Portsmouth International Port welcomes Virgin Voyages’ complete fleet for the first time, with Scarlet Lady arriving 27 July and Brilliant Lady on 18 August, generating millions in economic benefits.
Portsmouth International Port, owned by the city council, is set to welcome Virgin Voyages’ entire fleet this summer, marking a historic milestone as the first port globally to host all of the cruise line’s vessels.
The cruise line’s flagship vessel, Scarlet Lady, will make her much-anticipated return on Sunday, 27 July, followed by the brand’s newest addition, Brilliant Lady, arriving on 18 August. This summer season represents a significant economic opportunity for the region, with industry analysis suggesting each vessel call generates approximately £1.5 million through port fees, supply chain benefits, and passenger spending.
The council-owned port facility is projected to deliver £10.3 million in profit to Portsmouth City Council this year, providing crucial funding for essential resident services and local business investment.
Virgin Voyages’ relationship with Portsmouth began in 2021 when Scarlet Lady launched her maiden voyage from the city. Since establishing Portsmouth as their UK base, the cruise line has facilitated more than 72,000 passengers through the port, driving substantial growth in the local cruise sector.
Councillor Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council, highlighted the partnership’s impact: “The investment we have seen from the port’s partnership with Virgin Voyages has had a resounding impact on the city. Not only does the port support other areas of the council financially, cruise lines are also working with local traders and communities to put Portsmouth on the map for their guests.”
He added: “For residents, having the city as the port of such a distinguished brand is an exciting recognition and we are proud that Virgin chose to make Portsmouth their home.”
Virgin Voyages vessels have become a familiar presence in Portsmouth Harbour, with the port hosting more than 30 calls from Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, and Resilient Lady. A further six visits are scheduled for this year, offering passengers itineraries ranging from six to 13 nights, reaching destinations including Reykjavik and Morocco, alongside special comedy and celebration voyages.
Nirmal Saverimuttu, Chief Executive of Virgin Voyages, emphasised Portsmouth’s significance to the brand: “Portsmouth has become a meaningful part of our journey. It’s where we introduced Scarlet Lady to the world and — four years later — where we’re celebrating the arrival of Brilliant Lady.”
He continued: “Along the way, our full fleet of Lady Ships has passed through, making Portsmouth the first and only port in the world to have welcomed all of our vessels. Each one marks a new moment in the evolution of this incredible brand.”
Mike Sellers, Director of Portsmouth International Port, described the partnership’s mutual benefits: “Every cruise call to the port is highly valued and a great boost to the city. We have built a successful relationship with the Virgin Voyages team over the last few years, and we are very proud to be the brand’s UK home port.”
The port is experiencing unprecedented growth, with this year set to be the busiest cruise season to date, expecting over 90 vessel calls. Sellers noted that Virgin Voyages’ innovative approach to cruising attracts new demographics to Portsmouth, allowing visitors to experience the advantages of departing from the historic naval city.
Following her arrival, Brilliant Lady will participate in technical and media events before departing for New York to begin her inaugural season. Scarlet Lady will maintain regular sailings throughout August and September, cementing Portsmouth’s position as Virgin Voyages’ preferred UK departure point.
