Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady
Part of the CruiseReport Voyage Guide Series
Voyage Summary
Cruise Line: Virgin Voyages
Ship: Brilliant Lady
Itinerary: 9-Night Alaska
Dates: June 22 – July 2, 2026
Cabin: Central Sea Terrace
Travelers: Two Adults
Best For: Adults, Couples, Food Lovers
Watch Before You Read
Check out the video below on our YouTube channel.
Pre-Cruise in Seattle
ITINERARY
Seattle
Inside Passage (At Sea)
Ketchikan, Alaska
Icy Strait Point
Hubbard Glacier
Sitka, Alaska
At Sea
At Sea
Victoria, BC
Seattle
For many travelers, the cruise itself is only one part of a much larger experience that includes flights, hotels, dining, destination exploration, and the countless decisions that shape the overall journey. At CruiseReport, we believe those experiences deserve just as much consideration as the ship itself.
Our nine-night Alaska voyage aboard Virgin Voyages’ Brilliant Lady began in Seattle, a city well worth exploring before embarkation. Rather than rushing to the terminal on sailing day, we recommend arriving at least one day early. Not only does this reduce the stress of potential flight delays, but it also allows you to begin your vacation at a more relaxed pace and experience one of the Pacific Northwest’s most vibrant cities.
Arriving in Seattle
Brilliant Lady sails from Seattle’s Smith Cove Cruise Terminal (Pier 91), located a short drive north of downtown. Unlike the Bell Street Cruise Terminal (Pier 66), which sits along Seattle’s waterfront, Pier 91 is situated in a dedicated cruise facility with efficient vehicle access and ample room for embarking guests.
Depending on traffic, the terminal is typically 15 to 20 minutes from downtown Seattle and can be reached easily by taxi, rideshare, or private car service.
Arrive a Day Early
One of the most common mistakes we see travelers make is arriving on the morning of embarkation. While that approach can work, it leaves little margin for weather delays, airline disruptions, or unexpected travel complications.
For an Alaska cruise—particularly one as destination-focused as this itinerary—we believe the vacation begins long before boarding the ship. Arriving a day early allows time to settle into your hotel, enjoy Seattle, and begin your cruise feeling rested rather than rushed.
Making the Most of Seattle
If your schedule allows, Seattle offers several worthwhile experiences before embarkation. Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass, and Seattle’s revitalized waterfront are all easily accessible from downtown and provide an excellent introduction to the city.
Rather than trying to see everything, we recommend choosing one or two highlights and enjoying them at a leisurely pace. The goal isn’t to fit another vacation into a single afternoon—it’s simply to ease into the journey.
Embarkation
First impressions matter, and in many ways, embarkation sets the tone for the entire cruise. A well-organized boarding process creates confidence before guests ever step aboard, while a confusing or stressful experience can have the opposite effect.
Our embarkation aboard Brilliant Lady at Seattle’s Smith Cove Cruise Terminal (Pier 91) was one of the smoothest we’ve experienced.
Virgin Voyages staff work on our Rock Star status
With one small exception.
We had been extended Rock Star status by the Virgin Voyages PR team prior to this trip. Virgin Voyages will often provide this to journalists so they can cover the perks in their videos and or blogs. However, we had no record to show at check-in that we had Rock Star status, other than an email I had received from the company.
Typically, the only guests with Rock Star status are staying in a Rock Star or Mega Rock Star suite, which we are not. This created some confusion at the cruise terminal when it came time for them to issue us our wrist bands (Virgin Voyages uses electronic wrist bands instead of stateroom key cards).
Because we were sailing with RockStar perks provided to us by Virgin Voyages, we were invited to use the dedicated priority embarkation process. Boarding began precisely at the scheduled time, and from the moment we arrived at the terminal, the operation felt organized, efficient, and well staffed.
We were impressed with the number of Virgin staff members who went out of their way to verify our Rock Star status and after visiting a few different stations, it was sorted out.
Rock Star Embarkation
Once we received our black Rock Star wristbands, we were invited to sit in the Rock Star pre-embarkation area. Rock Stars are segregated into a separate waiting area and are allowed to embark the ship first. Early embarkation is one of the perks of staying in a Rock Star suite.
The Rock Star waiting area in Seattle is not nearly as elaborate as the one at Port Miami. It is basically just a sectioned off space with the same plastic seating as other guests must endure prior to boarding. However, they do have a water, tea and juice station setup for Rock Stars. There are supposed to be snacks as well, but they were already picked over by the time we arrived and not replenished.
At the appointed time, crew members informed us that we were ready to board and they escorted all of the Rock Star guests onto the ship.
The Virgin Voyages App
Unlike many cruise lines where the mobile app serves as a helpful convenience, Virgin Voyages places its app at the center of the guest experience.
Before arriving at the terminal, we had already completed the necessary check-in steps through the app, making the embarkation process remarkably efficient. Throughout the voyage, the app became our primary tool for viewing the daily schedule, confirming dining reservations and accessing important onboard information.
