Long & short of it: Sir Richard Branson, wearing a red captain's hat, and Tom McAlpin in Miami (World Red Eye) Sir Richard Branson will base his new cruise fleet in Miami from 2020.
He has signed a deal with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri for three new mid-size ships and will each feature 1,430 cabins to cater for up to 2,800 guests.
Branson flew in to the Museum Park, Miami, press conference by helicopter, joined by Virgin Cruises' President and CEO Tom McAlpin, formerly of Disney Cruise Line.
Branson said: "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, and we look forward to being in Miami and delivering an experience for people who want a new way to cruise."
The new ships, of about 110,000 gross tons each, are due for delivery in 2020, 2021 and 2022 and will offer seven-day sailings on a range of Caribbean itineraries.
McAlpin said: "We are committed to making waves in the cruise industry, and partnering with Fincantieri and PortMiami sets Virgin Cruises up to do just that.
"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, creativity and understanding of our vision."
Customers are invited to share ideas about what they would like to see on a Virgin cruise at www.virgincruises.com
He has signed a deal with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri for three new mid-size ships and will each feature 1,430 cabins to cater for up to 2,800 guests.
Branson flew in to the Museum Park, Miami, press conference by helicopter, joined by Virgin Cruises' President and CEO Tom McAlpin, formerly of Disney Cruise Line.
Branson said: "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, and we look forward to being in Miami and delivering an experience for people who want a new way to cruise."
The new ships, of about 110,000 gross tons each, are due for delivery in 2020, 2021 and 2022 and will offer seven-day sailings on a range of Caribbean itineraries.
McAlpin said: "We are committed to making waves in the cruise industry, and partnering with Fincantieri and PortMiami sets Virgin Cruises up to do just that.
"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, creativity and understanding of our vision."
Customers are invited to share ideas about what they would like to see on a Virgin cruise at www.virgincruises.com
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