Virgin Voyages First Mate Explained
A simple guide to what a First Mate is, why it helps to use one, and what you get when you book with Phil or Thomas at Red Wave Travel.
Booking direct works. Booking with a good First Mate works better, mainly because you get help before, during, and after you book.
A First Mate is not a separate company selling you a different cruise. Your booking is still with Virgin Voyages. The difference is you get an expert in your corner who knows the fares, the cabin nuances, the booking rules, and the things that can quietly save you money or hassle.
We have direct access to Virgin’s booking system. Once your booking is confirmed through us, all payments are made directly to Virgin Voyages and you can still manage everything yourself in the Virgin Voyages website or app.
So... what is a Virgin Voyages First Mate
A First Mate is Virgin Voyages’ term for an approved travel advisor who can quote and book Virgin Voyages sailings and support you through the process.
In practice, that means:
- We can quote the same sailings and fares you see on Virgin’s site.
- We can explain fare types and what is actually included.
- We can help you choose the right cabin category for your style and budget.
- We can help with booking questions, changes, and general support.
✅ Why work with a First Mate
Included as standard:
You get clarity on fares and promos
- Virgin’s pricing is not complicated, but it is easy to misunderstand what is included and what is limited. A First Mate helps you compare properly.
You avoid the wrong cabin for your sailing style
- A cabin choice affects how your week feels. We help you avoid paying for the wrong upgrade and help you spot when an upgrade is actually worth it.
You get support when things change
- Changes happen: price drops, promos shift, plans move. Having someone who knows the system can make that far less painful. We deal with Virgin for you. Saving you time.
Why Red Wave Travel
You can book with any First Mate. Here is why people choose Red Wave.
We are specialists, not generalists
We are built around Virgin Voyages. That means you get advice from people who live in the details, fare types, cabin value, onboard extras, and what is worth booking early.
We keep it
honest
If something is not worth the upgrade, we will say so.
If you can save money by choosing a different cabin or sailing, we will show you.
We add value beyond the booking
Depending on sailing, we may be able to add Red Wave perks such as Sailor Loot or Bar Tab bonuses for eligible bookings.
These sit on top of Virgin’s promos.
We are strong on groups
If you are travelling with friends, celebrations, or hosted sailings, we can guide you through group options and how to stack value sensibly.
Myth: Booking with a First Mate costs more
Reality: Quotes are typically the same price as booking direct and sometimes better depending on offers and group rates
Myth: You lose control of your booking
Reality: Your booking is still with Virgin Voyages, we simply help you manage it and make better choices
Myth: We can't help once you have already booked
Reality: In many cases you can transfer an eligible new booking to a First Mate within Virgin’s 30 day transfer window, so you can still get support and any applicable perks
The honest Red Wave recommendations
- Get a quote before you book direct, it costs nothing and often saves you hassleFare types (important, but manageable)
- Choose itinerary first, then cabin, then worry about micro details
- Book early if you want the best cabin locations and dining times, then adjust later