Virgin Voyages recently announced an investment by Patricof & Co (1969-founded by Alan Patricof, specializing in venture capital investments). The company is part of Apax Partners LLP (London UK-based equity firm) that also includes Multinational Management Group (1972-founded) and Saunders Karp & Megrue (1988-founded).
The highly specialized private investment platform for professional athletes is adding a superstar roster of 40+ entrepreneurial athletes, such as Venus Williams, Blake Griffin, CC Sabathia, Kemba Walker, Travis Kelce, George Kittle, Trea Turner, Xavien Howard, as the brand’s latest group of fans and investors.
After its recent successful launch in the United States, Virgin Voyages' new athlete investor line-up is expected to be an active part of shaping the product's future and experience. P/Co and its roster of athletes are joining other blue-chip investors (Virgin Group and Bain Capital).
Setting sail on her inaugural season from PortMiami (Florida), the much-anticipated USA-Caribbean launch of Virgin’s first ship Scarlet Lady was preceded by celebrations, gathering star athletes and celebrities from around the world to welcome the liner home. Mixing business with pleasure, athletes and investors took the chance to experience a taste of Virgin and are now the newest additions to the cruise line.
Patricof & Co is going to work with Virgin Voyages in order to establish an Athlete Advisory Council playing an active role in designing experiences for Sailors and ensuring Virgin Voyages' experiences are distinct from other vacations.
The athletes will work collaboratively with the Virgin brand on sustainability initiatives.