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Virgin Voyages Bungee Fitness Class Paused Fleetwide

Virgin Voyages’ popular bungee fitness class is paused fleetwide due to supply issues, while other onboard fitness classes continue as normal

Group of people doing a bungee fitness class in a cruise ship gym overlooking the ocean
Virgin Voyages Bungee Fitness Class Paused Fleetwide © Photo by Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages’ popular On-the-Upswing Bungee Class has been placed on hiatus across the fleet, and sailors now have a clearer idea why.

Revealed during last week’s Red Hot Sailing Club voyage, the issue is tied to an ongoing supply problem involving the specialized maritime-grade bungee cords required to safely run the class onboard.

While rumors had been circulating for some time about why the class had disappeared from schedules, it now appears the reason is not staffing or lack of interest. Instead, Virgin Voyages has reportedly been unable to source the exact materials needed for the cords used at sea.

A Fleetwide Supply Problem

According to information mentioned on a recent First Mates call, there is currently a global shortage of the specific fibrous materials needed to produce the maritime-compliant bungee cords used for the class.

That matters because the cords used onboard are not the same as those used in land-based studios. Cruise ships must meet stricter maritime safety and fire code requirements, so Virgin Voyages cannot simply swap in standard fitness bungee equipment.

As a result, the issue is affecting the fleet as a whole, with the On-the-Upswing Bungee Class currently on hiatus until the correct equipment becomes available again.

Open room looking over the sea for use with fitness
Balance Studio part of B-Complex Build + Balance© Photo by Virgin Voyages

A Popular Free Class With Very Limited Space

The On-the-Upswing Bungee Class has become one of the more talked-about fitness offerings onboard. It is usually available to book for free once sailors are onboard, but space is very limited, which has always made it one of the harder classes to secure. If you are hoping to secure popular activities like this once it returns, it is worth reviewing our guide on how to book events onboard Virgin Voyages.

What Is the On-the-Upswing Bungee Class?

For sailors who have never tried it, the On-the-Upswing Bungee Class is a harness-based workout that uses overhead bungee support to add resistance while also reducing impact. The class takes place within B-Complex Build + Balance, Virgin Voyages’ fitness space for strength, movement, and balance-based workouts.

That setup allows participants to jump, squat, lunge, and move through cardio sequences in a way that feels more dynamic than a traditional studio class. The bungee support can also make certain movements feel lighter on the joints, while still delivering a proper workout.

It is one of the more unusual classes offered at sea, and that has likely helped drive its popularity. Between the novelty factor and the small group size, it is easy to see why it often drew interest once onboard schedules opened.

B-Complex Build + Balance
B-Complex Build + Balance© Photo by Virgin Voyages

When Could It Return?

There is no confirmed timeline yet for when the On-the-Upswing Bungee Class will return to the fleet. Because the issue is tied to specialized materials and maritime compliance, this is not something that can be fixed with a quick substitute. They are working hard to ensure the class returns as soon as possible.

For now, sailors looking to stay active can still explore the rest of the offerings within B-Complex Build + Balance, which continues to host a range of other fitness experiences onboard.

Overview

The On-the-Upswing Bungee Class has been one of the standout fitness experiences onboard and is part of what Virgin Voyages is known for when it comes to its wellness offering. While the class is currently on hiatus due to a supply issue affecting maritime-grade equipment, other fitness classes continue to run as normal.

That includes HIIT sessions, Spin classes and a range of yoga classes held in spaces like the Balance Studio.

For now, the pause is a temporary gap rather than a long-term change, and once the correct materials are available again, the class is expected to return to the fleet.

About the author

Co-Founder and Editor. Blending technical know how from the iOS world with a love for Virgin Voyages with over 25 VV sailings around the world.


6 Comments

  1. Jon C says:

    I signed up for it on my first sailing (Jan 2023 on Valiant) but was turned away due to being over the unposted weight limit. Still I’m sorry to see this class paused.

  2. Glen H. says:

    I heard there was something legal in progress which makes more sense than equipment availability. Bungee cords typically last between 2-5 years, depending on the amount of use so even with extreme use Brilliant Lady should still have a usable set, which weren’t being offered on the RHSC Voyage.

    1. Rob Sammons says:

      Remember Brilliant sat dormant for two years, even without use they may not want to take any risks

  3. Maria Tucker says:

    Put in TRX straps, even the YMCA has these classes, much more secure and would use the same connection.

    1. Jon says:

      They have a new TRX class, i did it on Brilliant Lady this morning. Not quite as fun as bungee but a good workout

  4. Brandon says:

    I wonder if there is any relation between this and the lawsuit from last fall over the bungee classes.

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