Guests unfamiliar with Virgin Voyages should plan to download the app well before embarkation and become comfortable using it. It is one of the most important tools you’ll use throughout the cruise.
Stepping Aboard
Happenings Cast greet guests as they embark
On Virgin Voyages, the entertainment staff is referred to as the Happenings Cast. And, your first introduction to them comes as soon as you step onboard. Happenings Cast members are there to greet you and point you in the right direction.
Rock Stars are invited to a welcome champagne greeting in Sip Lounge (Deck 7). There are also Rock Star Agents on hand to help with restaurant reservations or any other needs that Rock Star suite guests require. Even though we did have Rock Star status, since we are not staying in a Rock Star suite, we did not get the services of a Rock Star Agent.
There was a staff member in the Sip Lounge assisting guests with restaurant reservations and I was able to sit with him and get reservations at all of the specialty restaurants on board.
After enjoying a couple of glasses of champagne (each) at Sip Lounge, we were informed that our staterooms were ready. This allowed us to head directly to our stateroom, drop off our hand luggage, and begin exploring the ship.
Shortly after our arrival, our stateroom attendants, Deviana and Ayen, introduced themselves, welcomed us aboard, and asked if there was anything we needed to make our stay more comfortable. It was a small gesture, but one that immediately established a personal connection and reflected the attentive service we would continue to experience throughout the voyage.
Because many guests were still exploring the ship, restaurants were also relatively uncrowded during the first afternoon. Rather than rushing from venue to venue, we were able to enjoy lunch at a relaxed pace before beginning our exploration of Brilliant Lady.
Bottom Line
Virgin Voyages delivered one of the smoothest embarkation experiences we've encountered. From the organized boarding process and intuitive mobile app to immediate access to our stateroom and prompt luggage delivery, every aspect of embarkation reflected an operation that values efficiency without sacrificing hospitality.
Ship Design
Virgin Voyages set out to challenge many of the long-standing conventions of cruise ship design, and Brilliant Lady is perhaps the clearest expression of that philosophy. Rather than recreating the grand atriums, formal dining rooms, and traditional décor found on many contemporary cruise ships, Virgin has created an environment that feels more like a modern boutique hotel than a floating resort.
The difference is immediately noticeable. Public spaces feature clean architectural lines, contemporary artwork, and an abundance of natural light. Throughout the ship, the design encourages exploration, with lounges, restaurants, and outdoor spaces flowing naturally from one to another rather than feeling isolated or compartmentalized.
One of Brilliant Lady’s greatest strengths is its variety of intimate gathering spaces. Instead of relying on a handful of large venues, the ship offers numerous places where guests can enjoy a quiet drink, read a book, or simply watch the scenery pass by. Whether relaxing in The Dock, enjoying coffee in Grounds Club, or finding a comfortable seat in one of the ship’s many lounges, we rarely felt confined to a single area of the ship.
The adults-only environment also influences the overall atmosphere. Without family-oriented attractions competing for space, public areas feel calmer and more sophisticated. Conversations replace constant activity, and the pace of life onboard is noticeably more relaxed than on many mainstream cruise lines.
Designed for Alaska?
While Brilliant Lady’s contemporary design works exceptionally well in warm-weather destinations, cruising in Alaska presents a different set of priorities.
Scenic cruising is one of the defining elements of any Alaska voyage, and passengers naturally seek comfortable indoor locations with expansive views during cooler or rainy weather. Virgin Voyages offers several attractive observation points throughout the ship, but unlike some cruise ships designed specifically with Alaska in mind, Brilliant Lady has relatively limited dedicated indoor observation space.
That rarely affected our enjoyment during pleasant weather, when outdoor decks became the preferred place to experience glaciers and wildlife. However, on colder or wetter days, the most desirable indoor viewing locations filled quickly, particularly during scenic cruising.
Living with the Design
Port side is A and starboard is Z
One aspect of Brilliant Lady’s design that impressed us throughout the voyage was how easy it was to find our way around the ship after only a day or two on board. Elevators were conveniently located, and moving between restaurants, entertainment venues, and outdoor spaces rarely required long walks or unnecessary backtracking.
Rather than trying to remember whether your stateroom is port or starboard, Virgin has labeled port side staterooms as A and starboard staterooms as Z. This makes it very easy to remember where your stateroom is located when you get off of an elevator. For example, we were in 9226 A. Every deck’s elevator/stairway lobby is clearly marked with a prominent “A” and “Z”.
Good ship design often goes unnoticed because it simply works. Brilliant Lady succeeds not by overwhelming guests with monumental public spaces, but by creating an environment that feels comfortable, contemporary, and easy to enjoy over the course of a nine-night voyage.
Bottom Line
Brilliant Lady offers one of the most distinctive and thoughtfully designed environments at sea. Its contemporary style, intimate public spaces, and adults-only atmosphere create a relaxed onboard experience that feels refreshingly different from traditional cruise ships. .
