Virgin Voyages, Covid-19 vaccine required for all future passengers
Virgin Voyages, Richard Branson's new adult cruise line, has made official the new policy planned for all [...]
Virgin Voyages, Richard Branson's new adult cruise line, has made official the new policy planned for all sailings scheduled by the end of the year. All passengers must bring a document certifying Covid-19 vaccination.
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La Virgin Voyages has yet to officially debut, and the first official departures are currently scheduled for July after being pushed back several times due to the ongoing coronavirus emergency.
President and CEO Tom McAlpin confirmed the willingness on the part of the cruise line to ensure a safe return to sailing for all. These are his words, "It's the right decision for Virgin Voyages, our goal is to ensure a safer travel experience. This translates into vaccinations for both our crew and passengers." McAlpin also said that the company was encouraged to activate this new policy by the latest updates on the vaccination campaign in the United States. "We know that the future is about vaccinations," McAlpin said. "We are an adults-only cruise line, which allows us to provide a safe and highly controlled environment for everyone on board."
Virgin Voyages as Crystal Cruises and Saga Cruises
Virgin Voyages joins the luxury line Crystal Cruises and the Saga Cruises based in Great Britain that have provided compulsory vaccination for passengers. In the same direction are two very small U.S.-based cruise operators, Queen Steamboat Company and sister brand Victory Cruise Lines. Also Royal Caribbean recently said that all adults setting sail on upcoming Mediterranean trips from Israel will have to show proof of a vaccine. The trips will be open only to local residents of the country.
Scarlet Lady's postponed departure
Virgin Voyages' first ship, Scarlet Lady, was expected to begin its first voyages in early 2020. The debut of Virgin Voyages was one of the most anticipated cruise industry events of the past year. The line promised to shake up the world of cruising with the arrival of Scarlet Lady capable of carrying 2,770 passengers and designed to satisfy all kinds of desires. Also featured inside are a tattoo store, drag queen brunches and a colorful karaoke room.
To ensure a proper party atmosphere, the minimum age to sail is 18. The ship has no buffets, no dress codes, and no big Broadway-style theatrical performances. For entertainment, there are interactive dance parties, DJ sets and "microplay," as well as late-night dodgeball games.
