Speaking in a video message filmed at his home on Necker Island, Branson promised “the best really is yet to come” for Virgin Voyages, which has delayed its launch until May.

“I just wanted to say thank you for sticking with us – we promise it will be brilliant,” said Branson.

He explained that “while cruising has been paused, we haven’t stopped building for our future” with the line’s third vessel “progressing well in construction” and steel being cut for its fourth, which will launch in 2023. 

The line has also broke ground in PortMiami on a new home terminal due to open at the end of 2021. The facility “will be absolutely stunning” Branson said as he added Virgin Voyages’ first ship Scarlet Lady had been fitted with “incredible new technology to keep everyone well when they sail”. 

“We’ve been busy. So although our launch is a little delayed, I can’t wait for you and your customers to step onboard Scarlet Lady next year – we think you’ll love her as much as we do," he told agents.

“So for now, stay safe but feel free to start helping your customers dream about the places we will go and the experiences we will have together very soon. We can’t wait to welcome everybody onboard.”