Accommodations
Your stateroom is more than just a place to sleep. On an Alaska cruise, where cooler weather and scenic sea days often encourage more time indoors, it becomes your private retreat—a place to relax, recharge, and enjoy the ever-changing views outside your window.
For our nine-night voyage, we stayed in a Central Sea Terrace stateroom, Virgin Voyages’ signature balcony accommodation. While compact in overall size, the cabin reflects the same contemporary design philosophy found throughout the rest of the ship. Clean lines, modern furnishings, and a thoughtful use of space create an environment that feels fresh and uncluttered.
First Impressions
Stateroom 9226 A
Stepping into the cabin for the first time, our initial impression was one of simplicity. Virgin has deliberately avoided the heavy wood finishes and traditional décor common on many cruise ships, opting instead for a lighter aesthetic.
At first glance, the room feels minimalist and small. Rather than a perfect rectangle, the room appears to taper to a smaller width at the stateroom doorway. After a day or two, however, we came to appreciate how intentionally everything had been designed. Storage was well integrated, lighting was flexible, and there were very few wasted spaces.
Rather than trying to make the cabin feel larger than it is, Virgin focused on making it more functional.
Living in the Space
Over the course of nine nights, the Central Sea Terrace proved to be a comfortable place to call home.
Storage was sufficient for two adults packing for a longer itinerary, and we were able to unpack completely without the cabin feeling cluttered. The wardrobe, drawers, and shelving provided enough flexibility to keep clothing, camera equipment, and daily essentials organized throughout the voyage.
The bathroom continued the ship’s modern aesthetic, making efficient use of the available space while offering adequate storage for toiletries. As with the cabin itself, functionality took precedence over excess. However, other than the shower, which is more than adequate, the vanity area is very cramped with very limited storage.
One feature we particularly appreciated was the private balcony. While Alaska weather isn’t always predictable, we found ourselves stepping outside frequently to enjoy the fresh air, photograph wildlife, or simply watch the coastline drift by. Having a private outdoor space added significantly to the overall experience, particularly during scenic cruising.
Technology and Comfort
110 US Outlets, USB-A and USB-C on both sides of the bed
Virgin Voyages has embraced technology more enthusiastically than many cruise lines, and the cabin reflects that approach. Lighting, entertainment, and several room functions are integrated into the overall guest experience, complementing the Virgin Voyages app rather than competing with it. A small tablet can be used to open/close curtains, adjust thermostat, control the TV, adjust lighting and even order room service.
In spite of that, the cabin never felt overly complicated. Once we became familiar with the controls, operating the room became second nature.
Balconies have metal chairs and iconic red hammocks
One aspect of the cabin that may not suit every traveler is the mattress. We found it to be noticeably firmer than those found on many other cruise lines. While I slept comfortably throughout the voyage, Rickee found the mattress firmer than she preferred.
After mentioning her discomfort to our stateroom attendant, a mattress topper was added to her side of the bed. The difference was immediate, and she slept comfortably for the remainder of the cruise. It was an excellent example of attentive service and a crew that genuinely wanted to ensure our comfort.
If you generally prefer a softer mattress, we recommend requesting a mattress topper from your stateroom attendant on embarkation day. Availability may be limited later in the voyage, so making the request early gives you the best chance of securing one.
Combined with effective climate control and excellent sound insulation, the cabin ultimately provided a restful environment after long days ashore.
The Bathroom
There’s no getting around it. This is a very small bathroom. We would say, one of the smallest of any ship on which we have sailed. There is only one very small shelf above the vanity and one long shelf below it near the floor for storage. The vanity can very quickly become cluttered with personal care items.
The toilet seat lid is not soft close and can make quite a racket if you inadvertently drop it.
The shower is a good size with a glass door. We found the water pressure and temperature control to be good. However, there is not a foot rest for leg shaving duties.
Housekeeping and Maintenance
Our cabin was maintained to a consistently high standard throughout the cruise by our Stateroom Attendant, Deviana, and her assistant, Ayan. Housekeeping was attentive without being intrusive, and the room remained clean, organized, and well supplied each day. Sea Terrace staterooms only received one service per day.
Equally important, everything functioned as expected. We encountered no maintenance issues during the voyage, allowing us to focus entirely on enjoying the experience rather than reporting problems or waiting for repairs.
Bottom Line
The Central Sea Terrace strikes an impressive balance between contemporary design and everyday practicality. While it may not be the largest balcony cabin at sea, it is thoughtfully planned, comfortable for an extended voyage, and particularly well suited to two adults traveling together.
Food and Dining
Virgin Voyages has taken a fundamentally different approach from most cruise lines by eliminating the traditional main dining room and buffet in favor of a collection of individually themed restaurants, each with its own atmosphere, menu, and culinary identity. Rather than asking guests to dine in the same venue every evening, Virgin encourages exploration, making dining feel like an integral part of the vacation rather than simply another daily routine.
Over the course of our nine-night voyage, we experienced nearly every dining venue onboard. While some restaurants appealed to us more than others, the overall standard of food quality, presentation, and service remained remarkably consistent. More importantly, we never felt as though we were settling for a “second-tier” dining experience. Every meal felt intentional.
