Draught Haus

The Logbook — Real Guest Soundings

Depth Sounding: This is a composite account from multiple guest experiences, edited to our venue standards for clarity. Individual sailings vary by ship, itinerary, and crew.

Draught Haus Review: The Ship's Beer Hall Does Its Job

Introduction. Draught Haus is Virgin Voyages' craft beer and tap house — a German beer-hall inspired bar with a rotating selection of draft beers, ciders, and a food menu featuring pretzels, sausages, and other beer-hall staples. Located on Deck 7, it is one of the more casual drinking venues on the ship and attracts beer enthusiasts and guests looking for a mellow, sociable spot. Bar Tab package covers most drinks; some premium craft pours may carry a surcharge.

Drinks & Service

The draft selection is the highlight — typically 10-15 taps featuring a mix of craft IPAs, wheat beers, lagers, and ciders. The IPA selection rotates and usually includes at least one genuinely interesting option (a hazy IPA or a local brewery collab has appeared on some sailings). The house lager is clean and perfectly drinkable. The soft pretzel with beer cheese is the essential food pairing — warm, salty, and legitimately good. The bratwurst platter is hearty and serviceable. Where it falls short: the craft beer selection, while decent for a cruise ship, is not exceptional by land standards. Several taps may feature mainstream options dressed up with craft branding. The cocktail menu is an afterthought — if you want a mixed drink, go elsewhere. Wine drinkers will find one or two options and limited enthusiasm from the staff.

Service

Bartenders here tend to be genuine beer enthusiasts — they know the tap list, can describe the flavor profiles, and will pour samples before you commit. This sets Draught Haus apart from the more transactional bar experiences elsewhere on the ship. Service is generally relaxed and friendly, with a pub-like conversational quality. Wait times are reasonable since the venue rarely reaches the crush levels of the pool bar or nightclub bars.

Atmosphere

The space channels a modern beer hall — communal wooden tables, industrial-chic decor, and a convivial energy that encourages table-hopping and group conversations. Trivia nights and beer-tasting events are occasionally held here, which add to the social atmosphere. Where it falls short: the design is pleasant but not memorable — it looks like a brewery taproom you might find in any mid-size American city. The communal tables can feel awkward for couples or solo drinkers who prefer their own space. The music is background-level and generic.

Conclusion

Rating: 3.6/5. Draught Haus is a solid beer bar that fills an important niche on the ship — if you prefer a cold craft beer to a cocktail, this is your home base. The pretzel is excellent, the tap list is respectable, and the bartenders actually care about beer. It falls short on atmosphere (generic design) and cocktail/wine options (nonexistent). Tip: ask for a flight of four tasters before committing to a full pour — the bartenders are happy to set one up, and it is the best way to explore the rotating taps.

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