Carolyn Markey and Jayne Nelson, our Personal Travel Consultants, spent a week onboard Valiant Lady with Virgin Voyages. They shared their thoughts on the perfect itinerary and what it was like cruising as friends.
We have heard so much about Virgin Voyages recently and we couldn’t wait to try it out for ourselves. We went onboard with an open mind, ready for a week of fun and relaxing in the sun.
Day 1
We boarded the ship which was super easy! It was only a 20 minute transfer from Barcelona Airport. We had a spot of lunch and joined the rest of the guests for the Sailaway Party on deck. The sun was shining, they were handing out Champagne and the music was fantastic, what more could you want. We then went to our cabin which was amazing. We especially liked the iPad that controlled all the lights and curtains, Jayne got a bit carried away with this.
Day 2
Our first stop was Marseille. The complimentary coach, waiting just outside the ship, took us straight into town which was a great touch, we didn’t have to think about anything. After a few hours wandering around Marseille, we jumped on the coach back to the ship for a late lunch at the Galley. We had fresh salads made in front of us which were delicious.
We spent a few hours sunbathing around the pool with a cocktails. I loved the Frozen Strawberry Daiquiris and Jayne’s favourite was a Pina Colada! For dinner, we went to The Wake which was definitely my favourite of all 20 eateries. The food was incredible and it had a great atmosphere. Alongside so many places to eat, there’s a wide range of entertainment venues onboard. Me and Jayne loved the Loose Cannon bar for a few drinks and a bit of dancing on an evening listening to live music.
Day 3
In the morning, we hopped on a tender straight into Cannes. We got on the little holiday train to explore the whole city and wow, what a gorgeous place! I would definitely visit here again.
“I need to win the lottery before I go back as all the luxury designer shops are too tempting and fabulous!” – Jayne Nelson.
We headed back to the ship for a spot of lunch, we were adamant on testing out each restaurant during our time onboard! We had tapas at The Dock House with a stunning view of Cannes as our backdrop, before heading to the pool to soak up the sun. We chose to sit around the lively pool where they had a DJ on but there were quieter pools and sun beds were plentiful.
Tonight, we ate at Extra Virgin, the Italian restaurant. This was Jayne’s favourite. I would really recommend it here, we had a 4 course meal, a few glasses of wine, some complimentary Champagne and an after dinner aperitif. We were so full as we made our way to the bar to watch the live band and, eventually, made it to bed.
Day 4
Today was a day at sea and a breakfast in bed day for us. This was amazing. They delivered a splendid selection and it was all included in the cost! Highly recommend if you fancy a lazy morning. Jayne did mention she was going to visit the state-of-the-art gym every day, she didn’t quite manage that.
For dinner this night, we decided to try out Gunbae. This was a Korean restaurant and it was so much fun. We took part in drinking games with our fellow diners and everyone looked to have a great time. This was of course followed by some more drinks and dancing until the early hours.
Day 5
Today, we had a full day in Palma. After a lovely breakfast, a bagel for me and a full English for Jayne, we strolled into Palma and visited the Cathedral. We wandered around the shops, mainly window shopping as Jayne had spent a fortune in Cannes!
Then, tonight was Scarlet Night! We all wore red and, after our meal at Razzle Dazzle, we headed to the pool where us and all the other guests enjoyed the show. It did result in me and Jayne dancing in the pool, the shallow end I have to admit! After this, we visited the Casino for the first time.
Day 6
We had another lazy morning with a few hours spent around the pool with fresh, homemade pizzas for lunch from The Pizza Place. We docked in Ibiza late in the afternoon so we took the opportunity to have a saunter around the Old Town. This was both of our favourite place, we wandered up to the castle and enjoyed a drink overlooking the millionaire’s yachts (we can dream!). The ship stays in Ibiza overnight so you can visit one of the world-famous nightclubs if you are so inclined.
Day 7
We have an amazing breakfast in Razzle Dazzle this morning before taking a stroll into Ibiza Old Town again for some shopping and sightseeing. We were in a routine at this piint and so headed back to the ship for a late lunch. We had Japanese bao buns at Bento Baby which were great.
For our last evening, we headed to Extra Virgin again and had a fantastic Italian meal.
Final Thoughts
We loved our time onboard Virgin Voyages and would highly recommend. It was lovely to travel as two friends as well, there were so many variations of travellers and groups onboard. We visited most of the restaurants onboard and all were fabulous. The pool areas were fantastic with plenty of beds and waiter service. Not to mention the hammock on our balcony which Jayne absolutely loved!
For more information, call our experts on 02380 658 386 or browse our Virgin Voyages Cruise Deals.
