virgin cruise brilliant lady

Brilliant Lady Moves Closer to Launch

Posted on 13 February 2024 by Rob Sammons

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Brilliant Lady , Virgin Voyages’ next anticipated vessel, embarked on its final journey from the Fincantieri Genova Shipyard on February 12th, 2024, celebrated by many who worked on her at the shipyard. This significant milestone marks the ship’s structural completion in a step that moves her closer to launch.

She is currently heading to Palermo in Sicily, Italy, expected to arrive on February 16th, 2024 likely to go to another Shipyard for further fittings. Eager sailors can track her location directly on CruiseMapper .

Potential Launch Date

Despite this progress, the Brilliant Lady is not scheduled to enter service in 2024 . First Mates received information last December indicating that the ship’s debut is expected between May and September 2025 , with potential further delays pushing the launch to 2026.

Insights from Virgin Voyages

John Diorio, Virgin’s VP of North American sales, expressed optimism in an interview with Seatrade Cruise News , indicating plans to finalize strategies for the Brilliant Lady’s future within the next four to five months. However, he highlighted the necessity of an 18 to 24-month ramp-up period post-sale before the ship’s service commencement.

Shipyard Celebrations

Workers at Fincantieri Shipyard celebrated her leaving the yard with a series of posts on Instagram.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Pino Baglio (@pinsky76)

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Marco_M81 (@marco_mortari)

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Giovanni Susino (@giova.susino)

Historical Background

The Brilliant Lady was floated out on November 25, 2022, and is currently undergoing the fitting-out process. It is expected to offer the same amenities akin to its sister ships, alongside eco-friendly technologies and sustainable practices.

The original MerMaiden voyage was scheduled for December 23rd, 2023, but faced delays , pushing the launch date to a projected window between May and October 2025. Details regarding the MerMaiden voyage are currently unavailable.

Rumors of Changes to Support More Destinations

VV Insider reported last month about modifications to the Brilliant Lady’s lifeboats and cabins to facilitate passage through the Panama Canal , a feat not achievable by the current fleet.

Stay Tuned for Further Updates

As we hear more about Brilliant Lady in the lead up to launch we’ll be reporting about the latest developments. Sailors can eagerly await the Brilliant Lady’s eventual debut while acknowledging the complexities involved in bringing this remarkable vessel to fruition.

Subscribe to our Newsletter to be informed with the latest news and happenings around Brilliant Lady.

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All about the Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady

The Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady is still being built and will debut in 2024. It's considered a medium size ship. Coming in at 909 ft long and 125 ft wide, it's roughly the length of 2.5 football fields, as wide as 2.4 tractor trailers, and the same height as a 13-story building. This is an adults-only ship; all guests must be 18 or older. Brilliant Lady was originally scheduled to debut in 2023 but the debut has been pushed back to some time in 2024. The Brilliant Lady is still under construction and Virgin Voyages hasn't released all the details yet. This page will be updated as we learn more.

Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady Overview

• Ship and Passengers
• Food and Restaurants
• Bars and Drinks
• Pools and Hot Tubs
• Ship Features and Activities

Cruise Costs

• Onboard Costs

Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady Size and Passengers

The Brilliant Lady can hold 2,700 based on double occupancy (two people per room) and more when you take into account 3rd and 4th passengers. When you compare the total tonnage of the ship to the number of passengers, the Brilliant Lady has a space ratio of 41. Depending on the ship, this number can range from 30 to 52 (with a bigger number meaning more space per person) so this ship's space-to-person ratio is about average.

The Brilliant Lady is one of four Lady-class ships currently sailing with Virgin Voyages. Virgin Voyages currently has only one class of ships. These ships are meant to appeal to guests who are new to cruising. One of the big differences is that Lady-class ships don't have any main dining rooms or a traditional buffet. Instead, there are numerous restaurants for guests to choose from, all at no additional cost. The Brilliant Lady is very similar to its sister-ships; Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady and Resilent Lady, although each ship may have some differences.

Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady Food and Restaurants

Food is a big part of any cruise, and there will plenty on the Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady. You have 22 different dining options to choose from. Of those options, 22 are complementary, or included with your cruise fare. Since all the dining venues are included, you get to try all the different restaurants while on board without spending an extra dime.

