After previously sailing with Virgin Voyages from Miami to the Bahamas and Cozumel, Mexico, I was left wanting to experience it yet again, this time sailing from Barcelona on French Daze and Ibiza Nights. This sail began in the Spanish city of Barcelona, sailing through the French Riviera stopping in Marseille and Cannes, and finishes off with overnights in the Spanish Islands of Ibiza and Mallorca.
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Ship Shape and Chic: A Peek Inside the Valiant Lady
The Valiant Lady is an identical copy of the American sister ship the Scarlet Lady. At first glance, the adults-only Valiant Lady ship impresses with her sleek and modern design, a testament to Virgin Voyages’ commitment to redefining the cruising industry. Step aboard, and you’ll be greeted by an interior that seamlessly blends contemporary flair with a timeless nautical charm. The ship’s interior spaces are thoughtfully designed to evoke a sense of comfort and luxury, with chic furnishings, stylish décor, and an abundance of natural light flooding in through expansive windows.
The main pool area is where you’ll find many sailors lounging during days at sea from early morning and until the sun goes down, and sometimes even late into the night during one of the after-dark pool parties. An additional plunge pool and multiple hot tubs provide several options for lounging or enjoying a dip. Themed pool party days and live DJs make the outdoor deck an especially exciting place to be.
It’s easy to keep up with fitness routines while at sea with Virgin Voyages’ state-of-the-art fitness facilities. The ship’s gym is equipped with the latest cardio and strength training equipment, allowing guests to get in a workout while enjoying panoramic views of the ocean. The spin studio offers high-energy cycling classes led by experienced instructors, while the running track provides the perfect outdoor space for joggers to get their daily exercise. In addition to the gym, spin studio, and running track, you can also enjoy a variety of other outdoor fitness options onboard like the basketball court and boxing ring. The most enjoyable of all, in my opinion however, are the group fitness classes like yoga, spin, bungee fitness and more.
The Spa is a much-appreciated oasis aboard the ship, with windows that look out to the sea as you unwind in the thermal pools, saunas, and treatments rooms where you can opt to be pampered from head-to-toe. With a focus on health and wellness, there are so many different ways to invigorate the mind, body, and soul on Virgin Voyages, from healthy eats to fitness classes, and a variety of wellness workshops like acupuncture, posture and alignment,
Sailing in Serenity: Where Tranquility Meets Tech
Indulge in modern comfort and style in every cabin aboard the Valiant Lady. Elevating your experience, each room provides its own iPad, offering seamless control over ambiance with mood lighting settings, personalized entertainment choices from a selection of movies for your TV, and the convenience of ordering in-room dining with just a few taps. Adding to the allure, the “sea bed” feature stands out as a favorite among guests. Crew members are on hand daily to effortlessly transform your bed into a comfortable couch, providing ample space to relax and unwind during your voyage. No matter your choice of room, the Valiant Lady promises a retreat designed with thoughtful sophistication and contemporary luxuries to enhance your onboard experience.
RockStar Quarters: Sail in style and experience the ultimate in luxury and indulgence with the RockStar Suites. In my opinion, RockStar is the way to go. These lavish accommodations feature spacious living areas, private terraces, complimentary mini bars, and a host of VIP amenities, including access to exclusive lounges, dedicated concierge service, and priority boarding. Choose from a variety of suites that vary in sizes, all the way up to the Mega RockStar, which comes with an additional daily bar tab, daily spa access, and more.
Sea Terrace Cabins: If RockStar is not in the plans, a Sea Terrace room is second best as they come with private balconies complete with the iconic Virgin Voyages hammock. The rooms may be smaller, but the crew can fold your bed into a couch during the day should you wish for more space. With modern amenities, comfortable furnishings, and options for how to relax and unwind, the Sea Terrace Cabins are a solid choice.
Sea View Cabins: For those looking for a cozy and comfortable retreat, the Sea View Cabins aboard the Valiant Lady are similar to the Sea Terrace, but with a window instead of a balcony. For any cruise, being able to gaze out at the sea from your cabin is a highlight.
