back Back to news

Resilient Lady Named as Portsmouth-Bound Virgin Voyages Ship

A recently leaked magazine advertisement has shed light on Virgin Voyages' long-anticipated plans for the summer of 2024. According to the leaked details, Virgin's Resilient Lady is set to operate two new cruises next summer, concluding its Barcelona to London trip at the UK port of Portsmouth.

0 comments

A view of the Portsmouth skyline with the Spinnaker tower in the distance
2024 marks Resilient Lady's first journey to the UK © Photo by Léa Debroise

A recently leaked magazine advertisement has shed light on Virgin Voyages’ long-anticipated plans for the summer of 2024. According to the leaked details, Virgin’s Resilient Lady is set to operate two new cruises next summer, concluding its Barcelona to London trip at the UK port of Portsmouth.

Leak Points to Portsmouth Destination

The advertisement, which sees an unnamed travel company encourages travelers to “Reserve before September 12 and save up to $400 per stateroom,” specifies two cruises: Athens to Barcelona, taking place from August 4-13, 2024, and Barcelona to London from August 13-23, 2024. The Barcelona to London itinerary suggests stops in Malaga, Seville, Lisbon (with an overnight stay), La Coruna, Bilbao, and Bordeaux before culminating in Portsmouth.

This latest information aligns with previous speculations about the company’s intentions to return to Portsmouth, a port of nostalgic importance for Virgin Voyages. The maiden voyages of both Scarlet Lady and Valiant Lady set sail from this port in 2021 and 2022 respectively.

A snippet from a magazine showing Resilient Lady is making a crossing from Athens to Portsmouth in August 2024
A magazine clipping has been circulating on social media ahead of an official announcement expected this coming week.© Photo by Unknown

A Nod to British Roots

As stated by Shane Riley, Virgin Voyages vice president of UK/international sales, the company is “returning to British roots,” and Portsmouth holds a “very special place in our hearts.” A return to this port seems to fit the narrative of Virgin Voyages’ growth and evolution while paying homage to its history.

A view of the Portsmouth skyline with the Spinnaker tower in the distance
2024 looks to mark the return of Virgin Voyages® to the UK by sailing from Portsmouth in August© Photo by Léa Debroise

Potential Itineraries for 2024

While the magazine ad was primarily focused on Resilient Lady, it comes on the heels of Virgin Voyages’ earlier hints regarding possible Northern European destinations for 2024. Cities like Zebrugge, Amsterdam, Reykjavík, and Alesund had been mentioned. However, the Barcelona to London route suggests an altogether different set of stops, incorporating Spanish, Portuguese, and French locales.

A canal in Amsterdam with banks surrounded by colourful buildings and bicycles
Amsterdam has already been named in leaked itineraries from magazine ads© Photo by Nastya Dulhiier

Details Yet to be Confirmed

Although the advertisement provides compelling details, it is essential to note that official confirmation from Virgin Voyages is still pending. Cruise enthusiasts have been advised to “stay tuned for epic news,” with new itineraries slated to be available for booking from September 7, 2023.

Takeaway for Travelers

If the leaked information proves accurate, the Resilient Lady will be another addition to Virgin Voyages’ array of options, coupling the company’s signature luxury with the appeal of diverse European destinations. As the date for the official announcement approaches, travelers should keep an eye out for further details to confirm the itineraries and avail of early-bird offers.

Sources:

  • Leaked Magazine Advertisement
  • Virgin Voyages Official Website
  • Confirmed statement from Shane Riley, VP of UK/International Sales, Virgin Voyages

For further information, please refer to the official Virgin Voyages website and associated press releases.

About the author

Co-Founder and Director. David has a background in web design and development and writes travel content, vacation guides and tips about Virgin Voyages.


Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *