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The Top Virgin Voyages Stories of 2024

Here are the top Virgin Voyages stories of 2024, from Brilliant Lady’s long-awaited launch date to rerouted voyages, refreshed ships, record-breaking homeports, canceled seasons, and new itineraries for 2026.

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Virgin Voyages Top Stories of 2024
Virgin Voyages Top Stories of 2024

Here’s a roundup of the top Virgin Voyages stories from 2024, as chosen by our readers. These moments reflect some of the most memorable developments from the past year, spanning exciting announcements, key milestones, and unexpected challenges.

Virgin Voyages Reroutes Due to Red Sea Tensions

In early February amid mid growing concerns over the safety of the Red Sea region, Virgin Voyages rerouted Resilient Lady’s March 27 repositioning voyage, avoiding the Suez Canal. The decision followed consultations with global security experts and highlights the brand’s commitment to prioritizing safety. This reroute has prompted adjustments to itineraries across the fleet which led to the cancelation of the Australia season.

Red Sea Reroute Article

Virgin Voyages Cancels Australia Season, Vows to Return

The biggest top story of the year was unfortunately in late February. Following the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, Virgin Voyages canceled the entirity Resilient Lady’s Australian summer season for late 2024 and early 2025. Brilliant Lady is the only ship that can go the other way to Australia via the Panama Canal. While disappointing for many, Virgin Voyages promised to return however as of the end of 2024 we are still awaiting any details of this.

Virgin Voyages Cancels Australian Season Article

Resilient Lady Docked in Sydney Harbour
Resilient Lady Docked in Sydney Harbour© Photo by VV Insider

Brilliant Lady MerMaiden Date Announced

After much anticipation, Virgin Voyages confirmed the launch of Brilliant Lady in May 2024, now set for September 5, 2025. Originally planned for late 2023, delays led to the cancellation of early sailings. The first MerMaiden Voyage will embark from New York City, with future itineraries scheduled for Los Angeles, Seattle, and Alaska in 2026. Sailors previously booked on Brilliant Lady will have priority to secure their spots for this much-awaited debut.

Brilliant Lady Announcement Article

Brilliant Lady Launches 2025
Brilliant Lady Launches 2025 © Photo by Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages Sets Sail from Portsmouth Again

Resilient Lady’s return to Portsmouth in August & September 2024 marked a significant milestone for the brand. Portsmouth became the first port globally to homeport all three Virgin Voyages ships since the brand’s launch, hosting over 25,000 passengers during the season. With Scarlet Lady set to return next August for sailings to Iceland, the port continues to strengthen its connection with Virgin Voyages while contributing millions to the local economy.

Inside Look: Sailing from Portsmouth Article

Resilient Lady sailing past Portsmouth's Victorious Festival on her first departure from the port.
Resilient Lady sailing past Portsmouth’s Victorious Festival on her first departure from the port.© Photo by Portsmouth International Port

Marvelous Voyages Announced for 2026

Virgin Voyages unveiled its new “Marvelous Voyages” collection for 2026, offering unique itineraries like Total Eclipse sailings and expanded destinations across Europe and the Americas. Highlights include the Panama Canal, the British Isles, and Greenland, with a dozen new ports added to the lineup. This expansion coincides with Brilliant Lady’s debut and the anticipated return of Valiant Lady to Europe.

‘Marvelous Voyages’ Announcement Article

‘Marvelous Voyages’ Pricing Article

Eclipse Voyages on sale now
Eclipse Voyages on sale now© Photo by Jongsun Lee

Scarlet Lady Returns Post-Dry Dock

One of the major top stories of the year was the refresh of Scarlet Lady. She emerged from a major dry dock in November 2024, showcasing a refreshed look across multiple decks and new options at Razzle Dazzle. Enhancements include updated seating, reimagined spaces, and new features, breathing fresh life into the ship. As Scarlet Lady 2.0 set sail on her transatlantic crossing to Miami, sailors were treated to the first glimpse of the upgraded interiors however some remarked of issues with the ship.

Dry Dock Concept Art Article

Dry Dock Pictures Article

Lucky Lotus by Razzle Dazzle Article

Lucky Lotus Decor Update
Lucky Lotus Decor Update© Photo by VV Insider

Looking Ahead

Stay updated with the latest Virgin Voyages news by subscribing to our newsletter. Next year, 2025, promises to be monumental for Virgin Voyages, with the introduction of a brand-new ship rounding off the initial fleet, exciting new entertainment and dining options across the fleet, and brand new destinations.

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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