Forget the Nile: Virgin Voyages is Redefining Luxury Cruising in Egypt

For decades, the quintessential Egyptian journey has been defined by a single, iconic image: a slow, meandering felucca or a crowded riverboat navigating the dusty banks of the Nile. It’s a trip steeped in history, certainly, but one that has remained largely unchanged for generations. But what if I told you there’s a new way to experience the land of pharaohs? A way that swaps the predictable for the provocative, the conventional for the contemporary, and the crowded for the curated. After more than twenty years of chronicling the world’s most exclusive travel experiences, I can tell you with certainty: Virgin Voyages is not just sailing to Egypt; it's launching a revolution on the Red Sea.

Forget everything you think you know about cruising. This isn't about rigid dining times, formal nights, or screaming children at the pool. This is a sophisticated, adults-only sanctuary designed for the modern traveler—the one who craves both the timeless allure of ancient wonders and the vibrant energy of a floating boutique hotel. It’s a journey that pairs the awe-inspiring tombs of Luxor with late-night DJ sets under the stars, and the marvel of the Suez Canal with Michelin-inspired meals you’ll dream about for years. This is Egypt, unshackled.

Why Virgin Voyages is Not Your Grandparent's Cruise Line

Before we even cast off towards the legendary ports of the Red Sea, it’s crucial to understand what sets Virgin Voyages apart. Sir Richard Branson’s foray into the seas was designed to disrupt, to dismantle the tired tropes of cruising and replace them with a concept he calls “Rebellious Luxe.” It’s luxury without the stuffiness, and freedom without sacrificing impeccable service.

An Adults-Only Sanctuary: The Vibe Onboard

The most profound difference is immediately apparent: there are no kids. Every sailing is exclusively for travelers 18 and over. This single decision cultivates an atmosphere of sophisticated relaxation and playful indulgence. The conversations by the pool are richer, the lounges hum with an adult energy, and the entire ship feels like a private club for curious, like-minded travelers. You can unplug and recharge on your own terms, whether that means sunrise yoga on the deck or dancing until dawn at the ship’s private nightclub.

All-Included Luxury: What's Really Covered

Virgin Voyages has done away with the nickel-and-diming that plagues so many other lines. When they say “all-included,” they mean it. This isn't just a marketing gimmick; it's a core philosophy. Your voyage fare includes:

• All 20+ Eateries: From a sizzling Korean BBQ to an elegant Italian trattoria, you’ll never pay extra for specialty dining. And there are no buffets—everything is made to order.
• Essential Drinks: Still and sparkling water, non-pressed juices, sodas, teas, and drip coffee are always on the house.
• All Gratuities: The crew is taken care of, so you don't have to worry about tipping. It’s a simple change that makes every interaction feel more genuine.
• Free Wi-Fi: Stay connected and share your incredible moments without a second thought.
• Unlimited Group Fitness Classes: From bungee classes to HIIT workouts and serene yoga sessions, it’s all included.

This transparent approach allows you to fully immerse yourself in the experience without constantly reaching for your wallet. It’s a liberating feeling that truly elevates the journey.

Michelin-Inspired Dining: A Culinary Journey

The culinary program onboard is, without exaggeration, a destination in itself. Virgin assembled a “Creative Collective” of world-class chefs, including Michelin-starred names like Brad Farmerie and Sohui Kim. The result is a diverse and exceptional collection of dining experiences. You can savor perfectly cooked steaks at The Wake, experiment with avant-garde culinary science at The Test Kitchen, or enjoy vibrant Mexican fare at Pink Agave. Each restaurant has its own kitchen, its own chefs, and its own distinct identity. It’s less like a cruise ship and more like a tour of a city’s hottest restaurant district.

Meet Your Floating Boutique Hotel: The Resilient Lady

Your vessel for this Red Sea adventure is likely the stunning Resilient Lady, a ship that feels more like a chic, design-forward hotel than a traditional cruise liner. The interiors are sleek, modern, and thoughtfully designed, with playful nooks, glamorous lounges, and art installations at every turn. The goal is to create a space where you feel both energized and utterly relaxed.

The Cabins: More Than Just a Room

Forget cramped, uninspired staterooms. Virgin’s cabins are a masterclass in smart design. The revolutionary, German-engineered Seabed can transform from a comfortable queen bed into a sprawling L-shaped sofa, creating a perfect space for entertaining or simply lounging with a view. Most cabins feature a Sea Terrace, complete with a signature red, hand-woven hammock—the perfect spot to feel the warm Egyptian breeze with a cocktail in hand. Mood lighting, high-tech controls, and refreshing rain showers complete your private haven at sea.

Wellness and Rejuvenation: The Redemption Spa & B-Complex

A journey through millennia of history requires moments of modern-day restoration. The Redemption Spa is an oasis of tranquility. Its thermal suite features a hydrotherapy pool, mud room, salt room, steam room, and quartz beds. It’s the perfect antidote to a day spent exploring ancient temples. For those who prefer to sweat it out, the B-Complex gym offers state-of-the-art equipment with panoramic ocean views, while outdoor spaces like The Perch are dedicated to sunrise and sunset yoga sessions.

An Unforgettable Egyptian Itinerary: Beyond the Pyramids

While the onboard experience is a destination in itself, the itinerary is what makes this voyage a true once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Sailing the Red Sea offers a unique perspective on Egypt, providing access to its most profound treasures without the logistical headaches of overland travel. You unpack once and wake up to a new, incredible vista each day. You can explore a range of incredible itineraries using the Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page to find the perfect sailing for you.

