Alaska 2026 Launch Season Details Announced

Virgin Voyages will launch its hotly anticipated first Alaska itineraries in Summer 2026, featuring 17 new voyages aboard Brilliant Lady, the latest addition to their fleet. These voyages are designed for adventure, offering breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife encounters, and various immersive shore activities.

Key Itinerary Details

• Sailing Season: May to September 2026
• Alaska MerMaiden Voyage: May 21–28, 2026 from Seattle
• Departure Ports: Seattle, Washington or Vancouver, British Columbia
• Voyage Lengths: Ranging from 7 to 12 nights

MerMaiden Voyage

Brilliant Lady will have a final Grand Finale MerMaiden voyage to celebrate her launch. Three other MerMaiden voyages are scheduled in New York City, Miami, Los Angeles and now Seattle.

The MerMaiden voyage departs from Seattle, sailing to Ketchikan in the Tongass National Forest. From there, Brilliant Lady docks in Sitka, known for its vibrant culture and as the setting of The Proposal. Sailors will then journey up Tracy Arm Fjord, stopping at Prince Rupert, British Columbia, before returning to Seattle.

Additional Alaska & Pacific Northwest Voyages

Beyond the MerMaiden voyage, Brilliant Lady offers a range of Alaska itineraries with unique ports and shore experiences, each designed to showcase the best of the region’s wildlife, local culture, and landscapes.

Some 12-night options offer stops at additional Alaskan ports and more time for glacier trekking and wildlife expeditions.

More details on these specific itineraries will be announced on Thursday.

Featured Destinations

• Ketchikan, Alaska – Known for its rich Native American heritage and the stunning Tongass National Forest.
• Sitka, Alaska – Coastal town with vibrant local culture and scenic views, famously featured in “The Proposal.”
• Tracy Arm Fjord, Alaska – A spectacular fjord with views of towering cliffs and glaciers.
• Prince Rupert, British Columbia – A charming coastal town with both natural beauty and cosmopolitan amenities.

Wildlife and Shore Experiences

Sailors will have opportunities for unique wildlife encounters, including:

• Glacier Trekking and Kayaking: Led by local guides, these treks offer close-up views of ancient glaciers and ice fields.
• Lumberjack Shows: Experience a slice of Alaskan heritage in Ketchikan, watching traditional lumberjack competitions.
• Dog Sledding in Skagway: An iconic Alaskan adventure, Sailors can go dog sledding on snow-capped mountains.
• Whale Watching: Numerous ports offer chances to see orcas, humpbacks, and gray whales up close.

Onboard Highlights for Sightseeing

Virgin Voyages has highlighted “prime” viewing areas

• The Dock and The Athletic Club: These open-air lounges offer cozy daybeds, ideal for watching the fjords pass by.
• The Galley: Floor-to-ceiling windows make this dining space a scenic spot for enjoying meals without missing a view.
• Balcony Cabins: 86% of cabins come with private balconies equipped with hammocks, perfect for serene glacier views.

Culinary Offerings:

Special culinary enhancements feature locally sourced “Treat Yourself” Alaskan seafood, with new menu items crafted by Virgin’s chefs to celebrate the unique flavors of the Pacific Northwest.

Booking and Pricing

• Canceled Brilliant Lady Sailors: Those with previously canceled MerMaiden voyages can book the MerMaiden now. Check emails for details.
• Front(ier) of the Line Pass Holders: Pre-sale access begins October 31, 2024 for sailers who purchased the early pass offered at the Brilliant launch.
• General Public Access: Bookings open November 13, 2024 with inaugural season pricing expected to rise quickly.

For more details or to book, sailors can visit Virgin Voyages’ specific Alaska website this Thursday or contact their preferred First Mate (travel agent).