Virgin Voyages hires Hays Travel assistant head of cruise 

Virgin Voyages has bolstered its UK sales team with two appointments as it claimed a 17% year on year rise in revenue from the market.

Kelly Green joins the line as UK sales manager from Hays Travel where she was assistant head of cruise.

Alan Fincham joins from the healthcare sector as a business development executive for central England.

The adult-only cruise line has also promoted three of the team to cover Europe, Australia and New Zealand.

Matt Lebbern is now director of sales, Europe, Australia and New Zealand, Kayleigh Hilton is sales manager for Europe and Ben Soane is business development executive for Europe.

The changes came as the line reported a 17% increase in revenue from the UK, while bookings from European markets were up 65%.

Average selling prices from UK passengers have risen by 34% and Caribbean bookings are up 154% compared to the same time in 2024, according to the line.

Director of UK sales SJ Walker said: “2025 has been a landmark year of growth across all our international markets.

“The UK travel trade has truly embraced our brand, and we’ve seen travellers are booking earlier, sailing longer and choosing higher end experiences.”

Lebbern said: “We’ve seen long-haul demand grow across Europe, Australia and New Zealand, with sailors [passengers] choosing Virgin Voyages in record numbers and recognising the incredible value of our experience.

“Our First Mates [agents] and general sales agents are the driving force behind that momentum, helping us strengthen our presence across these markets.

“In 2026, we’ll build on the excitement of Brilliant Lady’s spectacular launch, amplifying this year’s energy and inspiring even more sailors to discover what makes Virgin Voyages so special.”