Virgin Voyages has created a wearable piece of technology made from recycled ocean plastic.
The device – called the Band – will debut on the line’s first ship, Scarlet Lady, on 1 April. Guests will receive the item before they set sail.
The hands-free device – created in partnerships with Bionic Yarn, a material engineering company – will allow guests to access their cabins, improve the boarding process and act as a wayfinder for Shake for Champagne, the on-demand champagne delivery service.
In addition, guests will be able to use the Band to make on-board purchases and pay for their drinks tab. It will also act as a VIP pass for suite guests to use Richard’s Rooftop area on board.
Each Band contains six grams of marine and coastal plastic, equivalent to one-half of a plastic water bottle that washes ashore.
Sailors, when you step on board any of our lady ships, make sure to let the Crew know, "I'm with The Band ✊"
This sleek and seamless wearable (made in partnership with @BionicYarn) is your exclusive pass to the ultimate Sailor experience. Learn more –> https://t.co/anKmcdhlwx pic.twitter.com/QicGLB9JDZ
— Virgin Voyages ⚓️ (@VirginVoyages) February 6, 2020
A Sailor App will also be available in the coming weeks, allowing guests to complete the check-in process, book excursions and more.
Virgin Voyages CEO Tom McAlpin said: “Just like our stunning fleet of Lady Ships, and through our partnership with BIONIC, our wearable technology marries sustainability with smarts and style, which is quintessentially Virgin.
“The Band will be our seamless and worry-free way for sailors [guests] to not only unlock their cabin with ease, but to explore all of the thrills and great experiences that Scarlet Lady and the rest of our fleet will have to offer.”
Bionic co-founder Tim Coombs added: “Bionic’s partners have always had a deep respect for Virgin and its rich history of industry innovation. Naturally we’re thrilled to be part of the Virgin Voyages experience and share our mission with its ocean-loving passengers.”
Virgin Voyages has also banned all single-use plastic materials across the ship.



