Virgin Cruises here we come

As you have already heard I am sure, Sir Richard Branson’s new venture ,Virgin Voyages is open to business with the maiden voyage due to sail in April 2020. According to Sir Branson, Virgin Voyages will turn the cruise industry upside down. So what are the main points? Firstly it’s an adult only cruise line, which is a bit unexpected as Virgin Holidays and Virgin Atlantic are all about families with children… but that’s another story. The other difference is the no tips policy which was already done by other lines previously.passengers won’t be charged gratuities. Instead, the ship’s crew will be paid a salary and won’t have to depend on tips for income. The main turning point is the no buffet which I don’t think anyone in the cruise industry have done without before including the 6 star lines. Personally I am not a fan of the buffet style restaurant so in my view it’s a good move. Instead they are going to have more sit down restaurant with table waiting. Another good extra is free WIFI for all on board as most lines are charging unrealistic amounts of money for internet on board, so this will put them above their rivals in the cruise line industry and attract more passengers.Virgin Voyages will also follow in Branson’s focus on environmental protection.Virgin not allow single-use plastics on the ships. So away with the plastic water bottles, straws, stirrers and so on.Instead, the cruise line says it will offer free filtered and sparkling water at hydration stations around the ship.Virgin are planning to cruise out of Miami on board Scarlet Lady, in 2020. Scarlet Lady will be the first of three ships for Virgin Cruises. Each will displace 110,000 tons and is designed to accommodate nearly 2,800 passengers. Virgin will be welcome in the growing cruise industry and I hope they will make an impact and fill the market needs.