The Independent November 15 2017 Independent November 15 2017 | Page 12

12 The Independent. the Diaspora’s Multicultural Voice November 15 2017
Travel
Virgin Cruise Line to be
for ‘adults only’
Branson’s new service will be a game-changer for the industry
By Diane Selkirk
Sir Richard Branson’s new cruise line is
going to be a game-changer for the industry:
an adults-only cruise line.
Virgin Voyages made the announcement
during a keel laying ceremony for its first ship
in Genoa, Italy this week.
The “Adult By Design” concept will make
Virgin the first major cruise line to offer a ship
that is an exclusive 18+ experience.
Virgin said the idea was “a direct result of
listening to future sailors and travel partners.”
Virgin Voyages, which will be sailing itin-
eraries in the Caribbean, will also be turning
ship waste into energy, thanks to a partner-
ship with Scanship.
The announcements came at a “Ship
Tease” hosted by Branson and Virgin Voy-
ages President and CEO Tom McAlpin in
Genoa.
The first of Virgin’s three ships will
launch in 2020.
“This is a very big day for Virgin Voy-
ages, as an exciting new holiday option for
travelers starts to get ship shape,” Branson
said. “She will be the most recognizable ship
Banda Run is one of 11 lush Banda Islands, or Spice Islands, in the Banda Sea
sailing the seven seas, delivering an irre-
sistible sailor experience. We’re also commit-
ted to making sure our crew are the happiest
refundable deposit for access to an exclusive
pre-sale.
at sea and will be proud to sail with us.”
The company also debuted the first
glimpse of the ship’s unique livery, featuring
a silvery-grey hull with smoked glass and red.
“The entire ship will be built with an at-
tention to detail, reflecting the craftsmanship
and materiality inspired by super yachts,”
McAlpin said. “Designed to feel more inti-
mate and connected to the sea, 86 percent of
all cabins will feature a sea terrace and 93 per-
cent an ocean view. Virgin Voyages is creating
a sophisticated ship and a transformational
experience that offers our sailors a place
where rejuvenating day-life meets exciting
nightlife and everything in between.”
Virgin Voyages is now “open for busi-
ness,” the company announced, with future
sailors and travel partners able to place a $500
Virgin’s Richard Branson