Reservations
One of the questions we hear most often is whether reservations are difficult to obtain.
For the most sought-after restaurants, particularly during peak dining hours, advance reservations are certainly worthwhile. However, we also found that flexibility was often rewarded. By adjusting our preferred dining time slightly or checking the Virgin Voyages app throughout the day, additional reservation opportunities frequently became available.
For travelers who enjoy planning ahead, making reservations as early as your booking window opens is still the best strategy.
Food Quality
Across the ship, we found the overall quality of the food to be high.
Ingredients were fresh, dishes were attractively presented, and menus demonstrated considerably more creativity than those found on many contemporary cruise ships. Rather than producing large quantities of standardized meals, Virgin’s restaurants generally felt closer to independent land-based dining establishments.
Not every dish was memorable, but disappointing meals were rare. Our anticipated return to Extra Virgin, one of our favorites on Scarlet Lady, fell short on food and atmosphere. And, for the second cruise in a row, The Wake was a real bummer. Rojo and Gunbae were by far our favorites.
Variety
Nine nights is long enough for repetitive dining to become noticeable.
Fortunately, Brilliant Lady offers enough culinary variety that we never felt limited in our choices. Whether we wanted a leisurely breakfast, a casual lunch, an elegant dinner, or something later in the evening, there was always another option to explore.
Service
Throughout the voyage, restaurant service was consistently friendly, attentive, and well paced. Servers were knowledgeable about the menus, happy to make recommendations.
The Galley
The Galley is Virgin Voyages answer to the ubiquitous cruise ship buffet. The Galley features a variety of themed food stations. Every station offers a variety of dishes within a given, often ethnic, theme. For example, Noodle Around offers Asian noodle dishes.
The Galley menu
Bento Baby has a choice of grab and go Bento boxes with Japanese sushi and sashimi.
Burger Bar offers, you guessed it, hamburgers cheeseburgers and fries.
Diner and Dash features all day breakfast.
Well Bread has freshly baked breads and flatbreads.
The Daily Mix will satisfy anyone looking to create a made-to-order salad.
Hot Off The Press brings a variety of sandwiches and paninis
Let’s Taco Bout It obviously offers Mexican street tacos
The Sweet Side is where you will find all of your tempting desserts and fresh fruit.
Guests can walk up to each of these food stations to place an order. However, during peak periods, the lines can get long. A better option is to find a table, raise the Ahoy flag on the table and let a waiter take your order and deliver your food.
In either case, crew members plate your food and hand you your plate. At no time are hundreds of guests handling utensils to get their own food as you commonly see on cruise ship buffets. The Galley offers a much more sanitary way of delivering meals.
Excellent Avocado Toast at Hot Off the Press
Even though The Galley offers indoor and outdoor seating, the Alaska weather forced most guests indoors during our cruise. This made for a very crowded situation where often, we could not find a place to sit. Once again, this ship was really designed for warm weather destinations. In warm weather, many guests would take their food outdoors to enjoy.
While we did not have an opportunity to try every station at The Galley, we did find a few favorites. The cheeseburger and fries from Burger Bar were excellent, one of the better burgers you will find on a ship. The Avocado Toast at Hot Off the Press is the best I have had anywhere. One morning I had a breakfast burrito from Let’s Taco Bout it that was very good. We also both enjoyed the breakfast offerings at Diner and Dash.
The Galley is a revolutionary concept in casual dining and one that we would like to see more cruise lines adopt.
Specialty Dining Choices
Virgin Voyages includes all specialty dining in every cruise fare. On our 9-night sailing, we were able to secure a reservation at each restaurant and two reservations at a couple of them.
Pink Agave - Mexican
We were not impressed with our dinner at Pink Agave. Perhaps it is because we are from Texas and have access to so much good Mexican food. We found the dishes to be bland and lackluster. The service was very slow and the restaurant was very crowded and noisy on our visit.
Extra Virgin - Italian
Mushroom Fettuccini would have been good, if served hot
Our biggest disappointment in specialty dining was at Extra Virgin. This was one of our favorite restaurants on Scarlet Lady in 2023. However, they have changed the menu and removed some of our favorite choices. Gone is the delicious Beef Carpaccio that Rickee loved. They also removed the fried calamari from the list of starters. Thankfully, the meatball starter is still on the menu, which was the best item I had at Extra Virgin. In fact, it was the only item that arrived at the table hot.
Rickee’s pasta dish was flavorless and had an odd texture. I ordered the Mushroom Fettuccini, which would have been good had it been hot, but, it wasn’t. My pork neck main course was tender, but lacked any depth of flavor. They removed the Spatchcock Chicken from the menu, which was Rickee’s favorite on Scarlet Lady.
Service here felt very rushed and, once again, the restaurant was super crowded and chaotic. We ended up cancelling our second reservation at Extra Virgin.
