Virgin Voyages unveils 'Voyage Well' health measures

Richard Branson’s yet-to-debut cruise line on Thursday (18 June) unveiled its new Voyage Well health plan designed to meet new challenges posed by Covid-19 and attempt to "redefine" health measures at sea when its first ship, Scarlet Lady, launches in October.

The line has established a new Voyage Well expert advisory group to review and guide any operational decisions; develop enhanced health protocols, screening practices and testing regimes; and implement new technologies.

These include a new anti-viral air purification system developed by AtmosAir Solutions, which Virgin says disinfects onboard air – none of which is recycled thanks to a "100% fresh air" heating, ventilation and air conditioning system – and kills 99.99% of viruses.

Virgin Voyages is also collaborating with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and working within latest World Health Organization best practice and guidelines. Besides being subject to pre-cruise testing and screening, crew and guests will be notified via "ethical" contact tracing and a health tracking app if they’ve come into contact with anyone who has tested positive for the virus.