Sir Richard Branson's newest cruise vessel has completed its maiden Mediterranean voyage and the millionaire businessman was at the helm himself to make sure everything was shipshape. Valiant Lady is the second ship launched by Virgin Voyages, which pledges to disrupt passenger perceptions of traditional cruising.
If it was possible to capture the energy and radiance displayed by the ship's 1,500 crew, there would not be any power problems for the rest of us. That Valiant Lady verve is infectious from the moment passengers - or sailors as they are called - set foot on board.
Virgin Voyages prides itself on being different from other cruise operators. From obvious contrasts such as the informality of dining and lack of dress restrictions, to the more subtle touches of a relaxed staff uniform policy with cool, casual instead of starchy formal attire, life on the ocean wave is relaxed.
