Upgrade bidding, done smart.
Virgin lets you bid your way into a bigger cabin or a RockStar suite. It can be great value, but you don't get to pick the cabin. Here's how it works and when I'd skip the bid and upgrade the normal way.
Questions? Text or call 202-802-0990
Photos courtesy of Virgin Voyages.
How the bid works.
Get the invite
Virgin emails eligible sailors several weeks before sailing, or you can check your booking on the Level Upgrade page.
Make your offers
Pick one or more higher categories and slide to the amount you're willing to pay, per cabin. You can change offers while bidding is open.
Wait for the answer
Most offers are answered about 48 hours before sailing. Accepted upgrades are charged to your card on file, and you get a new cabin number.
Bid vs manual upgrade.
| Level Upgrade bid | Manual upgrade with me | |
|---|---|---|
| What you pay | What you offer, if accepted | The current fare difference |
| Choose your cabin | No | Yes |
| Certainty | Answer about 48 hours out | Confirmed right away |
| Suite dining window (120 days) | Usually already passed | Yes, if you upgrade early |
| Best for | Flexible sailors chasing value | A specific suite, deck or celebration |
Based on Virgin Voyages' Level Upgrade and cabin upgrade FAQ pages, October 2026. Timing varies by sailing.
Bid like a First Mate.
Bid on two categories
Offering on a Sea Terrace step-up and a RockStar suite improves your odds. Virgin only accepts one.
Watch the cabin you have
If you love your current cabin's location, a bid could move you somewhere worse. Know what you're risking.
Quote the sure thing
Ask me what a paid upgrade runs today. Sometimes it is close to a winning bid and you get to pick the suite.
What sailors say.
5.00 average from 38 client reviews on Fora.
Derek is a responsive, personable and sharp travel agent. He … has found excellent cabins for each of my cruises.
Derek consistently excels in communication, diligently gathering all requested information and finding the best options. He provides excellent guidance for booking unforgettable cruises.
Derek was great throughout the entire process. From months ahead he provided extensive details and was adamant about finding the best options and experiences.
Virgin Voyages upgrade bidding FAQ
How does Virgin Voyages Level Upgrade bidding work?
Once your booking is eligible, Virgin emails you an invitation, or you can check on the Level Upgrade page. You choose a higher cabin category and offer an amount per cabin. If Virgin accepts, the upgrade is processed and charged to the card on file. If not, you pay nothing.
When will I hear if my upgrade bid was accepted?
Most answers come about 48 hours before sailing. If you haven't heard by then, Virgin suggests calling Sailor Services at +1 954 488 2955, or text me and I'll check.
Which cabins can I bid on?
Every category except the Massive Suite is eligible, subject to availability on your sailing. You can place offers on more than one category, and Virgin will only accept one.
Do I get to choose my cabin with an upgrade bid?
No. With Level Upgrade, Virgin assigns the cabin. If the exact cabin matters, for example a specific RockStar suite or a quiet deck, a manual upgrade through your First Mate lets you choose it, at the current fare difference.
How much should I bid?
There is no published formula. Bids are per cabin, and the slider shows a range. Many sailors start in the lower-middle of the range and raise it closer to sailing. I'll tell you what has worked recently on your ship and what the paid upgrade would run instead.
Do I keep my promotions if my upgrade is accepted?
You keep the promotions already on your booking, but Level Upgrade does not add new ones. My Sailor Loot stays on eligible bookings.
More Virgin Voyages guides.
Bid or just upgrade?
Text me your booking and I'll tell you what a paid upgrade runs today and whether a bid makes sense on your sailing.
Or call 202-802-0990 · derek@ateasetravel.co