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14th Nov 2026 | 11 nights | Virgin Voyages | Brilliant Lady
Why do we love this cruise holiday? There’s something special about setting sail on an adult-only Caribbean cruise, and this one truly has a lot going for it. With stops at some of the region’s most stunning islands, it’s a perfect way to explore the Caribbean at a relaxed pace. Virgin Voyages brings plenty of value to the journey, with inclusions like refined dining at 20+ eateries, Wi-Fi, soft drinks & water, tips & gratuities, and more - all included in the price of your cruise. Plus, with a pre-cruise hotel stay and return flights bundled in, everything’s taken care of. With the addition of financial protection for extra peace of mind, and you’ve got a worry-free getaway that’s hard to resist.
What's included?
Cruise Circle Collection packages adhere to our 7 point charter:
Fly direct to Miami
Check in to your Miami hotel. Marvel at the Art Deco buildings, stroll along the sandy beaches and discover the buzzing restaurant and bar scene.
St. Maarten is busier than ever, as cruise lines call on Philipsburg with their biggest ships. (Sometimes there are a half-dozen in port at one time.) There's also more to do once you disembark, with shopping and beaches serving as the primary attractions.
That can be viewed as either good news (more shopping choices, better deals and more beach activities) or bad news (more people) for this port of call, which, along with neighbouring St. Martin, makes up the world's smallest island inhabited by two countries.
St. Maarten, like many other Caribbean islands, was spotted by Christopher Columbus in 1493. But the island's real history began with French and Dutch settlers who divided the island in 1648. They have lived side-by-side ever since. St. Maarten, governed by the Netherlands Antilles until 2010, is now a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands (along with Aruba, Curacao and the Netherlands), while St. Martin is part of the French West Indies. What's particularly fun is that you can easily swing back and forth from the Dutch to the French sides and enjoy the best of both.
On either side of the mountainous island, lovely beaches -- including the famed clothing-optional part of Orient Beach -- rival the best in the Caribbean. Plus, duty-free prices for electronics and liquor in Philipsburg might be the best deals around.
In 1493, Christopher Columbus was allegedly so smitten with this volcanic island that he named it after St. Christopher, the patron saint of travellers. Since its discovery, St. Christopher (later shortened by British sailors to St. Kitts) has been fought over by the British and French who, tragically, made it a centre of the West Indian slave trade. Pirates, including the notorious William Kidd who was marooned on Nevis after his crew mutinied, enjoyed lucrative careers in Basseterre Harbour. St. Kitts and sister isle Nevis were part of the British Empire until 1967, earning semi-independent status when they were named associated states of Great Britain. In 1983, the 68-square-mile St. Kitts and Nevis became an independent, two-island nation with a parliamentary government headed by a prime minister. While British holdovers such as cricket and driving on the left side of the road remain, the Kittitians are extremely proud of their history and how far they've come on their own. The island's lush geography lends itself to eco-tourism, starting with the dense tropical rainforests that surround dormant volcano Mount Liamuiga. Colourful birds and butterflies, as well as the green vervet monkey, reside here. Sugar cane, the staple of the economy since the 17th century, was St. Kitts' main export until production stopped just a few years ago. However, wild sugar cane fields remain, particularly in the west, and offer a scenic ambience that is more reminiscent of Hawaii than the Caribbean these days. While tourists have discovered St. Kitts (evidenced by the row of lively beach bars on South Frigate Bay, known as "The Strip"), the island is still relatively unspoiled and crowd-free, with a relaxed, authentic atmosphere.
