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Inside Look: Virgin Voyages Returns to the UK in One Week

Virgin Voyages’ Resilient Lady debuts in the UK next Friday with exciting itineraries and special events, offering unique sailing experiences from Portsmouth to European destinations.

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A Virgin Voyages cruise ship sails past the coastline of Portsmouth with an orange tug boat sailing alongside
Virgin Voyages® in Portsmouth © Photo by Virgin Group

In just one week, Virgin Voyages is set to make a triumphant return to the UK, bringing its latest ship, Resilient Lady, to British shores for the first time. This  event marks another milestone in Virgin Voyages’ journey, and a new commitment to the UK for years to come.

History of Virgin Voyages in the UK

The UK has played a significant role in Virgin Voyages’ history, with the launch of the Scarlet Lady in 2021 being a major event. Following the reopening of cruising post-pandemic, the UK was one of the first countries to welcome back cruise ships, and Virgin Voyages seized this opportunity to showcase their brand. Scarlet Lady’s summer season in the UK was just a preview of what was to come, and the excitement has only grown since.

In March 2022, Valiant Lady made her worldwide debut with a short MerMaiden season from Portsmouth. To celebrate this momentous occasion, Portsmouth’s iconic Spinnaker Tower was lit up in Virgin’s signature red. The hope is that the tower will once again be illuminated to welcome Resilient Lady to the UK.

Spinnaker Tower
Spinnaker Tower© Photo by VV Insider

Resilient Lady’s Inaugural UK Season

Resilient Lady will embark on her first UK voyage on August 23rd, 2024. The ship will offer a series of 3-6 night sailings, providing sailors with the opportunity to experience Virgin Voyages’ award-winning luxury and innovative onboard experiences including popular shows such as Persephone, Lola’s Library & Another Rose.

The itineraries are designed to capture the late summer sun (in theory 🤞), with voyages departing from Portsmouth to destinations like Amsterdam, Bruges, and France. These sailings offer the perfect opportunity for a last-minute getaway, a celebratory Hen party, a romantic couples’ trip, or a solo adventure.

VV Insider Merchandise

There’s still time to get your VV Insider exclusively designed Portsmouth and beyond merchandise. Visit our itineraries store for more details.

Itineraries Store (US)   Itineraries Store (Rest of World)

Portsmouth VV Insider Merchandise
Portsmouth VV Insider Merchandise© Photo by VV Insider

Special Voyages This Season

The excitement surrounding Resilient Lady’s UK debut doesn’t stop at the sailings. On September 3rd, 2024, the Virgin Celebration Voyage will take place, featuring Sir Richard Branson himself, along with a performance by the legendary Boy George. This 5-night cruise has now sold out at this time.

Another standout event is the Virgin Voyages Comedy Fest, set to sail on September 14th, 2024. This 5-night voyage will feature performances by renowned comedians, including Russell Howard, promising a cruise filled with laughter and entertainment.

Virgin Voyages Comedy Fest
Virgin Voyages Comedy Fest© Photo by Virgin Voyages

Portsmouth’s New Cruise Terminal

Portsmouth has become a key port for Virgin Voyages with itineraries sailing from here until 2026. Recently they have opened a new cruise terminal to support further demand. This facility will serve as the starting point for Resilient Lady’s UK sailings, providing a seamless and modern embarkation experience for all sailors.

For those planning to sail from Portsmouth, we have a dedicated guide available with full information on the sailings and what to expect from the new terminal.

Portsmouth Port Guide

Join the VV Insider Communities

If you’re booked on one of these sailings or planning to join, be sure to connect with other sailors in the dedicated Facebook group hosted by VV Insider. This community is a great place to share tips, get advice and meet new sailors for your upcoming voyage. We also have a range of merchandise designed for these sailings.

From England to Amsterdam & Back

Portsmouth to Zeebrugge & Back

From England to Amsterdam & Back

The UK to Amsterdam & Zeebrugge (Celebration Voyage)

Amsterdam
Amsterdam© Photo by Virgin Voyages


English Sights & European Delights

English Sights & European Delights (Comedy Fest Voyage)

From England to Amsterdam & Back

English Sights & European Delights

From the UK to Spain (Barcelona) and Morocco

About the author

Co-Founder and Editor. An iOS developer with a passion for cruises and theme parks. Blending technical know how with a love for Virgin Voyages with over 15 sailings around the world.


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