Virgin Voyages Travel Agent Cruise Expert

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Dave Goebel, Travel Agent in Charlotte, NC

Dave Goebel

Charlotte, NC Travel Agent

Dave Goebel

Charlotte, NC

Davisville Travel, an independent agent with Travel Leaders Davis, CA

Areas of expertise

Destinations:

Miami, Bahamas, Bimini Islands, Caribbean, Dominican Republic

Interests:

Cruises, Adult Only, Culinary & Foodie, Beach Vacations, LGBTQ+ Travel

Suppliers:

Virgin Voyages

About Me

When I think about cruising, one name comes to mind right away: Virgin Voyages. From the very first time I stepped onto one of their Lady Ships, I knew this cruise line was something completely different—something that fit me perfectly. It wasn’t just about where the ship was going, it was about how it made me feel: relaxed, welcomed, and completely at ease.

So far, I’ve sailed on two of Virgin’s four ships: Scarlet Lady, the very first of the fleet, and Valiant Lady, the second. Both experiences reminded me why I love this brand so much. Everything about the design, the food, the atmosphere, and the people felt intentionally created for travelers like me—adults who want to unwind, explore, and enjoy life at sea without stress. And in 2026, I’ll be adding another to my list when I board Brilliant Lady, Virgin’s newest ship. Knowing the kind of magic they’ve already created on the first two ships, I can only imagine how incredible this newest addition will be.

One of the things I love most about Virgin Voyages is their decision to make all of their cruises adults-only. Every sailor must be 18 or older, and that single rule transforms the entire atmosphere. There are no kids’ clubs or splash zones here—just a grown-up vibe that feels laid-back and refreshing. With only 2,700 sailors on board, the ships feel boutique in size. They’re big enough to offer endless choices, but small enough that you don’t feel lost in the crowd. I love that balance.

And then there’s the food—where do I even start? Virgin completely changed the dining game. Instead of buffets and main dining rooms, they created a collection of unique restaurants, each with its own style and flavor. From casual eats to multi-course experiences, every meal feels special. The best part? It’s all included in your voyage fare. In fact, almost everything is included—Wi-Fi, gratuities, fitness classes, shows, and entertainment. The only extra cost is alcohol, which keeps things simple and stress-free. On Virgin, I never feel like I’m being nickel-and-dimed, which makes it so much easier to just relax and enjoy.

And relaxation is at the heart of what makes Virgin Voyages special to me. The pace on board is whatever you want it to be. Some days I’ll take it slow, soaking up the sun, enjoying a spa treatment, or finding a quiet nook to watch the sea. Other days I’ll dive into the energy—joining a themed party, catching live music, or staying up late with new friends. There’s no pressure, no rigid schedule, no “have-to’s.” It’s travel on my terms, and that freedom is priceless.

Another reason Virgin has become my cruise line of choice for life is its inclusive, open-minded spirit. This isn’t just a company that says the right things—it’s a brand that truly celebrates individuality. As someone who values inclusivity, it means a lot to know that Virgin creates a space where everyone can feel comfortable, especially members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Onboard, there’s no judgment, just joy. That sense of belonging is woven into everything, from the entertainment to the crew to the overall vibe.

What excites me most about the future is that Virgin Voyages will begin sailing to Alaska in 2026. To think about exploring glaciers, fjords, and rugged landscapes with Virgin’s signature style of cruising—it feels like the perfect match. I already know that trip will be unforgettable.

For me, Virgin Voyages is more than just a vacation option—it’s a lifestyle at sea that matches exactly what I want out of travel. After my sailings on Scarlet Lady and Valiant Lady, I know I’ll keep coming back again and again. With Brilliant Lady on the horizon and Alaska calling my name, I can say without hesitation: Virgin Voyages isn’t just my favorite cruise line. It’s my cruise line for life.