Cruise FAQs

Is this a chartered cruise?

This is a partial chartered cruise on the Valiant Lady with Virgin Voyages. We have 100 cabins reserved for LoveLit conference attendees with the option to add a few more.

Reader's conferences are often packed. Normally, you don't get a chance to have a real conversation with an author because you only have a few short minutes with them in the signing line. The LoveLit Cruise is intentionally small to foster real relationships. We want you to make new friends, both with other readers and with authors!

Can I book my own stateroom through the Virgin Voyages website and then book the convention through you?

No.

All cruise staterooms for those attending theLoveLit Cruise Convention must be booked through us via the conference website. In order for the cruise line to provide us with conference space for our use, we have to book the staterooms for the group.

If the stateroom is booked through the Virgin Voyages website, call center, or another agent, you will not be permitted to attend the convention activities.

Can children or teenagers come?

No. Virgin Voyages is an ADULTS-ONLY cruise line. You must be aged 18+ to set sail.

Can I see a ship map?

Yes. See the map here

How much is it to go?

Pricing includes conference + all-inclusive cruise and is based on what cabin you prefer. Check out our Pricing Page for more details!

What is included in the price?

Most cruise lines show you a starting price, but once you book, the price is MUCH higher! The LoveLit Cruise is different. All LoveLit Cruise bookings include:

cabin accommodations
meals on board -- 20+ eateries. Virgin Voyages is THE foodie's cruise line.
meals at The Beach Club at Bimini
essential drinks (water, hot and iced tea, lemonade, juice, soda and drip coffee)
wifi
group fitness classes
onboard entertainment (this is not your grandmother's cruise line!)
gratuities
taxes and fees
$300 bar tab per cabin! This can be used onboard or at The Beach Club at Bimini!

It will also include admission to the LoveLit convention events such as:

author talks
q&a session
theme nights
cocktail party
games
book signings
special Lovelit Cruise swag bags
conference app

How much is the deposit?

The deposit price is currently $99/person. Your room is locked in once it is deposited.

Do I need a passport?

The short answer is no (for U.S. Citizens), but it is HIGHLY recommended. Having a passport makes the boarding and debarkation process much easier. Plus it is safer in the case of an emergency. The State Department strongly recommends that all cruisers have a passport, and if you don’t have a passport there is a list of other government documents that you need original copies of.

If you aren't a U.S. citizen, you must have a valid passport.

If you don't have a passport but would like to start the process, you can go here: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.html

What if I want to book a Suite or Stateroom that you don’t have listed?

We can book other staterooms based on availability. Email us at lovelit@bettybrowntravel.com

What’s not included with the LoveLit Cruise stateroom booking?

Some things are not included:

air transportation
ground transportation
Insurance
spa services
salon
tattoo & piercing parlor
specialty drinks beyond the $300 bar tab per cabin including fresh pressed juice, smoothies and specialty coffee
telephone calls
medical services
purchases in the Virgin Voyages Shops
excursions
purchases and meals on land

Where does the cruise go?

The Lovelit Cruise will start in Miami, it then goes to Playa Del Carmen/Cozumel and The Beach Club at Bimini before sailing back to Miami for disembarkation.

What amenities are in the cabins?

Every Sea Terrace**, Sea View* and Insider Cabin has

Roomy Rainshowers
Shampoo, Conditioner, and Body Wash
Hair dryers
Closets with hangers
Small fridge
Beds that can turn into a seating area
Towels
In cabin safe
Ice bucket with water pitcher
Bedside Table
TV
Mood lighting

*Sea View Rooms include a port hole window seat

**Sea Terrace Rooms include a hammock or egg chair on the balcony

What activities are available besides the convention ?

Virgin Voyages has a great line up of daily activities on board. All will be listed in the daily planner on the virgin voyages app. Some examples of onboard activities include: pool parties, pub crawls, trivia contest, crafts, magic shows, comedians, live music, classes, high tea, pop-up entertainers, Friends of Bill W, theatrical performances, PJ party, Sail Away Party, Scarlett nights party, foosball tables, board games, speed puzzles, arcade

What if I have other questions?

We will be updating this section as more questions come up! In the meantime, you can email Erin at lovelit@bettybrowntravel.com and she'll get back to you with an answer.