Virgin Voyages Attracting “Virgin” Travelers
Virgin Voyages Focused on Attracting “Virgin” Travelers
How the first adults-only cruise line is already making waves and how you can be one of the first to cruise – Virgin style
The Virgin Group, led by Sir Richard Branson, is always disrupting the status quo, bringing about tantalizing change as it surprises and excites clients around the world and now Virgin is splashing into the cruise industry. Cruise Planners executives, Michelle Fee and Vicky Garcia, were invited to join Virgin Voyages’ ‘Ship Tease’ to reveal its new ship concept, inspired by a super-yacht design. The new “Lady Ships” will be “Adult by Design,” meaning the only “sailors” – the Virgin Voyages version of a passenger – on board will be 18 and over. With focuses on relaxation, rejuvenation, sophistication and fun, the innovative brand is already “making ship happen,” especially with its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Virgin Voyages “Lady Ships” feature a super-yacht design and will be the first-ever 18+ cruise line.
Who is the ideal “sailor” for Virgin Voyages?
“We expect the Virgin Voyages concept to succeed in the adults-only vacation niche especially when it comes to attracting new-to-cruise – or ‘virgin’ – travelers,” said Vicky Garcia, COO and co-owner of Cruise Planners®, an American Express Travel Representative. “Virgin Voyages is looking to attract those who probably are averse to cruising because of their impression that cruising is too focused on kids and families with water slides, rock climbing and such. This offers so much for those who love adults only vacations, night-life focused resorts and the South Beach style vibe.”
Carol Alexander, Sir Richard Branson, Vicky Garcia COO and co-owner of Cruise Planners with Boy George - at the Viking Voyages Ship Tease Event and Keel Laying Ceremony in Italy.
Will the new kid-free cruising concept work for Virgin?
“We think so! We have seen it work successfully with Viking Ocean’s 18+ policy,” said Garcia. “Also, on the land side, there are many adults-only resort models that work well when targeted so the clients know what to expect. The role of the travel agent is even more important to find the right vacation option for the right client.”
Each ship will be adorned by a beautiful mermaid.
When can I book a Virgin Voyages cruise with a travel agent?
Since Virgin will be rolling out one ship at a time, demand for this new product will be H-O-T and the best way to get on will be to book through your Virgin Voyage travel agent. So, if you are 18 and older (by 2020) and enjoy what the Virgin brand represents, talk with your Cruise Planners travel advisor about being one of the first to be a “sailor,” when reservations open up.
