Virgin includes a lot, but there’s a list of extras you can add before you sail. Some are worth booking early because they sell out or only come with a bonus before you board. Others you can happily leave until you’re on the ship. Here’s what we pre-book ourselves, and what we tell our clients.
Book these first: Splash of Romance and Splash for Your Bash
These are the two add-ons our clients most want, and the two we tell everyone to prioritise: Splash of Romance for couples and Splash for Your Bash for birthdays and groups. We’ve done both and reviewed them honestly.
Splash of Romance especially. Only a limited number are sold on each sailing. Virgin doesn’t publish the figure, but we understand it’s somewhere around 150 cabins, and it’s often the first add-on to sell out. If you want it, book it as soon as you’ve booked your cruise. The good news is that it’s refundable if you change your mind.
Book as soon as you can
Bar Tab
Only pre-booked Bar Tabs get the bonus credit, so if you’re going to drink on board, this is the one to sort before you sail. It’s prepaid credit for drinks, with extra added on top. Our Bar Tab guide explains how it works, and the calculator on our drinks prices page shows how much you’re likely to need.
Spa treatments and Thermal Suite passes
These go fast, especially on short sailings and sea days. If you want a particular treatment or time slot, book before you board. Spa prices
Shore Things
Popular excursions sell out, especially in Alaska and on short Caribbean sailings. Look out for pre-cruise offers in the app, too: some excursions are cheaper if you book before you sail.
Restaurant and show bookings
These open in the app before you sail. They’re included in your fare, but the best times go quickly. First things to do after booking
Smaller treats for your cabin
Beyond the big two, the rest of the add-ons are mostly extras to have waiting in your cabin:
| Add-on | Price |
|---|---|
| Chocolates (Choco Courier) | $20 |
| Chocolates and non-alcoholic fizz | $45 |
| Chocolates and Moët & Chandon | $120 |
| A bottle of Moët & Chandon | $125 |
| Fresh flowers (Miami and San Juan sailings only) | from $60 |
| Beer buckets (six beers) | from $35 |
| Cocktail buckets (six cocktails) | $65 |
Prices are from Virgin’s add-ons page in October 2026, in US dollars, and can change. Most add-ons can be bought up to 48 hours before you sail; flowers need 72 hours.
Our tip: a bottle of fizz waiting in the cabin is the easiest way to make embarkation day feel special.
When to book what
| Add-on | When to book |
|---|---|
| Bar Tab | Before you sail, to get the bonus |
| Splash of Romance or Splash for Your Bash | As soon as you’ve booked your cruise: Splash of Romance often sells out first |
| Spa and Thermal Suite | When bookings open in the app |
| Shore Things | Before you sail for popular trips and pre-cruise offers |
| Restaurants and shows | When bookings open in the app |
| Champagne, chocolates, buckets | Up to 48 hours before sailing |
| Flowers | Up to 72 hours before sailing |
Leave it until you’re on board
- WiFi upgrades. Basic WiFi is included, so see if it’s enough before paying for more.
- Paid drinks events such as the Grog Walk and Bottomless Brunch book on board. Which are worth it
- Your next cruise. Buy an MNVV on board for money off and Sailor Loot.
How to pre-book
Log in to your Virgin Voyages account or the app and look for the add-ons for your voyage. If you booked with us, we can add them for you and keep an eye on availability.
FAQs
Does Splash of Romance sell out?
Often, yes. Only a limited number are sold per sailing, and it’s usually the first add-on to go. Book it as soon as you’ve booked your cruise; it’s refundable if you change your mind.
Can I pre-order champagne to my cabin on Virgin Voyages?
Yes. A bottle of Moët & Chandon was $125 in October 2026, and you can order it up to 48 hours before you sail.
Do I get a bonus if I pre-book the Bar Tab?
Yes, only pre-booked Bar Tabs get the bonus credit. Bar Tabs bought on board don’t.
Can I book Shore Things before I sail?
Yes, in the app. Popular excursions sell out, and some have pre-cruise offers.
Can my travel agent book add-ons for me?
If you booked with us, yes. Just tell us what you’d like.
Book your Virgin voyage with us
Planning a celebration at sea? Tell us the occasion and we’ll set up the surprise before you board.
We’re award-winning Virgin Voyages Gold Tier First Mates with 100+ nights on board, located in the heart of Newport. Call or WhatsApp 07307 602030, or get a free quote. See our bonus Sailor Loot when you book with us.