Barbados experienced a momentous occasion as the luxurious cruise ship, Valiant Lady, made its inaugural call to the island. The Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Ian Gooding-Edghill, expressed his genuine delight during a ceremony held on the ship on Tuesday, January 16. Valiant Lady is part of the Virgin Voyages’ fleet, recognized for its five-star, adults-only luxury experience.
Minister Gooding-Edghill marked the event as a significant celebration for Barbados, emphasizing that this is not only the first visit by Valiant Lady but also the maiden call by any Virgin vessel in the history of Barbados. He expressed gratitude for including Barbados in the Caribbean program for the winter season, highlighting the importance of this partnership.
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Virgin Voyages, a collaboration between the Virgin Group and Bain Capital, commenced its commercial sailings in August 2021. Minister Gooding-Edghill commended the cruise line’s confidence in Barbados, especially as one of the destination ports for the winter cruise season. He expressed optimism about the continued growth of the partnership and Barbados’ commitment to exploring homeporting opportunities and new business areas.
Captain Justin Lawes of Valiant Lady expressed his excitement about bringing the first Virgin Cruise to Barbados, likening the experience to “coming home.” He emphasized the uniqueness and innovation associated with everything connected to Sir Richard Branson, the founder of Virgin Group. Captain Lawes anticipated that passengers would have a remarkable experience in Barbados and expressed hopes for a long-lasting relationship between Virgin Voyages and the island.
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Officials from the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc., Barbados Port Inc., Platinum Port Agency, and UN Resident Coordinator for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, Didier Trebucq, also welcomed the vessel. Valiant Lady’s arrival marked the first of five transit visits for its winter cruise season in Barbados, with 2,317 passengers and 1,142 crew members. The next port of call is Castries, St. Lucia.
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