The Virgin Group has selected PortMiami in Florida as the home base for Virgin Cruises’ first ship, slated to set sail in 2020.
“This is a very exciting day for Virgin and travelers around the globe,” says Virgin founder and CEO Richard Branson. “We now have the right partners in place to build a world-class cruise line that will redefine the cruising experience for good. The Virgin Cruises approach will appeal to cruisers and non-cruisers alike, and we look forward to being in Miami and delivering an experience for people who want a new way to cruise.”
Virgin Cruises has additionally signed a binding letter of intent—the first of a two-part process—with Italian shipbuilding company Fincantieri to construct three midsize ships each to weigh approximately 110,000 gross tons and to be delivered in 2020, 2021, and 2022. All three ships will feature 1,430 guest cabins with capacity for more than 2,800 guests and 1,150 crewmembers.
“Virgin is a customer-built brand that listens carefully to what customers want and then works hard to deliver for them,” says Tom McAlpin, president and CEO of Virgin Cruises. “We are committed to making waves in the cruise industry, and partnering with Fincantieri and PortMiami sets Virgin Cruises up to do just that.”
“I am honored that our company was the selected partner for Virgin Cruises for such an important development in the cruise industry,” adds Giuseppe Bono, CEO of Fincantieri. “I’m convinced this choice will contribute to the expansion of the cruising audience, especially considering the market segment still has wide growth margins. I am sure that together, our teams will create cutting edge ships that deliver a memorable guest experience.”
Virgin Group originally announced the formation of Virgin Cruises as a venture with Bain Capital, a private investment firm, last December.
“As lead shareholder, Bain Capital is excited to contribute our deep experience in building and growing great consumer brand companies,” says Ryan Cotton, a managing director of Bain Capital and board member of Virgin Cruises. “We believe there is a large, underserved market and strong growth prospects for a cruise line that delivers a superior experience for young-at-heart customers. We’re very pleased to be partnering with the other important shareholders who share the same long-term vision. Together, we will provide a strong and broad support base for Virgin Cruises.”
Virgin Cruises plans to embark from PortMiami on Sundays and offer various seven-day Caribbean itineraries.
