Frequently Asked Questions

No — the ship itself is not alcohol-free. Virgin Voyages operates normally, with bars and alcohol available as usual. However, our group experience is alcohol-free by intention and design. Many guests join us sober, but some may bring partners or friends who still drink. That's completely fine — we simply ask that anyone who does drink is mindful and respectful when in the group environment, particularly at meals, meet-ups and shared activities. The aim is a relaxed, comfortable space where alcohol isn't central. Furthermore, all soft drinks, sodas, still and sparkling water are free on Virgin Voyages, making sober travel genuinely easy and enjoyable.

Yes. Friends or partners who drink are welcome, with the understanding that the group is alcohol-free. Being mindful during group moments allows everyone to enjoy the holiday without pressure.

No — and intentionally so. This trip isn't about sessions or step work. It's travel, freedom, and joy. For many, the most meaningful part of sobriety is simply living well — laughter, sunshine, new places, new memories — proving that life doesn't need alcohol to be extraordinary. However, there will be daily 'Friends of Bill W' meetings on the ship.

Because this is sobriety in action — no worksheets, no therapy rooms, just real life done beautifully. This trip is about presence, fun, adventure, connection and rest. It's the next chapter after doing the work: actually enjoying your life. No alcohol, no pressure, new friendships and fresh mornings.

Warm, inclusive, and relaxed. Social but grounded. Great conversations, good humour, meaningful connection — without the chaos of alcohol. You can join group activities or take quiet time whenever you like. No intensity, no judgement — just a friendly community.

People who are alcohol-free or curious about it. Those in or beyond sobriety who want a holiday that celebrates life, not drinking. Anyone who wants sunshine, travel, friendship, clarity and a trip where mornings are fresh and memories are real.

If you've ever mentioned "Virgin Voyages" to someone in sobriety, you've probably seen the eyebrow raise. Virgin? Isn't that the cruise line with the nightclub at sea? The drag shows? The cheeky branding? Yes… and that's exactly why it's one of the best choices for a sober-friendly cruise. Virgin Voyages has a reputation for being lively, bold, and a bit mischievous — but underneath the sass is one of the most balanced, wellness-forward, and sober-supportive cruise experiences at sea. Here's why. 1. No Drinks Package: A Game-Changer for Sober Travellers Most cruise lines push drinks packages harder than life insurance policies at a family BBQ. Virgin, however, said no thanks. There's no unlimited alcohol package — which dramatically changes the energy on board. Guests aren't racing to "get their money's worth," there's no culture of excess, and the ship feels calmer, more respectful, and noticeably more mature. Alcohol is available, of course, but it's just… there. Not the centre of the universe. This one design choice alone makes Virgin far more comfortable for anyone who doesn't drink. 2. Free Soft Drinks and Great Non-Alcoholic Options Sober guests often get stuck with flat cola or tap water. Virgin flips the script. Every sailing includes unlimited still and sparkling water, sodas and tonics, barista-style teas, filtered drip coffee, and a wide selection of mocktails. You never feel like sobriety is an afterthought. You're catered for — automatically, consistently, and without having to explain yourself. 3. A Truly Diverse, Inclusive Crowd Virgin Voyages attracts a wonderfully eclectic group of Sailors: wellness travellers, food lovers, LGBTQ+ guests, professionals looking for a break, solo adventurers, and couples on a chill getaway. Because the ship isn't family-oriented and doesn't have hard-sell drinking packages, the guest mix naturally skews more adult, more mindful, and more respectful. You'll meet people who are there to explore, connect, and enjoy themselves — not to blackout by 2pm. The crew mirrors this diversity. They come from everywhere, bring stacks of personality, and create a culture that feels warm, relaxed, and judgement-free. 4. One of the Best Wellness Programmes at Sea Virgin Voyages leans heavily into health — and not in a "eat this sad lettuce" kind of way. Expect sunrise and sunset yoga, meditation classes, boxing, strength training, free group fitness, a gorgeous gym with actual space, healthy dining options (and very good ones), infrared saunas, thermal spas, and salt rooms. You can build a full wellness retreat right into your cruise schedule. A sober cruise doesn't need to be about avoiding triggers — it can be about thriving. Virgin makes that easy. 5. Entertainment That Isn't Built Around Booze Virgin's nightlife and entertainment are clever, creative, and often hilariously quirky — but they're not alcohol-powered. You get award-winning shows, drag entertainment, immersive theatre, pop-up performances, silent discos, late-night comedy, and the famous Scarlet Night. You can participate, dance, laugh, and enjoy it all without ever feeling pressured to drink. The culture is "do what feels good," not "do what everyone else is doing." 6. A Mature Vibe: Adults Only (18+) The absence of families and kids has a profound ripple effect: No "drunk dads at the pool bar," no spring-break frenzy, no endless sugary cocktails catered to teenagers, and no loud, chaotic energy. The ship feels grown-up, stylish, and calm — perfect for people who want fun without the chaos. 7. A Culture of Choice — Not Pressure This is the real magic of Virgin: There's zero pressure to drink, and zero judgement if you do or don't. Your sobriety isn't a conversation topic. It isn't a curiosity. It's simply respected. Virgin Voyages isn't a "sober cruise" by design — and that's what makes it work so well for sober and sober-curious travellers. The environment is healthy, inclusive, balanced, and modern. You can have a fulfilling, joyful, relaxing holiday without feeling like you need to justify your choices. In Short: Virgin Voyages Is Fun — But Not Chaotic. If you want a lively but respectful atmosphere, wellness and balance, entertainment that isn't alcohol-led, good food, good vibes, and no kids, plus a place where sobriety is simply normal — Virgin Voyages is a brilliant fit. It's the perfect blend of fun, freedom, and grown-up energy — without the pushy drinking culture you find on many mainstream cruise lines. A sober cruise doesn't need to be quiet, dull, or beige. With Virgin, it can be vibrant, memorable, and deeply restorative.

