Virgin’s first ever cruise ship Scarlet Lady has made her big debut in the UK

Virgin Voyages' first ever cruise ship, Scarlet Lady, has made her highly-anticipated debut in the UK, arriving in Dover.

Richard Branson's new cruise line has offered sneak peeks before with concept art, but for the first time it revealed images from on board the ship and it looks like passengers (or sailors, as Branson calls them) are in for quite the glamorous sailing.

For a start, Scarlet Lady won't be offering a traditional cruise holiday experience, as the brand looks to target a younger adults-only audience, mainly the millennial market.

Instead, passengers can expect the likes of vegan menus, drag-inspired brunches, mixology classes and even an onboard tattoo parlour.

Meanwhile, foodies will be spoiled for choice as the ship boasts over 20 restaurants and bars, ranging from hearty pizzas to fine dining.

Then there are the elegant cabins with heaps of space and ocean views – but a real highlight comes in the form of the Rockstar Suites.


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Guests staying in these will not only get luxury offerings in the form of huge beds, ensuite bathrooms and spacious balconies, but the Rockstar Suites offer heaps of extra perks such as bespoke experiences at each port of call, complimentary laundry service, drinks, and a free personalised in-room bottomless bar.

Richard Branson said of Scarlet Lady's big debut: "I have dreamed of starting my own cruise line since I was in my 20s and I’m thrilled that moment has arrived.

"The Scarlet Lady is truly special and we’ve worked with some of the world’s most sought-after designers, artists and architects to craft an extraordinary experience. The benefit of our five decades in business in so many industries is that we can offer a voyage like no other."

The mega ship can host over 2,770 sailors and 1,160 members of crew, and will boast a gross tonnage of 110,000.

She will homeport in Miami and offer a host of sailings across the Caribbean, including stops at a lavish Bahamas beach club built specifically for the cruise line.

Her maiden voyage is scheduled to set off in April.

Although the ship will be based in the USA, Brits can book sailings and find out more through the Virgin Voyages website.

Scarlet Lady is only the beginning for Richard Branson's new venture into cruise – the brand has already unveiled plans for four ships to create its fleet.

In fact, Virgin Voyages has already revealed that it will launch second ship Valiant Lady in May 2021.

However, unlike Scarlet Lady, the second ship won't homeport in Miami, but in Barcelona instead, from which she will embark on a host of itineraries across the Mediterranean.

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