Quick Links
- Is Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady Worth It?
- Embarkation from New York City
- Our Sea Terrace Cabin: The Full Tour
- RockStar Suite vs Sea Terrace: The Honest Comparison
- Bar Tab Strategy (And Why £700 Was Perfect)
- Food & Dining: The Good, The Slow, The Bottomless
- Parties, Vibes & Why We Love Virgin's Energy
- Bermuda: Quick Thoughts
- Disembarkation Chaos & Uber Tips
- Final Verdict: Would We Sail Brilliant Lady Again?
Is Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady worth it? Yes—with caveats.
We've recently returned from the MerMaiden voyage, trying to work out how we feel about the Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady's first voyage. It's was five days of bottomless brunches, neon body paint, ridiculously long waits for breakfast, and some of the best parties we've experienced at sea.
The short answer? We'd sail again. But we need to be honest about what worked and what didn't.
This was our second Virgin Voyages sailing in 12 months. In May 2025, we sailed Resilient Lady from Athens in a RockStar Suite. That experience set our expectations sky-high—excellent food, fast service, and an energy that felt effortlessly inclusive. Brilliant Lady delivered on some of those promises but stumbled on others, largely because this was the ship's first full-capacity sailing with paying passengers.
The MerMaiden voyage had teething issues. That's expected. What wasn't expected was just how much those issues would affect the overall experience. Service was slower, food quality dipped, and venue capacity became a genuine problem without RockStar perks. But we still had a brilliant time. The crew were lovely, the parties were unmatched, and the genuine LGBTQ-inclusivity remains, for us, one of Virgin Voyages' strongest selling points.
Quick Stats:
- Ship: Brilliant Lady (Virgin Voyages' newest)
- Sailing: MerMaiden Voyage, NYC to Bermuda, November 2024
- Cabin: Sea Terrace (previously sailed RockStar Suite on Resilient Lady)
- Passengers: Full capacity (first "proper" sailing after friends/family UK-NYC crossing)
- Our verdict: 4/5—excellent vibe, some first-sailing teething issues
Brilliant Lady is stunning. The ship feels fresh, the design is smart, and the adults-only policy creates an atmosphere that's sophisticated without being stuffy. The crew genuinely embody that classic Virgin Group energy—friendly, approachable, and clearly enjoying their jobs. The parties are creative, the bars are excellent, and the inclusivity isn't performative. It's real.
However, this was the ship's first proper sailing at full capacity, and it showed. Long wait times for food, venues hitting capacity during peak hours, and a general sense of chaos that wasn't present on our Athens sailing. Virgin clearly prioritised profit over experience for this inaugural voyage—packing the ship to capacity while crew were still learning their roles. It wasn't a disaster, but it wasn't smooth either.
Still, we had an excellent time. Virgin Voyages remains one of the most authentically LGBTQ-friendly cruise lines in our opinion. The bar tab value is unbeatable. The energy onboard is infectious. And honestly? We're already planning our next sailing.
Watch our full YouTube review here: Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady MerMaiden Review
Embarkation from New York City: Smooth but busy
We Ubered directly to the terminal. Cost about $35 from our hotel in Midtown Manhattan, took 25 minutes with moderate traffic, and dropped us right outside the entrance. Easiest option by far, and we'd recommend it to anyone unless you're staying very close to the terminal.
The embarkation process itself was straightforward but noticeably busier than our Athens experience on Resilient Lady. This was Brilliant Lady's first full-capacity sailing, and it showed. Not a disaster, just noticeably less polished.
Embarkation process breakdown:
- Drop-off: Right outside the terminal entrance. Easy.
- Security: Standard cruise terminal security—bags through scanner, quick check, no issues.
- Queue: Fairly long but moved steadily once our designated boarding time hit.
- Documents: ESTA required for US entry (different from Athens, where EU passports were enough). Virgin's app had flagged this in advance, so we were prepared.
- Seating: Very limited. Don't arrive early unless you enjoy standing with luggage.
- Vibe: Excited but slightly chaotic. Lots of first-time Virgin sailors, lots of people asking staff where to go, lots of energy.
Top tip: Stick to your designated boarding time. Seriously. Arriving early doesn't help—you'll just wait in a cramped terminal with nowhere to sit. Virgin assigns boarding times for a reason, and the process flows much better if everyone sticks to their slot. We arrived 10 minutes before our time, walked straight through, and were on the ship within 20 minutes.
One thing that stood out immediately: the friendliness of the crew. Virgin Voyages staff are genuinely lovely. No fake cruise-ship smiles, no overly rehearsed greetings—just genuine, warm, approachable people who seemed happy to be there. That Virgin Group energy is real, and it sets the tone for the entire experience.
Documents you'll need:
- Valid passport (at least 6 months validity remaining)
- ESTA approval (if sailing from the US and you're not a US citizen)
- Rules do chage and so keep an eye on the app
What to expect on embarkation day:
- Boarding starts around 1:00 PM (check your specific sailing)
- Your cabin won't be ready until around 3:00 PM (leave bags outside your cabin, crew will bring them up)
- Restaurants and bars open immediately—grab lunch while you wait
- Mandatory muster drill (safety briefing) before the ship departs
- Ship usually sails around 5:00-6:00 PM
The muster drill on Virgin Voyages is significantly less painful than traditional cruise lines. No standing on deck in a life jacket. You go to your designated muster station, listen to a safety briefing, and you're done in 10 minutes. It's efficient and painless.
By the time we finished the muster drill, found our cabin properly, unpacked, and grabbed our first proper drinks, it was early evening. The ship was pulling away from Brooklyn, Manhattan's skyline glowing in the distance, and we were already planning which party to hit first that night.
Embarkation wasn't perfect, but it was smooth enough. The chaos was first-sailing energy rather than systemic problems, and we suspect future sailings will be much smoother once crew find their rhythm. If you're sailing Brilliant Lady soon, just be patient, arrive at your designated boarding time, and embrace the slight chaos. It's all part of the adventure.
Our Sea Terrace Cabin: The full tour
Right, let's talk about our Sea Terrace cabin. We were genuinely worried about this. After experiencing a RockStar Suite on Resilient Lady earlier in the year—with its absurdly huge bed, massive bathroom, and that ridiculous Richard's Rooftop access—we thought we'd feel like we'd downgraded. We didn't. At all.
