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Brilliant Lady Launches, Marking a New Chapter for Virgin Voyages

Brilliant Lady finally sets sail on her MerMaiden, ending years of delays with new shows, dining, and redesigned spaces.

Brilliant Lady Launches, Marking a New Chapter for Virgin Voyages
Brilliant Lady Launches, Marking a New Chapter for Virgin Voyages © Photo by Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages’ fourth ship, Brilliant Lady, has officially set sail today on her long-awaited MerMaiden voyage. The launch marks the end of years of delays caused by supply chain issues, pandemic disruptions, and logistical challenges that pushed her debut back.

A New Chapter for Virgin Voyages

Brilliant Lady joins her sisters Scarlet, Valiant, and Resilient Lady in the fleet, bringing a fresh addition to the line. She introduces new entertainment, dining experiences, and updated spaces that set her apart while still carrying the hallmarks that Virgin Voyages has become known for.

Dixie Krystals the Diva, Sir Richard Branson & Abi the Hostess helped launched Brilliant Lady in New York City
Dixie Krystals the Diva, Sir Richard Branson & Abi the Hostess helped launched Brilliant Lady in New York City© Photo by Dixie Krystals

Years in the Making

Originally expected to debut in 2023, Brilliant Lady’s introduction has been a longer journey than most other ships. Construction delays and shifting global circumstances forced Virgin Voyages to pause and reset. Today’s sailing represents not only a milestone for the company but also a symbolic turning point for many who have followed her story which we’ve covered in depth here at VV Insider.

What’s Onboard

Brilliant Lady carries over the favorite venues of the fleet, including The Wake, Extra Virgin, and Gunbae, but also debuts new additions. Her entertainment lineup expands with Up With a Twist, a supper club blending couture fashion, live music, and French-inspired dining, and Murder in the Manor, a playful late-night mystery inside The Manor. Dining also grows with Rojo by Razzle Dazzle, while redesigned areas such as the Roundabout and the Athletic Club bring refreshed energy to the ship’s layout.

Rojo by Razzle Dazzle
Rojo by Razzle Dazzle© Photo by Virgin Voyages

World-class vocalists and dancers take the stage. in Up with a Twist
World-class vocalists and dancers take the stage. in Up with a Twist© Photo by Kim Bunce

Looking Ahead

Her itineraries will initially focus on North America, with sailings from New York and Miami before she expands to new destinations. Virgin Voyages has positioned Brilliant Lady as a flexible ship capable of operating in different regions throughout the year, including Alaska.

The MerMaiden sailing today closes one chapter of delays and opens another filled with entertainment, dining, and design updates. Virgin Voyages is just getting started.

Ready to get booked? Head to our dedicated booking portal to view all of her itineraries:

VV Insider Booking Portal

Seattle to Alaska & British Columbia | Brilliant Lady | 3 September 2026
Seattle to Alaska & British Columbia | Brilliant Lady | 3 September 2026© Photo by Virgin Voyages

 

About the author

Co-Founder and Editor. Blending technical know how from the iOS world with a love for Virgin Voyages with over 20 sailings around the world.


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