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Virgin Voyages Unveils Full Line-Up for UK Comedy Fest 2025

Virgin Voyages reveals full UK Comedy Fest line-up with Jack Whitehall, Zoe Lyons, Emmanuel Sonubi, Tom Lucy, improv stars, magic acts, and bold rising talent.

Virgin Voyages Unveils Full Line-Up for UK Comedy Fest 2025
Virgin Voyages Unveils Full Line-Up for UK Comedy Fest 2025 © Photo by Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages has announced the full performer list for its second UK Comedy Fest at Sea, taking place on Scarlet Lady from Portsmouth on August 30, 2025. The six-night sailing will feature live stand-up, improv, and interactive performances from a mix of established names and rising stars in British comedy.

This follows news that the U.S. edition of Comedy Fest — sailing earlier in August — will be headlined by American comedian Sommore. Read more about that here.

Previously Announced Headliner:

  • Jack Whitehall – One of the UK’s best-known comedians, with Netflix specials, arena tours, and appearances on A League of Their Own, Fresh Meat, and Bad Education.
Jack White Hall Headlines Comedy Fest UK 2025
Jack White Hall Headlines Comedy Fest UK 2025© Photo by Nate Hausmann

The full UK line-up includes:

  • Tom Lucy – Young stand-up star with multiple sold-out Edinburgh runs and frequent TV appearances.
  • Kazeem Jamal – Fast-rising voice in British comedy known for sharp takes on dating, culture, and modern life.
  • Matt Stellingwerf – Award-winning comic and trained criminologist blending intellect with dry wit.
  • Griffin & Jones – Comedy magic duo known for chaotic energy, slapstick humor, and fast-paced illusions.
  • John Robertson (The Dark Room) – Host of the cult interactive video-game comedy show that mixes improv, chaos, and audience participation.
  • The Improv Guys – Live improv group made up of Ian Coppinger, Stuart Murphy, Stephen Frost, and Richard Branch — all veterans of the UK scene.
  • Zoe Lyons – Razor-sharp stand-up and TV regular seen on QI, Mock the Week, and host of Lightning.
  • Emmanuel Sonubi – Relatable, energetic stand-up pulling from real-life experiences as a bouncer, performer, and dad.
  • Thanyia Moore – Funny Women Champion and writer-performer known for her bold delivery and clever social commentary.
  • Ian Coppinger – Irish improv specialist and long-time festival favourite, also part of the Improv Guys.
  • Justin Moorhouse – Comedian, radio host, and Phoenix Nights actor with big laughs and big heart.
  • Lloyd Griffith – Singer-turned-comic seen in Ted Lasso, It’s a Sin, and co-host of Soccer AM.
  • Esther ManitoLive at the Apollo star with award-winning material covering identity, family, and cultural life.
Tom Lucy
Tom Lucy

Kazeem Jamal
Kazeem Jamal
Matt Stellingwerf
Matt Stellingwerf© Photo by Virgin Voyages

UK Itinerary

  • Ship: Scarlet Lady
  • Departure: Portsmouth, August 30, 2025
  • Length: 6 nights
  • Ports of call: La Coruña (Spain), Bilbao (Spain), Le Verdon (Bordeaux, France)

Cabins are selling quickly. Book with VV Insider for added perks including our Red Diamond Club.

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About the author

Co-Founder and Editor. Blending technical know how from the iOS world with a love for Virgin Voyages with over 20 sailings around the world.


1 Comment

  1. Tom Cruisetube says:

    I was a bit disappointed when Jack Whitehall was announced as the headliner. He always seems nice and has done some fun silly sitcoms but his stand up isn’t very strong.
    There are lots of decent comedians on this lineup, Esther Manito and Zoe Lyon’s in particular are great.

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