By
Kasturi Datta |
Valiant Lady, operated by Virgin Voyages, has made its inaugural call at the Port of Hamburg in Germany marking the cruise line’s first-ever call to the Hanseatic city.
The vessel arrived at the port on 24 August 2026, where it was escorted to the berth by a fireboat giving a traditional water salute.
In keeping with maritime tradition, representatives from the city and the port boarded the vessel to exchange a commemorative plaque with the ship's captain, Damir Rikanovic, and his crew.
Disembarking passengers were able to watch a performance by a traditional shanty choir before departing on shoreside excursions across the city and surrounding regions.
From left to right: Simone Maraschi, managing director at Cruise Gate Hamburg and Captain Damir Rikanovic (Photo: CGH)
“Hamburg has a creative energy and maritime spirit that makes it a perfect fit for Virgin Voyages,” said Natasha Salzedo, senior director of itineraries and destinations at Virgin Voyages. “We’re excited to make our first call here and continue expanding the destinations we can bring to life through unforgettable journeys.”
Valiant Lady is the sixth of nine cruise ships scheduled to make maiden calls in Hamburg during the 2026 cruise season.
“We are delighted to welcome Virgin Voyages and Valiant Lady to Hamburg for the first time,” said Simone Maraschi, managing director of Cruise Gate Hamburg. “Maiden calls are always a special moment for us. They demonstrate the continued interest of international cruise lines in Hamburg and provide an opportunity to introduce new cruise brands and their guests to our city.”