SCARLET LADY SETS SAIL

Sir Richard Branson launched Virgin Voyages’ first cruise ship, Scarlet Lady, in Dover before the vessel sailed on to Liverpool prior to making its inaugural voyage to Miami.

The Virgin Group founder, Branson commented: “I have dreamed of starting my own cruise line since I was in my 20s and I’m thrilled that moment has arrived.

“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,” he added.

Routes on offer for the new ship include Costa Maya in Mexico, Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, Key West and The Bahamas. Scarlet Lady will be joined in May 2021 by sister ship Valiant Lady, which will feature seven-night Mediterranean itineraries and homeport in Barcelona. Turn to page 34 for a first look at Scarlet Lady.

Norwegian Cruise Line has introduced ‘Extraordinary Journeys’, a curated portfolio of port-intensive itineraries designed to offer more immersive and meaningful experiences around the world, available on select itineraries on Norwegian Jade, Pearl, Sky, Star and Sun.

“The new Extraordinary Journeys itineraries are meant to stir a sense of wonder and encourage meaningful travel, whether you’re looking to disconnect or reconnect with the people and world around you,” said Harry Sommer, President and Chief Executive Officer for Norwegian Cruise Line. “Travel broadens our horizons and allows us to reset. With cruises from 11 to 22 days sailing and calling to nearly every continent, we are inspiring our guests to discover their own extraordinary journey with us.”

From the 22-day African Safari and Seychelles voyage on Norwegian Dawn, to the 15-day Alaska journey on Norwegian Sun, the sailings will feature destinations including Punta Arenas, Chile; Ushuaia and Puerto Madryn, Argentina; Stanley, Falkland Islands; and Montevideo and Punta del Este, Uruguay (ncl.co.uk).