In terms of drinks and cocktails, you have a variety of choices. Virgin Voyages serves the Coca-cola family of products. That means Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite and Barqs Root Beer, although the selection can vary by ship.

There are also plenty of bars available on this ship. You can check outrecent bar menus for the Brilliant Lady below.

Pools and Hot Tubs on Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady

Nothing beats relaxing by a pool with a nice drink in hand as you feel the fresh sea breeze pass by you. The problem is that with thousands of people on a ship, there's not always room. If you want to spend all day in a pool, a cruise might not be the right choice. You would have a much better bet choosing a resort with a huge pool complex. That being said, a quick dip in the pool can be nice on a hot day.

The Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady has a total of 1 pools and 3 hot tubs.

Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady Features and Activities

There are quite a few things to do on the Brilliant Lady. These are the main amenities that are available. Some are included in the cost of the cruise, while others have an additional charge.

Virgin Voyages is a premium cruise line. Premium cruise lines typically offer upscale food, accommodations, and service. These typically cost about $150 - $400 per person per day.

Cruise pricing is dynamic and varies for each specific sailing based on factors such as departure point, ports of call, and time of year. Typically newer ships cost more, so a cruise on Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady will likely cost more than other ships in the fleet.

Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady Onboard Costs

Another way to gauge the cost of a cruise is to consider how much you'll spend on board. Even though a lot is included in the base cruise fare, you may still spend money on things like spa treatments, specialty dining, drinks, and excursions. In addition, guests can also have to pay for things like gratuities and tips.

Typically guests can expect to spend about 25 - 40% of the cost of the cruise on onboard expenses. In other words, if the cruise fare is $1,000 per person, you might spend between $250 and $400 on extra expenses.

The table below will help you understand what you might spend onboard a Virgin Voyages ship.

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See the entire world with Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages has announced four new one-way sailings that cross oceans and hemispheres and offer Sailors the chance to see more of the world.

Experience Virgin Voyages’ newest ship, Brilliant Lady. Enjoy a five-night holiday sailing to finish 2023 in style, or voyage on one of three epic, two-week adventures – or combine them for a global, six-week trip of a lifetime in 2024.

Brilliant Caribbean holidays

Brilliant Lady will set sail from Miami to San Juan on 24 December 2023, giving Sailors the chance to celebrate the holiday season with Virgin Voyages. Enjoy some serious festive vibes while you sail, with full days to explore both Puerto Plata and St. Croix. You’ll arrive in San Juan on 29 December 2023, just in time to see in the new year.

Australia, Bali & Singapore

Sail north with Virgin Voyages from Sydney to Singapore on 27 Marcy 2024. On this 14-night cruise, you’ll leave with iconic views of the Sydney Harbour, stopping at Airlie Beach, Cairns and Darwin before making an overnight stay in Bali, and then arriving in Singapore.

Singapore sights to Dubai delights

Set sail from Singapore on 11 April 2024 on a one-way voyage to Dubai with Virgin Voyages. With this 14-night voyage, you’ll have plenty of time to dip into Phuket’s beautiful green waters, gaze at Colombo’s incredible architecture, and catch up on Goa’s laid-back lifestyle. You’ll also get to explore Kuala Lumpur and Mumbai, before arriving in Dubai.

Modern Dubai to Ancient Athens

Explore iconic sites along the Red Sea and the Mediterranean on this 14-night one-way voyage from Dubai to Piraeus (Athens). After experiencing the modern wonders of the Arabian Gulf, you’ll cross the Suez Canal and reach the stunning Greek coast. With late-night stays in Safaga and Alexandria, plus full days in Rhodes and Santorini there’s plenty of time to soak up the history, revel in the desert sunshine and get your island glow going.

Set sail the Virgin way

There’s so much to do onboard all of Virgin Voyages’ ships. Enjoy a taste of luxury at the 20 onboard eateries, covering everything from Michelin-style dining to late-night snacking. Or if you’re after some rest and relaxation time, book into the onboard spa and enjoy some time for yourself. All that self-case will come in handy when it’s time to put on your glad rags, grab your dancing shoes and throw some shapes at the onboard nightclub.

Plus, with Virgin Voyages, there’s so much included in the price of your sailing. You won’t be paying for WiFi so upload as many holiday snaps as you want to make everyone back home jealous. All your exercise classes are included too, as well as your food and basic drinks, and tips for Virgin Voyages’ crew.

