The Richard Branson-led venture received major backing from Patricof Co., whose platform includes over 100 elite talents across the world of sports.
Patricof Co., a private investment platform made up of more than 100 elite athletes like Venus Williams, Blake Griffin, Kemba Walker, CC Sabathia, Travis Kelce, and Trea Turner invested in lifestyle travel and cruise brand Virgin Voyages, which recently launched in the US.
The athlete group joins lead investors Virgin Group and Bain Capital in actively shaping the future of the product and experience.
“I’m thrilled to be partnering with Virgin Voyages and helping to bring this incredible experience to the US,” Venus Williams said. “Traveling and taking in different cultures is so important to me and I’m excited to work with this team to deliver that opportunity to more customers.”
Other top players involved in the investment include NFLers George Kittle and Xavien Howard and NBA veterans Victor Oladipo and Rudy Gay. Virgin Voyages’ first cruise liner in America, Scarlet Lady, officially set sail recently from PortMiami.
“Virgin and Richard Branson instinctively know how to do things the right way, always leading with uniqueness and innovation,” Griffin said. “When Patricof Co. brought this investment opportunity to me, I jumped at the chance to invest in Virgin Voyages in the early stages and I’ve been really impressed with the brand ever since.”
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Patricof Co. will work with Virgin Group to create an Athlete Advisory Council which will play an active role in distinguishing the cruise line and work on sustainability initiatives.
“Launching Virgin Voyages has been an incredible journey and it’s exciting to align with superstar athletes who bring undeniable energy and ideas to Virgin Voyages as we expand our fleet globally,” said Sir Richard Branson, Virgin Group founder. “It was so much fun welcoming some of them on board Scarlet Lady earlier this year and sharing the wonderful experience on board the ship.”
