Virgin Voyages’ newest vessel has commenced its autumn 2025 itineraries, which include late sunshine trips to Bermuda and Miami, fall colour voyages in New England and the northeastern United States, Canada, and wintry sailings to Alaska.
Launched at Pier 90 in New York City earlier in September, the Brilliant Lady is the fourth ship in Virgin’s fleet and cost €700 million. It boasts structural modifications that make the ship narrower by moving its lifeboat areas inward. This adaptation means it is able to transit the Panama Canal and access destinations such as Alaska that are inaccessible to rivals and sister ships, allowing the cruise line to diversify its programme and attract return customers.
Other adaptations on the ship include the “Seriously Suite,” which is one of the cruise line’s accessible accommodations for passengers with disabilities or mobility devices, as well as a revamp of its central “Roundabout” area that provides greater indoor lounge space, and an extension of its main pool.
The Brilliant Lady also features an array of dining and entertainment offerings, including Rojo by Razzle Dazzle, a modern eatery specialising in Spanish food and exclusive to the new Virgin ship. By day, press releases say, Razzle Dazzle offers a casual vibe with bottomless brunches and “Spanish-American flair.” However, at night the venue transforms into Rojo, described as “an elevated modern dining experience bursting with Spanish flavour, including large dishes and small plates (tapas and pintxos) that are perfect to share.” The “refined” menu is said to include “Spanish-inspired cocktails, from herbaceous vermouth spritzes to classic sherry pours and elevated gin & tonics kissed with Mediterranean botanicals.”
Entertainment includes camp musical “Out of Time” as well as “Up With a Twist,” Virgin’s bespoke Brilliant Lady Roaring Twenties’ themed supper club, with interactive, jazz-inspired performances of well-known tracks accompanying a multi-course French menu and signature cocktails. And for those who enjoy true-crime mysteries, “Murder in the Manor”is described by Virgin’s entertainment president Richard Kilman as a blend of Scooby Doo, Stranger Things and Haunted Mansion.
Brilliant Lady cruise ticket prices are currently on special offer and start at €1,042 per cabin for a four-night voyage, with 70% off for a second sailor. All entertainment and nearly all meals on board are included, as well as “essential drinks,” while alcoholic beverages are claimed to be “at exceptional value” and no tips are required as Virgin says all servers are taken care of.