Our Sea Terrace cabin on Brilliant Lady was genuinely lovely. Spacious, smartly designed, and thoughtfully laid out in a way that made the space feel bigger than it actually was. Virgin Voyages clearly spent time thinking about how people actually use cruise cabins, and it shows in the details.
The bedroom
The bedroom area was generous. Much more space than we expected. The bed was queen-sized (not the absurd super-king you get in RockStar, but still very comfortable), positioned against the far wall with proper walking space on both sides. No awkward squeezing past each other to get in and out of bed, which is a common problem in standard cruise cabins.
Storage was excellent. The wardrobe ran along one wall with enough hanging space for both of us, plus shelves for folded clothes and a safe for valuables. Under the bed, there was proper storage space where our suitcases fit perfectly—important because we hate clutter, and having suitcases tucked away made the cabin feel much more relaxing.
Lighting was smart. Multiple light sources (overhead, bedside, mood lighting) so you could adjust the atmosphere depending on whether you were getting ready to go out or winding down after a late night. The bedside reading lights were bright enough to actually read by, which sounds obvious but isn't always the case on cruise ships.
The TV was decent-sized and positioned so you could watch from bed or from the seating area. We didn't use it much (too busy being out and about), but it's nice to have for lazy mornings or when you need to check the ship's daily schedule.
The bathroom
Here's where Sea Terrace cabins show their compromise. The bathroom was small. Functional, yes. Well-designed, absolutely. But small. It's a wet room setup—shower, toilet, and sink all in one compact space. Everything works, but if you're both trying to get ready simultaneously, you'll be bumping into each other.
The shower was powerful (excellent water pressure, hot water on demand, rainfall showerhead), but the space was tight. Alex is 6'2", and he had to angle himself slightly to avoid hitting his elbows on the walls. Not a dealbreaker, but worth noting if you're taller or broader-shouldered.
Storage in the bathroom was limited but clever. A small shelf above the sink for toiletries, a couple of hooks for towels, and that's about it. We ended up keeping most of our toiletries in the bedroom wardrobe and bringing them into the bathroom as needed. Not ideal, but manageable.
Towels were plentiful and refreshed daily. Virgin Voyages uses good-quality linens (soft, absorbent, not those scratchy cruise ship towels you sometimes get), and the housekeeping team kept everything spotless throughout the week.
The balcony
The balcony was brilliant. Proper outdoor seating (two chairs and a small table), enough space to sit comfortably without feeling cramped, and just enough privacy that we weren't on display to neighbouring cabins. We spent hours out here—morning coffee, evening cocktails, just sitting and watching the ocean go by.
The railing was glass rather than metal, which gives you uninterrupted ocean views. Small detail, but it makes a difference. You feel more connected to the sea rather than staring through bars.
One thing we loved: the balcony door slid open fully, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor flow. On warm days, we'd leave it open and let the breeze flow through the cabin. It made the space feel much larger and more luxurious than it actually was.
Overall cabin vibe
The cabin felt modern, clean, and thoughtfully designed. Virgin Voyages uses a neutral colour palette (whites, greys, warm woods) that feels sophisticated without being cold. There's enough personality in the design (quirky artwork, clever details) that it doesn't feel generic, but it's not over-styled either.
Soundproofing was excellent. We never heard neighbours through the walls, which is impressive given how full the ship was. You'll hear footsteps from the corridor occasionally, but nothing disruptive.
Temperature control worked well. The air conditioning was powerful enough to keep the cabin cool even on hot Bermuda days, and it wasn't too loud (some cruise ship AC units sound like jet engines—this didn't).
Housekeeping was excellent. Our cabin steward (shoutout to Maria, who was lovely) kept everything spotless, refreshed towels twice daily, and even folded our clothes when we left them lying around (we didn't ask her to do this—she just did, which was sweet but also made us feel slightly guilty about our messiness).
Storage breakdown
Let's get specific because this matters when you're living out of a cabin for a week:
- Wardrobe space: Enough hanging space for about 10-12 items each, plus four shelves for folded clothes
- Under-bed storage: Fits two large suitcases (we had a carry-on each as well, which we stacked in the wardrobe)
- Bathroom storage: Minimal. One small shelf above the sink. We kept most toiletries in the wardrobe.
- Safe: Standard size, fits passports, cash, cards, and small electronics
- Bedside tables: None. There are small ledges attached to the wall on each side of the bed (enough for a phone and glasses)
- Desk area: Small desk/vanity area with a mirror and one drawer (perfect for getting ready)
What we loved
The space felt bigger than it actually was. Smart design, good use of mirrors, and that open balcony connection all contributed to a cabin that never felt cramped.
The bed was genuinely comfortable. We both slept well (helped by the gentle rocking of the ship and the blackout curtains that actually blocked out light).
The balcony was a game-changer. Having private outdoor space made the cabin feel much more luxurious. We'd sit out there in the evenings, cocktails in hand, just watching the ocean and decompressing from the day.
What could be better
The bathroom. It works, but it's tight. If you're travelling as a couple and you're both trying to get ready for dinner at the same time, you'll be negotiating space.
Bedside storage was limited. Those little wall-mounted ledges are fine for a phone and glasses, but if you're the kind of person who likes books, water bottles, and random bits and pieces within reach, you'll need to get creative.
No minibar or fridge. Not a dealbreaker (there are ice machines and water stations around the ship), but it would've been nice to keep drinks cold in the cabin.
Sea Terrace vs other cabin types
Virgin Voyages offers several cabin categories:
- Insider (no balcony): Cheapest option, smaller space, no outdoor access
- Sea Terrace (balcony): What we had. Sweet spot for value vs space.
- Sea View (balcony): Slightly larger than Sea Terrace, positioned higher on the ship
- RockStar Suites: Significantly larger, huge bathrooms, Richard's Rooftop access, priority everything
For most people, Sea Terrace is the smart choice. You get the balcony (which genuinely enhances the experience), enough space to be comfortable, and you're not paying the premium for RockStar perks you might not need.
That said, if you're sailing at full capacity or you want guaranteed access to shows and venues, RockStar is worth considering. We'll get into that comparison shortly.
