Virgin Voyages has launched an Annual Pass offering unlimited cruises for a year – and is paying commission of almost £8,000 for each one sold through a UK travel agent.
The Annual Pass costs $120,000 (£94,689), excluding taxes and fees, and is available on a first-come, first-served basis until 31 March 2025.
Pass holders can select a start date of 1 January, 1 February, 1 March or 1 April 2025 and the pass will then last for the next 12 months.
Travel agents, which Virgin Voyages calls First Mates, will earn commission of £7,890 for each pass they sell.
Virgin Voyages said the Annual Pass allows Sailors to ‘hop onto any ship, anytime, from anywhere – for an entire calendar year’. It also announced it has become the first cruise line to accept cryptocurrency, as the Annual Pass can also be purchased using Bitcoin.
The cruise line said the Annual Pass offers ‘better value than living in most major cities’ and includes Deep Blue Extras club perks such as priority boarding, complimentary laundry services, dedicated concierge support, unlimited premium wi-fi, a $100 Bar Tab credit per voyage, and access to exclusive events and experiences onboard.
Annual Pass holders are also allowed to add a plus-one to their cabin, with the ability to travel with different companions throughout the year.
The new pass was announced by Sir Richard Branson on Good Morning America on Tuesday morning.
Sir Richard said: “What started as a sought after ‘work from sea’ concept with our Season Pass has evolved into something even more special. Now, Sailors can jump aboard any of our ships, across an endless variety of exciting destinations for an entire year. We’re offering unlimited opportunities for adventure in a way that has never been done in cruising before.”
Virgin Voyages has three ships in its fleet, with a fourth, Brilliant Lady, due to launch in September 2025.
