The travel industry is experiencing heatwaves and is finding it difficult to adapt. One company saw the signs and cancelled the launch of a new cruise vessel.
Virgin Voyages has delayed the launch of Resilient Lady, its third cruise ship.
The ship was scheduled to debut in August. It will operate out of Piraeus, Greece (for Athens), in summer and San Juan, Puerto Rico, in winter.
Instead, the company delayed its launch to May 2023.
Customers who booked a sailing were promised a refund of up to 20% for future cruises, along with some expenses.
Virgin Cruises hosted a Q&A with “sailors” to address the issue. The cruise company attributed the current chaos in travel, which has crippled the aviation industry, to the cruise sector.
It stated that there are many global challenges that impact travel, particularly cruise, and especially the industry of cruise. These include supply chain issues and crewing challenges, as well as uncertainty in regional areas.
“Every decision that we make is driven to create a safe, inspiring environment for Crew and Sailors. We never want to be in a situation where Crew or Sailors are negatively impacted.
“The challenges that we face aren’t just for Virgin Voyages. They affect our entire industry and all of travel.”
There are many options for passengers who have booked. You have two options: a full refund in seven days or a 200% credit for a future Virgin Voyages cruise within the next twelve months.
They will receive an additional free trip on another Virgin Voyages ship if they use the credit and rebook 2022.
To cover cancellation penalties and canceled flights, the company offers refunds up to $500 per person.
Virgin Voyages stated in a statement that Resilient Lady would remain at the Genoa shipyard, completing its construction.
Two other vessels, Scarlet Lady (and Valiant Lady) remain in service in the Caribbean, and the Mediterranean, respectively. Both ships were built during the pandemic.
CEO Tom McAlpin stated: “As an emerging brand, we have achieved so much in the past year and the future is exciting for us. It’s amazing to see the momentum we are seeing with Scarlett and Valiant Lady.
“That’s why we continue to deliver brilliant vacations. This pause will ensure that we are ready to go on Resilient.
“The travel industry has been recovering well. We’ve seen record bookings and a significant increase on-board spending this month. We’re currently looking to close our next round funding. This will allow us to continue growth.”
In 2023, a fourth ship, the Brilliant Lady, will join the company.
Main image: Scarlet Lady (Matias Ocner/Miami Herald/Tribune News Service via Getty Images).
