Virgin Voyages, the cruise line launched by Richard Branson, has admitted that its decision to provide free sex toys in guest rooms was a mistake. The initiative, part of the brand’s “adults-only” theme, included vibrators, vegan lubricants, and condoms. However, CEO Nirmal Saverimuttu acknowledged that the move fed into a perception that the cruise line was overly risqué and exclusive, which misrepresented the company’s broader offerings.
Saverimuttu stated, “We made some mistakes… and that’s okay,” reflecting on how such programming amplified a narrow view of the brand. He explained that these details, paired with the absence of family-friendly options, created a narrative that Virgin Voyages did not intend to promote. The free items were quietly discontinued by 2023.
Virgin Voyages initially positioned itself as a bold and unconventional option in the cruise industry, but the sex toy inclusion unintentionally attracted niche attention from swinger communities. Symbols like upside-down pineapples, used to denote swinger activity, became associated with the cruises, adding to the controversy.
Despite the early missteps, Virgin Voyages continues to expand, focusing on creating an inclusive environment while learning from past experiences. The company remains a significant part of Branson’s portfolio, with new ships and initiatives on the horizon.
