It’s a cruise lover’s dream. For a price.
Virgin Voyages is offering what it says is the world’s first year-round cruise pass, which would allow customers to sail the world and hop on and off cruise ships like they do on a city tour bus.
“Following the stunning success of our Season Pass program, we’re extending our Sailors’ stay on board our ships…for an entire year,” the company said on its website. “For USD$120,000 (roughly CAD$169,000) you and a guest can swap on-land living expenses for up to 365 days of sailing any of our epic itineraries — in Europe, the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and anywhere our ships venture.
“Starting either January, February, March, or April of 2025, you can board any of our award-winning ships (and hop around to itineraries on others as you please!) for a full year. If you fancy springtime in the Caribbean, summers on the Med, and a transatlantic voyage come fall — then this is the adventure for you.”
“I’ve always been a big believer in the power of travel and adventure to spark creativity and bring clarity. What started as a sought after ‘work from sea’ concept with our Season Pass has evolved into something even more special,” Richard Branson, the founder of the Virgin Group, said in a statement shared with Travel+Leisure.
Travel+Leisure said travellers must be 21 years old and that passes must be booked by 31MAR, 2025 on Virgin’s “Contact Us” page. Pass holders must still pay taxes and fees for the voyages they book.
The magazine also reports that customers will be able to board any of Virgin’s ships, including the three it currently sails (the Scarlet Lady, the Valiant Lady, and the Resilient Lady) as well as the Brilliant Lady, which the company will launch in September of next year in North America and the Caribbean.
Virgin, naturally, says customers should act fast as there are a limited number of passes for sale.
On top of their Always Included Luxury, the company said Virgin Voyages’ Annual Pass holders will enjoy Deep Blue extras such as:
- Sea Terrace - Cabins with private balconies featuring their iconic red hammocks
- Premium Wi-Fi - Connect multiple devices and stream your favourite media
- Laundry Service - Wash & fold service to stay clean and comfortable
- Priority Boarding - Embark the ship with comfort and ease
- Pre-voyage & onboard support - Dedicated Sailor Services Support to make the most of your trip
- Bar Tab Credit - A $100 bar tab on the house for each itinerary you sail
- Two specialty coffees per cabin per day - Enjoy two free specialty coffee drinks from bars or restaurants each morning… or afternoon
- Exclusive Cocktail Event - Indulge in a VIP night with other Annual Pass holders
