Travelers who purchase an annual pass can sail on any Virgin Voyages ship anytime, from anywhere, for a full calendar year, for $120,000.
Richard Branson's Virgin Voyages has announced it will be the first maritime company to accept fares in Bitcoin. The company's owner, billionaire entrepreneur and travel magnate Richard Branson, made the announcement on Good Morning America.
"I’ve always believed in the power of travel and adventure to spark creativity and bring clarity," Branson said. "What began as a 'work from sea' idea with our season pass has grown into something even more extraordinary."
The idea will resonate with boaters, as well as investors and money conscious adventurers, who may see using Bitcoin for their boating adventures as a new chance to explore, in more ways than one.
The Virgin Voyages Annual Pass allows travelers to sail on any Virgin Voyages ship, to and from any location it offers, for a full calendar year. The pass is priced at a base fare of $120,000 USD (excluding taxes and fees) and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are becoming increasingly popular in commerce, especially as Bitcoin has been making headlines in recent weeks. Its value has nearly reached $100,000 per coin in recent months, with its value surging by 140% in 2024 alone. Its valuation is up nearly 40% since the recent U.S. election in November. Since it operates independently of traditional banking and finance, boaters would be able to make quick and simple digital transactions for purchasing fares or other amenities while underway.
Branson is no stranger to adopting new technology. His portfolio of Virgin-branded companies includes aviation, aerospace, maritime travel, and more. He is the owner of Virgin Atlantic, the well-known airline brand, as well as Virgin Voyages (cruise ships), Virgin Limited Edition (luxury resorts), and Virgin Galactic (spaceflight). Branson himself is also a boater, having founded the Virgin Atlantic Challenge Trophy for the fastest trans-Atlantic crossing in a surface vessel. Branson first set the record in 1985 aboard the Virgin Atlantic Challenger II, followed shortly thereafter by Tom Gentry in the Gentry Eagle. The record is currently held by the vessel Destriero, set in 1991.
Pass holders of the Virgin 'annual pass' can choose a start date of January 1, February 1, March 1, or April 1, 2025, with the pass valid for one year from the chosen date. Travelers must book by March 31 to secure the offer.
There are perks for those who kickstart sales, too, as travel advisors, known as "First Mates" within the company, who sell the annual pass will earn a $10,000 commission.
The pass also gives full access to all ships in the Virgin Voyages’ fleet, which includes the Brilliant Lady, the fourth and final ship, which is set to debut in September 2025.
Their fleet of ships currently offers routes in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and North America.
Accommodations for annual pass holders while aboard will include a Sea Terrace cabin, which features balcony views and Virgin's signature red hammock.
Other exclusive perks for annual pass holders include priority boarding, complimentary laundry services, dedicated concierge support, unlimited Wi-Fi, a $100 bar tab credit per voyage, and exclusive access to events and experiences.
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