Virgin Voyages Revolutionises Group Travel with an Enhanced, Fair and Flexible “Circles, Groups, and Weddings” Program, Driven by First Mate Feedback

 

Virgin Voyages, Richard Branson’s award-winning cruise line, is charting a new course for group travel with an enhanced program designed to make it easier and more rewarding for cruisers and First Mates (travel advisors) to book their next adventure.

 

Ahead of the highly anticipated launch of Brilliant Lady and epic itinerary offerings, the cruise line’s Circles program is evolving, now called “Circles, Groups, and Weddings,” offering greater flexibility, richer benefits and improved offers based on agents’ feedback.

 

Additionally, Sailors will receive a variety of benefits when booking together through their First Mate including up to a 10% travel discount, up to $300 (approx. £235) in free drinks, and a dedicated group dinner at one of Virgin’s six Michelin-inspired restaurants. This new program directly addresses agents’ requests while maintaining the brand’s value proposition, making group bookings simpler and more rewarding while continuing to be extraordinarily fair, flexible, and inclusive.

 

Circles – this program has been reimagined to give First Mates more time and flexibility to build their groups while offering better perks for their Sailors. Key updates include:

 

• • No cabin minimum required
  • No deposit required
  • Richer combinability including My Next Virgin Voyage
  • More time to form a group
  • Price & promotion protection

 

One complimentary Sea Terrace for the travel conductor once a 10 cabin threshold is met, or the option of a  2% bonus commission

 

Groups – an option designed for agents who already have groups that are ready to lock in their getaway and sail together to celebrate a milestone or special occasion.

 

• • Eight cabin minimum
  • No deposit required
  • 30-day hold
  • On-board Bar Tab options
  • Price & promotion protection

 

Weddings – this option is designed for First Mates who have Sailors interested in getting married aboard one of Virgin Voyages’ ships and also want to book their guests’ accommodations.

 

• • No minimum cabin requirement
  • 30-day hold
  • On-board Bar Tab options
  • Price & promotion protection

 

With UK revenue up nearly 40% compared to February 2024 from British Sailors alone, and a growing demand for longer Caribbean voyages this autumn and winter, this programme arrives at the perfect time for UK agents looking to offer their Sailors unforgettable experiences.

 

“Thanks to our incredible First Mates we are having a record Wave season with a more than 60% increase in revenue from February of last year, and a more than 80% increase coming specifically from our dedicated travel partners. We made a commitment to our Travel Advisor community to always take feedback and turn it into action,” said Nirmal Saverimuttu, CEO of Virgin Voyages. “This new program is a direct result of listening, learning, and making improvements. The First Mate community is everything to us as we build this brand together and celebrate a record-breaking Wave season.”

 

For the first time ever, all four of Virgin Voyages’ ships will be sailing in the Caribbean later this year, giving travellers more options to escape to paradise. With exciting ports of call across the region including Grand Cayman, St. Maarten, and Curaçao, adventure awaits at every destination this winter. Whether it’s chasing waterfalls in Jamaica or diving into the vibrant culture of Dominica, Sailors can explore these breathtaking destinations through Virgin’s expertly curated Shore Things.

 

In addition to the new Circles programs, Virgin Voyages remains committed to staying NCF-free while also leading the industry with some of the highest commission rates available, offering seamless booking experiences and support, and delivering an award-winning experience for Sailors.

Learn more about Virgin Voyages