Virgin Voyages Reveals First Ship Details

Virgin Voyages has laid the keel for its inaugural vessel and revealed more of its dramatic design details.

Virgin Group Founder Sir Richard Branson and Virgin Voyages President and CEO Tom McAlpin hosted the “Ship Tease” at the Fincantieri shipyard in Genoa, Italy. The first of three ships will launch in 2020.

Branson and McAlpin made their grand entrance on a crane hoisted above the keel donning a banner which playfully read, “Hi, I’m the keel. Ready for a little #shiptease?” Bain Capital Chairman Stephen Pagliuca and Fincantieri’s Alberto Maestrini joined them to weld ceremonially coins on the keel before it was laid in position.

“This is a very big day for Virgin Voyages, as an exciting new holiday option for travelers starts to get ship shape,” commented Branson, in a press release.

“She will be the most recognizable ship sailing the seven seas, delivering an irresistible sailor experience. We’re also committed to making sure our crew are the happiest at sea and will be proud to sail with us.”

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We also got a much anticipated larger look at what it will feature onboard.

McAlpin began by saying, in the release, “The entire ship will be built with an attention to detail, reflecting the craftsmanship and materiality inspired by super yachts. Designed to feel more intimate and connected to the sea, 86 percent of all cabins will feature a sea terrace and 93 percent 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.”

He also spoke of its contemporary and high-end luxurious nature before unveiling a bombshell detail: The ship will be “Adult By Design,” requiring that all of its passengers be 18 or older.

While this is definitely a 180-degree turn for McAlpin who once served as president of kid-friendly Disney Cruise Line, it is also in keeping with what Virgin says follows the feedback of travel agents and future travelers seeking a premium experience.

Similarly bold will be the ship’s exterior design, featuring smoked glass and distinctive reds spoken about by McAlpin as well as a complementary silvery-grey hull—conceived by Ben Christie and David Azurdia from Magpie Studio in London.

Said to be, “luxurious but iconic,” the swooping so-called “non-funnel” funnel was meanwhile crafted by RWD from Beaulieu England.

The first fleet, or class of ships, will be referred to as the “Lady Ships” in reference to Virgin’s British heritage and the term “your ladyship.”

READ MORE: What Might We Expect from Virgin Voyages Come 2020

Meanwhile, the concept of classic figureheads will be resurrected with the inclusion of a bow mermaid icon reminiscent of the feminine motif of Virgin Galactic—both of which were designed by London-based artist Toby Tinsley.

From a brief technical side of things, Virgin also announced that it has signed an agreement with Scanship, a provider of advanced waste management systems. The collaboration’s objective is to maintain one of the cleanest fleets at sea by developing future technology to convert waste into energy.

Lastly, Virgin said it is currently open for business, accepting $500 refundable deposits from guests and travel agents for a dedicated pre-sale available ahead of general reservations. Places can be held at virginvoyages.com.

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