A 14-Day Transatlantic Journey with Scarlet Lady

Dining on Scarlet Lady is a world of its own. Each morning started with The Galley, a culinary hub brimming with international options, from freshly prepared sushi to artisanal sandwiches. Our evenings unfolded as a culinary tour of the globe: Extra Virgin delighted us with handmade Italian pasta crafted daily, The Test Kitchen served avant-garde dishes in a sleek, lab-inspired setting, and Pink Agave brought upscale Mexican cuisine that redefined flavor. Every meal became a memory, with chefs devoted to fresh, sustainable ingredients that elevated each bite.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, Scarlet Lady came alive with music, laughter, and endless entertainment. Scarlet Night transformed the ship into a sea of red, with impromptu performances and live music around every corner. We danced under disco lights at The Manor, a retro-inspired two-story nightclub, and joined fellow travelers at a playful Pajama Party where chic met cozy. Each evening was a blend of glamour and spontaneous fun—a celebration that only Virgin Voyages could conjure.

Sea days became a time for restoration. Redemption Spa offered hydrotherapy pools and mud rooms, creating an intimate escape. For those who wanted to stay active, The Athletic Club provided fitness classes with ocean views, from sunrise yoga to high-energy cardio. Each day achieved a harmonious balance between wellness and play, redefining the experience of luxury at sea.

We wandered through the cobbled streets of Funchal, where colorful markets and winding alleys created a scene from a storybook. At Mercado dos Lavradores, we sampled exotic tropical fruits and tasted the famous honey cakes. The intricate calçada portuguesa pavements added an artisanal touch to every step, as if the city itself were an artwork.

Cabo Girão, one of Europe’s highest sea cliffs, offered a glass skywalk with breathtaking views over the Atlantic. Gazing down at the churning sea, we felt a visceral connection to nature’s power, a perfect metaphor for the boldness of our journey.

As twilight fell, we gathered at a local wine lodge to sample Madeira’s iconic fortified wine. Each sip carried centuries of tradition, a warm close to our first port of call that left us feeling profoundly connected to Madeira’s heritage.

We began our journey at the Alcazaba, an 11th-century Moorish fortress perched above the city, where sweeping views of the Mediterranean set the stage. Wandering through its lush gardens and intricate archways felt like stepping back in time, while the vibrant mosaics and fountains reflected the elegance of Andalusian design.

Malaga, the birthplace of Picasso, brims with artistic energy. A private tour of the Picasso Museum took us through his masterpieces, each work revealing the evolution of his genius. The experience offered a profound glimpse into the life of one of the world’s greatest artists, making it an essential stop for art lovers.

No visit to Malaga would be complete without a culinary adventure through its lively tapas bars. Led by a local guide, we explored the historic center, sampling traditional bites like gambas al pil-pil (spicy shrimp) and jamón ibérico. Each dish, paired with local wines, embodied the spirit of Andalusia—a celebration of flavor and life.

As the day came to an end, we strolled along La Malagueta Beach, where the warm hues of sunset cast a golden glow over the water. With the gentle sea breeze and views of the distant mountains, the moment was pure magic—a tranquil close to our day in Malaga, yet another highlight of our transatlantic journey.

Our visit to Valencia would have been incomplete without experiencing authentic paella. At a traditional restaurant, we savored a dish made with rabbit and snails, each bite carrying the flavors of saffron and spices unique to the region. This culinary ritual was a reminder that in Valencia, food is a celebration of life.

Valencia’s modern architectural marvels captivated us. The City of Arts and Sciences felt like a step into the future, while nearby, the historic charm of the Central Market and Valencia Cathedral reminded us of the city’s storied past. It was a place where old and new existed in perfect harmony.

The Gothic Quarter’s narrow streets and hidden plazas were a journey through time. Gaudí’s masterpieces, especially the breathtaking Sagrada Familia, left a mark on our hearts. Wandering through Parc Güell with its whimsical architecture and sweeping city views, we felt the perfect goodbye to an unforgettable journey.

Our last evening was spent indulging in tapas, from patatas bravas to fresh seafood, each dish a taste of Barcelona’s artistry and passion. In this city of culture, each bite became a final toast to the journey that had brought us across the sea.