Safaga: Gateway to Antiquity

The port of Safaga is your key to unlocking the crown jewels of ancient Egypt. This is where you’ll embark on a journey inland to Luxor, the world's greatest open-air museum. Here, you can book a “Shore Thing” (Virgin’s clever name for shore excursions) to explore:

• The Temple of Karnak: Wander through the staggering Great Hypostyle Hall, a forest of 134 colossal columns that seem to touch the sky. The sheer scale is almost impossible to comprehend.
• Luxor Temple: Witness this stunning temple complex on the east bank of the Nile, especially magical when illuminated at night.
• The Valley of the Kings: Descend into the earth to explore the vibrantly decorated tombs of legendary pharaohs like Tutankhamun and Ramses VI. Standing inside these sacred chambers, you can feel the palpable weight of 4,000 years of history.

After a day of profound discovery, imagine returning not to a dusty hotel, but to the chic comfort of the Resilient Lady. You can soothe your tired feet at the spa, share stories over an exquisite dinner, and watch the desert stars from your private hammock. Choosing the right excursion is key to your experience, and our travel experts excel at matching you with the perfect tour. Plan Your Egypt Adventure with us, and we'll handle every last detail.

The Suez Canal Transit: A Modern Marvel

Many of these itineraries include a full-day transit of the Suez Canal, the 120-mile man-made waterway that connects the Mediterranean to the Red Sea. This isn't a port of call, but an incredible travel experience in its own right. You’ll spend the day on deck, watching the desert landscapes of the Sinai Peninsula glide by on one side and the lush Nile Delta on the other. It’s a mesmerizing journey through one of the world’s most vital and historic maritime crossroads.

Aqaba, Jordan: The Rose-Red City of Petra

Often included on these Red Sea voyages is a stop in Aqaba, Jordan, the gateway to another of the world’s great wonders: the ancient city of Petra. The journey to Petra is as dramatic as the destination itself. You’ll walk through the Siq, a narrow, winding canyon whose sandstone walls tower above you, until you emerge before the breathtaking facade of The Treasury (Al-Khazneh), famously carved directly into the rose-red cliff face. It’s a moment that will stay with you forever.

Let Us Handle the Details: Your Seamless Path to the Red Sea

A voyage of this magnitude deserves flawless execution. While the idea of sailing through history on a modern luxury ship is intoxicating, coordinating the flights, pre-cruise hotels, transfers, and the perfect Shore Things can be overwhelming. That is precisely where our expertise becomes your greatest asset.

As specialists in luxury cruising, we have a deep understanding of the Virgin Voyages product and a direct line to their teams. We don't just book your cruise; we curate your entire experience. We can advise you on the best cabin location, secure reservations at the most popular restaurants, and ensure your shore excursions align perfectly with your interests and activity level.

Ready to take the next step? We’ve made it easy for you:

• Explore Options Instantly: Use the intuitive Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page to browse dates, itineraries, and real-time pricing.
• Get a Quick Answer: Have a specific question about the ship or a port of call? Our expert team is ready on our Live Chat. Just click the "Chat with us" icon in the lower right corner.
• Prefer to Talk? Sometimes a conversation is the best way to start planning. Call our dedicated cruise specialists at 1 (888) 883‑0460 for personalized advice.
• The Best Way to Begin: For a truly tailored experience, let us craft a personalized, no-obligation proposal for you. This is our signature service. Click here to Get a Custom Quote, and we'll connect you with a travel designer who will transform your dream trip into a reality.

Egypt is a land of timeless wonder. Virgin Voyages offers a revolutionary way to experience it. Together, we can create a journey that is as seamless and luxurious as it is unforgettable.

Frequently Asked Questions About Virgin Voyages in Egypt

Is Virgin Voyages truly all-inclusive?

Virgin Voyages is what they call "brilliantly all-included." This covers all food from their 20+ eateries (no specialty dining upcharges), essential drinks like water, juice, and coffee, all tips and gratuities, unlimited Wi-Fi, and all group fitness classes. Alcoholic beverages, spa treatments, and shore excursions are an additional cost.

What is the dress code on a Virgin cruise?

There is no formal dress code or mandatory formal nights. The vibe is "come as you are." During the day, resort casual is perfect. In the evening, Sailors tend to dress up a bit for the elevated restaurants, but this could mean anything from a stylish dress to smart trousers and a collared shirt. The one exception is "Scarlet Night," the ship's signature party, where guests are encouraged to wear a "splash of red."

Are shore excursions included?

Shore excursions, or "Shore Things," are not included in the voyage fare. This allows you to customize your experience in each port. They offer a wide range of options, from small group tours to more adventurous private experiences, which can be booked in advance or onboard. Our travel advisors can help you select and book the best Shore Things for your trip.

Is this cruise suitable for solo travelers?

Absolutely. Virgin Voyages is one of the most solo-traveler-friendly lines at sea. They offer special pricing for solo cabins, and the social, communal nature of many of the restaurants and onboard events makes it easy to meet fellow travelers. The adults-only environment also fosters a more open and engaging atmosphere.

What currency is used onboard?

All transactions onboard the ship are conducted in U.S. Dollars (USD) and are charged to your onboard account, which is linked to your credit card. It is a completely cashless system for your convenience.