Virgin Voyages is introducing VoyageFair Choices, a new fare model aimed at bringing more transparency and flexibility to cruise bookings. Set to go live on Oct. 7, VoyageFair Choices offers clearer pricing and added options before sailing.
The new fare model has been shaped by feedback from both travelers and travel advisors and is designed to improve the booking experience by focusing on four key goals: greater price transparency; easier fare comparisons across the industry; more flexible and competitive options for different budgets; and a direct response to requests from travelers and advisors for increased choice.
“Travelers expect clarity and choice from airlines and hotels, and Virgin Voyages is the first to bring that same simplicity and pricing model to cruising,” said Nirmal Saverimuttu, CEO of Virgin Voyages, in a media statement. “This isn’t about gimmicks or fine print. We’re making it easier to book a voyage with confidence while knowing that once you’re onboard, the experience is unmistakably Virgin: elevated and unforgettable.”
John Lovell, Board Member and Senior Advisor, added, “Having spent many years in the travel industry, I’ve seen how quickly traveler expectations are changing. People want more flexibility, more transparency and more control over how they vacation. Virgin Voyages has already changed what it means to cruise and now, with VoyageFair Choices, we’re changing how people book. It’s a model built for the modern traveler and another example of Virgin pushing the industry forward.”
The new model introduces three distinct pricing tiers for Sea Terrace and below cabins, each designed to give travelers greater flexibility in how they book.
- With the Base fare, cruise passengers can choose the most value-driven option. This non-refundable fare introduces a new Basic WiFi tier for one device per passenger designed for social media, messaging and light browsing. Dining reservations open 15 days before sailing, and while changes to names, cabins or dates aren’t permitted, it’s an ideal choice for those who know their plans and prefer straightforward savings.
- The Essential fare remains closest to what Virgin passengers know. It includes Classic WiFi for one device per passenger, with social media, messaging, browsing and audio calling. This option includes a 45-day dining reservation window, along with added flexibility to adjust voyage dates using a Future Voyage Credit. Name changes are also allowed for “Sailors Two through Four,” making this option a familiar favorite with a touch more flexibility.
- For those seeking more perks and freedom, the Premium fare delivers elevated benefits. For the first time, Sea Terrace categories and below will have a 60-day dining reservation window, previously reserved only for suites. Premium also includes Premium WiFi for two devices per passenger with streaming and video capabilities, an included Bar Tab (drinks credit), and access to a priority support line for pre-voyage booking. This fare is designed for Virgin passengers who want greater convenience, more benefits and maximum flexibility.
For RockStar and Mega RockStar Quarters, VoyageFair Choices brings one important upgrade: dining reservations now open 120 days prior to sailing, giving these passengers the earliest opportunity to curate their onboard experience. All other elevated inclusions— from Richard’s Rooftop and priority boarding to curated in-room bars, dedicated RockStar Agent service and daily Bar Tabs for Mega RockStars—will continue.
Virgin Voyages, which just debuted Brilliant Lady, will also be displaying service gratuities as a separate line item at the time of booking. Previously bundled into the fare, these contributions will now be shown clearly so passengers know exactly how they are applied.
For the VoyageFair Choices fare grid, click here.