The Wake - Steakhouse
Our experience at The Wake was almost exactly as it was three years ago on Scarlet Lady…disappointing.
I love steak and consider myself to be somewhat of an authority on good steak. My NY Strip was not a good steak. It was edible, yes. But, it was comparable to what you would expect to find in a main dining room on any mainstream cruise ship. It was cooked perfectly medium, as ordered, but served room temperature. This is almost exactly what my experience was in 2023 at The Wake on Scarlet Lady.
The Clam Chowder was the highlight
Rickee’s Filet was way undercooked. She ordered medium rare and it came extra rare. It was so rare that she could not even cut it with a steak knife. A manager walked by and when she mentioned it to him, he took it from her and within a few minutes, brought her a replacement along with a sharper knife. Her second filet was better, but still far from the best filet we have had on a cruise ship.
The highlight of the meal, honestly, was the clam chowder, which was delicious. The soft, pull-apart bread was also superb. However, the unimpressive steaks forced us to cancel our second reservation at The Wake.
The Test Kitchen - Food Lab
The Test Kitchen is a unique dining experience with a fixed, multi-course menu. There are three menus (A, B and C) and the menu here rotates every few days. They also offer a vegetarian menu for non-meat eaters. And, guests can mix and match courses from either menu.
On our visit, Test Kitchen was not even half filled with guests. We had an excellent waiter who explained each course before presenting it. I hesitantly tried Eel for the first time and it was not as disgusting as I was expecting. In fact, if I did not know it as Eel, I would have thought it to be some kind of fish.
Yuzu/Meringue was one of the best desserts we have ever had
Rickee stuck pretty much to the vegetarian menu, and her Vegetable Papillote had her singing praises to the chef. We both had the chicken main course, which was perfectly cooked and delicious.
The highlight of the meal came at the end with the Yuzu/Meringue dessert. This was one of the best dessert dishes we have ever had. The Test Kitchen is one of the most unique dining experiences on any cruise ship, or anywhere for that matter. In our opinion, it is a must-try.
Rojo by Razzle Dazzle - Spanish Tapas
We were not too impressed by Razzle Dazzle on Scarlet Lady. It appears we were not alone. Virgin Voyages decided to change directions with the Razzle Dazzle concept and turn it into a ship-specific themed dining experience. On Scarlet Lady, the restaurant is now Lucky Lotus by Razzle Dazzle (Chinese). On Valiant Lady you can enjoy Ariya by Razzle Dazzle (Indian). On Brilliant Lady, we enjoyed Rojo by Razzle Dazzle, a Spanish Tapas-style restaurant. Resilient Lady retains the original Razzle Dazzle concept.
As with The Wake, Rojo is open daily for brunch (8am to 1pm). However, the brunch menus at The Wake and Rojo are completely different. We found ourselves at Rojo at least four mornings for a late breakfast. The breakfast items served here are some of the best we have found on any ship to date. My eggs, ordered over-medium, were cooked perfectly each day. The Smoked Bacon consists of strips of thick-cut bacon with a sugar-glazed, slightly spicy coating. It is addictive.
Oxtail Montadito
Baby Back Ribs
We had dinner at RoJo twice during our nine-night cruise and both times the food and service were exceptional. Rojo was probably our favorite dining venue on Brilliant Lady. The Oxtail Montadito looks unappealing, but the flavors are off-the-chart. And, the Baby Back Ribs are some of the best ribs I have ever had on a cruise ship.
Gunbae - Korean BBQ
Gunbae was the easiest restaurant at which to get a reservation. There were tables available in the app literally every night at any dining time. This leads us to believe that Korean BBQ is not very popular. That is a shame, because Gunbae is one of the best dining experiences you will find on any cruise ship.
We only dined here once, and in hindsight, we should have dined here at least twice. On our visit, the restaurant was not even half full, so we requested a table for 2. Typically, however, when you dine at Gunbae, you are seated at a table for six. And honestly, the communal dining experience is much more fun.
Gunbae is not a restaurant for a romantic, quiet dinner. The restaurant becomes quite rowdy with guests and waiters playing a drinking game where diners routinely are yelling “GUNBAE!” when they lose a round in the drinking game. This is a very fun and energetic restaurant and one that we hope Virgin Voyages continues with.
The food at Gunbae is superb. While some dishes are prepared in the galley and brought to your table ready to eat, the fun really begins when you waiter starts cooking your food at your table. Everything we tried, and we tried a lot, was delicious.
Bottom Line
Dining is one of Brilliant Lady’s defining strengths. Virgin Voyages has successfully reimagined cruise dining by replacing traditional formats with a collection of distinctive restaurants that consistently deliver high-quality food, attentive service, and enough variety to keep even a nine-night voyage feeling fresh.
Entertainment and Nightlife
Entertainment has always been one of the defining characteristics of the Virgin Voyages experience, and Brilliant Lady continues that tradition with a lineup that is imaginative, energetic, and refreshingly different from the production shows typically found on mainstream cruise ships.