Antiguans like to boast that they have 365 beaches -- one for each day of the year. And while no one counts to ensure the accuracy of this catchy marketing claim, the squiggly shaped island indeed is full of beachy gems, each with its own unique appeal. Part of the West Indies, Antigua was first occupied by the peaceful Arawak Indians around 200 B.C. They stayed until the arrival of the Caribs, an Amazonian tribe, whose name was derived from the Spanish word "caribal," meaning "cannibal." Then, the island was known as Wadadli until 1493 when Columbus, who never made landfall, sailed by and named the island in honor of Maria de la Antigua, a saint he worshipped in Seville. The English arrived in 1632, establishing sugar plantations and bringing African slaves; slavery was fully abolished in 1838. Great Britain held the island until 1981, when Antigua (pronounced "An-tee-gah") achieved independence. The island was an important colonial base of the Royal Navy, with English Harbour serving as its headquarters. The remains of the navy's presence represent some of the most fascinating attractions -- a walk around historic Nelson's Dockyard and the grounds of Shirley Heights reveals remnants of a working Georgian-era harbor, old forts and officer's quarters, as well as a multitude of crumbling sugar mills from the days when sugar plantations ruled the island. In more recent years, English Harbour has become the capital of international yachting and sailing, and those activities are responsible for a surge in population during the winter months. The season opens in December with the Antigua Yacht Show and ends in May with Antigua Sailing Week, one of the largest annual regattas in the Caribbean. Since gaining independence, Antigua has all but abandoned its agricultural heritage in favor of a tourist economy. The island can hold its own in the duty-free shopping category, but the real highlights lie well beyond the capital and port town of St. John's. And if all those beaches aren't enough, Antigua's sister island, Barbuda, is accessible by ferry for day-trippers. The ferry drops you in the middle of 14 miles of unspoiled pink shell beaches -- including one that used to be a favorite of Princess Diana; it's now named in her honor. Antigua owns an average high temperature of a pleasant 81 degrees, but it's a slightly less hospitable climate in the summer when the trade winds die down. Antiguans celebrate these slower summer months with the annual Carnival at the end of July and beginning of August. The island is susceptible to hurricanes and tropical storms, with a direct hurricane hitting about every seven years on average. The highest risk is in early September -- so there's little need to worry during peak cruising season. Bring your umbrella, though, because more than half of the days in November through February experience rainfall.
The Beach Club at Bimini is a private, resort-like experience for when you’re not out exploring the islands. With restorative days spent doing slow-flow yoga or lounging by the pool, nights give way to a vibrant-coloured sunset — ending with a bonfire on the beach to say our goodbyes.
Fly back to the UK on an overnight flight
Brilliant Lady is Virgin Voyages fourth cruise ship. The ship follows the look and feel of sister vessels Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady and Resilient Lady. Like its three sisters, Brilliant Lady’s fares include several perks, like basic beverage package (still and sparkling water, non-pressed juices, sodas, teas, and drip coffee), Wi-Fi and gratuities. Also included will be the signature fitness classes – like yoga, meditation, and cycling, among others - that the brand is known for, espousing the line’s “Vitamin Sea” philosophy of well-being and rejuvenation.
Brilliant Lady’s deck plans build on the cruise line’s non-standard style
Since debuting with Scarlet Lady in October 2021, Virgin Voyages has upheld the brand vision of providing a non-standard style of cruising that does away with the traditional elements. In that respect, Brilliant Lady features a wide variety of dining options, while foregoing the buffet and main dining room set up of most cruise lines. Sailors can expect about 20 dining venues, ranging from steakhouses and Korean BBQ to elaborate brunches and an international food market. Following the layout of its sister ships, Brilliant Lady’s onboard accommodations comprise of 1,408 cabins, the majority of which have ocean views and around 86 percent with balconies. Cabins for solo travellers are also be on offer and the largest cabins are the Mega RockStar suites with retro furnishings, vinyl turntables and electric guitars.
Brilliant Lady Specs
Like its sister ships, Brilliant Lady is 110,000 gross tons and carries 2,700 passengers at double capacity.
On Virgin Voyages' Brilliant Lady, your daily schedule isn't slipped under your cabin door – it's all on the app, and they encourage you to use it. The app's fantastic, not reliant on Wi-Fi, and details activities, events, shows, and bookings for classes like Yoga or Pilates. During the day, The Roundabout hosts a DJ and provides ample seating for people-watching. Workout classes, including themed ones like '80s workouts, are available on deck and in the Manor. The Social Club offers free games like air hockey and foosball, while The Arcade has classic video games like Space Invaders. Want to mix things up? Try a mixology, coffee crafting class, or a Squid Ink tattoo. Pro Tip: Fitness classes fill up fast; book early.
At night, the ship buzzes with live music, DJ sets, dancing, and spontaneous performances in various public spaces. Venture into The Dock, and you might witness impromptu musical performances or the band playing the engaging show Phantom Tales, a mix of micro-plays and soulful songs. Additionally, Scarlet Lady features the resident sexologist Dr. A in the late-night lounge Never Sleep Alone, an interactive show that pushes boundaries and involves the audience in playful and daring ways.
