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December 2024 Virgin Voyages Rumor & Tidbit Roundup

Sailor Loot policy changes exclude Roulette and dice games, Cooper’s Hawk Winery charters Valiant Lady for a 20th-anniversary cruise, Brilliant Lady stays in Málaga for winter, and early New York appearance expected.

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Rumor Roundup, December 2024
Rumor Roundup, December 2024 © Photo by VV Insider

We’re going over the Rumor and Tidbit Roundup for December 2024. Stay informed and get more updates by subscribing to our newsletter, following us on Instagram , X/Twitter and Facebook and becoming an Insider.

Casino Sailor Loot Policy Changes

Virgin Voyages recently updated its policies regarding the use of Sailor Loot in its onboard casino. Previously, Sailor Loot could be used across all games at the Casino. However, the latest change restricts the use of promotional chips on certain table games, including Roulette and dice-based games.

Sailors can still use their Sailor Loot for other casino games like Slots and Blackjack. To use Sailor Loot on table games, Sailors should confirm the current policy with the casino host before converting it to promotional chips. For slot machines, Sailors can request the cashier to load Sailor Loot directly into their account. It’s important to note that Sailor Loot remains transaction-fee-free but must be wagered before winnings can be withdrawn.

Guide to Virgin Voyages Casino

Casino
Sailor Loot can no longer be used at certain games at the Casino© Photo by Virgin Voyages

Cooper’s Hawk Winery Charter

Virgin Voyages recently announced that their October 1, 2025, sailing on the Valiant Lady was canceled to accommodate a private charter. Cooper’s Hawk Winery has chartered an exclusive cruise for its members of the Wine Club.

This 4-night Caribbean voyage, taking place October 1–5, will celebrate the 20th anniversary of Cooper’s Hawk Winery. The event is a collaboration between Cooper’s Hawk and Virgin Voyages, offering Wine Club Members an unparalleled experience at sea. Highlights include premium wine tastings, engaging classes, and gourmet dining, all led by Cooper’s Hawk experts, including Tim McEnery (Founder & CEO), Emily Wines (Master Sommelier), and Chef Matt McMillin (Chief Culinary Officer).

The cruise promises a mix of luxury, education, and adventure, making it a once-in-a-lifetime event for wine enthusiasts. For more details or to book your spot, visit Cooper’s Hawk’s website.

Cooper's Hawk Winery Charter
Cooper’s Hawk Winery Charter© Photo by Cooper’s Hawk Winery

Brilliant Lady Remains in Málaga for the Winter

Brilliant Lady, Virgin Voyages’ newest ship, will remain docked in Málaga, Spain, throughout the winter of 2024–2025. This extended stay is scheduled to last until March or April, ahead of the ship’s official service launch in September 2025.

During its time in Málaga, Brilliant Lady is undergoing minor maintenance, with lifeboats regularly transporting crew and technicians between the ship and the dock. The port’s convenient proximity to Málaga’s international airport also makes it a practical location for crew changes and technical operations.

Although the ship isn’t hosting passengers yet, its presence in Málaga has drawn attention from both locals and sailors. Recently, Scarlet Lady and Brilliant Lady shared the dock, offering a rare sight of the two ships side by side.

Source: Murcia Today

Brilliant Lady & Scarlet Lady docked side by side in December 2024.
Brilliant Lady & Scarlet Lady docked side by side in December 2024.© Photo by VV Insider

Brilliant Lady Appears Early in New York Ports

Before its official MerMaiden voyage, Brilliant Lady is expected to make an earlier stop in New York in September 2025. Port schedules indicate its arrival at Manhattan’s cruise terminal on September 2, just days ahead of its September 5 MerMaiden sailing.

This early arrival suggests the possibility of trial cruises, such as a friends-and-family preview or even an open ship night, similar to Virgin Voyages’ event in Sydney last year. A short, three-night teaser cruise could be on the horizon, giving select guests an early glimpse of the ship’s offerings.

As excitement builds for Brilliant Lady’s debut, this early visit to New York hints at Virgin Voyages’ strategy of generating buzz ahead of the ship’s inaugural sailing. Keep an eye out for announcements about any special preview opportunities.

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About the author

Co-Founder and Editor. An iOS developer with a passion for cruises and theme parks. Blending technical know how with a love for Virgin Voyages with over 15 sailings around the world.


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