Brilliant Lady: Virgin Voyages’ New Standard at Sea

Sailing on Brilliant Lady from New York to Bermuda is more than just a voyage; it is an immersion in Virgin Voyages’ bold reimagining of what cruise travel can be. The ship itself is the destination, brimming with technology that simplifies the experience. From the moment you receive your wristband—your key, wallet, and digital pass—you know you’re in for something different. Cabins feel modern and smart, with tablets that let you set the mood, order meals, or simply open the curtains to watch the horizon unfold. For travelers who value innovation, these thoughtful touches make the entire trip feel seamless and sophisticated.

Dining is one of Brilliant Lady’s standout features, and it will especially impress clients who are food-focused. With more than 20 eateries, the ship offers options far beyond what’s typical at sea: a rotating selection of chef-driven menus, intimate settings, and service that feels personal. There are no cavernous dining halls or buffet lines here—just experiences that rival restaurants in New York or Bermuda itself. My personal recommendation is to try a different venue every night, leaning into the variety to truly appreciate the ship’s culinary vision.

Ben and David with Doc T

The inclusions also set Brilliant Lady apart. Tips are built into the fare, Wi-Fi is available throughout, and group fitness classes—from yoga to high-energy cycling—are complimentary. Essential drinks like soft drinks, juices, coffee, and teas are also covered, which means you won’t feel nickel-and-dimed as you enjoy the ship. For clients who value transparency and ease, this creates a far more relaxing environment than traditional cruise models. It allows guests to enjoy Bermuda’s pink-sand beaches or New York’s skyline without worrying about surprise expenses once back on board.

This product is ideally suited for professionals who want a refined but lively getaway, retirees who appreciate sophistication without the scale of a mega-ship, and younger travelers eager for a modern cruise that speaks their language. Having sailed more than 25 cruises, I found Brilliant Lady to be one of the most unique and rewarding experiences I’ve had at sea. It is polished, playful, and perfectly balanced—a ship that truly reflects the future of cruising while delivering a voyage worth remembering.

Bring your curiosity, not your wallet: Since gratuities, Wi-Fi, fitness classes, and essential drinks are included, you’ll find fewer surprise charges than on most cruise lines. That said, budget extra if you enjoy premium cocktails, spa treatments, or specialty coffee.

Dining strategy: With over 20 eateries, reservations for the most popular venues fill quickly. I recommend booking your preferred dining spots as soon as you board—or even through the app before sailing—to ensure you experience the full culinary range.

Tech-savvy but accessible: While Brilliant Lady leans heavily into technology, everything is designed to be intuitive. Even travelers who aren’t tech experts will find the wristband and in-room tablet easy to use.

Destination tips: Sailing from New York makes embarkation exciting—arrive early to soak in the skyline before departure. In Bermuda, don’t miss the pink-sand beaches of Horseshoe Bay or the historic charm of St. George’s. The ship docks close enough that excursions feel easy to plan.

Who will love it most: This ship is a great fit for professionals looking to unwind without losing touch, retirees seeking sophistication, and younger travelers drawn to Virgin’s playful, modern vibe. It’s an adults-only ship, so travelers looking for a kid-friendly vacation should consider other options.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our cruises page.