The ship also offers a vibrant nightlife scene with a DJ spinning tunes in The Roundabout. The Casino, located on Deck 6, offers various games and promotions, including Scarlet Night, where guests are encouraged to wear red and join the party on the pool deck after the top-deck show, Odysea.
The Red Room, not your typical theatre, boasts flexible seating arrangements that adapt to each show. We witnessed Duel Reality, a spectacular performance blending West Side Story and Romeo and Juliet with street dancing and acrobatics, creating an immersive and thrilling experience.
The Manor, the ship's nightclub, stands out with its double-height space, dance floor, and varied entertainment, hosting live bands and DJ sets.
Brilliant Lady offers a plethora of bars and lounges. Richard's Rooftop is a VIP space with craft cocktails and a relaxed ambience. Draught Haus, below a circular stairway, serves various beers and unique concoctions. For an elegant experience, visit Sip Lounge, reminiscent of a 1920s Art Deco bar, offering Champagnes, cocktails, and even High Tea. The Groupie is perfect for karaoke enthusiasts, boasting private karaoke booths. Grounds Club offers top-notch coffee and pastries, ideal for a morning pick-me-up.
The Aquatic Club on Deck 15 features pools and hot tubs, though the main pool is more for lounging than swimming. There is ample space for sunbathing, with both loungers and private cabanas. While pricey, the Redemption Spa's Thermal Suite offers various calming experiences, from mudrooms to saunas and breathtaking views.
Virgin goes all out with fitness, offering dedicated spaces like Bike and Burn and Build & Balance for workouts. They've even installed a bright-red running track above Deck 16 and equipped the ship with basketball courts, outdoor training, and a boxing ring. Fitness classes are free and plentiful, and even a dedicated yoga instructor is available. It's a fitness enthusiast's paradise at sea.
Virgin Voyages is revolutionising the onboard dining experience, crafting each dish with fresh ingredients and a made-to-order ethos. Their culinary repertoire spans from delectable food truck classics to extravagant ten-course tasting feasts. Endorsed by a collective of Michelin-starred chefs, these gastronomic marvels have secured accolades, including the coveted 'Best Dining' title from Cruise Critic in the UK and USA, along with a slew of awards from revered publications like Conde Nast, Travel Weekly, Cosmopolitan, and Travel + Leisure. Here's a glimpse into some of the standout venues:
Radiating sophistication and nostalgia, The Wake reinvents the classic mid-20th-century chophouse with a modern twist. Descending the grand staircase reveals an ambience reminiscent of a bygone steakhouse era, offering breathtaking views of the ship's wake.
A haven for relaxed and chic dining experiences at sea, Razzle Dazzle serves breakfast, a sensational all-day boozy brunch, and dinner. Whether seeking healthy fare or indulgent coconut milk fairy french toast, this vibrant hub reimagines beloved American comfort classics amidst striking decor.
Transporting guests to Mexico's vibrant culinary landscape, Pink Agave offers a taste beyond the ordinary taco. With bold flavours designed for sharing, this venue immerses diners in authentic Mexican cuisine, accompanied by an impressive array of tequila and mezcal found nowhere else at sea.
Celebrating the joy of hands-on meat grilling and savouring soju, Gunbae offers an immersive Korean BBQ experience. Vibrant and interactive, it sets the stage with a traditional Korean drinking game and a complimentary shot of soju, fostering lively social connections.
Embracing Italian traditions, Extra Virgin showcases dishes inspired by diverse regions of Italy. This culinary journey celebrates cultural richness and flavoursome delights, from shared antipasti to freshly crafted pasta and grilled meats.
A culinary adventure awaits at The Test Kitchen, resembling a laboratory and a dining destination. With evolving tasting menus curated by visionary chefs, this avant-garde culinary academy promises an unconventional gastronomic experience.
Indulge in 24-hour room service, delectable ice cream, all-day pizza, tapas-style plates, The Galley's freshly prepared bento boxes and expertly crafted burgers. Calories don't count on holiday - but if you want to burn off your brunch, the array of included fitness classes and access to cutting-edge gym equipment has you covered.
Brilliant Lady's cabins epitomize a modern and playful ambience, offering a range of accommodations from cosy interiors to luxurious suites designed to evoke a rock star lifestyle. Most cabins feature "terraces" (balconies in traditional terms), and an impressive 93% of staterooms provide scenic ocean views. The ship houses 46 cabins tailored for solo travellers, predominantly inside staterooms and ten accessible rooms spread across various categories.
