Intro
Scarlet Night is the signature party experience on Virgin Voyages and one of the biggest nights of your cruise.
But Scarlet Night isn't simply a red-themed party. The celebration takes over different areas of the ship with pop-up performances, interactive experiences, music, dancing, and surprises before culminating in a massive party around the pool.
The most important thing to know before you sail?
Pack something red, leave room in your evening plans, and don't go straight to the pool.
This guide covers what Scarlet Night is, what to wear, what to expect, what to pack, and how to make the most of the night.
Scarlet Night at a Glance
What You Need to Know | |
|---|---|
What is Scarlet Night? | Virgin Voyages' signature shipwide celebration |
What should I wear? | Red! There is no formal dress code |
Is it included? | Yes |
Do I need reservations? | No reservation is required for Scarlet Night itself |
Where does it happen? | Throughout the ship, with much of the early action around Decks 6 and 7 |
Where is the big party? | The pool on Deck 15, weather permitting |
Will I get wet? | Possibly! Especially if you join the pool party |
Should I attend? | Absolutely. We recommend every first-time Sailor experience it |
Where do I find my schedule? | Check the Virgin Voyages app onboard |
What Is Scarlet Night?
Scarlet Night is an immersive, ship-wide celebration created specifically for Virgin Voyages.
Throughout the evening, different spaces onboard become part of the experience. You may encounter dancers, musicians, performers, interactive moments, and unexpected pop-ups as you explore the ship.
There's even a mythology behind Scarlet Night involving the sea, the moon, a Sailor, and the Octopus Goddess.
You don't need to understand the story to participate.
In fact, one of the biggest mistakes you can make is trying to treat Scarlet Night like a traditional cruise ship show with a specific venue, start time, and ending.
Scarlet Night is something you explore.
What Happens During Scarlet Night?
While the exact schedule can vary by sailing, Scarlet Night generally evolves throughout the evening.
Part of the Night | What to Expect | Our Advice |
|---|---|---|
Getting Started | The atmosphere around the ship begins changing as Scarlet Night starts | Finish dinner, change into red, and be ready to explore |
The Roundabout | A central gathering point around Decks 6 and 7 | This is a great place to begin |
Shipwide Experiences | Pop-up performances, music, interactive moments, and surprises | Wander! Don't stay in one place |
Octopus Garden | The Red Room transforms as Scarlet Night's mythology comes alive | Worth experiencing at least once |
Pool Party | Music, dancing, performers, and plenty of Sailors around and inside the pool | Wear something that can survive getting wet, or just jump in with your existing red outfit, you only live once! |
After-Party | The celebration can continue late into the night at The Manor | Go if you still have energy! |
What Should I Wear to Scarlet Night?
Wear red.
That's really the only rule you need to know.
Virgin Voyages encourages Sailors to "Keep it Red," but there isn't a formal Scarlet Night dress code.
Some people barely dress up.
Other people treat Scarlet Night like the Met Gala at sea.
Both work.
Scarlet Night Outfit Ideas
Keep It Simple | Dress It Up | Go All Out |
|---|---|---|
Red T-shirt | Red button-down | Sequins |
Red polo | Red cocktail dress | Mesh or sheer layers |
Red shorts | Red jumpsuit | Statement pieces |
Red sundress | Red blazer | Elaborate head-to-toe red |
Red accessories | Red shoes | Glitter and dramatic accessories |
For our LGBTQ+ travelers: Scarlet Night is absolutely a night where you can have fun with your outfit. Virgin Voyages tends to attract an inclusive crowd, and you'll see everything from simple red shirts to some seriously fabulous looks.
Wear what makes you comfortable.
Expert Planning • Personalized Service
Ready to Plan Your Next Vacation?
Pride Travelers makes planning your next vacation easier. From cruises and hotels to flights and pre- and post-cruise stays, our travel advisors are here to help you plan every detail. Best of all, booking your cruise with us typically costs the same as booking directly with the cruise line.
⚠️ Your Scarlet Night Outfit Might Get Wet
This is probably the most important packing advice in this entire guide.
Scarlet Night eventually moves to the pool.
You don't have to get in.
You may have absolutely no intention of getting in.
And then suddenly you're standing next to a swimming pool surrounded by hundreds of people dancing and reconsidering every decision that brought you to this moment.
Plan accordingly.
We Recommend:
Do | Avoid |
|---|---|
Comfortable shoes | Shoes that become dangerously slippery when wet |
Clothes you can dance in | Anything extremely restrictive |
An outfit that can handle some water | Expensive pieces that absolutely cannot get wet |
Swimsuit underneath if you might swim | Assuming you definitely won't end up in the pool |
Taking photos before the pool party | Waiting until midnight for your outfit photos |
If you've planned an elaborate Scarlet Night outfit, you can always return to your cabin and change before heading to the pool.
Scarlet Night Packing Checklist
Make sure these items make it into your suitcase:
Red outfit
Comfortable shoes
Pool-friendly shoes if you're planning to get wet
Red accessories
Swimsuit if you might join the pool party
Waterproof or water-resistant phone protection
Makeup, glitter, or accessories for your look
Backup red top if you're planning an elaborate outfit
Don't own anything red?
