Virgin Voyages is preparing to welcome guests on board for Scarlet Lady’s maiden voyage, departing 6 August.

The line is finally setting sail on a series of domestic cruises, with Scarlet Lady cruising from Portsmouth for six UK sailings around the English Channel.

After the limited UK season, Scarlet Lady will head to its homeport in Miami with itineraries to the Caribbean.

Only residents of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will be able to sail on the domestic itineraries – with guests aged 18 and over fully vaccinated against Covid-19 (two weeks post final vaccine).

Virgin Voyages said it is also “working closely with the UK authorities from the local health departments, port authorities, MCA / Coast Guard, Department for Transport, and the UK Chamber of Shipping to ensure that all our protocols are in place”.

Scarlet Lady has a total of 1,330 cabins and 78 RockStar Quarters on board – with 86 per cent of cabins featuring a balcony and 93 per cent with ocean views.

Public spaces on board include more than 20 eateries and the Redemption Spa, while the line’s app can be used for its ‘shake for champagne’ concept.

Virgin Voyages will welcome its second ship, Valiant Lady, to Portsmouth in 2022 on three new itineraries, including late-night and overnight stays in Malaga, Palma de Mallorca, the Canary Islands, Lisbon and Belgium. From there, the ship will travel to Barcelona for its Mediterranean season. 

Virgin Voyages president and CEO Tom McAlpin said: “With our expansive F&B options, beautiful spa, amazing crew and festival-style lineup of on-board entertainment, Scarlet Lady challenges the status quo in every way.

“Not only are we committed to helping our sailors (guests) create the most memorable vacation, but we want to provide the safest travel experience possible without compromising on the fun we all deserve.”