Travellers across the nation are beating the winter blues by seeking out Caribbean sunshine, with Virgin Voyages revealing an 31% increase in Brits booking winter Caribbean voyages.

Since 2021, the number of sailors from the UK and Ireland heading to the Caribbean has more than doubled in a year (4.9% in 2021 to 10.6% in 2022)* with Sir Richard Branson’s award-winning cruise line reflecting this trend with Brits booking the brand’s Caribbean based itineraries such as the “Eastern Caribbean Antilles” and the “Western Caribbean Charm.”

Shane Riley, Vice President of UK / International Sales said: “We’re thrilled that cruising confidence is back and that British sailors are swapping winter blues for the Caribbean blues. What’s more, we’ve seen that 40% of Sailors on our incredible repositioning voyages are Brits – they’re making up for lost time and seeing the world. And who can blame them?

In the last year alone, our repeat Sailor rates have tripled – and we know that these loyal travellers want more, so we’ve listened. We recently announced more than two dozen new itineraries including winter sailings and repositioning voyages that we’ve dubbed our “Seachange Series” that give adventurous travellers more opportunities to explore the world at large.”

To help sun-starved Sailors beat the impending winter chills and mark Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Virgin Voyages has an exclusive offer for those who are ready to set sail. Simply book a voyage between 16 and 30 November to receive 30% off. Travellers will be able to enjoy a US$600 Bar Tab for seven nights or more stay, US$300 Bar Tab for four to six nights sail or US$125 for a three nights sailing.

For those planning ahead to summer (or for those who simply want to stay closer to home), the offer is valid for all sailings. Available to book are longer Med cruises, such as “French Daze & Ibiza Nights,” to Virgin Voyages’ brand-new, quick UK escapes such as “English Sights and European Delights.”

Escape the cold this winter with an array of Virgin Voyages winter sun itineraries below:

Eastern Caribbean Antilles

Set sail to endless winter sun on the “Eastern Caribbean Antilles” voyage, an eight-night round-trip cruise from Miami. On the first port of call, Sailors can spend the day in the botanical gardens, go deep-sea diving, and stroll the warm-sand beaches of Puerto Plata. The ship will also visit San Juan for an all-day, late-night call, then onto the beautiful island of St. Croix. Finally, this made-for-Insta itinerary will make a stop in Bimini at Virgin Voyages’ signature Beach Club. Here, two free-form pools and powdery white beach invite Sailors to take their pick: revelling in chill, relaxed vibes or a DJ-led pool party complete with fun floaties.

Western Caribbean Charm

Cruise through the Caribbean on a six-night sailing departing from Miami. This voyage offers Sailors the chance to enjoy a full-day’s dive through the vibrant corals to experience the diverse sea-life in Roatán, Honduras. During this voyage, Sailors can also unwind on the serene beaches of Costa Maya, Mexico. With two days at sea to indulge in the good life on-board, travellers will be ready to explore the rich history and turquoise waters of the Bahamas with a visit to our exclusive Beach Club at Bimini.

Transatlantic Miami to Med

Embark on a breath-taking fourteen-night transatlantic journey from Miami to the Mediterranean, visiting destinations including Funchal, Madeira, Málaga, and Palma de Mallorca. Explore the Wynwood art scene in Miami, savour the wine and dramatic cliffs of Funchal, delve into centuries of history in Málaga, experience the bliss of Palma de Mallorca’s secluded charm, and discover the cultural treasures of Barcelona.

French Daze & Ibiza Nights

Launching from the shores of Barcelona, Spain, travellers can experience a seven-night voyage aboard Scarlet Lady. This round-trip sailing visits the stunning city of Marseille and the glamourous city of Cannes with late-night stays at both of these much-loved

destinations of the French Riviera. Resetting with a relaxing day at sea and a full day in Mallorca, Sailors can finish their voyage with an overnight stay on the vibrant Spanish island of Ibiza.

Virgin Voyages invites travellers to escape the cold and embark on unforgettable cruises spanning the globe. With a promise of unique experiences, Sailors can set their sights on warmer horizons and explore some awe-inspiring locales with Virgin Voyages. For more information, please visit www.VirginVoyages.com.