You don't need to buy an entirely new wardrobe.
A red shirt, accessory, pair of sunglasses, jewelry, or other accent is enough to participate.
That said, if you're someone who enjoys dressing up...
This is the night to do it.
Our Recommended Scarlet Night Game Plan
Here's how we'd approach Scarlet Night on your first Virgin Voyages cruise.
When | What to Do |
|---|---|
Earlier That Day | Check the Virgin Voyages app for the current Scarlet Night schedule |
Dinner | Choose an earlier dinner so you aren't rushing or missing the beginning of the festivities |
Before the Party | Head back to your cabin, change into red, charge your phone, and take your good outfit photos |
Scarlet Night Begins | Head toward The Roundabout around Decks 6 and 7 |
Early Evening | Explore! Follow performers and see what's happening throughout the ship |
During Scarlet Night | Check out The Red Room and Octopus Garden |
Later | Head toward Deck 15 for the pool party |
Late Night | Keep going at The Manor if you're not ready for bed |
Before Bed | Drink some water. Future-you will appreciate this. |
First-Timer Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake | Do This Instead |
|---|---|
Going directly to the pool | Explore Decks 6 and 7 first |
Booking a late dinner | Check the schedule and plan dinner around Scarlet Night |
Wearing something that can't get wet | Plan for the possibility of joining the pool party |
Wearing uncomfortable shoes | Remember you'll be walking and dancing |
Trying to see absolutely everything | Follow the action and enjoy whatever you discover |
Using an online schedule from another cruise | Check your actual sailing in the Virgin Voyages app |
Filming the entire night | Get your photos and videos, then actually enjoy it |
Do You Have to Get in the Pool?
No.
You can enjoy the pool party without ever entering the water.
If you prefer a little more breathing room, you can also watch portions of the festivities from farther away from the pool.
But if there's even a small chance you'll want to jump in, wearing a swimsuit underneath your outfit isn't a bad idea.
What Happens If the Weather Is Bad?
Scarlet Night's pool party takes place outdoors, which means weather and sea conditions can affect the evening.
Virgin Voyages may modify the schedule or relocate portions of the celebration when necessary.
Always check the Virgin Voyages app for the latest information during your sailing.
Can I skip Scarlet Night?
Of course.
But if this is your first Virgin Voyages cruise, we really recommend experiencing it, even if you only participate in the earlier portion of the evening.
The Pride Travelers Bottom Line
Scarlet Night is one of those Virgin Voyages experiences that's better when you participate rather than simply watch.
You don't need an elaborate costume.
You don't need to understand the mythology.
You don't need to jump into the pool.
And you definitely don't need to stay out until 2 AM.
Wear some red. Start around The Roundabout. Explore the ship. Follow the performers. Have fun with it.
Then, when everyone starts heading upstairs...
You'll know exactly where the night is going.
Already Booked?
Save this guide and come back to it when you're packing for your Virgin Voyages cruise.
And remember: pack the red outfit. For a complete packing list, check out our Virgin Voyages Packing List.
Scarlet Night FAQ
What night is Scarlet Night on Virgin Voyages?
The night can vary by itinerary and sailing. Check your Virgin Voyages app for the confirmed schedule for your cruise.
What time does Scarlet Night start?
Times can vary. Don't rely on a schedule posted online from another sailing. Your onboard Virgin Voyages app will have the most relevant schedule.
Do you have to wear red to Scarlet Night?
No. Wearing red is encouraged, but it isn't a mandatory dress code.
Does Scarlet Night cost extra?
No. Scarlet Night is included in your Virgin Voyages cruise.
Do I need reservations?
You don't need a reservation to participate in Scarlet Night itself. Check the app for individual activities and entertainment happening during the evening.
Is Scarlet Night adults only?
Virgin Voyages itself is adults only, so Scarlet Night is an adults-only experience.
Is Scarlet Night LGBTQ+ friendly?
Absolutely. Virgin Voyages is known for an inclusive onboard atmosphere, and Scarlet Night strongly embraces individuality and self-expression.
Should I wear a swimsuit?
You don't need one unless you want to get into the pool. If you think there's even a chance you'll join the pool party, wearing one underneath your outfit can make life easier.
Expert Planning • Personalized Service
Ready to Plan Your Next Vacation?
Pride Travelers makes planning your next vacation easier. From cruises and hotels to flights and pre- and post-cruise stays, our travel advisors are here to help you plan every detail. Best of all, booking your cruise with us typically costs the same as booking directly with the cruise line.
Related guides
Cruise Line Gratuities Comparison: 2026 Daily Rates & Inclusions
Planning a cruise? Compare daily cruise line gratuities for major ocean lines, check which brands include tipping in the fare, and see total costs.
My Next Virgin Voyage Onboard Offer: Full Guide
Complete guide to Virgin Voyages' onboard offer: deposit amounts, booking deadlines, onboard credit rules, cabin eligibility, and transfer options for future cruises.
Virgin Voyages Bar Tab: Onboard Drink Credit
Learn how to pre-purchase Virgin Voyages Bar Tab onboard beverage credit, earn bonus credit, and maximize your premium drinks across the fleet.