Virgin Voyages’ first cruise ship is a step closer to setting sail. The first vessel introduced by the all-inclusive, adults-only brand - Scarlet Lady - is preparing for the maiden voyage on April 1, 2020, following successful sea trials in November. From November 15 to 18, Scarlet Lady sailed from Genoa, Italy to Marseille, France before returning to her station in Genoa from November 27 to 30. The return trip was the first round of sea trials.
The Virgin founder, 69-year-old Richard Branson, boarded the vessel in Marseille alongside his wife Joan and children, Holly and Sam, for a first look at the one-of-a-kind Scarlet Lady. While onboard, Branson painted the outline of the Virgin flag on the ship's hull, marking where the logo of Virgin Voyages will be featured.
The inaugural 4-night sailing of Scarlet Lady, for guests 18 and older, will sail from Miami to Key West, and Virgin’s private Bimini Beach Club in the Bahamas. Fares begin at US$1,300 per stateroom.