Guests expecting Broadway-style musicals or large theatrical productions may be disappointed. Virgin has chosen a different path, emphasizing contemporary performances, live music, interactive experiences, and themed nightlife that encourages guests to become part of the action rather than simply watch from their seats.
The result is an entertainment program that feels modern, spontaneous, and distinctly adult.
Variety Throughout the Voyage
During our nine-night voyage, there was rarely a shortage of things to do after dinner. Live musicians, themed parties, comedy, DJs, lounges, and theatrical productions provided enough diversity that guests could tailor each evening to their own interests and energy level.
Some nights we found ourselves enjoying a show in the Red Room or the Manor, while other evenings were spent listening to live music with a cocktail or simply enjoying conversation in one of the ship’s many lounges. We appreciated having choices rather than feeling as though there was only one headline event each evening.
A Different Kind of Cruise Experience
Rather than asking guests to follow a rigid nightly schedule, the ship encourages exploration. Music spills into public spaces, lounges evolve throughout the evening, and there is a noticeable sense that guests are free to create their own experience rather than follow a prescribed itinerary.
That relaxed approach suited us well and contributed to the overall feeling that Brilliant Lady was less formal than many premium cruise lines while still delivering a polished experience.
Maybe Not for Everyone
Virgin’s entertainment style is contemporary, playful, and occasionally provocative.
Some performances include adult humor, audience participation, or themes that are intentionally unconventional. Guests who appreciate creative programming and a lively nightlife will likely find the approach refreshing.
Travelers who prefer more traditional cruise entertainment—or who expect large-scale Broadway productions every evening—may find Virgin’s style less appealing.
Neither approach is inherently better; they’re simply designed for different audiences.
Service Beyond the Stage
One aspect that stood out throughout the voyage was the enthusiasm of the entertainment staff (Happenings Cast) and performers.
Whether introducing a show, interacting with guests during an event, or performing in one of the ship’s lounges, the cast consistently demonstrated energy and professionalism that helped create an inviting atmosphere.
Bottom Line
Rather than competing with traditional cruise lines on the size of its productions, Virgin Voyages has created an experience built around creativity, flexibility, and participation.
Crew and Service
Ships, accommodations, dining, and entertainment can all be impressive, but in the end, it is the people on board who often determine whether a cruise becomes truly memorable.
Throughout our nine-night voyage, we consistently found the crew to be one of the ship’s greatest strengths. Their professionalism was evident, but what impressed us even more was the genuine warmth with which they interacted with guests.
When Something Needed Attention
No cruise is perfect, and even the best ships occasionally encounter small issues.
What often separates an exceptional cruise line from an average one is not whether problems occur, but how quickly and effectively they are resolved.
One aforementioned example of this occurred when Rickee found the mattress in our Central Sea Terrace stateroom to be firmer than she preferred. After mentioning it to our stateroom attendant, a mattress topper was promptly installed on her side of the bed. The difference was immediate, and she remained comfortable for the rest of the voyage.
It was a simple request, handled quickly, professionally, and without hesitation. More importantly, it demonstrated a willingness to personalize the experience rather than simply provide a standard response.
A Culture Rather Than a Policy
By the end of the voyage, it became clear that what we were experiencing was more than good customer service—it reflected the culture Virgin Voyages has created onboard.
Crew members appeared empowered to solve problems, engage naturally with guests, and create memorable interactions without relying on rigid formalities. The result was an atmosphere that felt relaxed, approachable, and genuinely enjoyable.
Bottom Line
Brilliant Lady’s crew consistently demonstrated warmth and a sincere desire to ensure guests enjoyed their vacation. More importantly, when small issues arose, crew responded quickly and effectively, reinforcing our confidence that exceptional hospitality remains one of Virgin Voyages’ greatest competitive strengths.
Destination/Itinerary
Travelers choose Alaska because they want to experience towering glaciers, abundant wildlife, dramatic coastlines, and some of the most spectacular scenery in North America.
One of the surprises of any Alaska cruise is that some of the most memorable moments occur not in port, but while sailing between destinations.
Whether watching snow-capped mountains emerge from the morning mist, spotting bald eagles along the shoreline, or observing whales in the distance, we found ourselves spending as much time appreciating the journey as the ports themselves.
Unlike many itineraries where sea days are simply a chance to relax, Alaska’s scenic cruising is an attraction in its own right.
Scenic Cruising
Virgin Voyages designed Brilliant Lady primarily as a lifestyle ship for warm-weather destinations rather than a vessel specifically designed for scenic cruising.
That distinction became particularly noticeable during our Alaska voyage.
On pleasant days, the outdoor decks provided beautiful panoramic views of Alaska’s mountains, glaciers, and coastline. However, Alaska weather is often cool, rainy, or windy, making comfortable indoor viewing areas especially important.
This is where we felt Brilliant Lady fell short.
