Virgin Voyages reveals key spaces and changes aboard new ship Brilliant Lady

Virgin Voyages is set to introduce its fourth ship, Brilliant Lady, in just over a week, with the vessel scheduled to begin sailing from New York on September 5th, 2025 marking a continuation of the company’s expansion into new markets and itineraries.

The design of Brilliant Lady draws inspiration from a number of destinations on her deployment schedule, with elements referencing New York, Miami, Los Angeles, and Alaska. 

Virgin Voyages has said the aim of the design process was to create spaces that encourage interaction among passengers and reflect the varied cultural influences of the regions to which the ship sails.

“Brilliant Lady’s transformation is our love letter to the social soul of travel, designed to spark conversations, encourage lingering, and celebrate the unpredictability of human connection,” said Erin Barton, Director of Design at Virgin Voyages.

Interior and public spaces

Several venues on board have been reimagined for the new ship.

The Roundabout is the central atrium of the ship, it features navy and jewel-toned seating, warm wooden finishes, and a compass installation illuminated in shades of blue and purple, intended to echo the twilight skies of Alaska.

Draught Haus returns aboard Brilliant Lady. Originally centred on craft beer, the bar has been developed into an all-day venue offering coffee, cocktails, wine and sparkling drinks alongside its original beer range. Virgin positions the space as a social hub on board.

The Athletic Club has been redesigned with a stern-facing glass wall, providing panoramic views of the sea. Circular daybeds are arranged outward for passengers to watch glaciers, wildlife and the Northern Lights during Alaskan sailings.

The Rojo by Razzle Dazzle restaurant has been remodelled with terracotta and crimson tones, offering a tapas-style menu and lounge seating to reflect Spanish dining traditions, while balcony cabins now feature two hammock chairs on their Sea Terraces rather than one, aimed at encouraging shared use of outdoor space.

Following her debut in New York, Brilliant Lady will be deployed on a series of Alaska cruises. The itineraries include calls at Glacier Bay and Juneau, combining natural landscapes with cultural shore excursions. 

Virgin Voyages says the itineraries are intended to focus on opportunities for shared experiences in remote and scenic destinations.

Brilliant Lady adds to Virgin Voyages’ fleet as the company continues to grow its presence in the cruise industry. Since its debut in 2021, the brand has expanded operations across North America and Europe, with the introduction of new ships and itineraries aimed at broadening its market reach.