Richard Branson’s Virgin Voyages has landed in Australia, training travel advisers – known in the line’s parlance as First Mates – in what’s on offer aboard Scarlet Lady, its first ship.

Virgin Voyages will be fully operational in Australia by the end of the year, President and CEO Tom McAlpin announced today at Cruise360 Australasia, Cruise Lines International Association Australasia’s industry conference for the region.

It is believed the line, which will launch Scarlet Lady next year, has been fielding calls from Australian cruisers ever since it was first announced. It is partnering with Travel the World to begin working with travel advisors in Australia.

“The Virgin family has a long history and a deep love of Australia, so we are thrilled to be able to begin what we know will be an exciting partnership with First Mates here,” said Mr McAlpin.

Andrew Millmore, Executive Chair of Travel the World. said: “Virgin Voyages’ innovative approach to creating a distinct customer experience brings an energy that will inspire both the avid cruiser and the new to cruise alike.”

Agents should be ready to sell Virgin Voyages tickets from September in Australia. The company aims to add New Zealand as soon as possible.

The red-liveried line has four ships on order, due for delivery in 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023.

Scarlet Lady will sail four, five and seven night sailings to the Caribbean from Miami beginning in April next year. All voyages will feature a stop in Bimini, Bahamas, home of The Beach Club, a Mediterranean-inspired private beach club exclusively for Virgin Voyages’ Sailors (passengers) while the ship is on island.

Virgin Voyages will offer a Rebellious Luxe experience with incredible value for Sailors with free fitness classes, free dining with 20+ eateries included, free gratuities, free Wi-Fi, free filtered water and all sodas included in the voyage fair.

Scarlet Lady features spaces designed by some of the top names in contemporary design, and is “Adult-by-Design” for the 18+ traveler.

The vessel features alluring entertainment and 20+ world-class dining venues. Putting a twist on luxury, which the company refers to as Rebellious Luxe, Virgin Voyages will offer incredible value for its Sailors with all restaurants, group fitness classes, soft drinks, gratuities, WiFi and many more Virgin surprises included within the voyage fare.

Scarlet Lady takes 2,770 passengers and 1,150 crew from around the world. See  virginvoyages.com for more updates.