Brilliant Lady's cabins are characterised by contemporary designs prioritising guest comfort, even within limited spaces. Intelligent furniture choices enable dual functionality, with sofas converting into beds for added convenience. While the bathrooms may be compact, they feature generously sized showers, albeit compromising on sink and vanity space.
Standard cabin amenities include queen beds convertible into twin setups, desks, chairs, sofas, night tables, mini-fridges, wardrobes, and safes. Technological conveniences abound with large flat-screen TVs, multiple U.S. outlets, USB charging ports, and a tablet controlling room features like lighting and temperature.
Refreshing water carafes are provided during morning servicing and evening turndown, a thoughtful touch ensuring guest comfort throughout their stay.
The ship offers cabins across three primary categories: inside rooms without exterior access, outside rooms featuring portholes for natural light, and balconies allowing private verandas.
In line with standard cruise ship dimensions, cabins on Brilliant Lady range from compact 105-square-foot spaces to expansive suites spanning 2,147 square feet – exceeding the size of many New York City apartments.
Balcony cabins on Brilliant Lady cover a comfortable 265 square feet, boasting modern decor with vibrant accents and spacious verandas. However, storage space under the bed might be limited due to convertible furniture.
Brilliant Lady's suites, named "Rockstar Quarters" and "Mega Rockstar Quarters," exude an exclusive vibe, featuring mood lighting and amenities like record players, blending nostalgia with contemporary luxury.
Starting at 352 square feet, suites offer exclusive perks such as access to "Richard's Rooftop," dedicated agents, premium Wi-Fi, bar tabs, and more.
Cabin bathrooms exhibit utilitarian designs, providing essential facilities, including toilets, basins, and modest storage shelves. Showers are more extensive than typical cruise-ship setups, featuring glass doors, rain showerheads, and branded amenities by Virgin.
Suite bathrooms boast luxurious touches such as marble finishes, peek-a-boo showers, and upgraded Red Flower bath products.
Accessible cabins offer barrier-free shower entry, grab rails, folding benches, and raised toilet heights for enhanced accessibility.
For Solo Travelers: Consider specially designed solo traveller cabins for stunning views without single supplements.
Budget-Friendly: Opt for a straightforward inside cabin for convenient access near elevator banks.
Group Accommodation: Book a Sea Terrace cabin accommodating four individuals with additional beds.
Unparalleled Views: Explore the Cheeky Corner suites on the ship's aft corners for breathtaking vistas.
Value Splurge: Indulge in the Brilliant Suite, offering exceptional value with spacious interiors, a generous balcony, and entry-level Rock Star perks.
Ultimate Luxury: Experience opulence in the Massive Suite, boasting lavish amenities, a large balcony, and ample space for gatherings.
Anyone with an active Instagram account and those looking for a trendy downtown vibe on their holiday
Early-to-bed travellers and anyone who is looking for a traditional at-sea experience
Virgin Voyages will appeal to a broad range of travellers. Early reports are that most booked guests are aged 37-62 with an average age of 47. Most have cruised before but are looking to try a new take on the cruise experience. The new-to-cruise customers the brand is likely to appeal to most are those curious about a holiday at sea, those who like stylish accommodation and excellent service, plus the feeling that they can indulge by night and detox by day, enjoying time with their travelling companions.
No. There is no dress code on Virgin Voyages ships, but given expect lots of chic "rent a runway"-style threads in the evening.
No, but cruise fares will be fairly inclusive, especially for a big-ship cruise line. The cruise fare will include all dining, gratuities (even in the spa), basic drinks (soda, bottled and sparkling water, juices), basic Wi-Fi and group fitness classes. Extra charges will include streaming Wi-Fi, alcoholic drinks, shore excursions, and spa and beauty treatments. Cruisers staying in one of the line's RockStar Quarters will receive perks such as early boarding through a VIP entrance, priority access to booking, 24/7 access to "RockStar" agents who can fulfil any of your Rock Star needs, as well as the ability to create a rider (wish list) of just about anything they want their suite stocked with.
The nightlife is one of the main draws of the ship, with lots of bars and lounges and unusual night activities, including aerialists, comedy, pop-up music, interactive theatre and more. (There are no traditional big-stage production shows.) Additionally, the fleet is designed around a "Vitamin Sea" philosophy that emphasizes daytime relaxation and wellness. The line expects cruisers to participate in a detox, retox array of activities throughout the day
