Australian cruising is going to be all grown up when Resilient Lady docks in Sydney in 2023.
Like its other two ships in its fleet, Virgin Voyages has announced Resilient Lady will be adults only as founder Richard Branson says Australia has a “very special place in my heart”.
“We can’t wait for Australians and New Zealanders to meet our Resilient Lady and experience all that she has to offer in true Virgin style.”
Virgin’s two other ‘Lady’ ships are Scarlet Lady and Valiant Lady. A fourth ship is on order in Italy.
Resilient Lady will arrive in Australia after a 44-night transcontinental voyage from Athens and will be based at Station Pier, Port Melbourne, Victoria.
Read: Queen Anne: The next chapter of cruising
Onboard accommodation comprises 1408 cabins, the majority of which have ocean views, and about 86 per cent with balconies, all of which will have hammocks.
Is it even a Virgin product without a few little quirks? Resilient Lady delivers with its Mega RockStar suites that come with vinyl turntables and electric guitars.
Planned itineraries include two to 14-night voyages covering Australia’s east coast, New Zealand and the South Pacific.
Food and entertainment onboard includes meals designed by Michelin-starred chefs, six signature restaurants, 14 other eateries, gyms and fitness centres and entertainment.
Spend your days poolside at the Aquatic Club, designed with the glamour of a contemporary yacht, or treat yourself to a relaxing massage, time in the mud room, salt room or steam room or a full-body spa experience.
For a more over-the-top experience there is a two-storey nightclub, karaoke and onboard tattoo parlour.
Read: What it takes to supply a cruise ship
Virgin Voyages president and chief experience officer Nirmal Saverimuttu says Australia and New Zealand are “without question the most beautiful countries in the world”.
“We know that these destinations, paired with the Virgin Voyages experience, will make it the most incredible holiday,” he says.
“The Virgin brand is known and adored by Australians and New Zealanders, and we are committed to delivering a holiday experience you will love and memories that will last a lifetime.”
Cruising resumed in Australia on 17 April after a two-year break due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Some cruising activity has already started, but until the Southern Hemisphere season begins again later in the year, don’t expect too many giant ships in our harbours.
Some small-ship cruise operators such as APT are already operating in the northern states – the Northern Territory opened up to cruise ships with up to 350 passengers in February – but the big cruisers probably won’t return in any numbers until after they have finished servicing their northern routes over their summer.
If you enjoy our content, don’t keep it to yourself. Share our free eNews with your friends and encourage them to sign up.