This is a travel experience built on clarity, connection and good energy. To help everyone feel comfortable and supported, we ask all guests to agree to the following: 1. We are a sober-centred group. The cruise ship itself serves alcohol, but our group experiences — meals, meet-ups and shared activities — are designed to be alcohol-free. 2. Everyone is responsible for their own sobriety. It's important to be honest with yourself about what feels right for you. If you think that being on a ship where alcohol is served might be too much for you at this point in your journey, we encourage you to speak with your sponsor or a trusted advisor before deciding to join the trip. Your wellbeing comes first, and it's always okay to choose the path that best supports you. The organisers are here to support a sober-focused experience, but each person remains fully responsible for their own decisions and wellbeing throughout the trip. By joining, you acknowledge that your choices—including any decision to drink—are your own responsibility. 3. Nobody is here to judge anyone else. This is a kind, inclusive space. Some travellers are sober for years, others are exploring alcohol-free living, and some are simply choosing a different kind of holiday. All stages, stories and reasons are welcome. 4. Participation is optional, connection is encouraged. Join in as much or as little as you wish. Quiet time, solo time, naps and spa days are as valued as dinners, laughter and excursions. 5. We're here to have fun — properly. Clear mornings. Real conversations. New memories we actually remember. A holiday that doesn't need alcohol to be meaningful. ⸻ In short: This is a place to relax, connect, and be yourself — without alcohol being part of the experience. Bring kindness, curiosity, and an open heart, and we'll all have an extraordinary trip together.

Yes, of course! You'll still get all your extras including the daily speciality coffee.

Yes you can. If you paid in US Dollars onboard instead of GBP, we'll need to see about switching it over. Just let us know and we'll handle it for you.

To give you the most flexibility, we haven't included any flights to and from Barcelona. We can help you with a pre-cruise hotel that includes transfers to the port. Just chat with one of the team to find out more.

We know not everyone wants to pay for these, that's why we haven't automatically included them. You can add them for just £124.09 per person.

The $150 cabin credit is included with Sea Terrace and Central Sea Terrace cabins (excludes Sea View and Insider cabins). Personally, we love the smoothies onboard. You can also spend it on speciality coffees, Red Bull, non-alcoholic drinks and mocktails.

There are 2 parts to your holiday cost. The first is your cruise fare and the second is the hosting fee. This is paid for separately to your cruise fare and covers everything we provide in addition to the cruise itself, including: Pre-cruise support and Q&A, Welcome party on embarkation day, Curated group activities on sea days, A dedicated WhatsApp group, Onboard support throughout the voyage, A group dinner later in the sailing, and Daily hosted meet-ups.

Some activities — such as our welcome party, group dinners, port visits, and meet-ups — are exclusive to our group. Other onboard offerings, like fitness classes, Bill W meetings, and evening shows, are open to all sailors and can be booked through the Virgin Voyages app.

We know you might be travelling with friends or a partner that don't want to be part of The Sober Cruise activities. That's why you're free to make your own dining reservations. We'll be hosting one evening at Razzle Dazzle. Plus, there'll be more chances to eat together as a group if you'd like to join us. You can make reservations up to 45 days before we set sail.

Your holiday is ATOL protected. Plus, 100% of your money is safe and sound in an independently managed fund. So even if something were to happen to us, your money is protected.

As part of Travel Counsellors, we offer peace of mind and full protection. Established back in 1994, we're now one of the UK's largest independent travel companies. They'll be 2 hosts onboard The Sober Cruise, backed up by our team of over 262 head office colleagues based in Manchester. MoneySavingExpert voted us the best travel company for looking after customers during COVID twice.

Your feedback means a lot to us, and we're so glad that you've found our service top-notch. But don't just take our word for it! Our Trustpilot rating speaks volumes as well: 5 stars from over 8221 happy holiday makers. In fact, we have one of the highest ratings of any travel agency, anywhere.