Bottom line on Sea Terrace cabins: Brilliant value. We were genuinely impressed. The space is well-designed, the balcony is lovely, and while the bathroom is small, it's not a dealbreaker. If you're prioritising experiences over cabin luxury, Sea Terrace is an excellent choice. We'd absolutely book one again.
RockStar Suite vs Sea Terrace: The honest comparison
Right, this is the question everyone asks: is RockStar worth the upgrade? We've now sailed Virgin Voyages twice in 12 months—once in a RockStar Suite on Resilient Lady (Athens, May 2024) and now in a Sea Terrace on Brilliant Lady (NYC, November 2024). That gives us a pretty decent comparison point, and here's the honest answer: it depends entirely on your priorities and budget.
Both cabin types are excellent. We genuinely loved both experiences. But they serve different purposes, and understanding what you're actually paying for makes the decision much easier.
What you get with RockStar Suite
Let's start with what RockStar actually includes, because the price difference is significant (often double or more compared to Sea Terrace):
The cabin itself:
- Significantly larger bedroom (roughly 50% more space)
- That ridiculous super-king bed (genuinely massive, absurdly comfortable)
- Much larger bathroom (separate toilet area, bigger shower, more counter space)
- More storage (bigger wardrobe, more drawers, more shelf space)
- Larger balcony with better furniture
- Premium bathroom products (Grown Alchemist rather than standard Virgin toiletries)
- In-cabin bar setup (not stocked, but glassware and ice bucket provided)
- Nespresso machine (with unlimited coffee pods)
The perks:
- Unlimited Richard's Rooftop access (private sundeck for RockStar passengers only)
- Priority everything (embarkation, restaurant bookings, show access)
- Guaranteed entry to all venues (even when they hit capacity)
- Complimentary fitness classes (group classes are free for everyone, but RockStar gets priority booking)
- Exclusive RockStar events (special parties, meet-and-greets, etc.)
The experience:
- Dedicated RockStar coordinator (helps with bookings, answers questions, sorts problems)
- Faster service (staff prioritise RockStar passengers)
- More attentive housekeeping (twice-daily service with more frequent towel changes)
What you get with Sea Terrace
Sea Terrace cabins include everything you actually need for an excellent cruise experience:
The cabin:
- Spacious bedroom (smaller than RockStar but not cramped)
- Queen-sized bed (comfortable, proper hotel-quality)
- Compact bathroom (small but functional)
- Good storage (enough for a week-long cruise without feeling cluttered)
- Private balcony (same quality as RockStar, just slightly smaller)
- Standard Virgin toiletries (perfectly good, not luxury but not cheap either)
The perks:
- Full access to all ship restaurants, bars, and facilities
- Same entertainment options (shows, parties, activities)
- Same food and drink quality
- Same friendly service
The experience:
- You're treated exactly the same as every other guest (no priority, but also no waiting around for RockStar perks you're not using)
- You'll spend most of your time outside the cabin anyway
- Access to everything that makes Virgin Voyages special
The Richard's Rooftop question
Richard's Rooftop is RockStar's biggest selling point—a private sundeck with unlimited drinks, hot tubs, and quieter atmosphere. We had access on Resilient Lady. We thought we'd miss it desperately on Brilliant Lady. We didn't.
Here's why: Virgin Voyages has enough public deck space, bars, and pools that Richard's Rooftop, while lovely, isn't essential. Yes, it's nice having a quieter space. Yes, the free-flowing drinks are excellent. But honestly? We preferred the energy of the main pool deck most of the time. Richard's Rooftop can feel a bit sedate—everyone's very chilled, very horizontal, very quietly sipping cocktails. The main deck has more life.
That said, on longer voyages (10+ days), we'd probably value Richard's Rooftop more. Having a quiet retreat when the main ship gets overwhelming would be useful. On a week-long sailing, we didn't miss it.
The venue access question
This is where RockStar genuinely shines. On Brilliant Lady's full-capacity MerMaiden sailing, several venues hit capacity during peak times. We couldn't get into a couple of shows because they were full. RockStar passengers walked straight in.
That's frustrating. You're paying good money for a cruise, you want to see a show, and you're turned away because the venue's full. RockStar guarantees entry. For some people, that alone justifies the upgrade.
However, this was a first-sailing issue. Virgin hadn't quite worked out capacity management yet. On more established sailings (like our Athens cruise), this wasn't a problem. We got into every show we wanted without RockStar perks.
When venue access matters:
- First sailings (when the ship's learning capacity management)
- Peak season sailings (summer, holidays)
- Popular routes (Caribbean, Mediterranean)
- If there's a specific show or performer you absolutely want to see
When it doesn't matter:
- Off-peak sailings
- Established routes where Virgin's worked out capacity
- If you're flexible about which shows you attend
The cabin size question
RockStar cabins are noticeably larger. That super-king bed is absurd (in the best way). The bathroom is significantly more spacious (Alex could actually move around without elbowing the walls). The extra storage is useful if you're travelling with lots of clothes or equipment.
But here's the reality: you're barely in your cabin. We'd roll out of bed, shower, get dressed, and head out. We'd come back late at night, collapse into bed, and repeat. The cabin is lovely, but we weren't lounging in it for hours.
The balcony is where we spent cabin time, and Sea Terrace balconies are brilliant. Yes, RockStar balconies are slightly larger with better furniture, but the difference isn't transformative. Both give you private outdoor space, ocean views, and somewhere to sit with a drink. That's what matters.
The bathroom size question
This is the one area where RockStar makes a genuine day-to-day difference. The RockStar bathroom is significantly larger, and when you're both trying to get ready for dinner at the same time, that space matters.
Sea Terrace bathrooms are tight. Functional, yes. Well-designed, absolutely. But tight. If you're both tall or broad-shouldered, you'll be bumping into each other. If one of you takes ages to get ready (hi, Alex), the other person will be waiting.
RockStar bathrooms have a separate toilet area, more counter space, and a bigger shower. Getting ready is just easier. Less stressful. More comfortable.
Is that worth double the price? Depends how much getting-ready stress bothers you.
The price question
Let's talk numbers. Prices vary wildly depending on sailing date, route, and how far in advance you book, but here's a rough guide:
Sea Terrace:
- £1,500-£2,500 per person for a week-long sailing
- Often on sale (Virgin runs promotions frequently)
- Best value for money
RockStar Suite:
- £3,000-£5,000+ per person for a week-long sailing
- Rarely discounted as heavily
- Includes perks, but you're paying for them
That's a significant difference. For two people, you're looking at an extra £3,000-£5,000 to upgrade to RockStar. That's a lot of money.