Insider Cabins: The Insider Cabins aboard the Valiant Lady offer a comfortable and affordable option for travelers seeking a cozy retreat on a tighter budget. Great for solo travelers or those with less to spend, these compact yet well-designed cabins feature modern amenities, comfortable furnishings, and clever storage solutions to maximize space and comfort. With a variety of configurations available, including solo cabins and double cabins, the Insider Cabins provide a flexible and affordable option for guests looking to experience the luxury of Virgin Voyages without an all-out splurge.
From Sea to Table: Culinary Variety Aboard the Valiant Lady
With 5 signature restaurants and galley filled with pretty much anything you could crave, dining on Virgin Voyages is miles above the typical cruise buffet and stuffy dining halls. For the restaurants on board, reservations are a must — so book early to ensure you get your preferred dining times and restaurant days. Here is how I personally would prioritize the restaurant options.
Start your first night off with a bang at the Test Kitchen — Virgin Voyages most innovate restaurant and truly one of the best. You’ll find the most unique dishes here with Michelin-level presentation. They offer two different tasting menus, so you may even wish to dine twice!
Extra Virgin would definitely be part of my top 3. Authentic Italian pastas, pizzas and more, with an affogato cart for dessert that is to-die-for.
Pink Agave is next on my list. Elevated Mexican favorites accompanied by a great tequila and mezcal list. Whether you prefer your Mexican food to be on the side of seafood, meat, or veggie, their balanced menu is sure to please.
Gun Bae, while the most fun and lively restaurant, is at the bottom of my ranking — a tough decision but only because it’s a meat-heavy menu of which I couldn’t eat. This grill-it-yourself Korean restaurant pairs you with other sailors for a round of Korean drinking games. It’s a great reservation to have ahead of the start of Scarlet Night to get the party started.
Saving what might be the best dinner for last, The Wake is the most exquisite dining option on board. I recommend booking a sunset reservation and aiming to sit by a window on your last night or another special night that you may be celebrating. A grand staircase welcomes you to seafood dining with sea views in an elegant setting. The Wake’s seafood encompassing menu plates each dish with exceptional style and flavor. But don’t just stop at dinner, I also recommend booking The Wake for brunch one morning.
Razzle Dazzle is best suited for breakfast, brunch, or lunch. This veggie-forward restaurant has great egg dishes and breakfast items, along with smoked, fried, and cured proteins if you want to join for dinner.
The Galley is the go-to for lunch, where you’ll find everything from sushi, to ramen, burgers (with the best french fries I’ve ever had in my life,) tacos, all-day breakfast, salads, sandwiches, and an insane spread of pastries.
Other dining areas include a pizza shop, classic carnival eats, the Dock and Dockhouse for Mediterranean tapas; and Lick Me ’til I Scream for truly great ice cream with both classic and innovative flavors.
Tip: Book your dinner reservations as soon as you can to ensure you get your preferred seating time/restaurant.
Cruise & Amuse: Valiant Lady’s Entertainment Odyssey
From side-splitting comedy shows to Cirque-style theater extravaganzas and an array of unique activities in between, entertainment aboard Virgin Voyages embodies the brand’s signature fun and cheeky spirit. Here, every moment is infused with contageous energy that captivates guests from all walks of life. Below, I’ve highlighted a few of my personal favorite entertainment options that are not to be missed during your voyage.
Untitled Danceshow Party Thing – This is a great option to book on your first night and really dive into what the spirit of Virgin Voyages is all about. Part show, part dance party, it will surely have you amused, laughing, and moving.
It’s a Ship Show – You’ll likely have to give up a dinner reservation one night for this (though I won’t judge you if you go for a second dinner after like I did.) This supper club with a prefix menu features a little bit of everything — comedy, musical acts, and a gameshow.
Miss Behave Show – An interactive game show with a twist (or two, or three..)
Duel Reality – An impressive acrobatic telling of Romeo & Juliet.
The Manor Nightclub – You’ll find yourself here at least once for a show, if not to take photos in the their iconic entry way — but you may also wish to stop by for some late night dancing.
Scarlet Night – The ship-wide event where everyone wears red, pop-up entertainment abound, and culminates in a show and late-night pool party.
Workshops – A variety of workshops are offered for those who are interested in health, wellness, crafts and more.
