It has been long awaited, but after cancelling its inaugural summer sailings on Scarlet Lady from Miami, Virgin Voyages will make its debut along the English Coast instead of the Caribbean.
Six short UK cruises in August have been confirmed by the new line’s first ship Scarlet Lady – which was originally due to make its debut more than a year ago before the Covid pandemic shut down all global cruises.
The itineraries start on August 6 with the first of three long weekend departures, while four-night weekday trips start on August 9.
The final UK cruise runs during the week of August 23-27, prior to the bank holiday weekend.
The sailings along the south coast of England will be restricted to UK residents aged 18 or over who have been vaccinated against Covid-19.
The ‘summer soiree series’ of sailings go on sale on April 13.
Entertainment will feature local British talent as the brand runs a “homecoming tour” before repositioning Scarlet Lady to its Miami base.
Virgin Group founder Sir Richard Branson said: “Virgin Voyages has been looking forward to sailings and we’re so excited to announce our plans to sail from the UK.
Virgin Voyages president and Chief executive Tom McAlpin added: “After more than a year of waiting and a major emphasis on a safe return, we’re ecstatic to announced these new sailings and bring sailors on board to experience what it’s like to sail the Virgin way.”
“We look at our new UK summer voyages as a homecoming to pay homage to our British roots and what an excellent way to kick-off our sailing season before heading to Miami.”
