Montreal, October 20, 2022 -Transat Distribution Canada (TDC), one of the largest networks of full-service travel agencies in the country, 100% Canadian and bilingual, is pleased to have allowed 14 of its travel consultants from across Canada to take part in an exclusive discovery cruise aboard the Scarlet Lady , one of the ships on Virgin Voyages luxury cruise line, departing October 5 from Miami.

Sandra Wesson, Director of Industrial Relations at TDC, who accompanied the group, could see the difference Virgin Voyages offers when it comes to luxury cruising. “Cruise enthusiasts will be thrilled to discover what Virgin Voyages has to offer: an inclusive and diverse adults-only experience, where the average age of passengers is 45 and where everyone can have a safe and enjoyable cruise experience. The passenger is not bound by a dress code and uses an application to set the pace of their stay to get the most out of their cruise experience.”

She continues: “Very well designed and super easy to use, the Virgin Voyages app allows travelers to create their own personalized schedule. For example, they can book or change their attendance at one of the many shows, a group fitness session, their restaurant reservations, and even invite other passengers in their group or who have just met on board. Reminders pop up on their phone when it’s time to get to the next appointment in their schedule. There is something to do on the ship almost 24 hours a day and all offers are presented in the app. There are no announcements on the ship, which contributes to a calm and relaxing onboard experience and allows everyone to tailor their voyage as they wish.” Additionally, there is no cruise director onboard, but entertainment is provided by a team of 14 crew members with each individually overseeing certain activities on the ship – from shopping to games to physical training and much more.

The traditional buffet restaurant is replaced by a kind of modernized food court, the galley, where the traveler selects what they want to eat from a variety of mini-menus via a QR code at their table and their cooked-to-order meal is delivered to them. The grand main dining room here gives way to 13 Michelin-quality specialty restaurants where travelers can enjoy exceptional and interactive dining experiences, such as: B. a Korean barbecue and another that offers tasting menus with wines or spirits. Sandra Wesson adds that “the stay becomes a true all-inclusive stay thanks to the “Bar Tab” option, a package that offers access to premium alcohol and cocktails at great prices,” as all the essential non-alcoholic beverages are included as well all already included are meals, as well as tips, free tuition, and Wi-Fi options.

Life aboard the Scarlet Lady

After a quick check-in, passengers receive identification bands that serve as ID cards, room keys and payment cards both on board and in the private bimini resort. Like all four ships in the Virgin Voyages fleet, Scarlet Lady boasts a fabulously equipped gym and spa offering a wide range of treatments for those seeking a zen experience. Rockstar Suite guests have private access to upper decks such as “Richard’s Roof” which offers a private oasis with lounge chairs, whirlpool tubs and bars. The international staff is very warm and welcoming, and the crew swaps white shirts with striped shoulders for a t-shirt and comfortable pants.

The experience continues off ship at the private resort in the Bahamas, a sprawling resort with two beautiful pools, plenty of beach loungers and a restaurant serving delicious poolside dining.

Travel consultants delighted with their experience

The 14 Travel Consultants who took part in this introductory trip, offered exclusively for the TDC network, loved the atmosphere on the ship. They were able to testify to the exceptional quality of the food served on board, the attentive service and the wide range of services and activities. Sandra Wesson concludes, “Most of the Consultants present knew exactly which clients they would be offering this experience to: adults seeking a more upscale atmosphere, between adults who value health, well-being and quality, and to whom the pace for the want to decide on your own vacation without having someone take you by the hand”.

The two mornings of training led by Adam from the sales team gave the group a deep understanding of what the cruise line has to offer, what type of travelers it caters to and also enjoyed the tour given by Captain Giovanni and Senior Officers. The group also experienced some surprises during the cruise.

Transat Distribution Canada added Virgin Voyages to its very extensive list of more than 75 preferred partners in September 2020. Virgin Voyages is also part of the Virtuoso luxury network.

About Transat Distribution Canada

Transat Distribution Canada (TDC) is a full-service travel agency network with approximately 300 branches, websites, a call center and independent travel consultants serving the agent@external program. The network brings the brands together Transate travel, travel club, Marlin Travel, Voyages en Liberté, TravelPlus and other affiliated companies. TDC is a subsidiary of Transat AT Inc.a globally recognized reference for holiday travel that has received Travelife Certificate in 2018 as part of its commitment to sustainable development.