Changes to Virgin Voyages’ Wi-Fi for 2025

Virgin Voyages is introducing significant changes to its onboard Wi-Fi system starting in January 2025, last year they updated their systems to provide even more reliable internet. While these updates bring more tailored options for connectivity, they also come with limitations that may impact sailors already booked on future sailings or those accustomed to the previous system. Here’s what you need to know.

New Wi-Fi Plan: Work from Sea

The new Work from Sea plan is designed for remote workers and sailors requiring enhanced connectivity. It includes features like audio and video calls, streaming, VPN access, virtual meetings, and gaming. However, this premium option comes at a steep cost of $50 per day for a Voyage Pass for 2 devices. Unlike the other plans, there is no 24-hour pass available.

While this plan caters to those needing reliable internet for work, its high price point and lack of flexibility may disappoint sailors who relied on the previously included VPN access in Premium Wi-Fi.

Updates to Existing Plans

Classic Wi-Fi (Previously Basic Wi-Fi)

Classic Wi-Fi remains free for all Sailors, supporting one device per person. It is suitable for basic browsing, social media (TikTok, Facebook, X etc), and email. However, it excludes essential features such as video or music streaming, video calls, virtual meetings, and work-related tools like Zoom, Dropbox, or VPNs. It is not suitable for remote work.

Premium Wi-Fi

Premium Wi-Fi has seen an adjustment, at a cost of $40 per day for a 24-hour pass or $30 per day for a Voyage Pass for one device, with additional devices priced at $15 each. The Voyage Pass covers the remaining duration of the cruise from the time of purchase. Premium Wi-Fi supports messaging, video and audio calls, social media, streaming, and general browsing. However, it no longer includes VPN access, which may frustrate remote workers or those needing secure connections.

Premium Wi-Fi is still complimentary for Mega RockStars, Deep Blue Extras, 485c, and other select groups. Eligible Sailors in these categories can connect up to two devices. However, those who relied on VPN access as part of Premium Wi-Fi may feel let down by this change.

Key Considerations for Sailors

These changes could pose challenges for sailors who booked their voyages expecting features like VPN access to be included in Premium Wi-Fi. Virgin Voyages heavily promoted the “working from helm” concept last year. The introduction of the costly Work from Sea plan will require some sailors to upgrade to maintain the functionality they previously had.

Additional device charges apply across all paid plans, though watches do not count toward device limits as they connect through phones.

Summary of Launch Dates

The updated Wi-Fi system and new Work from Sea tier will roll out as follows:

• Scarlet Lady & Valiant Lady: Now
• Resilient Lady: January 21, 2025

While these updates offer more options for sailors with specific needs, the removal of previously included features and increased costs at such short notice has left some sailors unhappy.

For more information view our full updated guide to the Wi-Fi and remote work on board:

Wi-Fi & Remote Working Guide