Sir Richard Branson launches Virgin Voyages and Virgin Australia partnership in Australia
Sir Richard Branson has pulled another of his famous stunts to showcase his new Virgin Voyages cruise ship before it sets sail. But it even caught him off guard. SEE THE PHOTOS, VIDEO.
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Sir Richard Branson has brought his “Virgin magic” to Australia today as he touched down to invite cruise fans to experience his Virgin Voyages cruise ship.
The billionaire char of the Virgin Group hopped on a ferry in Sydney to surprise morning commuters with a taste of his cruise ship’s VIP treatment.
Commuters were treated to cold refreshment towels provided by Virgin Australia flight attendants and served iconic sweet treats including lamingtons and fairy bread by newly-hired Australian Virgin Voyage crew members.
They were also treated to fresh juices and cold brew coffee.
Wearing a glittery captain’s cap with the Australian flag emblazoned on it, Branson boarded the ferry and took over the PA system telling passengers: “I’m looking forward to saying hello to all of you while I’m aboard.
“If you don’t like this ship, if you don’t think it’s up to your standards, we have beautiful Virgin Voyages ships that are going to be flying the Caribbean and Mediterranean soon. We look forward to seeing you there too.”
Branson also took some of the trays around and served people as they cruised into work at the city’s busy Circular Quay Terminal.
He also had a taste of the cold brew coffee being offered to commuters and nearly spat it out.
He later told News Corp: “I thought somebody had given me medicine.”
He then got off the ferry and sat down to have a quick takeaway hot brew instead.
It comes as he announced a new partnership with Virgin Australia, enabling Australians to book return flights with his airline and a cruise on board his first ship, Scarlet Lady — which is due to make her debut in April 2020.
Australians will be able to fly from Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane with Virgin to Miami via Los Angeles, where they will board the cruise ship with a number of itineraries including destinations in the US, Mexico, Puerto Rico and Dominican Republic.
Sir Richard, who has touched down in Sydney for the launch, told News Corp he couldn’t wait to hear what Aussies think of his new ship, which is still being built.
“I’ve always loved coming to Australia and am delighted to launch this new partnership between two iconic brands in our Virgin family, which will bring more of our Virgin magic to Australia and allow Aussies to experience our wonderful new Virgin Voyages offering,” he said.
“I’m immensely proud of this new brand; in building it we took the time to think through every detail and craft a unique experience that brings to life Virgin and disrupts the travel industry.”
The adults-only cruise will have more than 20 world-class intimate eateries, 1,330 cabins and 78 RockStar Suites.
The passengers in the RockStar Suites will have access to Richard’s Rooftop, their very own private members club, which is described as a secluded place for them to catch the sun or have a drink under the stars.
All suites have mood lighting that automatically adjusts to match the time of day and in-room tablets that allow passengers to adjust the room’s lighting alongside premium linens and a plush European king bed in every suite as well as upgraded bath amenities.
With a “no nickel and diming” policy, Virgin Voyages will give passengers more value for their money with all dining, group fitness classes, soft drinks, gratuities, Wi-Fi and many more surprises included in the voyage fare.
The ship also has its own theatre known ats The Red Room, The Manor which doubles as a nightclub and a space for entertainment, and The Groupie which is Virgin Voyages’ bookable karaoke, gaming and movie lounge.
Single-use plastics are also banned including straws, bottled water, other beverage bottles, condiment packets, shopping bags, food packaging, stirrers, and takeaway coffee and tea cups.
Passengers will be provided with access to complimentary filtered still and sparkling water.
Scarlet Lady, will arrive at PortMiami in 2020 where she will sail to the Caribbean hosting more than 2,770 sailors and 1,150 crew from around the world, who will also be allowed to have visible tattoos.
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Virgin Voyages has four ships on order which are due for delivery in 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023.
Virgin Voyages’ CCO Nirmal Saverimuttu said: “Our team is committed to disrupting the cruise category by providing a new, irresistible over 18 experience.”
“We’re thrilled to partner with Virgin Australia to bring this experience to life as well as embed Virgin’s inimitable service from start to finish to make Australians’ holidays epic.”
Virgin Australia CEO Paul Scurrah said: “We’re extremely excited to welcome Virgin Voyages into the family, and work with them to bring this ‘Tail to Sail’ travel experience to Australians.”
Packages will be available through Virgin Australia Holidays from today.
For more information on the ‘Tail to Sail’ packages, visit virginaustralia.com/tailstosails, or call 13 15 16 to book. Prices start from $3,420 per person twin share when departing Sydney and include a four night voyage cruise. Prices will vary depending on the departure city.
Originally published as Sir Richard Branson launches Virgin Voyages and Virgin Australia partnership in Australia
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