Can’t wait to get on board? Visit Virgin Voyages to find out more and book your sailing today.

Join Virgin Red and you can earn up to four Virgin Points per pound when booking a Virgin Voyages cruise via Virgin Atlantic Holidays.

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• Cruise News

Fourth Virgin Voyages Ship Nears Completion

Sarah Bretz, Contributor

• November 28, 2022

The fourth vessel in Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Voyages fleet, Brilliant Lady, marked the next stage of construction last week.

The ship was floated out at Fincantieri’s Sestri Ponente shipyard in Genoa, Italy on Friday. Brilliant Lady is the new cruise line’s fourth vessel. The first, Scarlet Lady, launched passenger voyages in fall 2021 following a long delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting cruise industry shutdown. It was originally set to launch in 2020.

Virgin Voyages’ second ship, Valiant Lady, debuted in March 2022, and the third —  Resilient Lady — is set to launch in May 2023.

All four sister ships come in at about 110,000 gross tons and hold 2,770 passengers in over 1,400 guest cabins. On the guest-facing side, the vessels extensively utilize home automation technology. Through the Virgin Voyages smartphone application, guests are able to manage a wide range of cabin functions including the air conditioning, lighting, opening and closing of blinds, music, and television.

MORE: Coast Guard Rescues Man Overboard From Carnival Cruise Ship

Even though it’s not considered an ‘all-inclusive’ cruise line, Virgin Voyages does feature more inclusions than other mainstream cruise brands. The base cruise fare affords passengers wifi, dining in all restaurants (most of which would be considered specialty venues on other lines), all fitness classes, and gratuities for the crew.

Restaurants on board the Virgin Voyages ships include modern Mexican eatery Pink Agave, Korean barbecue spot Gunbae, The Wake steakhouse, and Extra Virgin Italian restaurant, among others.

Brilliant Lady is scheduled to debut late next year.

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Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady: A New Era of Luxury Cruising on the Horizon

The introduction of Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady is poised to revolutionise the premium cruising industry. Despite a delay in her launch, there is growing anticipation for her potential debut in 2024. This vessel is not just a symbol of luxury but also a marvel of engineering, being the first in the Virgin Voyages fleet to navigate through the Panama Canal.

Table of Contents

The design and layout of virgin voyages brilliant lady.

Like her sister ships, Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, and Resilient Lady, Brilliant Lady is expected to maintain the multi-award-winning layout and venues for which Virgin Voyages is known. Her ability to traverse the Panama Canal is a standout feature, making her unique and expanding her reach to thrilling new destinations.

Brilliant Lady Specifications at a Glance

• Year of Build : 2023
• Builder : Fincantieri, Italy
• Class : Lady Ship
• Cost : EUR 700 million (approx. USD 810 million)
• Length : 278 m (912 ft)
• Beam (Width) : 38 m (125 ft)
• Gross Tonnage : 110,000 GT
• Passenger Capacity : 2,770 – 2,860
• Crew : 1,160
• Cruising Speed : 20 knots (37 km/h; 23 mph)
• Maximum Speed : 22 knots (41 km/h; 25 mph)
• Adults-Only Policy : Yes

Onboard Experience: A Continuation of Excellence

The onboard experience of the Brilliant Lady is set to mirror the well-loved Virgin Voyages standard. With a selection of over 20 dining establishments , including the exotic Geonbae Korean Barbeque and the innovative Test Kitchen, gastronomic explorations are endless. The entertainment onboard is just as varied, ranging from tranquil yoga sessions to vibrant drag brunches.

Book your Virgin Voyages Cruise Today

If you would like to book your Virgin Voyages Cruise today, you can use the below link to see the latest offers and self-service your booking. Any bookings made using this link will be linked to Magical Traveller (it will say Sold and Serviced by Kieran Miller at the top); you will have complete control over your booking and can pay Virgin Voyages directly.

If you book using our Book and Go link by clicking the image below, we will add bonus sailor loot to your account as a thank you, $25-$200, depending on cruise duration and cabin purchased. Sea Terrace cabins receive $100 on sailings four nights or more as a guide. An email will be sent within 24 hours from Magical Traveller confirming the loot will be added within 30 days before you sail.

