Virgin Voyages has canceled the Scarlet Lady sailing from Miami, which was scheduled to depart on April 19, 2026. The decision came after the entire ship was booked for a private charter event. Guests who had planned to be on the seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise were informed through a letter, in which the company apologized for the impact on their travel plans.

The original voyage was part of Virgin’s 2025-26 Caribbean program. The Scarlet Lady was expected to sail round-trip from Terminal V in Miami with visits to Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, San Juan in Puerto Rico, and Tortola in the British Virgin Islands. Instead, the ship will now operate a three-night cruise to Bimini before hosting the private charter group.

Virgin Voyages explained that the sailing was privately chartered by an organization, which means the entire ship was purchased for exclusive use. Such charters are not unusual in the cruise industry, as they are highly profitable and sometimes replace regular sailings. The cruise line, however, emphasized its commitment to assisting affected passengers with suitable alternatives.

Guests who were booked on the canceled cruise now have several options. The first option is to rebook onto the Resilient Lady’s April 18, 2026 voyage. This cruise follows the “San Juan & Dominican Dreams” itinerary, offering a similar seven-night experience with calls in Puerto Plata, San Juan, and Bimini. Passengers will be rebooked in the same cabin category they originally selected, and their fares will be fully protected.

If the new cruise is priced lower than the original, Virgin Voyages will refund the difference directly to the guest’s payment method. All promotional benefits, such as Bar Tab bonuses, will carry over to rebooked sailing. In addition, select cabin types, including premium suites, will receive Sailor Loot onboard credit as a gesture of goodwill.

A second option allows guests to choose another seven-night Caribbean cruise from the line’s offerings. Fare protection, promotions, and Sailor Loot will apply to these bookings as well. For those who prefer not to sail, Virgin is providing the choice of a full refund or 100 percent Future Voyage Credit.

Although the cancellation has caused frustration for some travelers, the compensation package and rebooking opportunities have been viewed positively by many. Virgin Voyages is aiming to soften the disappointment by ensuring guests still receive the value of their original purchase while maintaining flexibility. The cruise line has stressed its apology and promised support for guests as they make new plans.