Virgin Voyages Unlikely to Return to Australia in 2026/2027

Virgin Voyages’ much-anticipated return to Australia and Asia appears increasingly unlikely for the 2026/2027 season. Initial hopes were that the brand-new Brilliant Lady could be deployed to the region. Recent comments from CEO Nirmal Saverimuttu suggest that logistical challenges and brand focus may stop those hopes.

Red Sea Challenges and Repositioning Constraints

The ongoing unrest in the Red Sea has caused many cruise lines to alter their itineraries, with several opting to avoid the Suez Canal entirely. Lines such as Holland America, Princess, and Silversea have rerouted their world cruises around Africa or canceled their Middle East and Asia programs altogether. Virgin Voyages faced similar issues last year when Resilient Lady had to take the long journey around Africa to return to Europe. This lengthy detour is not a sustainable option for most cruise lines due to the increased transit time, reduced capacity, and logistical difficulties.

Adding to the challenge, Virgin Voyages’ current fleet—Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, and Resilient Lady—are all unable to transit the Panama Canal. This limits repositioning options, making Australia a difficult market to reach.

Brilliant Lady’s Future in 2026

Brilliant Lady, the only Virgin Voyages ship capable of transiting the Panama Canal, will make the crossing in March 2026 before spending the summer season in North America heading to Los Angeles & Seattle/Vancouver. While there was speculation that this ship could head to Australia and Asia afterward via a transpacific route. Saverimuttu’s recent statement in January 2025 puts that possibility to rest:

“The Far East and Australia are on our roadmap for the future, but we have had some logistical challenges getting our ships there because only one is Panama Canal compliant.” – Nirmal Saverimuttu 

Instead, Virgin Voyages appears to be doubling down on its existing markets, focusing on the Caribbean, the U.S. West Coast, Alaska, and the Mediterranean.

Popularity of the Panama Canal Route

The upcoming Panama Canal voyage has proven extremely popular, selling out quickly. With the ship likely to return to North America after its season on the West Coast, there is strong speculation that another Panama Canal cruise will take place in late 2026. As mentioned to First Mates on Monday, “the ship has to get back somehow,” reinforcing the likelihood of another sailing through the canal rather than a move to Australia.

Winter 2026/2027 Itineraries Incoming

While itineraries for winter 2026/2027 have yet to be released, they are expected by the end of February. Based on current positioning and Virgin Voyages’ strategic focus, it seems likely that the brand will continue prioritizing the Caribbean, disappointing Australian sailors hoping for a return.

For now, Virgin Voyages’ presence in Australia and Asia remains a long-term goal rather than in the next few years. The next viable opportunity may be in November/December 2027 with Brilliant Lady unless Red Sea tensions settle.