If you would like to add hotels and accommodation, don’t hesitate to contact us, and we can make your cruise a fully ATOL-protected holiday.

Brilliant Lady Entertainment

While it is too early to say, we have been told that Brilliant Lady is the Entertainment Sister to Resilient Lady. She should share some of the shows that debuted on Resilient Lady, namely Persephone and Another Rose. However, given the delay to her launch, that’s not to say Virgin Voyage may not be working on some new and exciting shows ready for her awaited debut.

Unique Differential Points

The Brilliant Lady’s most distinctive aspect is her design, which was tailored to navigate the Panama Canal. This not only elevates her allure but also significantly widens her travel horizon. Could we see a Lady Ship debut in Galveston and even the California Cost in the near future?

Itineraries and Destinations: A World of Possibilities

While the itineraries for Brilliant Lady are still under wraps, there’s speculation about her operating as a transient vessel. This suggests a departure from fixed seasonal routes, embodying the Virgin Voyages’ spirit of offering unique and ever-changing cruising experiences.

The Anticipation Builds

The Virgin Voyages, and wider cruise community is abuzz with excitement and speculation for the launch of Brilliant Lady. This event, though delayed, is set to be a pivotal moment in the cruise industry, heralding a new era of luxury and exploration and the completion of Phase one of the Virgin Voyage launch plans after the pandemic added a major delay to their plans.

Be the First to Know

Stay updated on the latest news about Brilliant Lady by joining our mailing list or Facebook group. As we eagerly anticipate more details about this magnificent vessel, become part of our community and share in the excitement of what is set to be a groundbreaking addition to luxury cruising.

Brillaint Lady FAQs:

What makes the brilliant lady unique in the virgin voyages fleet.

The Brilliant Lady is uniquely designed to navigate the Panama Canal, a first for the Virgin Voyages fleet, expanding her destination possibilities.

What can guests expect onboard the Brilliant Lady?

Guests will enjoy over 20 dining options, diverse entertainment, including yoga and drag brunches, encapsulating the Virgin Voyages’ signature luxurious experience.

Will Brilliant Lady follow fixed seasonal routes?

There’s speculation that Brilliant Lady might operate as a transient ship, frequently changing destinations and breaking the mold of traditional seasonal routes.

When is the Brilliant Lady expected to launch?

While there’s no official release date, there is anticipation for a potential debut in 2024.

How can I stay informed about the Brilliant Lady’s launch?

Join our mailing list or Facebook group for the latest updates and be among the first to know about her launch details.

Conclusion:

The Brilliant Lady stands as a beacon of innovation and luxury in the cruising world. Her anticipated launch is not just an addition to a fleet but a transformation in the cruising experience. With her unique ability to traverse the Panama Canal and the promise of unparalleled luxury, the Brilliant Lady is set to redefine what we expect from a luxury cruise.

Book a Virgin Voyages Cruise

You can book these cruises by contacting us via our Enquiry form on our website or by filling in the form below. Remember, we offer $100 bonus Sailor Loot when you book a Sea Terrace or above on your Virgin Voyages Cruise with us.

You can also view all our Virgin Voyages offers and cruise planning tips in our dedicated group on Facebook.

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Popular adults-only cruise line Virgin Voyages delays new ship and shuffles 2024 cruises

If you're interested in trying out popular upstart cruise line Virgin Voyages in 2024 or 2025, pay attention. The cruise line is doing the cruise ship shuffle — delaying the debut of its fourth sister ship, swapping itineraries among its trio of existing ships to fill the gap, and introducing new ports and itineraries around the world.

Virgin Voyages fans will now have 27 new itineraries to choose from through April 2025 and can visit 19 new-to-the-line ports of call, including Morocco and Amsterdam.

The downside is that Brilliant Lady will postpone its debut from December 2023 to a later date that is yet to be announced. Virgin has canceled all its existing sailings through April 2024.

Plus, with Scarlet Lady headed into dry dock in 2024 and no new sister to take its place, the line has shifted the schedules of Resilient and Valiant Lady; it canceled select departures and replaced them with new itineraries.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Confused yet? Here's the ship-by-ship breakdown of what to expect from Virgin Voyages in the next year and a half.

