By
Rebecca Gibson |
Virgin Cruises has signed a binding letter of intent with Italian shipbuilding company Fincantieri for three new 110,000gt cruise ships, which will debut in 2020, 2021 and 2022.
Due to be finalised at the end of 2015, the Fincantieri contract covers three new mid-size ships, which will feature 1,430 guest cabins and accommodate more than 2,800 guests and 1,150 crew members.
The first of the three vessels will homeport at PortMiami, US, and depart on a range of seven-day Caribbean itineraries each Sunday.
“This is a very exciting day for Virgin and travellers around the globe,” said Richard Branson, founder of Virgin. “We now have the right partners in place to build a world-class cruise line that will redefine the cruising experience for good. The Virgin Cruises approach will appeal to cruisers and non-cruisers alike, and we look forward to being in Miami and delivering an experience for people who want a new way to cruise.”
The PortMiami agreement will be presented to Miami-Dade County’s board of commissioners on 30 June 2015.
“We are committed to making waves in the cruise industry and partnering with Fincantieri and PortMiami sets Virgin Cruises up to do just that,” said Tom McAlpine, Virgin Cruises CEO. “Today’s announcement brings together important ingredients in our future success – Miami’s vibrant culture paired with the excellent port infrastructure and port team; and Fincantieri’s expertise in prototyping, its creativity and its understanding of our vision.”
Customers have been invited to share their ideas to help Virgin Cruises create ‘an incredible experience at sea’ via the Virgin Cruises website.