Adults-Only Virgin Voyages Launching New Running Club

Wellness is a top priority for the adults-only Virgin Voyages. That’s not surprising as the line’s owner, Sir Richard Branson, is passionate about fitness. So, starting in September, Virgin will launch the new 8 Legs Run Club (8LRC) on board its ships.

“We’re always looking to expand our wellness offerings,” says Branson. “This fall, we’re inviting our ‘sailors’ to lace-up their shoes and join us on board our ships’ running tracks for our first-ever Run Club.”

Each ship is home to “The Runway,” a red running track atop each ship. (Photo of Scarlet Lady’s track is shown above. Photo by Susan J. Young.)

In addition to running on the ship, guests can participate in a shoreside, Virgin-style run at select destinations. That will be hosted by the ship’s Happening Cast. 

For All Levels of Runners

Whether people are half-marathoners looking to continue their race training, or newbies looking for a casual run, it’s a club to help guests mix, mingle and work out.

“Yes, guests might be people who typically wake up at 5 a.m. for a sunrise run or even run a 10K distance every day,” explains Shelby Steudle, president, Pavlus Travel. “But they also might be travelers who would a brisk afternoon lap to clear their heads.

“Or they might be totally new to running — people who are just starting on a fitness regimen,” she adds. That’s why the new 8 Legs Run Club (8LRC) is for guests at all levels.

Adults-Only Virgin Voyages: New 8LRC

Branson wasn’t alone in providing impetus for the club’s founding. Did you know that two past Virgin guests, in particular, helped inspire the creation of the new run-club concept?

One completed the equivalent of an entire marathon aboard Resilient Lady earlier this year. Another guest recently ran on a Virgin ship for 24 hours straight — doing 639 laps around The Runway — all for a good cause.

The running track is .16 miles for each loop. So, runners making six loops will complete a one-mile run.

But again, if you simply enjoy a quick run around the block, hitting the treadmill or are just starting to exercise, the club provides a chance for all guests interested in running to mix, mingle and socialize.

Self-Reflection and Rejuvenation

For some guests, running is a way to escape the pressures of daily life. For others, it’s all about self-reflection. And for others, it’s simply about staying fit and exercising.  

Running can also be meditative and rejuvenating. “Whatever the guest’s approach to running, the new Virgin Voyages running club will connect wellness-focused guests who have that shared passion,” says Pavlus’ Steudle.

Adults-Only Virgin Voyages: Fitness & Wellness

In addition to The Runway’s track, Virgin’s ships offer another popular exercise zone called the B-complex. Guests can work out in this state-of-the-art gym with Technogym equipment.

Prefer a spinning workout? Then head for the BARRE cycling studio. Also, Virgin offers bungee and other fitness classes.

As for healthy eats, Virgin has more than 20 dining venues with healthy choices. For more information on the adults-only Virgin Voyages, check out the line’s official website. 

Also, check out The Meandering Traveler’s blog earlier this year about our snazzy, red, fun experiences on a 2024 Scarlet Lady cruise.

To learn more about Virgin, discuss itineraries, pick accommodations, and book a cruise, contact your personal travel planner. Soon, you can be running — not only at home but on a cruise vacation — as part of Virgin Voyages’ new 8 Legs Run Club!

Important Information from Pavlus Travel