Brilliant Lady

Virgin Voyages cites supply chain, staffing and construction issues as the reason it will need to delay the debut of the fourth ship in its fleet, Brilliant Lady. The line "is evaluating new possible launch dates when it is able to deliver the standards the brand's Sailors have come to expect," according to a press statement.

Travelers booked on the canceled cruises between December 2023 and April 2024 can rebook on a different ship with pricing and promotions protected. They'll also receive $300 to $600 in Sailor Loot (Virgin's term for onboard spending money). Travelers can also opt instead for a full refund.

Related: The best adults-only cruises to try if you can't stand being around kids on vacation

Scarlet Lady

In mid-November 2024, Scarlet Lady will go into dry dock in Europe for routine maintenance and a few enhancements. Therefore, the ship will spend May through October 2024 in the Mediterranean, sailing Valiant Lady's seven-night "Irresistible Med" and "French Daze and Ibiza Nights" itineraries.

Unique repositioning cruises for the ship will include an 11-night sailing from Barcelona to Civitavecchia (the port for Rome) in November, stopping at the islands of Mallorca, Corsica and Sardinia; also included is a 16-night transatlantic voyage from Rome to Miami, with visits to Madeira, Portugal, and Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

Again channeling its sister ship, Scarlet Lady will sail Valiant Lady's six- and eight-night Western and Eastern Caribbean cruises through spring 2025.

Valiant Lady

With Scarlet Lady stealing its sister's itineraries, Valiant Lady will take over cruises originally meant for Brilliant Lady. From January through March 2024, the ship will sail from San Juan, Puerto Rico, on Southern Caribbean voyages. Passengers booked on the ship's original winter 2024 sailings will have the option to rebook on the ship's new sailings or swap to Scarlet Lady.

In April, the ship will take over Scarlet Lady's short four- and five-night cruises out of Miami.

Resilient Lady

Ignoring all the ship shuffling, Resilient Lady will venture into uncharted territory after its inaugural season in Australia and a return to Greek island and Adriatic itineraries in spring and early summer 2024.

In August, the ship will begin sailing from Portsmouth, England, to destinations such as Le Verdon (Bordeaux), France; La Coruna and Bilbao, Spain; Amsterdam; and Bruges, Belgium. The ship will then move to Barcelona with two repositioning sailings visiting a new Virgin port in Morocco. Once in the Mediterranean, the ship will sail a Barcelona-to-Athens cruise with a maiden call in Catania, Sicily.

These voyages will replace Resilient Lady's originally scheduled Greek island cruises. Booked guests can switch to Mediterranean cruises on Scarlet Lady on the same dates.

Diehard Virgin Voyages fans won't want to miss the ship's 44-night repositioning cruise from Athens to Australia, with stops in Dubai, Mumbai, Singapore and Bali. Down Under, Resilient Lady will offer 15 new itineraries, including nine new Australian ports.

How to book

The new Virgin Voyages itineraries will be available to book on Monday, Sept. 11, on the line's website or through a travel agent. The line is offering 30% off 2024 Mediterranean cruises, plus a Bar Tab worth up to $600, if you book by Sept. 28. You can find discounts of $500 off select Caribbean and repositioning cruises, as well.

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Brilliant Lady's Launch Update: Offer and Travel Reimbursement Details

Brilliant MerMaiden - Option 1

Double Your Value

Rebook any ship, any date: with bonus onboard credit and price guarantee.

• Bonus Credit: As an added benefit, we will include $500 in onboard credit to enjoy while you’re sailing with us
• Double Bonus: Rebook by October 11th and receive an additional $500 as a bonus credit, making it a total of $1,000 in onboard credit
• We’ll rebook your same cabin category and apply a $300 discount off the voyage fare
• We’ll also give you $600 in onboard credit for that voyage

Brilliant MerMaiden - Option 2

Full Refund

100% of your voyage fare back to you, below you'll find a link to a form to request a refund or assist with rebooking only available for your brilliant lady mermaiden voyage..

Check out our FAQs below.

Brilliant Lady

All information about brilliant lady. 2024, 2025 and 2026 itinerary of this ships. technical data, rating and reviews of tourists. the actual location of the vessel..

Specifications of Brilliant Lady

Current position.

Brilliant Lady Itinerary

Brilliant Lady Cruises

Brilliant lady rating.

