Virgin Voyages has launched an unlimited annual cruise pass, allowing passengers to sail on any ship, anywhere in its fleet for an entire year. Olivia Palamountain reports

Virgin Voyages, Richard Branson’s kid-free, "boutique hotel at sea", has announced an all-new, industry first travel offer that allows passengers to embark on a year-long multi-ship cruise for a fixed cost.

Sailings with the groundbreaking Annual Pass commence in 2025 priced at US$120,000 (excluding taxes and fees) and mark another cruise industry first by accepting Bitcoin as payment.

The pass grants holders access to a Sea Terrace cabin with balcony views and the brand's signature red hammock across Virgin's complete fleet, including inaugural voyages on their fourth vessel, Brilliant Lady, launching September 2025. Pass holders can begin their year of unlimited cruising on select dates between January and April 2025. Designed for the luxury nomadic traveller, the pass offers substantial perks including priority boarding, complimentary laundry services, dedicated concierge support, unlimited premium wifi, and a US$100 Bar Tab credit per voyage. Pass holders can also bring different companions throughout the year at no additional base fare cost.

Virgin Group Founder Richard Branson says the initiative evolved from their successful "work from sea" Season Pass concept: "We're offering unlimited opportunities for adventure in a way that has never been done in cruising before."

The adult-only cruise line, which won top honours in both Condé Nast Traveler's and Travel + Leisure's 2023 and 2024 awards, currently operates routes from Miami, Barcelona, Athens and San Juan, covering more than 60 itineraries across 100 ports of call. Destinations range from Caribbean islands to Mediterranean hotspots and Nordic territories.Travel advisors stand to earn  US$10,000 commission for each Annual Pass sold. The passes, available until March 31, 2025, are being offered on a first-come, first-served basis, with additional taxes and fees applying to booked voyages.

Virgin Voyages' fleet features contemporary spaces inspired by superyacht design, with more than 20 eateries offering Michelin-star chef-created cuisine, daily fitness classes and festival-style entertainment. The ships also house designer suites and mermaid-inspired spa facilities, maintaining the brand's positioning as a boutique hotel at sea.

The announcement comes as the cruise industry continues to innovate in the luxury travel sector, with Virgin Voyages specifically targeting affluent travellers seeking flexibility and premium experiences.

The pass's pricing structure suggests better value than maintaining residences in major global cities, while offering continuous access to international travel and luxury amenities.