Tender Boarding Area
When Virgin Voyages visits certain ports without a pier, you’ll need to visit the ‘Boarding Area’ typically located on Deck 4. This area facilitates the embarkation and disembarkation processes, allowing you to explore destinations either by walking straight off onto a port ramp or by boarding a tender boat for a short voyage to the dock.
In instances where direct access to a pier is unavailable, tender boats become the primary mode of transportation to and from the shore. These smaller vessels shuttle passengers between the cruise ship and the port, offering a unique and scenic journey with great views of the ship from the water.
Depending on your itinerary you may need to book a tender.
How Often Are Tenders?
In instances where direct access to a pier is unavailable, tender boats become the primary mode of transportation to and from the shore. Tenders will leave every 20 minutes or so depending on sailor needs, if the ship is tendered over night then they will run every hour or so from midnight.
It can take up to 15 minutes from ship to shore.
Which Ports Use Tenders?
The vast majority of ports that Virgin Voyages visits will not require tenders however some popular ports on a number of itineraries will require tenders. Note: This list is subject to change and is not a complete list.
- Cannes, France
- Dublin, Ireland
- Isafjordur, Iceland
- Kotor, Montenegro
- Lerwick, United Kingdom (Scotland)
- Mykonos, Greece (varies based on individual sailings)
- Santorini, Greece
- George Town, Cayman Islands
How to Book a Tender
Before 12:30pm you may be required to book a tender slot. After 12:30pm the Tender Boarding Area will typically be open for free use.
- Tenders are only bookable on board in the Virgin Voyages app. Be sure to get on board early for the best spots!
- You can book a tender for free in the Shore Things section of your app. Keep in mind these typically don’t release when shore excursion bookings open.
- If you’re on Shore Things (Excursions) then you are not required to book a tender. This is already factored into your excursion time.
- Rockstars do not need to book a tender and should contact their agent for further advice.
- Return Tenders do not need to be booked.
Accessibility Considerations
Due to various conditions like the steepness of the gangway, tendering, weather, tidal and sea conditions, and shore-side facilities, sailors requiring assistance may not be able to get on or off the ship. It is best to contact Sailor Services ahead of time to confirm any potential plans that need to be in place.