Dock & Discover: Exploring the Ports of Call on French Daze and Ibiza Nights
What’s unique about French Daze and Ibiza Nights is the late departures and overnights. There’s also only one full day at sea, making it feel like you’re truly in a teleporting hotel as you experience one city during the day, go to sleep, and wake up in another.
If you are new to cruising or don’t love to plan, I’d recommend booking one of the amazing excursions, referred to as “Shore Things” by Virgin Voyages.
That said, as a seasoned traveler, renting a car at each port was the way to go for me. This really allows you to see and do the most in a short amount of time. Here’s how I personally spent each day and some recommendations for each port city.
Pro Tip: Take a look at the Shore Things excursions offered by the cruise to get some ideas about things you might want to do and see.
Port 1: Marseille – Lavender Fields & Aix-en-Provence
After picking up the rental from the Port in Marseille, we drove straight to Sault (2 hours) to visit the famous lavender fields of Provence. The season typically lasts from mid-June to mid-August. The most popular lavender route is found at Plateau de Velensole, but the season is done there in July. If you are visiting in August like I did, you can go a little further north to the lavender fields of Sault. Sault is also the town where the lavender festival takes place every year on August 15th.
You can find this exact field off the intersection of Ancienne Route de Sault and Chemin du Ventouret. I love this field in particular because it’s against the backdrop of the lush French Countryside.
After enjoying the relaxing aromas and sight of the lavender field, drive 1 hour back toward Marseille to stop in the city of Aix-en-Provence. Here you can wander the charming streets, eat madeleines from Madeleines de Christophe, and callisons from Le Roy René, drink a panaché, and enjoy a provençal lunch at La Bastide Bourrelly.
After an afternoon in Aix, time-permitting, enjoy one last stop at the calanques near Marseille, and a sunset cocktail or bite at Tuba Club before boarding the ship.
Port 2: Canne Beach Clubs & the Cote de Azure
After picking up the rental car in Cannes, I wanted to explore as much of the Cote de Azure, French Riviera as possible.
We started the day with coffee and pastries at Lenôtre in Cannes, where the chef fwas the inspiration behind the animated film Ratatouille, before heading to Monaco to visit the famous Monte Carlo casino. Be mindful there is a dress code, entrance fee, and is only open from 10:00AM to 1:00PM for visitors.
Alternatively, you can head down to luxurious Saint Tropez for breakfast and exploring (I recommend the Dior Cafe Des Lices or Le Club 55), or up to the most charming and picturesque town of Eze.
On the way back from Monaco, stop in Nice for lunch at La Petite Maison or La Plongier, where hopefully you can reserve one of their few and coveted tables on the lower rock. Be sure to enjoy a Niçoise salad while in Nice.
Then, spend the rest of the afternoon and into the evening at one of the famous beach clubs in Cannes.
The top beach clubs in Cannes include:
The most exclusive and very best beach club in Cannes is La Guerite, however it’s on a private island and requires a boat transfer. Booking an afternoon time slot to enjoy the more lively evening sundowner is the way to go, but be sure you’ll make it back in time to board the ship.
You will want to make all your restaurant and beach club reservations as far in advance as possible. Prime day beds and restaurant tables book up months in advance during high season.
Cannes to St. Tropez - 1.5 hours
Cannnes to Nice - 30 minutes
Cannes to Monaco - 30 minutes
Port 3: Ibiza Clubbing and Beach Recovery (Overnight)
The island of Ibiza is known for partying, but there are plenty of beautiful beaches and a great food scene to explore if nightclubs aren’t your thing. That being said, I believe that clubbing in Ibiza is right of passage– and with an overnight at this port, you’ll have plenty of time to both party and explore.
Ibiza is the ultimate party island, and with an overnight stop, you’ll have the perfect chance to experience both its world-famous nightlife and its stunning beaches.
Night 1: The Ibiza Club Experience
The ship docks just in time for dinner and a night out. Recommendations for restaurants are below, and if you’re going to party in Ibiza, this is where to do it. The top clubs are:
- Hï Ibiza – Ranked the #1 nightclub in the world, this spot is a must for electronic music lovers. It opens at midnight and keeps the party going until 6 AM.