When RockStar is worth it
We'd upgrade to RockStar again if:
The sailing is at full capacity. Guaranteed venue access becomes genuinely valuable when shows are selling out. We missed a couple of performances on Brilliant Lady because we couldn't get in. That was annoying. RockStar would've solved it.
We're doing a longer voyage (10+ days). Richard's Rooftop would be more valuable on longer sailings when you need a quieter retreat. On week-long trips, the main ship never felt overwhelming.
We're celebrating something special. Anniversary, birthday, big life event—RockStar feels like a treat. That huge bed, the extra space, the priority service—it's luxurious in a way that enhances special occasions.
We're travelling with someone who needs more space. If you're claustrophobic, mobility-limited, or just someone who needs more room to feel comfortable, RockStar's extra space is worth it.
We can afford it without stress. This is key. If the price difference doesn't bother you, RockStar is lovely. But if you're stretching your budget to upgrade, spend that money on experiences instead—shore excursions, spa treatments, fancy dinners in port.
When Sea Terrace is the smarter choice
We'd book Sea Terrace again if:
We're prioritising experiences over cabin luxury. The money you save on Sea Terrace can fund shore excursions, spa days, extra bar tab credit, or even another cruise. We'd rather have more experiences than a bigger bathroom.
The sailing isn't at capacity. If venue access isn't a concern, RockStar's biggest practical perk disappears. Sea Terrace gives you everything else you need.
We're barely going to be in the cabin. We spent maybe 2-3 hours in our cabin each day (sleeping doesn't count). The rest of the time, we were out exploring the ship, at parties, or in port. Why pay for space we're not using?
We want brilliant value for money. Sea Terrace cabins are genuinely fantastic for the price. Spacious, comfortable, lovely balcony—everything you need without paying for perks you might not use.
The verdict
Both cabin types are excellent. We loved our RockStar experience on Resilient Lady. We loved our Sea Terrace experience on Brilliant Lady. The "right" choice depends entirely on your priorities.
Choose RockStar if:
- Guaranteed venue access matters to you
- You value extra cabin space and luxury touches
- Richard's Rooftop sounds appealing
- You can afford it comfortably
Choose Sea Terrace if:
- You're prioritising value for money
- You'll spend most of your time outside the cabin
- Venue access isn't a major concern
- You'd rather spend money on experiences
For us? Next time, we'll probably book Sea Terrace again unless we're doing a special occasion or a much longer voyage. The value is just too good, and honestly, we barely noticed the difference once we were caught up in Virgin's excellent energy, parties, and atmosphere.
The cabin matters less than the experience. And Virgin Voyages delivers brilliant experiences regardless of which cabin you're in.
Bar Tab Strategy: Why £700 ($1,000) was perfect
Let's talk about Virgin Voyages' bar tab system, because getting this right makes a massive difference to your budget and your stress levels. Virgin's bar tab is genuinely one of the smartest value propositions in cruising, but you need to understand how it works to maximise it properly.
First, the basics: Virgin Voyages doesn't operate an all-inclusive drinks package like some cruise lines. Instead, you pre-purchase bar credit before you sail, load it onto your account, and use it throughout the week for drinks (and some other purchases). The clever part? Virgin gives you a discount for pre-purchasing—usually around 10%—which makes loading more than you think you'll need a smart financial move.
We loaded £700 (approximately $1,000 USD) onto our bar tab before sailing. For two people who enjoy cocktails, wine, and champagne regularly throughout the day, this was absolutely perfect. We didn't skimp, we didn't stress about drink costs, and we still had credit left over for a bottle of Moët on the final night. Here's how we used it and what we learned.
How Virgin Voyages bar tab works
Your bar tab is linked to your cabin, which means both passengers sharing the cabin can use the same credit pool. Every time you order a drink anywhere on the ship, the bartender scans your ship card (which also serves as your room key) and the cost comes off your bar tab balance.
You can check your balance at any time via the Virgin Voyages app, which updates in near-real-time. This is genuinely useful because you can keep track of spending without that awful end-of-cruise surprise some cruise lines deliver when you get your final bill.
If you run out of credit mid-cruise, you can top up at Guest Services or via the app. Simple. If you don't use all your credit, Virgin refunds the unused portion to your original payment method after the cruise. This policy removes any risk to loading more than you think you'll need—you literally can't lose money by overestimating.
The discount for pre-purchasing varies depending on how much you load and when you book, but it's typically 10% off. So £700 of bar credit might only cost you £630. That's a significant saving, especially if you're planning to drink regularly.
What the bar tab covers
Bar tab credit can be used for:
- All cocktails (standard and premium)
- Wine by the glass or bottle
- Champagne
- Beer and cider
- Spirits and mixers
- Soft drinks and sodas (though these are also available free from drink stations around the ship)
- Speciality coffees (lattes, cappuccinos, etc. from the coffee bars)
- Milkshakes and smoothies
- Some onboard retail (certain ship shops accept bar tab credit, though not all)
What it doesn't cover:
- Bottled water (free filtered water is available everywhere on the ship)
- Premium vintage bottles (rare whisky, vintage champagne—these are usually charged separately)
- Shore excursions
- Spa treatments
- Some speciality retail items
Our bar tab breakdown
We loaded £700 onto our account before sailing. Here's roughly how we spent it over the week:
Daily drinking pattern:
- Morning: Coffee from the coffee bar (£4-5 each)
- Lunchtime: Cocktail or glass of wine (£8-12 per drink)
- Afternoon: Another cocktail or beer (£8-12)
- Pre-dinner: Champagne or cocktail in the cabin on the balcony (£8-15)
- Dinner: Bottle of wine shared between us (£30-50 depending on choice)
- Post-dinner: Cocktails at the bar or during parties (£8-12 per drink)
- Late night: Nightcap cocktail or two (£8-12 each)
On an average day, we probably spent £80-100 between us on drinks. Some days less (when we were ashore in Bermuda), some days more (party nights when we were really going for it).
By the final night, we had about £60 left on our tab, which we used to buy a bottle of Moët (£55) to toast our last evening onboard. Perfect.
