All Aboard Virgin’s Brilliant Lady: The Ship That’s Redefining Cruising
- Leah Marriott
- Aug 26, 2025
- 3 min read
"Life’s too short for boring holidays." That mantra has long guided Richard Branson, and his latest venture — the adults-only cruise ship Brilliant Lady — proves he hasn’t forgotten it. Sleek, stylish, and packed with daring entertainment, the vessel is set to make waves across oceans and hearts alike.
Design That Turns Heads
From the moment you step into Brilliant Lady’s Roundabout atrium, it’s clear this is no ordinary cruise ship. Plush seating, sultry lighting, and live music create a space more reminiscent of a boutique hotel than a traditional liner.
Virgin’s design team has spent years listening to passengers of sister ships, translating feedback into social, comfortable spaces that encourage mingling without feeling crowded. Even lifeboats are cleverly tucked away, leaving unbroken ocean views that beg to be photographed.
Cabins with Character
Brilliant Lady’s Sea Terrace cabins bring a playful twist to standard accommodations. Small terraces are outfitted with two red hammocks — perfect for lazy afternoons swinging above the sea.
For those craving full luxury, the Rock Star Suites deliver private terraces, exclusive VIP access to Richard’s Rooftop, and interiors that fuse modern glamour with a rock ’n’ roll edge. It’s a cruise-within-a-cruise experience, designed for travelers who want style, space, and a touch of rebellion.
Culinary Adventures at Sea
Virgin Voyages continues its mission to ditch the buffet, offering more than 20 included dining options, each with its own personality.
Standout newcomers include:
Rojo by Razzle Dazzle – Quirky vegetarian café by day, sultry Spanish tapas haven by night.
Gunbae – Korean BBQ meets drinking games in a high-energy, interactive setting.
The Wake & Pink Agave – Glitzy chophouse and Mexican feast venues for date nights or celebratory dinners.
Pull Quote: “Every meal is a performance. Dining here is as much about theatre as it is about taste.”
Entertainment That Dares
Virgin Voyages has never shied away from unusual performances, and Brilliant Lady takes that ethos further. The ship debuts seven new shows, including:
Murder in the Manor – Campy, 80s-inspired whodunnit.
Red Hot – Musical tribute to Virgin Records’ golden era.
Electric – Neon-fuelled dance spectacular with audience interaction.
And of course, the legendary Scarlet Night returns, this time with even more glitter, glamour, and chaos.
Itineraries for Every Adventurer
Brilliant Lady launches from New York in autumn 2025, with routes covering Bermuda, Canada, and New England. Winter takes her to Miami for Caribbean escapes, spring brings a 16-night Panama Canal crossing, and summer 2026 will see her exploring Alaska’s glaciers and fjords.
The Verdict
Brilliant Lady is playful yet polished, social yet stylish. With inventive dining, immersive entertainment, and thoughtfully designed spaces, Virgin’s newest ship proves that cruising doesn’t have to be conventional.
Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a curious first-timer, Brilliant Lady offers an escape that’s fun, immersive, and undeniably unforgettable.
Virgin Voyages
If you’re an adult craving a holiday without the little ones underfoot, Virgin Voyages is your ultimate escape. Week-long cruises start from just £900 per person—yes, really! Here’s a little insider hack: grab the Virgin Red app and start collecting points that you can spend on your trip. Even better, you can transfer your Tesco Clubcard points over—holidaying just got way more rewarding.
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