Amazing Journey

Think you are not the cruising type? Richard Branson will change your mind.

- By Nancy E. Berry

When Sir Richard Branson decided he wanted to create a cruise experience like no other, he pulled out all the stops and disrupted the travel industry with a ship that offers an adults-only, yacht-inspired experience on the high seas.

Partnering with some of the best interior designers, artists, and architects—Roman and Williams, Tom Dixon’s Design Research Studio, Concrete Amsterdam, and Softroom of London (many of whom design some of the most stylish boutique hotels and resorts across the U.S. and Europe)—Branson (yes, he is involved in the design) and his team created unique and intimate spaces onboard that capture the romance and glamour of ocean travel though a modern, fun, and sophisticated lens.

I never thought of myself as a “cruiser” but have always loved the Virgin brand so decided to see if Branson could change my mind about cruising. With nightclubs, nightly shows, multiple bars, six restaurants, a luxury spa, a world-class gym, sunbathing lounges, whirlpools, an elevated running track, exquisite interior design, a tattoo parlor, hair salon, and a stellar staff, Branson did indeed change my mind. In fact, it was one of the most fun and rejuvenating vacations. Here’s what I experienced.