The laughs are officially back on board. Following a wildly successful Comedy Fest in New York City this spring, we're turning the spotlight to British comedy with a brand-new lineup that promises razor-sharp wit, unforgettable performances, and plenty of moments you'll be talking about long after the final curtain call.
Setting sail in August 2026, our UK Comedy Fest brings together some of the brightest names in stand-up for a voyage packed with exclusive performances, surprise moments and the signature Virgin Voyages experience. Whether you're discovering your next favorite comic, laughing through a late-night set or raising a glass in celebration, this is comedy at sea, done the Virgin way.
A lineup worthy of a standing ovation
This year's festival celebrates the incredible depth and diversity of UK comedy, bringing together established stars, rising voices and crowd favorites for a week of unforgettable entertainment.
Together, they create a festival that's as varied as it is hilarious — and you can read more about each of their backgrounds here.
- Lucy Beaumont
- Desiree Burch
- Jack Skipper
- Louise Young
- Travis Jay
- Laura Smyth
- Matt Richardson
- Kae Kurd
- Aurie Styla
- Seann Walsh
- Milton Jones
- Babatunde Aléshé
- Darren Walsh
From brilliantly observed storytelling and clever social commentary to rapid-fire one-liners and delightfully unexpected punchlines, every performer brings their own distinctive style to the stage.
Where and when you'll sail
This year's festival takes place from August 20-27, 2026 on our newly revamped Valiant Lady. Fresh from her dry dock, she's ready to show off her glow-up as she sails you roundtrip from Portsmouth to Bruges, Amsterdam, and Hamburg.
More than a comedy festival
Comedy Fest is woven into your entire voyage, transforming every day and night into an opportunity to laugh a little louder.
Catch an intimate performance before dinner, settle into headline sets after sunset, or toast the evening with champagne at Sip Lounge before heading to another unforgettable show. You never know when an impromptu moment, surprise appearance, or spontaneous laugh might become the highlight of your sailing.
Between performances, you'll enjoy everything that makes a Virgin Voyages vacation extraordinary, from elevated dining by award-winning culinary talent and wellness experiences to stylish sea days and unforgettable ports of call.
British humor meets the Virgin Voyages experience
There's something special about sharing a laugh while surrounded by the open sea. UK Comedy Fest pairs Britain's unmistakable comedic voice with the adults-only atmosphere that gives every performance room to shine.
Expect observational comedy, satire, storytelling, quick wit and unforgettable crowd work delivered by performers who know exactly how to keep an audience entertained. Every venue offers a different atmosphere, from intimate clubs to lively late-night spaces — ensuring every show feels like a unique experience.
Why Sailors love our Comedy Fest
Comedy Fest isn't just about watching great comedians. It's about being part of an experience designed around connection, spontaneity and unforgettable nights.
During the voyage, Sailors can look forward to:
- Exclusive performances throughout the sailing
- Multiple opportunities to see their favorite comedians do a set
- Unexpected pop-up moments and surprise appearances
- Stylish nightlife before and after every show
- Award-winning dining in our onboard restaurant concepts — including Valiant Lady's brand-new Ariya by Razzle Dazzle
- Wellness experiences at Redemption Spa during the day to get you warmed up for a night of laughter
It's a festival where every day offers something new, and every night ends with another story worth telling.
Book your funniest vacation yet
If your perfect getaway includes incredible entertainment, unforgettable evenings, and more laughs than you can count, UK Comedy Fest 2026 deserves a spot on your calendar.
After the success of our New York City Comedy Fest, we're thrilled to bring this celebration of British comedy to sea with an exceptional lineup ready to keep Sailors smiling from embarkation to disembarkation.
Explore the sailing, secure your cabin, and get ready for the funniest voyage of the year.