Key lessons from our bar tab experience
Load more than you think you'll need. The discount makes this a smart financial move, and Virgin refunds unused credit anyway. We loaded £700 and it was spot-on, but if we'd loaded £600, we might've felt slightly restricted towards the end. Better to have too much than too little.
Cocktails are the same price regardless of complexity. Whether you order a simple vodka soda or an elaborate multi-ingredient signature cocktail, the price is roughly the same. Always order the fancy stuff. There's no reason to drink boring drinks when the interesting ones cost the same.
Wine by the bottle is good value. Ordering wine by the bottle at dinner (rather than by the glass) saves money and means you're not rushing to finish before the next course arrives. We'd typically order a bottle, drink what we wanted, and if there was any left, take it back to the cabin for balcony drinks later.
Speciality coffee counts. If you're someone who needs proper coffee in the morning (instant doesn't cut it), those lattes and cappuccinos add up. Factor this into your bar tab budget.
Check your balance regularly. The app updates quickly, so you can keep track of spending without anxiety. We checked ours every couple of days just to make sure we were on track.
What drinks actually cost
Virgin Voyages' drinks aren't cheap, but they're significantly cheaper than hotel bars in major cities and roughly comparable to decent cocktail bars. Here's a rough price guide:
- Standard cocktails: £8-10
- Premium cocktails: £10-12
- Wine by the glass: £8-12
- Wine by the bottle: £30-70 (depending on selection)
- Champagne by the glass: £12-15
- Champagne by the bottle: £50-90
- Beer: £6-8
- Spirits and mixers: £8-10
- Soft drinks: £4-5 (though free options available)
- Speciality coffee: £4-5
These prices are reasonable for what you're getting—well-made drinks, good-quality ingredients, excellent service, and unlimited ocean views while you drink them.
Splash for Your Bash: The bottomless brunch hack
One of the best-value uses of your bar tab is booking Splash for Your Bash, Virgin's bottomless brunch experience. It costs around £40-50 per person (charged to your bar tab), and it's genuinely bottomless—unlimited cocktails, champagne, and food for two hours.
We booked this on our third day at sea. Arrived at 12:00 PM, left at 2:30 PM (yes, we stayed longer than the allocated two hours—nobody rushed us), and absolutely made the most of those bottomless drinks. We had at least six cocktails each, plus champagne, plus food. If you'd bought those drinks individually, you'd easily spend £60-80 per person. For £45, it's ridiculous value.
Top tip: Book Splash for Your Bash early in your cruise. Slots fill up quickly, especially on full-capacity sailings. We booked ours on embarkation day and still only just got a spot.
How much should you load?
This depends entirely on your drinking habits, but here's a rough guide:
Light drinkers (1-2 drinks per day):
- Solo traveller: £200-300
- Couple: £400-500
Moderate drinkers (3-4 drinks per day):
- Solo traveller: £400-500
- Couple: £700-900
Heavy drinkers (5+ drinks per day):
- Solo traveller: £600-800
- Couple: £1,000-1,400
If you're planning to do Splash for Your Bash or other speciality experiences, add £100-150 per person to these estimates.
We're solidly in the "moderate to heavy" category (we're on holiday, we're drinking, sue us), and £700 for two people was perfect. We never felt like we were holding back, but we also weren't being reckless. It was the sweet spot.
Final bar tab advice
The Virgin Voyages bar tab system is genuinely brilliant. It removes the stress of tracking individual drink purchases, the pre-purchase discount saves money, and the refund policy means there's no risk to overestimating. We'd absolutely use the same strategy again—load more than you think you'll need, enjoy drinks without stress, and let Virgin refund anything you don't use.
For £700, we had a week of excellent cocktails, good wine, celebratory champagne, and never once worried about the bill. That's proper value for money, and it's one of the things Virgin Voyages gets absolutely right.
Food & Dining: The good, the slow, the bottomless
Right, let's talk about food. This is where our experience on Brilliant Lady diverged most significantly from our Athens sailing on Resilient Lady, and we need to be honest about it. Food on Virgin Voyages is supposed to be a highlight—creative concepts, no assigned seating, no dress codes, just brilliant food in interesting venues whenever you fancy it. On Resilient Lady, that's exactly what we got. On Brilliant Lady's MerMaiden voyage, the reality was more complicated.
The food itself was good. Not spectacular, but good. The variety of venues kept things interesting. The concept—multiple restaurants, each with distinct cuisines and vibes—works brilliantly. But the execution on this particular sailing was hampered by capacity issues, crew learning curves, and wait times that bordered on ridiculous. We're confident this'll improve as the ship settles into regular service, but for anyone sailing early Brilliant Lady voyages, manage your expectations.
The Galley: Virgin's food hall concept
The Galley is Virgin Voyages' take on a food hall—multiple stations serving different cuisines (Mexican, Asian, Italian, comfort food, salads), all in one large casual dining space. It's open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and it's the most flexible dining option on the ship. No reservations needed, grab what you want, sit wherever you like.
On Resilient Lady, The Galley was brilliant. Quick service, hot food, plenty of variety, easy to navigate. On Brilliant Lady, it was chaos. Long queues at every station, food running out mid-service, confused crew still learning which dishes went where. Breakfast on disembarkation day took so long we literally had to leave before our food arrived because our departure time was approaching. That's unacceptable.
The food itself was fine when we actually got it. The Mexican station did decent tacos and quesadillas. The Asian station had solid noodle bowls and stir-fries. The Italian station did fresh pasta that was perfectly adequate. Nothing blew us away, but nothing was terrible either. It was just... fine. And after Athens, where every meal felt special, "fine" felt disappointing.
What we enjoyed:
- The variety—you're never stuck eating the same cuisine repeatedly
- The flexibility—no reservations, no time pressure, just show up when you're hungry
- The made-to-order pasta station (simple but satisfying)
- The salad bar (fresh ingredients, good dressings, generous portions)
What frustrated us:
- Wait times (often 20-30 minutes just to get food)
- Inconsistent food temperature (some dishes arrived lukewarm)
- Running out of popular items mid-service
- Overcrowding (finding a table was genuinely difficult during peak times)
Verdict on The Galley: Convenient concept, but first-sailing capacity issues made it frustrating. We expect this'll improve significantly as crew find their rhythm and Virgin adjusts operations based on feedback.