Compared to many ships that regularly sail Alaska, there are relatively few indoor public spaces offering expansive, unobstructed views of the surrounding scenery. Along Deck 7, many outside views were partially blocked by lifeboats and other ship infrastructure. The Galley features large windows overlooking the water and quickly became one of our favorite places to enjoy the scenery, but it also became extremely crowded during scenic cruising as guests naturally gravitated toward one of the ship’s best viewing locations.
Tall railings on Deck 7
Obstructions and lifeboats on Deck 7
This limitation was especially apparent during our visit to Hubbard Glacier. Because the ship remained farther from the glacier than we had anticipated, having fewer comfortable indoor viewing locations made it even more difficult to fully appreciate one of the highlights of the itinerary. Guests seeking a closer perspective were offered an optional excursion aboard a smaller sightseeing vessel for an additional cost.
None of these shortcomings diminished Alaska’s extraordinary beauty, but they did reinforce our impression that Brilliant Lady was designed first as a warm-weather resort at sea and only secondarily adapted for Alaska. Travelers who expect to spend hours comfortably watching glaciers, wildlife, and dramatic coastal scenery from spacious indoor observation lounges may find other cruise lines better suited to that style of cruising.
Weather
Alaska’s weather is famously unpredictable.
During our voyage, we experienced a variety of conditions, reminding us that flexibility is one of the keys to enjoying this remarkable destination.
Rather than allowing changing weather to diminish the experience, we found it often enhanced it. Low clouds drifting through mountain valleys, light rain over coastal forests, and dramatic skies above the glaciers created constantly changing landscapes that were every bit as memorable as bright sunshine.
Packing appropriately—and embracing whatever weather Alaska provides—is part of the adventure.
Wildlife
Bald Eagles in Icy Strait Point
One of Alaska’s greatest attractions is the possibility of encountering wildlife in its natural habitat.
Throughout the voyage we remained alert whenever the ship was underway, and those moments of anticipation became part of the experience itself. Whether scanning the shoreline or watching the open water, there was always the possibility that the next unforgettable sighting was only moments away.
Even when wildlife remained elusive, the surrounding scenery ensured there was never a shortage of remarkable views.
More Than a Cruise
By the end of the voyage, what stood out most for us wasn’t a single glacier, port, or wildlife encounter.
It was the cumulative experience of traveling through one of the world’s great cruising destinations.
Brilliant Lady provided the comfort, flexibility, and atmosphere that allowed Alaska to remain the star of the vacation—exactly as it should.
Bottom Line
Brilliant Lady delivers an outstanding onboard experience, but we believe its greatest strengths were designed with warm-weather destinations in mind.
Value
One of the biggest mistakes travelers make when comparing cruises is focusing solely on the advertised fare.
The true value of a cruise is determined not only by its price, but by everything included—and by the quality of the experience delivered throughout the voyage.
Virgin Voyages continues to include several amenities that often carry additional charges on other cruise lines, including Wi-Fi, all specialty dining, group fitness classes, and a variety of non-alcoholic beverages.
Gratuities, however, are no longer included in the cruise fare. Guests may pre-pay them before sailing at a discounted rate or pay the standard amount once onboard. When comparing cruise prices, it's important to factor this additional expense into the overall cost of the vacation.
While Virgin Voyages may still carry a higher initial cruise fare than some competitors, many travelers will find that its inclusive dining and onboard amenities narrow the overall price difference once comparable options are added into other cruise lines.
What Brilliant Lady Delivers Well
Throughout our nine-night voyage, we consistently felt that several aspects of the experience exceeded expectations.
The quality and variety of the dining program eliminated the need for costly specialty dining packages. Service was consistently warm and professional. Our Central Sea Terrace stateroom was thoughtfully designed and comfortable, while the ship’s entertainment and adults-only atmosphere created an experience unlike that offered by any other cruise lines.
For travelers seeking a modern, relaxed vacation without constant upselling, Virgin Voyages offers a compelling value proposition.
Fewer Extra Charges, More Time to Enjoy Your Vacation
One of the aspects we appreciated most about Virgin Voyages was how rarely we felt pressured to spend additional money once on board.
Many cruise lines rely heavily on upselling throughout the voyage, encouraging guests to purchase specialty dining, upgraded Wi-Fi, beverage packages, fitness classes, or other add-on experiences. While there are certainly optional purchases available aboard Brilliant Lady—including alcoholic beverages, shore excursions, spa treatments, premium coffee, and retail shopping—those offers never felt intrusive.
Because every restaurant is included, Wi-Fi is part of the cruise fare, and many activities are already available without additional charges, we found ourselves spending far less time evaluating extra-cost options and more time simply enjoying our cruise.
Who Should Choose Brilliant Lady?
We believe Brilliant Lady represents an excellent value for adults who prioritize outstanding dining, contemporary entertainment, an adults-only atmosphere, and a relaxed onboard experience.
Travelers whose highest priority is maximizing Alaska’s scenic cruising opportunities, glacier viewing, and destination immersion may find stronger overall value aboard ships specifically designed with Alaska in mind.
