by Eric Lipkind

I have gone on many different cruise lines in the last ten years.   I have made it no secret that Virgin Voyages is my favorite.   There are several reasons, including:

– New beautiful ships

– No tipping

– Soft drinks included

– Adults only

– Wifi included

– Specialty restaurants included, which are all amazing

– No buffet or main dining room

– Untypical cruise entertainment

– No key cards, but bracelets instead

These are just a few reasons, aside from the generally fun atmosphere around the ships.

RECENT AND UPCOMING SAILINGS

I have made several bookings in the last two years using miles, points as well as steep discounts as follows:

Spain and France — used 77,000 Citi Thank you points for a 7-night cruise for two plus another 163,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points to upgrade to a suite.

Greece, Croatia, and Montenegro — used 221,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points for a 7-night cruise for two in a balcony cabin.

Caribbean – paid $1,650 for a 7-night cruise for two in a balcony cabin valued at $3,400 using Access Key discount codes provided by my Founders Card membership.  I booked four cabins using my Founders Card and my wife’s Card, giving us two Access Key discount codes each.  This certainly paid back the annual fee for the Founders Card and then some.  As you get Caesars Diamond status with a Founders Card, which gives you a free annual trip to Atlantis in the Bahamas, the Founders Card is a game changer.

I aim to cruise, paying as little as possible in points or cash. Sometimes, points and miles make sense; other times, money does.

BOOKING VIRGIN VOYAGES CRUISES

If you want to book a cruise using miles or points, I am here to help!

When it makes more sense to pay for a cruise with cash, given the ongoing promotions Virgin Voyages has, I am happy to say I am now a Virgin Voyages First Mate (the equivalent of a travel agent specifically for Virgin Voyages).   If you want me to help you decide whether to book with points or cash, please reach out, and I can help you choose and book the cruise.   If you would like to book on your own, you can also do that here.

Note, if you pay for the cruise with cash, there are no fees for my services.  You will also receive all offers and discounts Virgin Voyages currently offers.

There are currently offers for free balcony upgrades, 70% off a second sailor, as well as some $99 per night sailings.

I am here to chat with you at 908-419-7700 if you have any questions.