like a VIP” on select sailings, primarily on the Valiant Lady during specific periods in 2025. This trial package costs around $95 per person, per night, has a $20 per-drink limit, and requires mandatory purchase by all adults in the cabin. It’s important to understand this is a limited trial and not the standard offering across the fleet. Sailor reactions to the trial have been mixed; some welcome the option, while others worry it might alter the unique Virgin vibe or devalue the standard Bar Tab system. For now, and for most voyages, the flexible, shareable Bar Tab remains the primary and defining way to handle premium Virgin Voyages drinks.
Pro Tips: Making the Most of Your Virgin Voyages Bar Tab
Ready to maximize your Bar Tab? Here are some expert tips from your Virgin Voyages specialists at CamJon Travel:
- Pre-Purchase is Non-Negotiable (for Bonus): We can’t stress this enough! Buy your Bar Tab at least 24 hours before you sail to lock in that valuable bonus credit. Waiting until you’re onboard means missing out on free spending money.
- Estimate Wisely, Seek Advice: Since it’s non-refundable, take a moment to realistically estimate your (and your cabin mates’) likely spending. Consider your voyage length, the number of sea days versus port days (especially if Bimini is included), and your usual habits. Feeling unsure how much Bar Tab you’ll need? That’s where expert advice helps! As Virgin Voyages specialists, CamJon Travel can help you estimate based on your specific cruise and preferences. Explore our personalized planning services at camjontravel.com/services.
- Track Your Sips: Stay informed about your remaining balance easily by using the Virgin Voyages Sailor App. Your current Bar Tab amount is typically displayed under the “My Wallet” section.
- Share Strategically: Embrace the social aspect! Use your tab to treat your travel companions or new acquaintances. If multiple people in your cabin buy tabs, remember you can link them via Sailor Services.
- Know the Prices (and Included Tips!): Familiarize yourself with the typical drink costs (refer back to our table in Section 6) to gauge how quickly you’re spending. And always remember, the price you see includes the tip!.
- Leverage Loyalty Perks: Don’t forget to factor in any Sailing Club benefits you might have, like the $100 Bar Tab credit for Deep Blue Extras or the complimentary daily specialty coffees, which can reduce the amount of purchased Bar Tab you need.
- Consider Bottles (Onboard Consumption Only): If you find yourself consistently ordering the same wine or spirit, ask about purchasing a full bottle at one of the bars. While you can’t take it home, consuming it onboard over several days might offer better value per drink compared to individual glasses.
Loyalty Pays: Sailing Club Perks for Drink Lovers
Virgin Voyages rewards its repeat Sailors through the Sailing Club, and several perks directly benefit your beverage enjoyment.
- Blue Extras (Earned after 2 sailings, enjoyed on voyages 3 & 4): Receive one complimentary specialty coffee per eligible Sailor per day (non-alcoholic options like lattes, cappuccinos from bars/Grounds Club, excludes room service) and an invitation to an exclusive onboard cocktail event.
- Deep Blue Extras (Earned after 4 sailings, enjoyed on voyages 5+): This top tier includes a valuable $100 promotional Bar Tab credit per eligible Sailor, per voyage. You also get two complimentary specialty coffees per day (same conditions as Blue Extras) and the cocktail event invitation. This $100 credit significantly impacts how much additional Bar Tab loyal Sailors might need.
- Status Match Program: New to Virgin but loyal to another cruise line? Virgin Voyages often runs a Status Match program. If you hold elite status with lines like Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, NCL, Carnival, Princess, and others (check Virgin’s site for the current list), you may be eligible to receive Blue Extras perks, including the daily specialty coffee, on your very first Virgin voyage. This is a fantastic way to get extra value right away.
- Legacy Sailor Bonuses: As mentioned earlier, Sea Blazers and Sea Rovers have specific, enhanced bonuses ($125 and $100 respectively) when they pre-purchase a $300 Bar Tab, replacing the standard $50 bonus for that tier.
Maximizing your loyalty perks can significantly boost your beverage budget! Booking your Virgin Voyage with a knowledgeable First Mate like CamJon Travel ensures your status is recognized, perks are applied correctly, and you might even access exclusive offers or additional Sailor Loot depending on current promotions. Check your eligibility or plan your next tier-qualifying cruise at camjontravel.com.
