Getting Inked at Sea: My Tattoo Adventure Aboard Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady
- Victoria Ogier
- Apr 25
- 3 min read
You know what they say: “What happens on a cruise... might end up permanently inked on your body.” 😎
While most people bring home souvenirs like magnets or t-shirts from their vacation, I decided to take things up a notch and bring home a tattoo. Yep, I got inked at Squid Ink, the tattoo studio onboard Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady. And honestly? 10/10 would do it again.
Here’s how the whole thing went down—and what you need to know in case you’re feeling a little wild (but also responsibly planned).
🖋 Step 1: The Impulse (But Make It Thoughtful)
I’d been flirting with the idea of a small tattoo for a while. So when I found out there was a legit tattoo studio onboard my upcoming cruise, I thought: Well, that sounds like a fun little adventure! Plus, what better way to commemorate a few dreamy days cruising around the Bahamas than by getting a tiny airplane on my hip? ✈️
(Yes, it’s cute. No, I don’t regret it.)
📅 Step 2: Making the Reservation
If you’re even thinking about getting inked at Squid Ink, head there on Day 1. You'll need to make a $150 deposit to lock in your appointment. That goes toward your final price.
Speaking of which…
💸 Let's Talk About the Cost
Small tattoos typically start around $250, and yes, people have opinions:
Yes, Squid Ink tattoos are a bit spendy.
Yes, I’ve been told I overpaid for my adorable little airplane.
No, I don’t care. I paid for the experience—and that memory is worth every penny.
Plus, no regrets when the setting is a literal cruise ship in the Caribbean. Come on.
✍️ Step 3: Design + Artist Vibes
When booking, you can describe your vision, send reference pics, and generally make your artist’s life easier. Mine was a tattoo wizard from Vancouver who had the design ready to go and even printed it in multiple sizes. I picked the one that looked best on my hip and we were off to the races—er, needles.
These artists come from all over the world and rotate sailings, so who you get will vary. But rest assured: you’re in expert hands.
⏱ How Long It Took
The actual tattoo? Under 30 minutes.
The memories? Forever.
The bragging rights? Immediate.
💳 Payment + Paperwork
You’ll be charged directly to your onboard account, so no need to carry your wallet around. There’s also a standard online form you’ll fill out beforehand with your info and the usual disclaimers—just like any tattoo shop on land.
💦 Pro Tip: Timing is Everything
Since you’ll want to avoid water after getting inked, plan your appointment toward the end of the cruise. That way you can enjoy all the pools, hot tubs, and splashy fun before your tattoo tells you “no thank you.”
🚫 What Happens After
Your tattoo artist will wrap the new ink in protective film (very fancy, very medical). Follow their aftercare instructions like your skin depends on it—because it kind of does.
🎉 Final Thoughts
Getting a tattoo at sea is officially the coolest thing I’ve done on a cruise. Between the talented artists, smooth process, and the sheer novelty of it all, Squid Ink is 100% worth checking out—whether you’re a first-timer or already a collector.
If you're looking for a unique way to mark the moment, make a memory, or just get a little wild while still being very responsible... this is it.
Want in?Join Good Trip Travel Co. aboard the Scarlet Lady, November 12-16, 2025 and maybe get your own ocean-inspired ink!👉 Learn more here
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