Virgin Voyages postpones Scarlet Lady's inaugural season

Although the cruise line has stressed there have been no outbreaks of Covid-19 onboard its debut ship, Virgin Voyages has postponed its first tour to 15 June and the maiden voyage to 7 August.

Sir Richard Branson and Virgin Voyages chief executive Tom McAlpin released a joint statement: “For those who would have sailed regardless of the global headlines, we appreciate this will be disappointing news. We are so grateful for your belief in us, and we hope you will join us when the time is right.”

They stressed their ambition over the past seven years has been to create an “entirely new way to sail the seven seas”.

Virgin is offering 200% in booking credit for anyone who has a ticket or a refund.