Virgin Voyages Sees Record Growth in Key International Markets
Virgin Voyages reports record international growth across the UK, Europe, Australia and New Zealand as it strengthens global trade and distribution heading into 2026.
Stronger Position in the UK
The UK is now Virgin Voyages’ second largest market. Revenue is up 17 percent year over year. The line is also seeing a 34 percent rise in average selling values. Caribbean bookings made in the UK have risen 154 percent, which is notable for a brand still growing its long haul business.
This suggests UK travelers are planning further ahead and booking longer sailings. It also shows that the brand’s adults only positioning is holding in a competitive market. Despite this growth, Virgin Voyages has confirmed there will be no sailings departing from the UK in 2027.
“2025 has been a landmark year of growth across all our international markets,” said SJ Walker, Director of UK Sales. “The UK travel trade has truly embraced our brand, and we’ve seen traveller are booking earlier, sailing longer and choosing higher end experiences.”
Growth Across Europe, Australia and New Zealand
Virgin Voyages says its international footprint now relies on Europe, Australia and New Zealand as much as the UK. These regions are picking up extended Mediterranean sailings and long haul Caribbean trips. That mix is helping to bring new to cruise travelers into the brand.
The line reports a 65 percent year over year revenue increase in the wider European market. That level of growth is unusual for a still young cruise brand and shows that distribution is maturing.
Trade Focused Appointments
To support this growth Virgin Voyages is adding people in market. The roles are largely sales focused and sit close to the trade.
United Kingdom
- Kelly Green joins as Sales Manager UK from Hays Travel. She brings experience across retail, homeworker and consortia partners.
- Alan Fincham becomes Business Development Executive for Central England. His role will support UK First Mates with local sales growth.
Europe, Australia and New Zealand
- Matt Lebbern is promoted to Director of Sales, Europe and Australia & New Zealand. This reflects the growth and future potential in those markets.
- Kayleigh Hilton moves to Sales Manager (Europe) after strong results across GSA markets.
- Ben Soane steps up to Business Development Executive (Europe) to drive commercial growth.
“We’ve seen long haul demand grow across Europe, Australia and New Zealand, with travelers choosing Virgin Voyages in record numbers and recognizing the value of our experience. Our First Mates and GSAs are the driving force behind that momentum. In 2026, we will build on the excitement of Brilliant Lady’s launch, amplifying this year’s energy and inspiring even more travelers to discover what makes Virgin Voyages so special,” said Matt Lebbern, Director of Sales, Europe and Australia & New Zealand.