Virgin Voyages Bar Tab: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I buy a Bar Tab onboard?
A: Generally, no, not if you want the bonus credit. The bonus is tied to pre-purchasing at least 24 hours before sailing. While you can add funds to your onboard account, you typically won’t receive the extra value. There has been limited testing of terminal purchases, but pre-purchase is the rule.
Q: What happens if I don’t spend my entire Bar Tab?
A: The Bar Tab (both purchased and bonus amounts) is non-refundable. Any unused credit is forfeited at the end of the voyage. It’s best to estimate your spending realistically!.
Q: Are gratuities included when I use the Bar Tab?
A: Yes! Virgin Voyages includes all tips and gratuities in their overall pricing structure, including beverages. The price listed on the menu is the final price deducted from your Bar Tab – no surprise 18-20% additions.
Q: Can I use the Bar Tab for anything other than drinks?
A: No, the Bar Tab is specifically designated for beverage purchases onboard the ship and at The Beach Club at Bimini. It cannot be used for retail purchases (like bottles to take home), spa treatments, casino play, shore excursions (Shore Things), or other onboard services.
Q: Is there a limit to how much Bar Tab I can pre-purchase?
A: There’s no official maximum limit on the total amount of Bar Tab credit you can have. However, the bonus structure applies to specific purchase tiers, capping out with the $250 bonus on a $1000 purchase per transaction. Typically, only one bonus-eligible Bar Tab purchase can be made per cabin, but you can add more funds onboard without a bonus if needed.
Q: Can I use Bar Tab for the corkage fee if I bring my own wine?
A: Yes. If you bring your permitted two bottles of wine per cabin onboard and wish to enjoy them in a restaurant, the $25 corkage fee per bottle can be paid using your Bar Tab.
Q: How do I track my Bar Tab balance?
A: The easiest way is through the Virgin Voyages Sailor App. Your remaining balance is usually visible in the “My Wallet” section.
Q: Does the Bar Tab cover drinks ordered via Ship Eats (room service)?
A: Yes, premium beverages ordered through Ship Eats can be paid for using your Bar Tab.
Why Choose CamJon Travel for Your Virgin Voyage?
Planning a Virgin Voyages cruise involves unique elements like the Bar Tab system, distinct dining experiences, and specific loyalty perks. Navigating these details is easier with an expert by your side. At CamJon Travel, we aren’t generalists; we specialize in Virgin Voyages. As certified Gold Tier First Mates (Virgin’s term for top travel advisors), we have a deep understanding of the ships, the onboard vibe, and how to maximize your experience.
We believe in personalized service, taking the time to understand your preferences to craft a voyage that’s perfectly tailored to you. From helping you choose the right cabin and estimating your Bar Tab needs to booking dining reservations and arranging flights, hotels, and shore excursions, we handle the details so you can focus on the excitement. Our firsthand experience sailing with Virgin means we offer genuine insights, not just brochure information. Learn more about our passion for Virgin Voyages and our client-first approach on our About Us page. Booking with us often grants access to exclusive perks and rewards available only to CamJon VIPs.
Conclusion: Cheers to Flexible Sipping & Expert Planning!
Your search for a “Virgin Voyages drink package” has hopefully revealed something even better: the smart, sailor-centric Bar Tab system. It’s a refreshing departure from the often rigid and costly packages found elsewhere, built on principles of flexibility, choice, and fair value.
With bonus credits rewarding pre-planning, the freedom to share, reasonable drink prices with tips already included, and no pressure to conform to a specific drinking pattern, the Bar Tab enhances the unique, adults-only Virgin Voyages experience. So, when planning your Virgin Voyages drinks strategy, think Bar Tab!
Ready to experience the Virgin difference with the perfect beverage plan? Let the experts at CamJon Travel handle the details. As Gold Tier First Mates, we offer personalized service and insider knowledge to craft your unforgettable voyage. Visit camjontravel.com to explore itineraries, or head to our services page to see how we can elevate your trip. Let’s get you sailing!
This blog was updated with new information as of 4/10/2025.
