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Sir Richard Branson – founder of the Virgin Group – took on a new role to celebrate the brand’s 50+ year history and ring in an incredible milestone for three epic couples. Flying from the Caribbean to Europe, Richard Branson officiates weddings to promote Virgin Voyages Ceremonies – Full Wedding Program, which launches Summer 2025. Branson officiated a series of nuptials across the Virgin Voyages fleet, officially kicking off wedding celebrations for the award-winning, exclusively adult cruise line.
Beginning in fall 2024, Virgin guests can book the wedding of their seafaring dream for April 2025 and beyond. Couples on-board or at sea will have the opportunity to tie the knot or celebrate their engagement, honeymoon or vow renewal in style.
From the blue roofs of Santorini to the sparkling azure waters of Bimini, there are dozens of gorgeous backdrops for couples to choose as their ultimate ‘something blue.’ With three curated wedding packages to choose from, the Virgin Voyages “I do” crew’s goal is to take the stress out of planning, making it simple and smooth sailing so sailors can fully enjoy the journey.
Married for 35 years himself, Richard Branson made a splash and a toast to the three couples he helped marry during the brand’s annual Celebrations Voyages this past week. The nuptials included:
A Dominican Wedding Daze
Overlooking the jungle-covered hills of Puerto Plata, Brits Ben and Emma met on a dating app and got engaged in Las Vegas last year. Dressed in a silky ivory gown, Emma’s presence stunned Ben as they held hands and exchanged their vows on Sunday at The Perch aboard Valiant Lady. As avid Virgin Voyages fans sailing on their third cruise, meeting Richard and having him officiate their special day was a dream come true.
At the Altar in Amsterdam
Virgin Voyages Crew members Alejandra and Matias shared stories of how they were destined to have a Virgin wedding – though they never dreamed that Sir Richard would play a pivotal role. After meeting in 2018, Alejandra started working for Virgin Voyages in 2022 on Valentine’s Day, the day the brand took delivery of Scarlet Lady.
Following in Alejandra’s footsteps, Matias joined Virgin Voyages and the two were engaged on Resilient Lady in Santorini last May. At their sunset wedding, Alejandra sparkled in an off-the-shoulder ball gown before the pair danced the night away at The Manor.
Sunset Ceremonies in Spain
As Scarlet Lady arrived at Ibiza, sailors Danny and Brittany shared tales of their epic, seven-year romance. Amidst a backdrop of the island’s whitewashed villas, rocky cliffs and golden sunset, Sir Richard asked if they promised to be each other’s First Mate as they navigate the epic expedition called life. In a fun, unexpected twist, Danny and Brittany surprised Richard by the sharing that they are expecting.
Couples can set sail on the next chapter of their lives by submitting their interest in Virgin Voyages’ wedding packages on the Virgin Voyages’ website. Richard Branson officiates weddings on rare occasion – but will he offer a return engagement?
This article originally appeared in TravelPulse.
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Imagine exchanging vows with the ocean as your “something blue” and the sea breeze gently tousling your hair.
Virgin Voyages is making this dream a reality with its new wedding program set to launch in summer 2025.
Couples can now plan their nuptials onboard one of Virgin’s adults-only, award-winning ships, combining a destination wedding with a luxurious cruise experience. The program offers a unique blend of elegance and adventure, ideal for couples seeking a truly memorable celebration.
From the moment they say “I do,” the honeymoon begins. Newlyweds and their guests will enjoy Virgin Voyages’ signature amenities, including Michelin-inspired cuisine, world-class entertainment and cozy cabins equipped with mood-setting technology. The Captain or a ship’s officer typically officiates, adding a touch of maritime tradition to your special day but the cruise line will entertain other requests.
Post-ceremony, couples are whisked away to exotic destinations, turning their wedding into an extended celebration of love. With Virgin Voyages’ “Always Included Luxury” approach, every aspect of your wedding voyage promises to be effortlessly chic and endlessly romantic.
This supplemental article originally appeared in TravelPulse.