Cruise & Ferry Review - Autumn/Winter 2022

6 1 its head, with a celebrity partnership that few other cruise lines can match. “Global icon Jennifer Lopez embodies the Virgin brand, and we’re thrilled to have her join our crew as chief entertainment and lifestyle officer,” says McAlpin. In May 2022, the JLo Beauty skincare line was launched on Scarlet Lady, along with a collaboration to give away 1,000 cabins on both Scarlet Lady and Valiant Lady. McAlpin says there are several other initiatives in the pipeline, and even hints at a JLo-curated sailing down the line. The ever-pressing subject of sustainability continues to be part of the DNA – every Virgin company has a purpose, and Virgin Voyages’ mantra of creating an ‘epic sea change for all’ drives everything it does. This promise encompasses five pillars, one of them being securing a healthy future for the world’s oceans. Sustainability has been built into the brand from the start; initiatives include using sustainably sourced materials, nixing buffets to cut down on food waste, eliminating most single-use plastics and working with partners that also support green initiatives. “When we launched Virgin Voyages eight years ago – before our team started designing the ship or knew what the experience would entail – we identified our core mission and what we wanted to stand for,” says McAlpin. “Terminal V was built using sustainable materials, as was our signature Beach Club in Bimini. We released our first Impact Report this year ahead of World Oceans Day and we are proud to share that 50 per cent of our sailors say their voyage with Virgin inspired them to live a more sustainable lifestyle. “That’s a major win for us as it shows that our sailors can enjoy the experience for the week they’re onboard and take home a few tips to make a continued positive impact.” CFR “ We are proud that 50 per cent of our sailors say their Virgin voyage inspired them to live more sustainably”

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