Virgin Voyages Unveils Star-Studded 2025-2026 Celebration Cruises

WHY IT RATES: Virgin Voyages announced its 2025-2026 Celebration Cruises, featuring Melanie C of the Spice Girls and disco icon Kathy Sledge as headliners, with itineraries from Lisbon and Athens offering music-driven experiences at sea. —Janeen Christoff, TravelPulse Managing Editor

The No. 1 cruise line in the world, Virgin Voyages, is unveiling plans for a 2026 Red Hot Sailing Club Voyage aboard the stunning Brilliant Lady and announcing Spice Girls alumna, Melanie C, along with disco icon, Kathy Sledge, as headliners for the brand’s remaining 2025 Celebration Voyages. The newly named Red Hot Sailing Club Voyage – departing Miami for the Caribbean on March 12, 2026 – continues the music-fueled legacy of the Celebration Voyages while elevating the experience for loyal Sailors with fresh entertainment and programming.

Building on the momentum of Nicky Jam, the reggaeton superstar who is currently headlining the Miami Celebration Voyage aboard Valiant Lady, Virgin Voyages is thrilled to announce two extraordinary artists for its remaining 2025 sailings from Athens and Lisbon. These final Celebration Voyages – before the series transforms into the Red Hot Sailing Club for 2026 – promise to deliver unforgettable musical experiences at sea.

Lisbon Celebration Voyage Featuring Melanie C

Departing from Lisbon, the July 22, 2025 Celebration Voyage aboard Scarlet Lady will be headlined by award-winning musician, Melanie C, the chart-topping British pop artist and DJ best known as Sporty Spice from the iconic Spice Girls. Celebrating their 30th anniversary this year, the Spice Girls have sold more than 100 million records worldwide, establishing themselves as the most successful female group of all time. Melanie C’s musical versatility and energetic performances have earned her critical acclaim, including three World Music Awards and a BRIT Award, but it’s her Virgin Music legacy and style that make her a perfect match for the world’s best cruise line. She’s a formidable solo artist and accomplished DJ who will bring a bit of pop nostalgia and style to the Virgin Voyages decks.

Melanie C will take over a five-night sailing departing from Lisbon, Portugal. Calling in Porto and La Coruña before concluding in Portsmouth, UK, the voyage offers a perfect blend of coastal charm and bohemian spirit. When Sailors aren’t enjoying the historic cobblestone streets, stunning beaches and vibrant local cuisine, they’ll revel in the brand’s signature mix of relaxation and adventure. At night, Melanie C brings her unmatched energy and spirit to an electrifying DJ set and performance with Girl Power energy that made her a global sensation.

Athens Celebration Voyage Featuring Kathy Sledge

Departing May 18, 2025, Resilient Lady – voted best cruise ship for entertainment by USA Today 10Best – embarks on an 11-night Mediterranean journey from Athens. With trendsetting style and musical flair, the legendary Kathy Sledge of Sister Sledge fame, takes the helm. Kathy is the distinctive voice behind anthems "We Are Family" and "He's the Greatest Dancer" and has been a cornerstone of disco and dance music for decades. Her timeless global anthems have earned her multiple gold and platinum records, with "We Are Family" being inducted into the Library of Congress National Recording Registry as a culturally significant song.

Guaranteed to rock the ship with her distinctive vocals, Kathy’s extended Mediterranean odyssey departs from Athens before calling in Istanbul, Ephesus, Santorini, Rhodes, Mykonos and Crete. The itinerary presents a rich tapestry of experiences, from ancient ruins at the crossroads of civilization to sun-washed island villages flanked by the blue Aegean sea. With Kathy Sledge's soulful performances as the soundtrack, Sailors will discover the perfect harmony of historical exploration and contemporary entertainment.

Both Melanie C and Kathy Sledge are part of the Virgin Music Group family, creating an authentic connection that enhances the Virgin Voyages experience. Their performances aboard these Celebration Voyages embody the brand's commitment to creating meaningful connections through music and travel.

"We're thrilled to welcome Kathy Sledge and Melanie C home to Virgin for these Celebration Voyages," said Jamie Douglas, Director of Immersive Experiences. "These influential artists – who are both part of the Virgin music family – create remarkable communities through their music, a perfect alignment with the spirit and connection that defines the Virgin Voyages experience. These incredible sailings not only reinforce Virgin’s standing as an iconic company rooted in music, but also serve as a love letter to our epic community of loyal Sailors worth celebrating every day.”

For additional information or to book a voyage, visit www.virginvoyages.com or contact a First Mate (travel advisor).

SOURCE: Virgin Voyages press release.

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