Pink Agave: Mexican with a twist
Pink Agave was one of our favourite venues. Proper sit-down restaurant, Mexican-inspired menu, vibrant atmosphere, and genuinely creative dishes. Reservations required (you book via the Virgin Voyages app), but we managed to get tables most nights we wanted them.
The food here was a noticeable step up from The Galley. Dishes felt more thoughtful, presentation was better, flavours were bolder. We particularly loved the ceviche (fresh, zingy, beautifully balanced) and the short rib tacos (tender meat, excellent seasoning, proper corn tortillas).
Service was friendly but slow. Our server was lovely—attentive, knowledgeable about the menu, happy to make recommendations. But the kitchen was clearly struggling with volume. We'd order appetisers, wait 20 minutes, order mains, wait another 25 minutes. By the time dessert rolled around, we'd been at the table for nearly two hours. Fine if you're lingering over a romantic dinner, frustrating if you're trying to catch a show afterwards.
Standout dishes:
- Ceviche (fresh fish, citrus, avocado—perfect)
- Short rib tacos (fall-apart tender, brilliant flavour)
- Tres leches cake (rich, sweet, excellent with coffee)
What could be better:
- Service speed (kitchen was clearly overwhelmed)
- Noise levels (the restaurant was loud—great for energy, terrible for conversation)
Verdict on Pink Agave: Excellent food, lovely atmosphere, but slow service hampered the experience. Still worth booking, just don't go if you're in a rush.
Extra Virgin: Italian done properly
Extra Virgin is Virgin's Italian restaurant, and it's genuinely lovely. Elegant without being stuffy, warm lighting, comfortable seating, and a menu that focuses on classic Italian dishes done well rather than trying to reinvent the wheel.
The pasta was excellent. We tried three different dishes across two visits—cacio e pepe, carbonara, and a seafood linguine—and all three were spot-on. Pasta cooked perfectly al dente, sauces with proper depth of flavour, generous portions. This was the closest we got to Athens-level food quality.
The pizza was decent but not exceptional. Thin crust, good toppings, but nothing you'd cross a city for. Fine for a casual lunch, but we'd prioritise pasta if you're choosing between the two.
Service here was noticeably better than other venues. Our server (Giovanni, Italian, brilliant sense of humour) was attentive, efficient, and clearly experienced. The kitchen was faster too—appetisers arrived within 10 minutes, mains within 15. This is how cruise dining should work.
Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady Review
Extra Virgin: Italian done properly
Extra Virgin is Virgin's Italian restaurant, and it's genuinely lovely. Elegant without being stuffy, warm lighting, comfortable seating, and a menu that focuses on classic Italian dishes done well rather than trying to reinvent the wheel.
The pasta was excellent. We tried three different dishes across two visits—cacio e pepe, carbonara, and a seafood linguine—and all three were spot-on. Pasta cooked perfectly al dente, sauces with proper depth of flavour, generous portions. This was the closest we got to Athens-level food quality.
The pizza was decent but not exceptional. Thin crust, good toppings, but nothing you'd cross a city for. Fine for a casual lunch, but we'd prioritise pasta if you're choosing between the two.
Service here was noticeably better than other venues. Our server (Giovanni, Italian, brilliant sense of humour) was attentive, efficient, and clearly experienced. The kitchen was faster too—appetisers arrived within 10 minutes, mains within 15. This is how cruise dining should work.
Standout dishes
- Cacio e pepe (simple, classic, perfectly executed)
- Burrata (creamy, fresh, served with excellent bread)
- Tiramisu (rich, boozy, proper Italian dessert)
Verdict on Extra Virgin: Best food quality on the ship, better service than elsewhere, genuinely enjoyable dining experience. Book this one multiple times if you can.
Razzle Dazzle: The theatrical brunch experience
Razzle Dazzle is Virgin's drag brunch venue—part restaurant, part cabaret show, part ridiculous fun. You book a brunch slot, order from a menu of breakfast and lunch dishes, and enjoy live drag performances while you eat. It's camp, it's loud, it's brilliant.
The food was fine. Nothing groundbreaking—eggs benedict, pancakes, burgers, salads—but perfectly adequate. You're not here for Michelin-star cuisine; you're here for the atmosphere and the entertainment.
The drag performances were excellent. Funny, talented, genuinely entertaining. The queens worked the room, interacted with guests, and created an energy that was infectious. This is what makes Virgin Voyages special—they're not just paying lip service to LGBTQ+ inclusivity; they're building it into the DNA of the experience.
What we loved
- The performers (talented, funny, engaging)
- The atmosphere (celebratory, inclusive, fun)
- The bottomless drinks option (if you upgrade, it's excellent value)
What was just okay
- The food (fine but forgettable)
Verdict on Razzle Dazzle: Book this for the entertainment, not the food. It's one of the most fun experiences on the ship.
Wake: Steak and seafood
Wake is Virgin's upscale steak and seafood restaurant. There's an additional charge for dining here (around £35 per person), which seems annoying when you've already paid for a cruise, but honestly, the quality justifies it.
We went once. Alex ordered the ribeye; I had the sea bass. Both were excellent—properly cooked, well-seasoned, presented beautifully. The sides (truffle fries, roasted vegetables) were generous and flavourful. This was the meal that most felt like dining at a proper high-end restaurant rather than a cruise ship.
Service was excellent. Our server was knowledgeable about wine pairings, timed courses perfectly, and made us feel genuinely looked after. The pace was leisurely without dragging—we were there for about 90 minutes, which felt right.
Is it worth the extra charge? If you're celebrating something special or you just want one truly excellent meal during the week, yes. If you're on a tight budget, the included restaurants are perfectly fine—you won't feel like you're missing out by skipping Wake.
Verdict on Wake: Best overall dining experience on the ship, but the additional charge means it's a "sometimes" restaurant rather than a regular choice.
The Galley Breakfast Disaster
We need to talk about breakfast on disembarkation day because it perfectly encapsulates the capacity issues Brilliant Lady was facing. We had a 9:00 AM disembarkation time, so we headed to The Galley at 7:30 AM for breakfast. Should've been plenty of time.