- Ushuaïa Ibiza – Located right across the street from Hï, Ushuaïa is an open-air club that starts at 5 PM and shuts down at 11 PM—perfect for a sunset party before heading to Hï. (Note: These require separate tickets.)
- Other top clubs – Pacha Ibiza (iconic staple), DC-10 (underground house & techno), Amnesia Ibiza (home to Elrow and other legendary parties), and Eden Ibiza (great for house music lovers).
Pro Tips:
- Check the Ibiza Spotlight calendar to see which DJs are playing where.
- Tickets online cost around €100, but you can often find cheaper deals from promoters or restaurants on the island—even if a show is sold out online. Avoid buying directly from the clubs.
- Ticket booths line the strip near Hï and Ushuaïa—compare prices before buying.
- Expect crowds unless you book VIP or bottle service.
Alternative: Not into clubbing? Watch the sunset with drinks at Sunset Ashram in Cala Conta for a more relaxed vibe.
Day 2: Beach Recovery & Exploring
After a long night out, you’ll want a relaxing beach day. These are some of the best spots to recover:
- Cala Saladeta – A small, picturesque cove with turquoise waters.
- Cala Bassa – Soft sand, crystal-clear water, and beach clubs for a lively but chill vibe.
- Cala Conta – Known for its stunning, Caribbean-like water and one of the best sunset views on the island.
If you prefer a beach club experience, check out:
- Nikki Beach Ibiza – A luxe, high-energy beach club with poolside loungers and great cocktails.
- Amante Ibiza – A stylish beach club perched on a cliff, perfect for a laid-back recovery day.
- Cotton Beach Club – A chic spot with whitewashed decor and panoramic sea views.
- Blue Marlin Ibiza – A legendary beach club where the party vibe continues.
For an incredible meal, consider:
Nudo Ibiza – A hidden gem with fresh, seasonal dishes.
Casa Jondal – One of the best restaurants on the island, serving fresh seafood in a stunning beachfront setting. (Advanced reservations very necessary.)
El Silencio Ibiza – A trendy beachside spot with creative dishes.
Casa Maca Ibiza – A beautiful countryside restaurant with farm-to-table dining.
Es Boldadó – Known for its incredible paella and views of Es Vedrà.
Port 4: Palma de Mallorca – 0vernight Finale in Laidback Luxury
Mallorca may just be one of my favorite Spanish islands. It’s both luxe and laidback, with great beaches and great food. Your time in Palma should be spent soaking up all that is the best of being on an island in Spain — that is, eating fresh seafood, enjoying a cold glass of sangria, and lounging on an idyllic beach. Here are my recommendations:
Where to Eat: or an unforgettable meal, book a table at Adrián Quetglas or Vandal Palma, both Michelin-starred restaurants offering innovative takes on Mediterranean cuisine. If you’re craving a laid-back seaside setting with fresh seafood, Ca’s Patró March in Deià is a must.
Where to Play: Spend the day lounging in luxury at Nikki Beach Mallorca or UM Beach House Portals, two of the island’s best beach clubs offering daybeds, ocean views, and great vibes. By night, head to Santa Catalina, a lively neighborhood in Palma known for its trendy bars and energetic nightlife.
Where to Explore: If you’re looking to see more of the island, take a trip to Manacor, a charming inland town known for its traditional crafts and historic sites.
Best Beaches: Mallorca’s coastline is dotted with breathtaking beaches, but some of the best include Playa de Muro for its crystal-clear waters, Cala Deià for a picturesque rocky cove experience, and Cala Llombards for its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters.
What to skip: Unless you’re looking for an all-out party scene with lots of intoxicated British teens (no judgement if you do!), steer clear of Magaluf, which is infamous for its touristic nightlife.
French Daze and Ibiza Nights is the perfect cruise for those who want to maximize their time exploring incredible destinations while still indulging in the effortless luxury. With late departures, overnight stays, and minimal sea days, every moment is an opportunity to immerse yourself in a new city, inclusive of wandering through lavender fields in Provence, sipping champagne at a Cannes beach club, and dancing until sunrise in Ibiza. Whether you prefer curated excursions or crafting your own adventure, this itinerary offers the best of both worlds. Until next time—à bientôt, adiós, and bon voyage.