When planning a Virgin Voyages adventure, you’ll notice something a little different compared to other cruise lines. Instead of offering a traditional drink package, Virgin Voyages has a system called the Virgin Voyages Bar Tab. If you’re curious about how it works, what it covers and how to make the most of it (hint: pre-purchasing can earn you some frogtastic bonuses), you’ve leaped to the right lily pad. Grab your favorite drinks and let’s dive into everything you need to know about the Virgin Voyages Bar Tab. By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how to sip, savor and stretch your bar credits at sea.
What Is the Virgin Voyages Bar Tab?
Unlike other cruise lines that sell unlimited drink packages, Virgin Voyages has a more flexible system that lets you load funds in advance and spend them as you go. Think of it like a prepaid card designed just for your vacation beverages.
Here’s the short version:
- You purchase a set amount in advance (usually starting at $300).
- Virgin gives you a bonus — often an extra $50 or more, depending on promotions.
- Once onboard, you spend your Bar Tab on drinks anywhere on the ship or even at The Beach Club at Bimini.
It’s super straightforward and easy to use. You’re not locked into drinking a certain number of cocktails per day, and you don’t have to worry about “breaking even” on a package. Whether you sip slowly or savor signature cocktails at every bar, the Bar Tab gives you complete flexibility.
On Virgin Voyages cruises, sailors (what Virgin Voyages calls their guests) will find that plenty of drinks are already included in the base fare. Still or sparkling water, soda, juices, drip coffee and a wide selection of non-pressed teas are complimentary at any time. You’ll also enjoy filtered water stations around the ship and basic beverages with every meal.
Not included are specialty drinks such as cocktails, wine, beer, champagne, pressed juices, smoothies, energy drinks and espresso-based coffee creations. These are the items that fall under the Bar Tab system, making it easy to pre-pay and take advantage of the bonus credit Virgin offers when you purchase in advance.
How does the Virgin Voyages Bar Tab differ from other cruise lines?
On most cruise lines, guests purchase daily drink packages that can cost anywhere from $70 to $120 per person per day.
While these packages offer unlimited drinks, they often come with rules such as everyone in the cabin must purchase the package, you can only order one drink at a time or packages are non-refundable and pricey if you don’t drink much.
Virgin Voyages flips the lily pad here. Instead of committing to a high daily price, you’re free to spend your Bar Tab however and whenever you like. If you’re a casual drinker, you won’t overpay. If you love trying every craft cocktail onboard, you’ll still find the Bar Tab generous and flexible.
How Much Does the Virgin Voyages Bar Tab Cost?
The standard starting price for the Bar Tab is $300. Every time you load $300 before your sailing, Virgin will usually toss in a bonus $50. This is essentially free money for you to enjoy on board and it’s one of the easiest ways to maximize your vacation value.
Occasionally, Virgin Voyages runs promotions where the bonus increases. For example, during certain booking windows or sales, the bonus might climb to $100 for every $300 you pre-purchase. These offers can be seasonally tied to specific itineraries or part of limited-time campaigns.
Here’s an example:
- Pre-purchase $300 = Get $50 bonus = Total $350 to spend
- Pre-purchase $600 = Get $100 bonus = Total $700 to spend
- Pre-purchase $900 = Get $150 bonus = Total $1,050 to spend
Not only do you save, but you also hop into your voyage with peace of mind, knowing your drinks are prepaid.
What can you use the Virgin Voyages Bar Tab for?
One of the most ribbiting parts about the Bar Tab is just how flexible it is. It isn’t restricted to cocktails alone. You can use it on nearly any beverage onboard, including:
- Cocktails, beer, wine and champagne at all ship bars.
- Specialty coffee drinks from The Grounds Club or other cafes.
- Fresh-pressed juices and smoothies from the Juice Bar.
- Mocktails and zero-proof creations for those who want the vibe without the buzz.
- Beverages at The Beach Club at Bimini (yes, your Bar Tab travels ashore with you).
Basically, if it’s a beverage, it will probably be covered by your Bar Tab. The only exceptions are bottles purchased duty-free or items from the onboard retail shops.
Where can you spend your Virgin Voyages Bar Tab?
Virgin Voyages ships are filled with fun bars and lounges, each with its own vibe, decor and drink menus. Your Bar Tab works across all of them, which means you can sip and savor without restrictions.
A few favorites include:
- Sip Lounge – For bubbly lovers, this champagne lounge offers bottles and glasses for any celebration.
- On the Rocks – A live music bar with inventive cocktails shaken and stirred to the beat.
- The Dock & The Dock House – Perfect for Mediterranean-inspired bites paired with spritzes or sangria.
- The Loose Cannon – A pub-style bar for casual pints and cocktails with sailor flair.
- The Social Club – Where milkshakes meet cocktails (yes, you can get spiked shakes here).
