Virgin Group founder Richard Branson and Virgin Voyages president Tom McAlpin announced today that the line is officially open for business, with the company’s first ship, Scarlet Lady, now open for bookings. Passengers can book for her inaugural season, with voyages departing from April 1st through October 25th next year. “I’ve dreamed of starting my own cruise line since I was in my 20s, and now the launch is finally getting close,” said Branson. “We have taken the time to think about every detail and craft an experience that brings the Virgin brand to life and disrupts the travel industry.” Passengers on board Virgin Voyages will enjoy free food at the 20+ eateries onboard, free group fitness classes, no gratuities or service charges, free Wi-Fi and free basic beverages like teas, drip coffee and soft drinks, as well as still and sparkling water. “At Virgin Voyages we are going beyond just great design, to defy and redefine luxury to be rebellious luxe,” said McAlpin. “This new luxury is about knowing you are taken care of, that you’re never being nickel and dimed, and what you want, even some of the things you didn’t know you wanted, are already taken care of for you.” In conjunction with opening bookings for sale, Virgin Voyages revealed that all voyages will feature the Beach Club, a Virgin Voyages experience in Bimini, Bahamas. There passengers can enjoy a beach day and/or explore the island flavour and culture of Bimini and its turquoise blue waters. Older UK visitors lead Maldives to strong year Newer Ashford Castle capitalises on gin boom with new tasting experience