Full information about the rating of all cruise ships is available on the page: Ships Rating .

Brilliant Lady in the News

• Feb 29, 2024 Brilliant Lady ship completes final drydocking before delivery to Virgin Voyages The newbuild Brilliant Lady cruise ship has successfully concluded her final dry dock period ahea...
• Sep 9, 2023 Virgin Voyages unveils 19 new ports and 27 cruise itineraries through April 2025 Virgin Voyages is unveiling 19 new ports and 27 exciting itineraries available until April 2...
• Sep 9, 2023 Virgin Voyages' newest ship Brilliant Lady launch delayed due to supply chain & staffing issues Virgin Voyages has postponed the launch of its fourth ship, Brilliant Lady, citing unexpected cha...
• Sep 8, 2023 Virgin Voyages: New itineraries released but Brilliant Lady delayed  Virgin Voyages has added 19 new ports and 27 new itineraries, sailing through to Apr...
• Aug 19, 2023 Virgin Voyages changes Scarlet Lady's itinerary for engine maintenance Virgin Voyages made an announcement on August 16th regarding alterations to its forthcoming Augus...
• Jun 28, 2023 Virgin Voyages Launches New Personal JLo A.I. Cruise Invitation Cruisers trying to convince family or friends to set sail with them on a Virgin Voyages vacation ...
• Jun 17, 2023 Virgin Voyages Details One-of-a-Kind Cruise With Richard Branson Richard Branson is planning a big party later this summer aboard Virgin Voyages’ Resilient Lady...
• Jun 12, 2023 Cruise News Update: June 11, 2023 Here we are with this week’s roundup of the top news stories from across the cruise industry, e...
• Jun 7, 2023 Virgin Voyages Scraps Cruises After Guest Feedback Virgin Voyages has unexpectedly decided to cancel four of its Resilient Lady cruises scheduled to...
• May 12, 2023 Virgin Voyages Waves Single Supplements on European Cruises All European Virgin Voyages cruises taking place during the 2023 summer season, which will includ...
• May 12, 2023 Mediterranean Cruise Port Welcomes Newest Virgin Voyages Ship The Turkish Port of Bodrum, an increasingly popular port call for ships sailing the Aegean and Ea...
• May 12, 2023 Virgin Voyages launches its 3rd ship, Resilient Lady Virgin Voyages launched its third cruise ship - Resilient Lady, which has three fleetmates - Scar...
• May 11, 2023 Newest Virgin Voyages Cruise Ship Days From Debut The third of the fleet of “Ladyships” for Virgin Voyages, Resilient Lady, is just day...
• Apr 22, 2023 Virgin Voyages Adds Poker Game Venue to One Ship Virgin Voyages, the cruise line founded by British mogul Richard Branson, is betting big on a new...
• Apr 14, 2023 Virgin Voyages seeks new funding Virgin Voyages is seeking hundreds of millions of dollars in fresh capital just eight months afte...

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• Brilliant Lady ship completes final drydocking before delivery...

Brilliant Lady ship completes final drydocking before delivery to Virgin Voyages

The newbuild Brilliant Lady cruise ship has successfully concluded her final dry dock period ahead of her imminent delivery to Virgin Voyages .

This significant milestone occurred at the Fincantieri's shipyard in Palermo Sicily , on Saturday, February 24. As the 4th and final vessel constructed for the Virgin cruise line, Brilliant Lady is poised to set sail in March.

This announcement comes after a period of adjustment for Virgin Voyages, which, in September 2023, had to postpone Brilliant Lady's originally scheduled inauguration (in December 2023) due to construction delays. Consequently, planned sailings were canceled, and the company redirected its focus towards the three sisterships - Scarlet Lady , Resilient Lady , and Valiant Lady .

Constructed at Fincantieri's Sestri Poente yard (near Genoa ), Brilliant Lady has undergone rigorous sea trials in the Mediterranean, alongside the final drydocking in Palermo. These activities signify that the vessel's construction is nearing completion, paving the way for Fincantieri to proceed with the timely delivery of the ship. Brilliant Lady marks the culmination of Virgin Voyages' fleet, all of which have been meticulously crafted by the esteemed Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri.

