BRILLIANT LADY’S 2025–2026 JOURNEY — ITINERARIES THAT SPAN THE CONTINENT

When Brilliant Lady makes her grand entrance on September 5, 2025, she’s not just launching a new cruise season — she’s setting off on a journey that will take her to some of the most iconic and varied destinations in the Americas. Her first year will see her sail under towering skyscrapers, through tropical waters, along rugged coastlines, and even between the engineering marvels of the Panama Canal.

This isn’t a “settle into one homeport” kind of schedule. Brilliant Lady’s debut is a moving celebration — and the ports she visits are as dazzling as the ship herself.

MerMaiden from New York

It all begins in the heart of Manhattan, where the city skyline will be the backdrop for her five-night MerMaiden Voyage to Bermuda. From the moment the ropes are cast off, guests will experience Virgin Voyages’ signature adults-only vibe, paired with the excitement of a brand-new ship setting sail for the very first time.

Bermuda offers a perfect mix of laid-back island charm and vibrant culture. Two full days in the Royal Naval Dockyard mean plenty of time to dip your toes into pink-sand beaches, wander through historic forts, or take a ferry to Hamilton for boutique shopping and ocean-view dining.

Fall Colors and Coastal Charm

After her inaugural celebration, Brilliant Lady turns northward for a run of autumn cruises through New England and Canada. These voyages are tailor-made for leaf-peeping season, when coastal towns are framed in fiery reds, golds, and oranges.

Imagine strolling along Boston’s Freedom Trail in crisp autumn air, enjoying fresh seafood in the fishing town of Eastport, or exploring Halifax’s iconic Citadel. On select sailings, she’ll travel all the way to Quebec City, where old-world charm and cobblestone streets meet French-Canadian hospitality.

Some itineraries will sail round-trip from New York, while others will be one-way journeys — perfect for travelers who want to combine their cruise with an extended land stay.

From Chill to Tropical

By mid-October, Brilliant Lady trades in sweaters for swimsuits as she repositions to Miami for her winter Caribbean season. Here, she’ll whisk guests away to turquoise waters, sun-drenched islands, and Virgin’s own private Beach Club at Bimini.

Expect a mix of Eastern and Southern Caribbean itineraries, with ports like St. Maarten, Tortola, Aruba, and Curaçao. Longer stays in each port allow sailors to dive deeper into the culture, cuisine, and adventure of each destination — whether that’s snorkeling with tropical fish, sampling local rum, or exploring hidden coves.

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The Grand Panama Canal Voyage

In early 2026, Brilliant Lady will do what no Virgin Voyages ship has done before — sail through the Panama Canal. This extended voyage begins in Miami and works its way through Central and South America, with stops in places like Cartagena’s colorful Old Town, Costa Rica’s lush rainforests, and the historic locks of the canal itself.

Once on the Pacific side, the journey continues along Mexico’s golden coastline, with opportunities to explore seaside cities like Puerto Vallarta and Los Cabos before arriving in Los Angeles.

West Coast Adventures

Springtime brings a fresh chapter as Brilliant Lady begins her West Coast season. Sailings from Los Angeles will head south to Baja California and the Mexican Riviera, blending vibrant cityscapes with sunny beaches and lively waterfronts. Days at sea here are just as exciting, with the Pacific horizon stretching endlessly from the pool deck.

Alaska Awaits

By summer 2026, she’ll venture north to Seattle to launch her first Alaska season. These itineraries deliver the kind of scenery you’ll want to wake up early for — calving glaciers, snow-capped mountains, and waters where orcas and humpback whales are a common sight.

Extended port days in frontier towns like Juneau and Ketchikan mean guests can hike trails, kayak alongside icebergs, or simply take in the fresh, crisp air with a hot drink in hand.

Brilliant Lady Itinerary Timeline

TIME FRAME	HOMEPORT / REGION	HIGHLIGHTS
Sept 5 – Oct 2025	New York City	MerMaiden Voyage to Bermuda; Fall foliage sailings to New England & Canada
Oct 2025 – Feb 2026	Miami, Florida	Eastern & Southern Caribbean, including St. Maarten, Tortola, Aruba, Curaçao, and Beach Club at Bimini
March 2026	Miami → Los Angeles	Panama Canal crossing with calls in Cartagena, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Los Cabos
April – May 2026	Los Angeles, California	Baja Mexico & Mexican Riviera sailings
May – Sept 2026	Seattle, Washington	Alaska cruises with glacier viewing and extended port days in Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway

BRILLIANT LADY — VIRGIN VOYAGES’ NEXT BOLD ADVENTURE	CLICK TO READ
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INSIDE BRILLIANT LADY’S STATEROOMS — LUXURY LIVING AT SEA	COMING SOON
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