Bottom Line
Brilliant Lady offers excellent overall value, particularly for travelers who appreciate Virgin Voyages’ distinctive approach to cruising and the many amenities included in the fare. While we would enthusiastically recommend Brilliant Lady for many itineraries, we believe there are better choices for travelers whose primary goal is experiencing Alaska at its fullest.
Final Assessment
After spending nine nights aboard Brilliant Lady, we came away convinced that Virgin Voyages has created one of the most distinctive cruise experiences at sea. At the same time, we also recognize that its unique approach won’t appeal to every traveler.
The question isn’t whether Brilliant Lady is a good ship.
More specifically, is this the right ship for an Alaska cruise?
Brilliant Lady is an outstanding option for travelers who appreciate a modern, adults-only cruise experience with fewer formalities and a greater emphasis on relaxation, exceptional dining, and social spaces.
We believe you’ll particularly enjoy this ship if you:
Prefer traveling without children on board.
Consider dining one of the highlights of every vacation.
Enjoy contemporary entertainment and an active nightlife.
Appreciate a casual, resort-like atmosphere rather than traditional cruise formalities.
Value having many amenities included without feeling constantly encouraged to spend more money.
Like discovering unique restaurants, bars, and public spaces throughout the ship.
You may wish to explore other cruise lines if you:
Prefer traditional cruise entertainment such as Broadway-style productions.
Enjoy formal evenings, fixed dining times, and classic cruising traditions.
Are looking for a quieter, more conventional onboard atmosphere.
Are sailing Alaska primarily to experience glaciers, wildlife, and scenic cruising from expansive indoor observation lounges.
None of these preferences are right or wrong. They simply reflect different travel styles, and choosing a cruise that matches those preferences is often the difference between a good vacation and a great one.
A final though about Rock Star Perks
I mentioned in the beginning of this guide that as members of the media, Virgin extended us Rock Star status, even though we were not staying in a Rock Star suite. Actually, we only were able to enjoy some of the Rock Star perks, not all of them. So, I cannot talk about the perks we did not receive. Therefore, if you are staying in a Rock Star or Mega Rock Star suite, you will enjoy additional perks that we did not experience.
Priority Embarkation/Disembarkation
We were able to board with the Rock Stars before everyone else on the ship. This is a nice feature because it allows you to explore the ship before the large crowds arrive. However, the Rock Star lounge at the port of Seattle is scant compared to Palm Way in Miami. We had an early flight back home and the early disembarkation was a very nice perk. We were the first ones off the ship.
Skipping The Lines
At every show, there is a special Rock Star area where Rock Stars get to skip the line, so to speak, and be the first ones into the theater. This is probably the best perk we enjoyed during the cruise. Is that alone worth the extra cost of a Rock Star suite? Not for us, but is a nice perk.
Richard’s Rooftop
Rock Stars get exclusive access to Richard’s Rooftop, a private area located on Deck 16 forward. This outdoor venue has a hot tub, loungers and padded cabanas for Rock Stars to enjoy. There is a full bar at Richard’s Rooftop. Every afternoon from 5pm to 6pm they have a Sunset Happy Hour with unlimited complimentary champagne as well as a few other cocktail creations on a special menu. This is a very nice added perk…in warm weather, that is. In Alaska…not so much.
On all but two days of our nine day cruise, it was too cold, wet and windy to enjoy Richard’s Rooftop. In inclement weather, they move the Sunset Hour to the Sip Lounge on Deck 7 indoors. However, the Sip Lounge quickly becomes overcrowded and is not really capable of handling the overflow from regular guests.
Our Feeling About Rock Star Perks
While Rock Star perks do deliver a modestly elevated experience, from what we experienced, it did not feel as premium as what you receive on other cruise lines in this category. Extending the Sunset Hour from 4pm to 6pm, to give guests a little more time to get ready for an early dinner time would be one suggestion. Also, some canapés should be on offer for your elite guests. And, why not allow Rock Stars to enjoy the complimentary Sunset Hour at any bar on the ship to alleviate overcrowding at Sip Lounge?
Our Recommendation
If we were planning a Caribbean, Mediterranean, or other warm-weather cruise, Brilliant Lady would be high on our list of ships to sail again. Virgin Voyages has created an experience that is refreshingly different, with excellent dining, friendly service, imaginative entertainment, and an adults-only atmosphere that many couples will find especially appealing.
For Alaska, however, our recommendation is more nuanced.
While we thoroughly enjoyed our voyage, we believe there are ships better suited to showcasing Alaska’s extraordinary scenery. The limited indoor viewing areas, obstructed sightlines from portions of the outdoor promenade, and more distant viewing of Hubbard Glacier made us feel that Brilliant Lady was adapting to Alaska rather than being purpose-built for it.
That distinction doesn’t diminish what Virgin Voyages has accomplished. It simply reinforces one of the central themes of this Guide.
So, would we sail Virgin Voyages again?
Bottom Line
For Alaska, we would likely choose a ship designed specifically for scenic cruising. But for nearly any warm-weather itinerary, we would happily sail Brilliant Lady again.
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