What it’s like to sail on Virgin Voyages’ Resilient Lady cruise ship

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The Resilient Lady's maiden voyage faced a rocky start with a technical malfunction during embarkation. Photo / Supplied

Virgin Voyages’ Resilient Lady is the cruise ship for people who don’t do cruise ships. Proudly adults-only, with no buffets and a medley of price inclusions that most cruise lines tag on. But does it live up to the hype? Lorna Riley jumps on board to find out.

It’s embarkation day for the first Australian sailing of Resilient Lady, the latest addition to Virgin Voyages cruise line, and the check-in process is not going smoothly. In fact — it’s not going at all. A technical malfunction has left a long line of eager Sailors (as Virgin dubs its passengers) snaking from the covered terminal out into the damp Melbourne day. Just as tempers start to fray, in rides a knight in shining armour. Well, a knight in freshly-pressed chinos to be precise: Sir Richard Branson, founder of the cruise line that’s part of his Virgin empire and a public relations maestro. He makes his way down the line of disgruntled sailors-in-waiting, personally apologising and posing for selfies, ensuring that these passengers will long be talking about the start, but now for all the right reasons; the ice-buckets of Möet that await in every cabin as way of recompense a welcome sweetener.

As we set sail, just slightly behind schedule, the initial teething problems are forgiven and forgotten as we get acquainted with the superyacht-inspired Resilient Lady and all her charms. She’s a full ship for this inaugural Australasian sailing, with about 2700 passengers on board. Virgin Voyages is renowned as an adults-only award-winning cruise line with the most 5-star reviews on TripAdvisor , so our expectations are high and we’re not disappointed.

READ MORE: What it’s like aboard the world’s largest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas

For starters, technology is at the forefront here. Instead of the traditional key card, we’re each issued a wristband with an anchor fastening (a popular souvenir, prized by sailors post-voyage) — this is not only used to track any purchases aboard and for identification when alighting at a port, but also gains us access to our home away from home. In our instance, this is a Sea Terrace cabin on deck 10 — there’s a glam area to spruce ourselves up, a roomy rainshower in the cleverly designed bathroom, and a hand-woven terrace hammock overlooking sweeping views of the horizon. There’s ample storage too, although we do find that our suitcases are too big to fit under our bed as suggested. A push, press or swipe of the tablet, and we can control the mood lighting (which also intuitively matches the light from the oncoming sunset), the curtains and the TV which has myriad new release (and classic) movie options, and order ShipEats to be delivered (in a snazzy duffel bag). Pair this with the Virgin Voyages app, and all entertainment options, deck plans and shore excursions are literally at our fingertips. The most fun feature on the app is Shake for Champagne, where you can summon a bottle of the good stuff wherever on the ship you may be and toast your good fortune.

Many cruise lines have seemingly affordable fares but then sting you onboard with hefty charges for basic services; not so Virgin Voyages, with many luxuries included in the reasonable tariff. We have access to all the premium dining at Resilient Lady’s 20+ eateries with menus curated by Michelin star chefs and not a single buffet in sight: our favourite dining spots on board include Mexican-flavoured Pink Agave (with the biggest range of tequila at sea), The Test Kitchen (inspired by Escoffier’s Ma Cuisine, it’s a laboratory-like exploration for our taste buds), and the boldly designed Razzle Dazzle (a heady mix of healthy and decadent with a creative twist on some American classics), as well as The Galley for quick bites from a mix of shops and food-truck-style carts. It’s here we discover our standout dish of the entire five-night voyage from Melbourne to Melbourne by way of Tasmania : a ramen bowl from Korean BBQ restaurant Gunbae that’s the best we’ve tried anywhere.

Also included in our fare is a basic drinks package, covering still and sparkling water, sodas, milkshakes, tea and drip-coffee. Any alcohol required can be charged to your cabin with the flick of the wrist(band) — for many sailings in this initial season, a bar tab is also included in the fare to get you started. Wi-Fi at sea can be expensive, but that’s another inclusive, as are gratuities for the hard-working, always effervescent crew. Fancy getting physical? Group fitness classes at B-Complex are also included, from yoga and meditation through to horizontal bungee workouts and HIIT training. And if you’re lucky enough to be a RockStar Sailor (those booked into a suite), you have access to Richard’s Rooftop, a lavish, elaborate and members-only outdoor space for stargazing parties and pre-dinner cocktail hours. The happy hours here (where complimentary Möet flows freely) are understandably popular, and a good chance to mingle with fellow VIPs.