- The Grounds Club – Ideal for your daily dose of specialty coffee lattes or cold brew.
Can you save by booking a Virgin Voyages Bar Tab in advance?
Here’s where you really get the extra value. Booking your Bar Tab in advance unlocks bonuses that you won’t get if you wait until you’re onboard. Think of it as a reward for being prepared.
Virgin often runs promotions such as a $50 bonus for every $300 loaded (the standard perk) or the occasional $100 bonus offers during special promotions.
This bonus is applied per Bar Tab purchase, so if you’re traveling with a group, everyone can load their own and enjoy the extra credit. Even better, since beverages onboard are reasonably priced compared to many other cruise lines (most cocktails hover around $9–$13), your Bar Tab stretches farther.
In short, the earlier you hop to it, the more you’ll sip for free.
How can I maximize my Virgin Voyages Bar Tab?
If you’re ready to make the most of your Bar Tab, here are our frog-tested tips:
- Pre-purchase early — Lock in your Bar Tab before your voyage to guarantee the bonus. Waiting until you’re on the ship means missing out on free credit.
- Split the tab — Sailing with friends? Each sailor can buy their own Bar Tab and each will earn the bonus. This way, everyone benefits individually.
- Think beyond alcohol — Don’t forget your Bar Tab isn’t just for cocktails. Specialty lattes, juices and mocktails can all be included, perfect for sailors who don’t drink alcohol but still want to splurge.
- Use it at Bimini — The Beach Club at Bimini is one of Virgin Voyages’ signature stops and yes, your Bar Tab works there too.
- Watch for seasonal promos — Virgin Voyages loves to run themed sales and seasonal specials. Sometimes the bonus jumps higher (like $100 for every $300).
How much are the drinks on a Virgin Voyages cruise? How far does $300 go?
You might be wondering if $300 (plus bonus) is really enough?
Let’s break it down with some average pricing onboard:
- Cocktails: $9–$13
- Beer: $5–$7
- Glass of wine: $9–$14
- Specialty coffee: $4–$6
- Juice/smoothie: $6–$8
With $350 in your Bar Tab (that’s $300 plus the $50 bonus), you could enjoy:
- 10 specialty coffees ($50)
- 10 cocktails ($120)
- 5 glasses of wine ($60)
- 5 beers ($35)
- 10 smoothies ($70)
That’s a whole lot of sipping and it shows just how far the Bar Tab can take you without breaking the bank!
Can I add more funds to my Virgin Voyages Bar Tab during the cruise?
Yes, absolutely. If you find yourself running low, you can top up your Bar Tab while onboard. However, the catch is that the bonus only applies to pre-purchased Bar Tabs. Adding money during your voyage won’t give you any extra credit.
This is why most froggies recommend loading more in advance than you think you’ll need. After all, it’s better to hop on with extra credit than to miss out on the free bonus.
What happens if I don't use all the funds on my Virgin Voyages Bar Tab?
Unused Bar Tab credit is non-refundable. If you don’t spend it by the end of your sailing, it disappears. That’s why it’s smart to estimate your drinking habits realistically before loading too much.
Still with the wide variety of options from morning cappuccinos to beachside mojitos, most sailors have no trouble spending it all.
Virgin Voyages Bar Tab Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to buy a Bar Tab?
No, it’s optional. You can always pay for drinks individually using your onboard account. But since the Bar Tab offers bonus credit, most sailors find it worthwhile.
Can I share my Bar Tab?
Yes, you can use it to buy drinks for others. But each sailor has their own Tab, so if you want the bonus for everyone, each person should load their own in advance.
Is gratuity included?
Yes. Virgin Voyages automatically includes gratuities in all drink prices, so you won’t be adding extra tips unless you choose to.
Does it work for bottles of wine or champagne?
Yes, your Bar Tab can be applied toward bottles purchased onboard (perfect for celebrations).
Why We Love the Virgin Voyages Bar Tab
At the end of the day, Virgin Voyages’ Bar Tab is one of the simplest and most generous beverage systems at sea. It skips the complicated rules of drink packages and instead rewards you with flexibility and value.
Remember to pre-purchase early to snag that bonus credit and enjoy knowing your beverages are already taken care of.
So, should you hop on the Virgin Voyages Bar Tab? That resounding yes from us! With generous bonuses for pre-purchasing, wide flexibility across drinks and no daily quotas to worry about, it’s a system that's smart and easy to use.
Thinking about hopping onto a Virgin Voyages cruise? In the comments below, let us know which drink you plan to get with your Bar Tab!
Related: Curious About a Virgin Voyages Cruise? Here's the Scoop on the Ships, Dining, Entertainment & More!
Related: Our Posh Guide to a Disney Cruise for Adults
Hoppy planning!
