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28th Oct 2026 | 18 nights | Virgin Voyages | Brilliant Lady
Why do we love this cruise holiday? A night in Los Angeles before setting sail adds an extra holiday moment to enjoy, giving this package a little West Coast sparkle before the Caribbean takes centre stage. With flights, hotel stay and a 17 night voyage all wrapped into one, it represents great value and makes planning refreshingly straightforward. The itinerary serves up a wonderful collection of destinations, with plenty of time to soak up colourful culture, sunshine and scenic coastlines along the way. On board Brilliant Lady, stylish surroundings and adults only spaces create a relaxed atmosphere that suits both sea days and port days perfectly. It is the kind of getaway that keeps delivering from the moment the suitcases are packed until the journey home.
What's included?
Cruise Circle Collection packages adhere to our 7 point charter:
Take your flight to Hollywood today.
A night before your cruise eases you into the journey nicely.
Cabo San Lucas is an anchor port for all cruises sailing on Mexico's Riviera and Sea of Cortez itineraries, but passengers are a small minority of the tourists who flock there. The heavily Americanized party town serves as one of the most popular beach escapes for Californians and other West Coasters who come here to let loose (spring break festivities are intense and not a proposition for the faint of heart). One of Cabo's major attractions is Cabo Wabo, a cantina owned by rocker Sammy Hagar, most famously of Van Halen. Rocks of a different sort -- El Arco, with its jagged points protruding from the Sea of Cortez, make more impressive photos. Yet for those passing on the beer-pong tournaments and temporary tattoos, Cabo has a lot to offer. Located at the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula, Cabo San Lucas -- together with its more elegant and much quieter sister town of San Jose del Cabo -- is an ideal spot for adventure-oriented pursuits. If conditions are right, the clear waters make for great snorkeling kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, parasailing, sailing and Jet Skiing. The Sea of Cortez is among the biologically richest areas in the world, with pods of whales that winter offshore; if you're here in season (late December through late March), a whale-watching trip is a must. Cabo also has some of the best sportfishing in the world, and it is the quest for marlin that put the town on the map. After World War II and the advent of private planes, Hollywood royalty such as Bing Crosby and John Wayne arrived to fish. In the 1970s, a highway was built to connect California to Baja, and the travel industry began in earnest. Now, it's hard to open a celebrity magazine without seeing photos of A-listers lounging at the six-star resorts that have sprung up in "The Corridor," as the coastal stretch between the two cities is known. One of the downsides for most cruise travelers: There's no cruise pier, so all ships must anchor and tender passengers to the port. That means you'll need to factor in extra time getting to and from your ship. Even odder is the fact that some ships only stop for half-day visits, which means that actual on-land time can be extremely limited (although excursion providers usually time their tours to meet the needs of cruisers). However, other ships spend two days in Cabo, allowing passengers to stay out until 9 p.m. before the ship maneuvers offshore to open casinos. If you're one of the lucky ones with a longer port time, greater Baja, including daytrips to Todos Santos, are within reach -- but can be expensive to coordinate independently.
The Panama Canal is one of modern engineering's greatest feats. Built as a trade route to stop ships from having to circumnavigate treacherous shipping lanes around North and South America, the canal links the Atlantic and Pacific oceans and a full transit of the canal takes around 8 - 10 hours.
Cruises that allow transit of the canal (or partial transit!) also offer the chance to discover lush rainforests, sandy Caribbean beaches, and bustling Latin towns.
You're in for a big treat if you've booked a Caribbean or Panama Canal cruise with Cartagena on the itinerary, as this lovely old town and resort on Colombia's Caribbean coast is quite deservedly the country's most popular tourist destination. There, you'll find everything a cruise passenger's heart could desire: a fascinating -- and often dark and bloody -- history embedded in ancient forts, churches and palaces; a walled town filled with exquisite 16th- and 17th-century Spanish colonial architecture; soft beaches; world-class snorkelling and scuba diving reefs; delightful restaurants; and enough shops to capture your interest without the place feeling like one gigantic mall. Your only regret, as your cruise ship steams away at the end of the day, will be that you didn't have longer to explore.
You're in for a big treat if you've booked a Caribbean or Panama Canal cruise with Cartagena on the itinerary, as this lovely old town and resort on Colombia's Caribbean coast is quite deservedly the country's most popular tourist destination. There, you'll find everything a cruise passenger's heart could desire: a fascinating -- and often dark and bloody -- history embedded in ancient forts, churches and palaces; a walled town filled with exquisite 16th- and 17th-century Spanish colonial architecture; soft beaches; world-class snorkelling and scuba diving reefs; delightful restaurants; and enough shops to capture your interest without the place feeling like one gigantic mall. Your only regret, as your cruise ship steams away at the end of the day, will be that you didn't have longer to explore.
As your holiday winds down, please take your flight back today.
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, 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
