- Advisor Recognition Event: The annual celebration on Scarlet Lady honored the top 100 North American travel agents for their sales performance.
- Sales Support and Tools: Advisors praised the responsiveness of the corporate team and the implementation of new resources like the Canva partnership.
- Market Trends and Value: The adult-only sector is rapidly expanding, and clients are increasingly drawn to the all-inclusive pricing structure that avoids nickel-and-diming.
- Fleet and Route Expansion: The upcoming launch of Brilliant Lady will allow for new routes on the West Coast, including Mexico and Alaska.
Virgin Voyages recently hosted its fourth annual “First Mates Soirée: Fire & Sunset Celebration” aboard the Scarlet Lady to honor and connect with its top-performing travel advisors. The event gathered the top 100 “First Mates” from North America for a round-trip sailing from PortMiami, which included stops in Key West and Bimini. This gathering served a dual purpose: celebrating the strong sales momentum of 2025 and strategizing for further growth in 2026.
During the voyage, attendees participated in a mix of business recognition and leisure activities, culminating in the Ink Awards ceremony. Advisors expressed high satisfaction with the brand’s support structure. Bob Dressner, an award recipient, highlighted the accessibility of the sales team and the utility of new marketing tools, such as a recent partnership with Canva that streamlines content creation. John Lovell, a Virgin Voyages Board Member, emphasized that engaged advisors are the “lifeblood” of the company and noted that the adult-only travel market has tripled in size over the last five years.
The discussions also addressed the brand’s evolving value proposition. Advisors reported that the all-inclusive pricing model, which covers dining and WiFi without hidden fees, appeals strongly to clients. Furthermore, the company is actively working to balance its reputation for nightlife with its offerings of tranquility and relaxation. Looking forward, the fleet will be completed by the arrival of the Brilliant Lady, which will introduce new itineraries to Mexico and Alaska. With a guest repeat rate of approximately 40 percent, the cruise line intends to continue investing in itinerary diversity and onboard experiences to maintain high customer satisfaction.
