Virgin Voyages’ Resilient Lady will return for a second Australian season after the huge bookings success of its inaugural voyages Down Under.
Although Resilient Lady is yet to berth in Australia, Richard Branson’s award-winning cruise line is already adding new ports, including Port Douglas, Kangaroo Island and Broome, to its 2024/25 season.
“Over the past year, our repeat Sailor rates have tripled and our loyal travellers have been asking for more destinations to visit,” said Shane Riley, Vice President, International Sales and Marketing, Virgin Voyages, who is in Brisbane for the industry’s Cruise360 Conference.
“We have listened to their calls and delivered in a big way with new ports, fresh itineraries and more amazing experiences. For Aussie sailors, we are excited to add nine new ports to our cruises Down Under.
“From the end of 2024, Sailors can choose from 15 new itineraries and now visit some of Australia’s most stunning destinations including Port Douglas, Kangaroo Island and Broome.”
Resilient Lady will makes her Australian debut out of Melbourne in December. Virgin Voyages’ “Mermaiden” cruise will head to Hobart for an overnight stay before a visit to the northwestern shores around Burnie.
Virgin Voyages cruise line now has 27 new global itineraries along with 19 new ports of call.
But it has already cancelled several Trans-Tasman cruises scheduled between January and March next year following “client and industry” feedback.
After returning from her inaugural season in Australia, Resilient Lady will sail three itineraries from her homeport in Athens from May through July 2024.
But Virgin Voyages has also announced a delay to the launch of Brilliant Lady, because of unexpected construction, supply chain and staffing issues.
so excited to be on the 2nd cruise here in Australia on resilient lady, im sure itll be a very different experience than our past cruises on P&O AUS. the time cant come quick enough.