Virgin Voyages Ends UK Base at Portsmouth

Virgin Voyages has completed its fifth and final season operating from Portsmouth International Port as its UK base port. The 278-meter Valiant Lady departed for Amsterdam, concluding a partnership that began in 2021.

A special nautical parade was held at Southsea Castle to mark the ship's departure. During three turnaround calls in this transitional season, 15,000 Virgin Voyages passengers passed through the English terminal.

A Pioneering Partnership

The port's relationship with the cruise line started in 2021 when the brand launched its world-first cruises from the city. The Scarlet Lady operated reduced-capacity sea trips around the UK due to Covid-19 restrictions. This new line caused a sensation in the sector with its innovative approach to cruising and became a preferred option for adults-only travel.

Three more ships followed, all making their UK debut in Portsmouth. In 2025, the port became the first and only in the world to host the entire fleet when the Brilliant Lady spent a week docked, welcoming guests before its first commercial voyage to New York.

Andrew Williamson, Cruise and Ferry Manager at Portsmouth International Port, stated that Virgin Voyages had been a true partner for the city and a key piece in its cruise history. "Over the last five years, we have grown together with a shared pioneering spirit," he said. Williamson credited the port's popularity with cruise lines to operational development, terminal improvements, and maintained sustainability credentials.

"During the inaugural seasons of Scarlet, Valiant, Resilient and Brilliant Lady, we have welcomed more than 72 thousand 'sailors' through Portsmouth," added Williamson.

Port Infrastructure and Sustainability

Councillor Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council, noted the port had repeatedly demonstrated it could collaborate with international brands to create a unique experience for their customers. The milestone coincided with the city's centenary, 50 years of council management of the international port, and the five-year Virgin Voyages base agreement.

Portsmouth also operates the UK's first high-voltage, multi-user, multi-berth shore power system, which went live in July. The Valiant Lady was the first commercial cruise ship to connect to the grid there. This also marked the first time a Virgin Voyages ship connected to shore power in Europe, shutting down its engines while in port to reduce emissions.

Jill Stoneberg, Senior Director of Social Impact and Sustainability at Virgin Voyages, said progress happens when land-based infrastructure and maritime technology come together. "Seeing the Valiant Lady connected in Portsmouth turns that ambition into something tangible," she stated. Stoneberg called partnerships with innovative ports like Portsmouth essential for driving broader decarbonization work.