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Portsmouth Welcomes Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady, The Largest Ship To Ever Visit Its Port
Portsmouth in United Kingdom (UK) welcomes Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady, the largest ship to Ever visit its Port.
The city of Portsmouth has received in agog the Scarlet Lady, the largest ship, to ever dock at its port. The massive 110,000-tonne liner cruised into Portsmouth International Port on Monday (June 21) at approximately 10.00 am. Upon arrival, the ship completed a berthing trial while docked at the port.
Scarlet Lady’s first-ever commercial sailing will take place from the Hampshire city, with a series of sailings operating at limited capacity beginning on August 6.
The impressive vessel trumps both HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Queen Elizabeth for size with the latter weighing only 65,000 tonnes.
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Speaking about the arrival of Scarlet Lady, Mike Sellers, Portsmouth International Port’s director said:
“This is fantastic news for the city and the wider travel industry, with Virgin Voyages committing to launching a series of domestic cruises exclusively from Portsmouth for the UK market.
“Recognized for their pioneering spirit we are privileged to support Virgin Voyages as they embark on their first ever commercial sailing. We are in no doubt eyes of the world will be on Scarlet Lady’s debut, but there is no better harbour than this one, famous for its legendary maritime journeys.
“It will be a spectacle like no other as the distinctive Scarlet Lady sails through the spectacular harbour entrance, we can be sure sailors and crew will experience a warm Portsmouth reception.
“It is a huge opportunity for the city to be Scarlet Lady’s home port for the summer and we are thrilled to work with global brand Virgin Voyages on their showcase sailings.
What safety measures was in place?
Strict COVID-19 measures was in place for passengers who were travelling to the port, and this was co-ordinated with public and port health teams.
Along with a thermal imaging scanner to check the temperature of staff and customers, the terminal has been reconfigured into a one-way flow system, with reduced capacity and space for social distancing.
Face coverings are mandatory for anyone travelling through the terminal, and cleaning practices have been enhanced through investments in the latest technologies.
From August 6, there will be a minimum of six sailings, varying between three to four night stays. Operating with reduced capacity, with the limit set by Government guidelines, Scarlet Lady will sail around the UK.
Sir Richard Branson, Founder of Virgin Group, said:
“Virgin Voyages has been looking forward to sailing, and we’re so excited to announce our plans to sail from the UK.
“Our team has curated such a fantastic experience for our sailors and know this is a holiday they will love.”
