Virgin Voyages Sees Record Wave Season Growth
Virgin Voyages is reporting record Mid-Wave momentum as the adults-only travel market continues to expand. Industry analysts project the kid-free travel segment will grow from $9.2 billion in 2024 to $18.1 billion by 2033, and the cruise line says its latest performance reflects that accelerating demand.
The brand closed out 2025 with strong year-over-year gains, highlighting rising repeat bookings and increased interest among new cruisers. Virgin Voyages also secured its third consecutive Travel + Leisure Best Mega-Ship Ocean Cruise Line award, reinforcing its position in the premium adults-only cruise market.
In 2025, bookings rose nearly 20 percent year-over-year, while gross ticket revenue increased by almost 30 percent. Ships sailed at full commercial load factors, underscoring high occupancy levels across the fleet. Mid-Wave data points to continued strength, with revenue up close to 20 percent year-over-year during the promotional period.
January 2026 marked the highest booking month in company history for Virgin Voyages. Longer itineraries are outperforming forecasts, particularly in the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Northern Europe. Alaska bookings have surged into triple-digit growth, and the U.S. remains the brand’s strongest source market. According to Similarweb, website traffic to Virgin Voyages rose sharply year-over-year in January, outpacing competitors that averaged around 10 percent growth during the same period.
A key milestone in 2025 was the debut of Brilliant Lady, completing the line’s four-ship fleet. The vessel launched with dual inaugural sailings from New York City and Miami, setting the stage for expanded 2026 itineraries, including new West Coast and Alaska cruises.
CEO Nirmal Saverimuttu said the company is entering 2026 and 2027 in its strongest position yet, citing new destinations, flexible experiences and compelling value for guests. Virgin Voyages’ Wave campaign is built around its Voyage Fair Choices philosophy, emphasizing transparent pricing, inclusions and simplified booking for both guests and travel advisors.
The Wave offer, available through February 26, 2026, includes 80 percent off the second Sailor, up to $350 in free drinks and $300 in onboard credit on select itineraries. The promotion applies across Caribbean, Europe, Alaska, Mexico and new West Coast sailings.
Virgin Voyages is also rolling out its Sell Your Way to Seattle incentive, rewarding travel advisors who book eligible 2026 West Coast and Alaska cruises. The initiative reflects the brand’s continued investment in advisor partnerships and its leadership in the growing adults-only cruise segment.
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