MIAMI, Fla. — November 28, 2018 — Virgin Group and Miami-Dade County officials today announced plans to build a new cruise terminal for Virgin Voyages. With this new terminal and its long-term commitment to the Port of Miami, Virgin Voyages also announced that its flagship ship, the Scarlet Lady, will continue sailing the Caribbean from Miami throughout 2021. The company’s second ship will also sail from Miami during the fall/winter of 2021/22.
Sir Richard Branson also proudly announced that bookings for Virgin Voyages' inaugural season will open on February 14 for the public, and on February 5 for those who made a pre-sale booking deposit.
Virgin Voyages' new terminal will be located in the northwest area of the port. Following approval from the authorities, the project will begin next year and is expected to be completed in November 2021, at the start of the annual cruise season. This new terminal will have a significant positive economic impact on the region and consolidates a vital homeport for Virgin Voyages' continued growth.
“Miami is an amazing city and one of my favorite places to work and play,” said Branson. “From our headquarters for Virgin Hotels, Virgin Voyages, and now Virgin Trains USA, South Florida has quickly become another home for Virgin’s leisure travel brands.”.
The new 9,300 m2 terminal will feature a design inspired by a palm grove, developed by Arquitectonica. The terminal's roof is designed to resemble the canopies of palm trees, with openings to allow natural light to flood the building. It is a two-story, storm-proof, glass-clad structure with excellent views of the city.
As part of Virgin Voyages' sustainability efforts, the new terminal aims to achieve LEED Gold Certification from the US Green Building Council.
Virgin Voyages is committed to creating epic marine change for all, playing a vital role in ensuring a healthy future for the oceans and making a positive impact on the communities and ports it visits. Working hand in hand with Ocean Unite and Sir Richard Branson, Virgin Voyages is sponsoring the dive of Fabien Cousteau's Aquatica submarine and Sir Richard Branson to the Great Blue Hole in Belize, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on December 2. Virgin Voyages wants to support ocean research and conservation projects like this Great Blue Hole expedition. The company hopes these efforts will help it make the best business decisions for the oceans and port communities.