Last, but by no means least, oodles of award-winning entertainment is dished up as part of the fare. One evening we find ourselves tied up, quite literally, with fellow sailors as performers dance down our table and trapeze over our heads at Another Rose: Supper Club — it’s a unique experience that is equal parts cabaret, world-class dining and theatre spectacle. The Mind Mangler is hilariously bad as a failed mental telepathist until he stuns us with his final act that has the entire audience asking “How did he do that?!”. Miss Behave is a game show like no other, a wild night of fun and laughter with buckets of audience participation. And Scarlet Night, a highly-anticipated feature of every voyage, is a ship-wide event featuring an enormous inflatable octopus that takes over the top deck for a dance party, with red-clad sailors cavorting by the pool — and by the end of the evening, in the pool. The standout show for me is Persephone, a cutting-edge late-night production loosely based on the famous Greek myth and featuring a rock ‘n’ roll underworld outfitted with lavish costumes and dramatic action. A friend calls it the best show she’s ever seen at sea, and it’s hard to disagree.

Our five-night voyage has two Tasmanian ports of call: an overnighter in Hobart, and a day stay at Burnie, but there’s no doubt that the real destination is the Resilient Lady herself. There are no under-18s on board but a Virgin Voyages cruise is like a free-spirited, adults-only playground that appeals to the child in all of us. The adult seesaw is in constant use, as are a life-size game of Twister and seaside swings. We relive our misspent youth in the arcade with free retro games like Space Invaders and Donkey Kong, party like it’s 1985 at Club Rubiks, and drop into the Social Club to check out the air hockey and foosball tables. Classic fairground fare like hot dogs and popcorn plus boozy floats and milkshakes are also served, and we find ourselves at the naughtily-named Lick Me Til Ice Cream more than once. The main pool is a popular hangout with its Ibiza beach club vibe, while Gym and Tonic serves up not only the latest fitness equipment, but also the largest jacuzzi at sea, the Wellbeing Pool. There are more than 10 bars throughout the ship, each with their unique entertainment: returning to our cabin after dinner one evening, we hear a Violent Femmes banger emanating from a nearby lounge and end up dancing to one of the best covers bands I’ve ever heard. There’s a record shop, private karaoke booths, designer boutiques, and a sizeable casino (with James Bond-inspired decor) which operates when the ship is sailing and even offers gaming lessons for the uninitiated.

Boredom is not an option, with activities to suit all tastes: trivia games to an onboard pub crawl, meetups for solo travellers, scavenger hunts and dance classes. Perhaps the most fun activity is the VHS Workout (Videos, Headbands and Simmons). Held in nightclub The Manor, the class is a return to ‘80s aerobics, led by fitness personality Richard Simmons on the big screen. Replete in fluoro leg warmers and lycra, this is a camp workout and nostalgia trip all in one. The B-Complex outdoor Training Camp offers workout equipment with a mini boxing ring; the Runway is a jogging track with the best views; and there’s even a basketball court. I have my own “nothing but net” moment at the Athletic Club, where brave sailors can walk out onto a suspended catamaran net and hang out (quite literally) 16 decks above the ocean.

The Virgin Voyages philosophy is “retox then detox”, and there’s no better place to do the latter than at Redemption Spa, which promises a healthy dose of Vitamin Sea through a salt stone massage or a rejuvenating facial. The Thermal Suite offers a hydrotherapy pool, mud room, salt room, cold plunge pools, and quartz beds. Pampering continues at Dry Dock, the on-board blowout bar, and Stubble and Groom barbershop, where you can get a shave with a side of whiskey or beer. I treat myself to a shellac manicure at Tune Up with some of the best views on the ship, and have to strongly resist the urge to take home a permanent souvenir of the trip from Squid Ink, the onboard tattoo parlour.

All too soon, our five-night flirtation with Resilient Lady is over, and despite a jam-packed itinerary, there was so much left undone. We’ve had a little taste of the good, a seamless blend of luxury and leisure, and we’re left wanting more: another cruise with Virgin Voyages is definitely an idea I could get on board with.

For more information about Virgin Voyages cruise itineraries, see virginvoyages.com

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