Virgin Voyages’ BDM Sean Russo Breaks Down New Fare Model

Still riding the wave of excitement of the launch of its fourth ship, Brilliant Lady, Virgin Voyages has announced a new fare model called VoyageFair Choices that rolls out October 7, 2025.

Designed to simplify the booking process, the program focuses on four key objectives: improving price transparency, making it easier to compare fares across the industry, offering more flexible options to fit different budgets, and expanding the level of choice available to travellers and advisors alike.

The new model introduces three distinct pricing tiers for Sea Terrace and below cabins, each designed to give Sailors greater flexibility in how they book.

“The new VoyageFair choices give our Sailors greater flexibility to prioritize what matters most – whether that’s added perks or more flexible booking options,” Sean Russo, Sales Manager, Canada, Virgin Voyages explained to Travel Market Report Canada. “For those already familiar with how Virgin Voyages operates, I’d recommend starting with the Essential Fare, as it reflects exactly what we’ve offered since we first set sail.

With the new choices, we’re also opening our doors to more Sailors who are price-focused, while still maintaining the same Always Included Luxury – WiFi, all dining, fitness classes, essential beverages, and our award-winning entertainment.”

Russo says separating gratuities is really about transparency.

“Many travellers don’t realize tips are already built into Virgin’s fares, so breaking them out as a line item helps highlight the value and puts the control back in the Sailors’ hands. Guests still have the choice to pre-pay (and the advisor will earn commission) or pay a little more for it while onboard. The price point, on our Essential package – which is what we’ve always done – will remain the same, just calling out what the gratuity value is.”

For those seeking more perks and freedom, the Premium fare delivers elevated benefits. For the first time, Sea Terrace categories and below will enjoy a 60-day dining reservation window, previously reserved only for suites. Premium also includes Premium WiFi for two devices per Sailor with streaming and video capabilities, an included Bar Tab (drinks credit), and access to a priority support line for pre-voyage booking.

The new structure comes amidst the Brilliant Lady’s successful debut – Russo is on the ship right now.

“We’re absolutely thrilled with the excitement and incredible feedback around Brilliant Lady’s launch out of New York City. This week, we’ll wrap up her Northeast voyages with a final stop in beautiful Quebec City before she heads south to ‘warm up’ in Miami for the winter.

From there, she’ll make her way to the West Coast, with calls in Los Angeles, Mexico, and ultimately Alaska – marking another exciting chapter for Virgin Voyages.”