Virgin Voyages Wraps Up Appreciation Month with Sir Richard Branson at the Helm

Virgin Voyages has wrapped up its most extensive First Mate Appreciation Month to date, following a successful 17-city roadshow that engaged over 1,000 travel advisors—referred to as First Mates—across North America. The campaign culminated in Los Angeles, where Sir Richard Branson made a surprise appearance, joining the company’s CEO and CMO for a celebration marked by Champagne. Branson was also treated to a live performance of Brittan Night’s anthem by Abi the Hostess. Attendees were privy to the first look at the upcoming ship, the Brilliant Lady, showcasing its design aspects and new entertainment options.

Earlier, Branson had similarly delighted advisors at the EDGE conference in Las Vegas, reinforcing Virgin Voyages’ commitment to its travel advisor network. The highlight of the month was the inaugural Ultimate First Mate Appreciation Voyage aboard the Valiant Lady, allowing advisors to sail with clients, interact with leadership, and deeply engage with the cruise experience.

Post-event surveys indicated impressive results: 96% of attendees anticipated increased sales, with 85% expressing immediate booking intentions. Confidence in selling Virgin Voyages surged from 74% to 95%, particularly following previews of seven new entertainment offerings and the introduction of extended itineraries.

To further encourage bookings, Virgin Voyages launched its “Sell Three, Sail Free…ish” promotion, running until the end of June. For every three new bookings, advisors receive an entry for a chance to win a complimentary voyage, with double entries for newcomers, and a US$50 onboard bar tab for bookings made within two weeks of an event.

These initiatives highlight the critical role of travel advisors in driving Virgin’s sales momentum. With the Brilliant Lady set to debut in September, the cruise line’s strategy to engage and empower First Mates seems poised to foster continued enthusiasm and sales growth.

Set sail on a voyage of discovery with CruiseShip.net – your ultimate destination for all things cruising! Explore the latest news, insightful reviews, and thrilling cruising adventures from around the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time traveler, CruiseShip.net is your go-to source for expert advice, insider tips, and inspiring stories to fuel your wanderlust. Embark on a journey like no other with CruiseShip.net – where every wave brings new excitement and endless possibilities on the high seas.