Brilliant Lady’s Changes Revealed to Support New Destinations
Changes to Brilliant Lady including positioning of the lifeboats as well as the introduction of a new Sea Terrace type, the (Slightly) Smaller Balcony Sea Terrace allow the ship to pass through the Panama Canal.
Virgin Voyages is potentially set to embark on exciting new journeys through the Panama Canal (following previously announced itineraries), breaking away from the limitations posed by its current fleet. The highly anticipated Brilliant Lady, rumored to launch in May – October 2025 (according to First Mate documents), brings about significant changes, particularly in lifeboat placement and the introduction of a unique cabin type.
Lifeboat Changes Allows Panama Canal Passage
It’s long been speculated that the current trio of lady ships lifeboats overhang the structure of the ship and have restricted Virgin Voyages from navigating through the Panama Canal. Brilliant Lady, with its launch on the horizon, strategically adjusts the placement of lifeboats further into the ship. The changes could open a vital route to the Pacific Ocean providing access to ports in California, Alaska, Canada and Hawaiian islands.
Introduction of “(Slightly) Smaller Balcony Sea Terrace” Cabin Type
As a result of the lifeboat adjustments, a new cabin type emerges. Previously categorized as Limited View Sea Terraces, cabins between 8034A/Z – 8086A/Z and 8214A/Z – 8314A/Z will transform into (Slightly) Smaller Balcony Sea Terraces. The notable exception to this is 8086A/Z, a standard Sea Terrace cabin that will transition into a (Slightly) Smaller Balcony Sea Terrace. These cabins mark a reduction in terrace size from 40 square feet to 9-11 square feet depending on placement on the ship.
Two Hammocks Instead of One
The (Slightly) Smaller Balcony Sea Terraces will exclusively feature two hammocks the only cabin to have this feature except the Massive Suite, providing an unparalleled and relaxing experience for passengers. Notably, these cabins will lack additional furniture on the terrace but do maintain the same interior cabin size of a Sea Terrace. The shift in lifeboat placement and name change suggests that these cabins may no longer have obstructed views of the ocean however this is speculation until more of the ship is revealed.
Further Cabin Updates
We will be updating our cabin look up tool to include information of each affected cabin on Brilliant Lady. It’s important to note that, aside from these alterations, there are no other reported changes to the cabin layouts on the Brilliant Lady.
Anticipation for the Mermaiden Voyage
Despite the delay in Brilliant Lady’s launch, Virgin Voyages enthusiasts eagerly await the announcement of the Mermaiden voyage. Increased activity around the ship, behind-the-scenes footage from the crew, and additional information included for First Mate Travel Agents all hint at an impending announcement. With the prospect of Panama Canal cruises on the horizon, Virgin Voyages is poised to introduce sailors to a whole new region.
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Source: Virgin Voyages Brand Brochure December 2023
