Virgin Voyages Promises App and Dining Reservation Fixes
Virgin Voyages is set to improve its dining reservation system and app by early next year, aiming to resolve issues that often frustrate sailors on busy sailings.
Anyone who’s recently sailed with Virgin Voyages knows the frustration of securing dining reservations, both ahead of time and onboard. In an interview with Travel Weekly, Virgin Voyages acknowledged these issues and promised solutions in the coming months, with improvements to the app and dining reservation system being top priorities.
Dining Reservation Challenges
Currently, dining reservations open up 60 days prior for Rockstars and 45 days for all other sailors, at midnight Miami time. This often leads to a scramble to secure reservations, with The Wake being the hardest spot to book due to its traditional dining focus.
What many sailors don’t know is that Virgin Voyages only releases a portion of the dining slots ahead of time (estimated at around 30%). This can make it seem like reservations are impossible to get, even though there is technically enough seating.
Improving The Reservation Flow
Virgin Voyages has also been working on adjustments to the dining flow of the app to encourage sailors to explore other dining venues and reduce pressure on the most popular spots. The announcements about Scarlet Lady’s dry dock changes to Razzle Dazzle highlight this enhanced dining experience.
Nirmal Saverimuttu, Virgin Voyages’ chief executive, commented, “We’re fixing the flow. The reality is there are plenty of seats for people to eat, but people don’t feel that way. They should be looking forward to their holiday, not dreading when they are going to eat.” The brand expects to have the dining reservation system improved by the end of this year or early next year.
App Improvement Promises
The Virgin Voyages app has long been a source of complaints since 2021. With a low rating and frequent negative reviews, users have pointed out consistent glitches and a poor user interface. Saverimuttu admitted that the app “is not good” and explained, “The app is trying to be Uber Eats, while managing systems, and has too much content, which makes it really slow.”
As we have previously reported a new version of the app is being developed. According to those on the Celebration Voyage this is now being tested by “super users” and is expected to roll out in late 2024 or early 2025. This version aims to fix both the app’s stability and its interface. Saverimuttu acknowledged, “Our app sucks,” and promised improvements to ensure smoother functionality and a more intuitive experience for sailors.
Increased Communication Options
To reduce the need for sailors to rely heavily on the app, Virgin Voyages is also focusing on increasing communication options outside of the app. This includes adding more digital displays onboard, so sailors can easily access important information without needing to constantly check the app. Those who have been onboard recently have already seen some of these improvements with screens highlighting different events and activities.
Improvements to Come
Virgin Voyages is fully aware of the issues sailors face, especially during busier sailings. From the frustration of securing dining reservations to the app’s glitches, the company has acknowledged these pain points and is committed to resolving them. With promised improvements to the dining system and a complete app overhaul on the horizon, Virgin Voyages hopes to provide a smoother, more enjoyable experience for all sailors in the near future.