Virgin Voyages' first ship to cater for 18-plus only market
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- Written by Kari Reinikainen Kari Reinikainen
- Category: Top Headlines Top Headlines
- Published: 01 November 2017 01 November 2017
Virgin Voyages, the new venture in Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Group of companies, said it will be the first major cruise line to offer a ship that is an exclusive 18 year old plus experience, which was a direct result of listening to future sailors – Virgin term for passengers - and travel partners.
The company is building three 110,000 gross ton ships at Fincanteri’s Sestri-Ponente shipyard in Genoa, the first of which is die to enter service in 2020.
Tom McAlpin, CEO, said at a presentation on 31 October that the first ship would be “Adult By Design” – meaning that sailors must be at least 18 or older to sail.
The decision was driven by feedback from future sailors and travel professionals, who are looking for a more elevated and premium experience, with a few Virgin style surprises, he said.
Keel of first Virgin Voyages’ “Lady Ship” laid in Genoa
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- Written by Kari Reinikainen Kari Reinikainen
- Category: Top Headlines Top Headlines
- Published: 31 October 2017 31 October 2017
The keel of the first of three 110,000 gross ton cruise ships for virgin Voyages, which is part of Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Group in London, was laid in Genoa on 31 October.
To be known as “Lady Ships,” the trio will feature silver grey hulls and cater for adults only. The company will call its passengers sailors and cabins with balconies sea terraces.
Tom McAlpin, CEO, shared specifics on the Virgin Voyages design philosophy and experience. “The entire ship will be built with an attention to detail, reflecting the craftsmanship and materiality inspired by super yachts. Designed to feel more intimate and connected to the sea, 86 percent of all cabins will feature a sea terrace and 93 percent an ocean view. Virgin Voyages is creating a sophisticated ship and a transformational experience that offers our sailors a place where rejuvenating day-life meets exciting nightlife and everything in between.”
In a bold and unique move for the industry, McAlpin then gave details that the first ship’s experience will be “Adult By Design” – meaning that sailors must be at least 18 or older to sail. The decision was driven by feedback from future sailors and travel professionals, who are looking for a more elevated and premium experience, with a few Virgin style surprises.
The world also got its first glimpse of the ship’s distinct livery, which will feature a sleek silvery-grey hull, with smoked glass, and of course, distinctive touches of red. The livery was conceptualized by Ben Christie and David Azurdia from the multi-award-winning Magpie Studio in London. RWD from Beaulieu England, who are leaders in super yacht design, created the iconic red Virgin funnel of the vessel.
The ships are on order at the Sestri Ponente yard of Fincantieri.
Meyer Werft delivers World Dream
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- Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä
- Category: Top Headlines Top Headlines
- Published: 26 October 2017 26 October 2017

Today, October 26 in Bremerhaven, Meyer Werft handed over the new cruise vessel World Dream to the Asian shipping company Dream Cruises, subsidiary of Genting Hong Kong. Together with the new design, this cruise ship offers passengers a wide range of special features and comfort. About 75% of the cabins are outer cabins and most of these have their own private balcony.
The new ship for Dream Cruises has a capacity for 3376 passengers with a dimension of 151,300 gross tons. The ship is 335 meters long, 39.7 meters wide and can reach a speed of more than 23 knots. This cruise ship also carries a small deep sea submarine that can take four guests down to a depth of up to 200 metres. There is also a motorboat which can be booked for excursions.
Entertainment on the ship is guaranteed state-of-the-art thanks to an interactive communication system and extensive stage equipment. Most modern marine engines as well as numerous energy saving measures are reducing operating costs. The ship has also been designed and built according to the latest safety regulations. World Dream offers 35 restaurants and bars; various entertainment facilities such as theatres, a ropes course as well as plenty of space for other outdoor activities and a large range of virtual reality applications.
“This is our 44th cruise ship we delivered. Our team made a great job. I am proud and thankful for their contribution”, said Tim Meyer, Managing Director of Meyer Werft.
The new cruise ship has been designed for the rapidly growing Asian cruise market.
After being handed over to the cruise company in Bremerhaven, World Dream will set sail to some of the loveliest destinations in Asia where it will offer cruises for two, five and seven nights. Sailing from Hong Kong, it will cruise through spectacular regions in Vietnam and China.
"On the World Dream with yard number S. 712 was promoted the first time application of innovative components with innovation aid of the Federal Ministry for Economy and energy (BMWi) and the country Lower Saxony."
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