Free cabin or increased commission with Virgin Voyages incentive
Virgin Voyages has a new unified groups programme for First Mates, replacing its previous multi-tiered system as part of its ongoing Brilliant for You trade initiative.
To mark the launch, Virgin Voyages is offering an introductory incentive for groups created before June 30 2026. Agents can earn one complimentary cabin for every 12 cabins booked – an improvement on the standard 16-cabin threshold – or opt for the additional 2% commission. The promotion applies to all sailings with available group inventory.
Under the new structure, First Mates can hold up to 75 cabins without paying a deposit. Bookings are split into two categories: Small Groups of eight to 16 cabins, which benefit from a 120-day recall period, and Large Groups of 17 to 75 cabins, with a 150-day recall period. Fares and promotions are locked in from the moment the group is created.
Guests booking as part of a group will receive a Group Bar Tab per cabin, ranging from $50 to $200 depending on the length of the voyage. First Mates can also choose between earning one complimentary cabin for every 16 sold or receiving an additional 2% commission.
The programme also introduces an enhanced group dining concierge service. While the previous scheme included a single group dining experience, the new offer allows groups to reserve up to three dinners across Virgin Voyages’ signature restaurants, subject to voyage length and availability.
New 2027 overland experiences from Azamara
Azamara Cruises has announced its 2027 Overland Experiences collection, featuring 18 journeys across seven countries.
Designed to unlock exploration beyond the reach of the ship, Azamara Cruises Overland Experiences allow guests to temporarily leave their cruise and embark on a multi-day land adventure before rejoining their ship at a later port.
Each itinerary is fully coordinated by Azamara Cruises and includes premium accommodations, transportation (including flights, if required), guided touring and select meals, creating a worry-free way to experience destinations in greater depth.
“The Overland Experiences for 2027 invite our guests to venture beyond the port through extraordinary cultural encounters, historic discoveries, and awe-inspiring natural wonders,” said Shandra Stoeterau, Director of Land Product Development at Azamara Cruises. “From the temples in Angkor Wat to the iconic lagoons of Bora Bora, these immersive experiences go beyond the traditional port visits to allow deeper exploration into the heart of the countries. This emphasis on meaningful cultural connections and immersive exploration is what continues to distinguish the Azamara Cruises experience.”
Among the featured Overland Experiences in the 2027 collection include:
- Bora Bora Overwater Bungalow Escape (French Polynesia) – Embarking January 5, 2027, guests sailing on the 18-night Pacific Islands Cruise to Oahu, Kauai & Bora Bora can enjoy a three-day, two-night stay at the.Hotel Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts, complete with overwater bungalow accommodations and direct lagoon access.
- Majestic Laos & Vibrant Hanoi (Laos & Vietnam) – Departing March 14, 2027, travellers on the 19-night Southeast Asia Cruise to Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City & Hong Kong can immerse themselves in a five-day expedition through the heart of Laos and Vietnam, from the French colonial charm of Vientiane and the riverside beauty of Luang Prabang to the vibrant streets, historic architecture, and rich cultural influences of Hanoi.
- Shanghai, Xi’an & Beijing (China) – Setting sail April 2, 2027, guests on the 14-night East Asia Cruise to Hong Kong, Shanghai & Beijing can experience China’s most celebrated landmarks during a five-day overland adventure featuring the Terracotta Warriors, the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, and other historic sites.
Jules Verne takes to India’s Hooghly River
Jules Verne has launched a new seven-night Hooghly River cruise, sailing from Kolkata in October 2026, April and September 2027, and March and September 2028.
Starting in Kolkata, the week-long cruise takes guests up the Hooghly River, a tributary of the Ganges, to explore West Bengal’s religious landmarks, riverside villages and colonial-era port towns.
Highlights include discovering the treasures of Kolkata, including the flower market, St John’s Church and Victoria Memorial; visiting Hooghly Imambara’s Shia Muslim mosque and clock tower; witnessing the terracotta Hindu temples at the Rajbari Temple Complex, and the chance to spot local wildlife, such as kingfishers, herons and river dolphins.
Guests will also have the chance to meet Bengali locals, including in the village of Nabadwip, where they will see residents weaving cotton saris and scarves on handlooms, and in the town of Guptipara, where they will visit the home of a local potter.
Sailing onboard the MV Bengal Ganga, passengers can expect authentic Indian cuisine, spacious cabins with private balconies and a panoramic sundeck.
Seven nights start from £2,495pp on a full-board basis.
