Virgin Voyages has confirmed a revised itinerary for Brilliant Lady’s September 26, 2026 sailing from Los Angeles, with Hurricane Polo affecting the ship’s planned route. The seven-night voyage will now visit San Francisco, San Diego, Catalina Island and Ensenada, replacing calls to Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta.

The announcement came on September 25, following an earlier message advising travel advisors that the cruise line was monitoring the storm.

“We’ve been closely monitoring Hurricane Polo and its projected path, and with the storm impacting our planned route, sailing south as originally scheduled is simply not an option.”

San Francisco Confirmed for the Revised Route

In the update, signed by Virgin Voyages Chief Operating Officer Michelle Bentubo, the cruise line acknowledged the short notice and explained that its teams had been working to secure San Francisco as part of the replacement itinerary.

“We know you’re hearing about this change close to embarkation, but we’ve been working to secure San Francisco as part of the new itinerary—an iconic destination we felt was worth doing everything we could to make happen. We’re thrilled to now be able to confirm it.”

Brilliant Lady will spend 12 hours in San Francisco on September 28, before continuing to San Diego, Catalina Island and Ensenada later in the week. The revised route includes four port calls and two sea days, with departure and return dates unchanged.

Brilliant Lady’s Updated Itinerary

• Saturday, September 26: Depart Los Angeles at 5 PM
• Sunday, September 27: At sea
• Monday, September 28: San Francisco, California — 8 AM to 8 PM
• Tuesday, September 29: At sea
• Wednesday, September 30: San Diego, California — 8 AM to 6 PM
• Thursday, October 1: Catalina Island, California — 8 AM to 6 PM (tender)
• Friday, October 2: Ensenada, Mexico — 8 AM to 5 PM
• Saturday, October 3: Arrive in Los Angeles at 6:30 AM

Shore Things Refunds and New Excursions

Sailors who booked Virgin Voyages Shore Things for ports removed from the itinerary will automatically receive a full refund to their original form of payment.

Those who arranged excursions independently should contact their third-party tour operator directly to discuss their options. Virgin Voyages said Shore Things for the replacement ports would be available to book soon in the Virgin Voyages App.

Pack for Cooler Weather

Virgin Voyages also advised sailors to prepare for cooler conditions along the California coast compared with the destinations on the original itinerary, particularly during mornings and evenings at sea. The cruise line recommends packing warmer layers and a light jacket before heading to the terminal.

While the destinations have changed, Virgin Voyages said sailors can still look forward to the ship’s onboard dining and entertainment.

“We know it’s not the voyage your Sailors originally planned, but our Crew can’t wait to welcome them onboard tomorrow and give them an incredible week at sea and ashore.”