The Galley was packed. Every table full, queues at every food station, flustered crew trying to keep up with demand. We ordered scrambled eggs and toast—simple stuff. After 20 minutes, nothing had arrived. We checked with our server, who apologised profusely and said the kitchen was "running behind." After 30 minutes, still nothing. At 8:45 AM, we had to leave to make our disembarkation time. We never got our breakfast.
This isn't the crew's fault—they were clearly doing their best. This is a capacity planning issue. Virgin packed the ship to capacity on a first sailing when crew were still learning, and the result was overwhelmed kitchens, frustrated guests, and experiences that fell short of the brand's promises.
We're confident this'll improve. By the ship's tenth or twentieth sailing, crew will have found their rhythm, capacity issues will be ironed out, and breakfast won't be a stressful race against time. But for early Brilliant Lady sailings, be prepared for some chaos.
Coffee situation
Virgin Voyages has several coffee options around the ship:
The Dock (coffee shop): Proper barista-made coffee—lattes, cappuccinos, flat whites. Charged to your bar tab (around £4-5 per drink). This was our daily stop. Good quality coffee, friendly baristas, quick service.
Sip (champagne and coffee bar): Speciality coffees and champagne bar. Same coffee quality as The Dock, just in a different location. Also charged to bar tab.
Self-service coffee stations: Free coffee available around the ship (The Galley, pool deck, various lounges). Drinkable but nothing special—standard cruise ship coffee.
If you're serious about coffee, budget for proper barista drinks in your bar tab. The free stuff will keep you caffeinated but won't delight you.
Overall food verdict
Food on Brilliant Lady was a mixed bag. The concepts are excellent—varied cuisines, no assigned seating, flexibility to eat when and where you want. The execution on this particular sailing was hampered by first-sailing chaos, capacity issues, and crew learning curves.
Extra Virgin delivered consistently excellent food. Pink Agave had great dishes but slow service. The Galley was convenient but frustrating. Wake was worth the extra charge for a special meal. Razzle Dazzle was brilliant entertainment with adequate food.
Compared to our Athens sailing on Resilient Lady, food quality was noticeably lower. We think this is temporary—a function of this being Brilliant Lady's first proper full-capacity sailing. As crew settle in and Virgin adjusts operations, we expect food to improve significantly.
If you're sailing early Brilliant Lady voyages: Manage expectations, be patient with service, book Extra Virgin multiple times, and don't skip Wake if you want at least one truly excellent meal.
If you're sailing established Virgin Voyages ships or later Brilliant Lady sailings: You'll likely have a much smoother experience. The systems and concepts are sound; they just need time to bed in properly.
Parties, Vibes & Why We Love Virgin's Energy
Right, this is where Virgin Voyages absolutely shines. Forget everything you think you know about cruise ship entertainment—formal nights in tuxedos, cheesy production shows, ballroom dancing lessons for retirees. Virgin throws that entire playbook out the window and replaces it with something genuinely fun, inclusive, and surprisingly sophisticated.
Virgin Voyages' party schedule is packed. There's something happening almost every night—themed deck parties, DJ sets, drag performances, late-night club vibes. The energy is consistently high, the production values are excellent, and the inclusivity isn't performative. This is real queer energy, real celebration, real joy. We loved it.
The crowd helps enormously. Virgin attracts a younger, more open-minded demographic than traditional cruise lines (average age seems to be 30-50 rather than 60-70), and the adults-only policy means the vibe stays sophisticated even when things get wild. Everyone's there to have fun, and that collective energy creates something special.
Neon Party: Our favourite night
The Neon Party on Brilliant Lady was hands down the best party experience we've had on any cruise. Ever. The entire pool deck transformed into a glowing, pulsing, euphoric rave, and the energy was absolutely electric.
Virgin distributed glow sticks at the entrance (thousands of them—everyone was covered), set up UV lights across the deck, and brought in DJs who actually understood how to build and hold a crowd. The music was proper house—driving basslines, building drops, none of that generic cruise ship party music. People were dancing. Properly dancing. Not awkward shuffle-dancing, but full-body, arms-in-the-air, losing-yourself-in-the-music dancing.
We arrived around 10:00 PM (the party started at 9:30 PM) and didn't leave until after 1:00 AM. The deck was packed but never felt dangerously crowded. The atmosphere was joyful, inclusive, uninhibited. Same-sex couples everywhere—dancing together, kissing, being affectionate without second-guessing themselves. Straight couples doing the same. Everyone just existing together in this beautiful, glowing, sweaty celebration.
Alex covered himself in neon body paint (provided by Virgin at stations around the deck) and looked absolutely ridiculous under the UV lights. I stuck with glow sticks wrapped around my wrists and neck. By midnight, we were both drenched in sweat, grinning like idiots, completely caught up in the moment.
What made it special
- Proper DJ (not just someone playing Spotify)
- Excellent sound system (clear, powerful, balanced)
- Thoughtful production (UV lights, glow sticks, body paint stations)
- The crowd (everyone was there—present, engaged, dancing)
- The inclusivity (genuinely one of the queerest spaces we've experienced outside of explicitly LGBTQ+ events)
Tip for future sailors: Arrive early to grab glow sticks and body paint before they run out. Wear something you don't mind getting sweaty and paint-stained. Bring a water bottle (free water stations are nearby). Don't bring your phone unless it's waterproof—the energy is so good you won't want to be on your phone anyway.
PJ Party in The Manor: Cosy chaos
The PJ Party on Resilient Lady happened on deck under the stars. On Brilliant Lady, it was in The Manor—the ship's nightclub-style venue. Different vibe, still brilliant fun.
The Manor is gorgeous—dark woods, velvet seating, moody lighting, proper club sound system. For the PJ Party, Virgin encouraged everyone to wear pyjamas (or robes, or onesies, or whatever you sleep in), served milk and cookies alongside cocktails, and played a mix of current hits and nostalgic throwbacks.
We wore matching pyjamas (bought specifically for this—we're those people) and felt absolutely ridiculous walking through the ship in sleepwear. Once we arrived at The Manor, everyone else was equally ridiculously dressed, and it immediately felt fun rather than stupid.
The party had a cosier, more intimate energy than the deck parties. The venue capacity is
PJ Party in The Manor: Cosy chaos
The PJ Party on Resilient Lady happened on deck under the stars. On Brilliant Lady, it was in The Manor—the ship's nightclub-style venue. Different vibe, still brilliant fun.
