During the early hours of Thursday morning (31 March), the ship’s crew were alerted to reports of a guest going overboard, sparking an "extensive" search and rescue mission.

"We are deeply saddened by this news and our thoughts are with this passenger’s family and loved ones," said the line in a statement issued to TTG. "Our investigation has indicated this was an intentional act and no foul play is suspected."

Earlier in the voyage, another guest suffered a non-Covid-related medical emergency requiring airlift and shoreside care, delaying the ship’s arrival in Lisbon.

"We’re very happy to report that this person is doing well," said the line. "As a result of seeking timely medical care for this passenger, we did experience a delay in arrival to Lisbon of several hours. Virgin Voyages did not market this port as a two-night stop, the itinerary was a morning arrival and late debark."

The line said the combination of the two incidents meant the ship, which had been due to sail a three-night Long Weekender in Zeebrugge itinerary from Portsmouth on Friday, was now due back in the UK "no sooner than 6pm on 1 April".

This has forced the line to delay embarkation for the ship’s next sailing until the morning of 2 April.

"As a gesture of awareness that some were disappointed, we are offering all sailors [guests] a free voyage this summer in Europe onboard either of our ships, Valiant Lady or Resilient Lady," said Virgin Voyages.

The line added: "We set ourselves a very high standard and in this case we have fallen short on some things – we are very sorry the experience for some has not been ideal.

"While not everything is in our control, including global supply chain challenges, the weather, or medical emergencies, we remain focused on the sailor [guest] experience and know we need to keep improving."