MIAMI — Virgin Voyages has entered the dress code chat with a statement that reaffirms its commitment to “relaxed luxury.” 

Following Norwegian Cruise Line’s recent update to its dress code, which includes a ban on “tank tops, hoodies, robes, shorts, jeans with holes or tears, and caps/hats” based on the restaurant or bar, Virgin Voyages has released a tongue-in-cheek response, doubling down on its relaxed approach to cruising.

“We owe you an apology,” the statement starts. “Despite extensive internal discussion, we have been unable to ban open-toed footwear from our restaurants. We have also failed on hoodies – so they remain. Attempts to prohibit baseball caps have also failed.”

The statement goes on to jokingly confirm “someone even wore a bucket hat to a five-course tasting menu at Test Kitchen last Tuesday on Scarlet Lady.”

The cruise line then cheekily notes that its laidback atmosphere – what others might regard as “outrageous” – has directly resulted in repeat business.

“Our sailors keep coming as they are – and we keep letting them. They seem to take this idea of relaxed luxury literally. Apparently, it’s why we have record repeat rates and keep winning awards, because you can be you.”

The cruise line then signs off “with love and zero dress code”, adding a P.S. at the end of the statement that reads: “Sorry, not sorry. We’re not changing.”

Virgin Voyages is an adults-only cruise line known for its themed cruises, elevated experiences, VIP-quality dining and casual onboard environment. It recently unveiled the cruise industry’s first three-tiered fare model inspired by ones similar to that of airlines.

For more information, go to www.virginvoyages.com.