Virgin Voyages allows payment in Bitcoin for its $120,000 “Annual Pass” program, marking a new step in applying cryptocurrency to the travel industry.
On December 4, Virgin Voyages, a cruise company under the Virgin Group, announced the “Annual Pass” program that allows unlimited travel for 1 year for $120,000 plus taxes, payable in Bitcoin.
The program will be available from 2025 and will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis with a limited number of tickets. It is considered the first cruise product to accept cryptocurrencies, opening up the potential to attract a group of crypto “whales” customers.
Virgin Voyages said the “Annual Pass” program builds on the success of its previous “Season Pass” program, which was aimed at remote workers. According to Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group, this new program offers unprecedented flexibility in the travel industry. Customers can experience cruises at any time of the year and explore many attractive destinations.
The adoption of Bitcoin, the world’s largest cryptocurrency by trading volume, is expected to create a new wave in the travel industry. While many businesses in the industry have been exploring cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology, Virgin Voyages’ adoption of Bitcoin for its luxury cruise services could attract the attention of those with large digital asset holdings.
At $120,000, the “Annual Pass” program doesn’t aim for the lavish lifestyle that some crypto influencers tend to portray. However, it does offer a high-end experience with a “Sea Terrace” room with a private balcony for two, laundry services, internet, and a $100 bar credit on each trip.