The Manor is gorgeous—dark woods, velvet seating, moody lighting, proper club sound system. For the PJ Party, Virgin encouraged everyone to wear pyjamas (or robes, or onesies, or whatever you sleep in), served milk and cookies alongside cocktails, and played a mix of current hits and nostalgic throwbacks.
We wore matching pyjamas (bought specifically for this—we're those people) and felt absolutely ridiculous walking through the ship in sleepwear. Once we arrived at The Manor, everyone else was equally ridiculously dressed, and it immediately felt fun rather than stupid.
The party had a cosier, more intimate energy than the deck parties. The venue capacity is smaller, so it felt more like a proper club night than a massive festival. People were dancing, yes, but also chatting, lounging on the velvet sofas, and genuinely socialising. We made friends with a couple from Manchester (shoutout to Tom and Sarah—you were brilliant) and ended up hanging out with them for the rest of the cruise.
What we loved:
- The commitment—everyone actually wore pyjamas
- The atmosphere—cosy but still high-energy
- The music—nostalgic hits mixed with current bangers
- The milk and cookies—ridiculous but charming
Tip: Don't wear your best pyjamas. Spilt drinks are inevitable, and you'll be sweaty by the end of the night.
Up with a Twist: The boozy climbing party
Up with a Twist is exactly what it sounds like—a party where you climb up through the ship's decks, stopping at various bars along the way for cocktails. By the time you reach the top, you're thoroughly drunk and having the time of your life. It's chaotic, it's fun, and it's genuinely one of Virgin's most creative concepts.
The party started on Deck 5 with champagne cocktails. We were given cards that got stamped at each bar—collect all the stamps, reach the top deck, win a prize (the prize was a t-shirt, but honestly, by that point, we were too drunk to care). The music followed us up—DJs on each deck playing progressively higher-energy sets as we climbed.
By Deck 7 (tequila shots), we were properly tipsy. By Deck 10 (frozen margaritas), we were drunk. By the top deck (champagne and a DJ playing house music), we were absolutely gone. Alex tried to climb onto a railing for a photo, and I had to physically pull him down. We were disasters. Brilliant, happy disasters.
What made it fun:
- The progressive structure—each deck felt like levelling up
- The variety of drinks—not just one cocktail repeatedly
- The crowd energy—everyone getting progressively drunker together
- The ridiculousness—this party doesn't take itself seriously, and neither should you
Warning: Pace yourself. Seriously. We didn't, and we paid for it the next morning. There's no shame in skipping a drink or two along the way.
Drag performances at Razzle Dazzle
We've already mentioned Razzle Dazzle's drag brunch, but Virgin also hosts standalone drag shows throughout the week. These aren't amateur hour—these are genuinely talented performers with sharp comedy, excellent lip-syncing, and crowd work that rivals proper West End or Broadway shows.
The queens worked the entire room, made jokes that actually landed, and created an atmosphere that felt celebratory without being tokenistic. This wasn't "look, we have drag queens because we're LGBTQ-friendly"—this was "we have drag queens because they're brilliant entertainers and everyone deserves to experience this."
We saw two different shows during the week. Both were excellent. Both had us laughing, clapping, and leaving with huge smiles on our faces.
Why this matters: Virgin isn't just tolerating queer culture—they're celebrating it, centering it, and sharing it with everyone onboard. That's genuinely special. It's the difference between saying you're inclusive and actually being inclusive.
The general party atmosphere
Beyond the big themed events, there's a constant sense of energy and celebration throughout the ship. DJs play poolside most afternoons. The Aquatic Club (an adults-only pool area) has a sophisticated daytime party vibe. The Manor transforms into a proper nightclub most evenings with different themed nights.
The crowd makes it work. People are friendly, open, and genuinely there to have fun. We've been on cruises where socialising feels forced or awkward—everyone sticks to their own groups, avoids eye contact, treats the ship like a hotel they happen to be trapped in. Virgin's crowd actively wants to meet people, chat, dance together. It creates a collective energy that enhances everything.
LGBTQ+ inclusivity: The reality
We need to talk about this properly because "gay-friendly" gets thrown around constantly in travel marketing, and most of the time, it's meaningless. Virgin Voyages is different.
Same-sex couples were everywhere on Brilliant Lady. At breakfast, by the pool, at dinner, dancing at parties. Holding hands, being affectionate, existing without modification or self-consciousness. Staff used inclusive language naturally—asking about "partners" rather than assuming gender, treating same-sex couples identically to straight couples, never making us feel like we needed to explain or justify our relationship.
This wasn't rainbow capitalism or performative allyship. This was genuine, embedded inclusivity. Virgin actively courts LGBTQ+ travellers, and it shows in who books their cruises. We felt completely comfortable being ourselves—dancing together, being affectionate, making queer jokes without second-guessing whether they'd land. That comfort is rare and valuable.
Specific observations:
- Multiple same-sex couples celebrating anniversaries or honeymoons
- Gender-neutral bathroom options clearly marked
- Drag performances integrated into regular entertainment (not segregated into "LGBTQ+ night")
- Staff comfortable using they/them pronouns when appropriate
- Zero awkwardness or discomfort from other passengers when we were affectionate
For straight allies reading this: this is what genuine inclusivity looks like. Not tolerance, not acceptance—celebration. Virgin creates space where queer people can be fully themselves, and in doing so, they create a better experience for everyone.
Capacity issues during parties
The one downside: on full-capacity sailings, some venues hit maximum occupancy during popular events. We couldn't get into a couple of shows because The Red Room (Virgin's theatre-style venue) reached capacity and security stopped admitting people.
This was frustrating. You're paying good money for a cruise, you want to see a specific performance, and you're turned away at the door. RockStar passengers get guaranteed entry, but Sea Terrace passengers are at the mercy of timing and capacity.
Our advice: arrive early for shows you're excited about. Not 5 minutes early—20-30 minutes early. Grab a seat, grab a drink, and wait. It's annoying, but it's the only way to guarantee entry on full sailings.
We suspect Virgin will adjust capacity management as Brilliant Lady settles into service. On Resilient Lady, we never experienced this problem. It seems to be a first-sailing growing pain rather than a systemic issue.
Final thoughts on parties and atmosphere
Virgin Voyages' parties and overall energy are genuinely what make the experience special. The food could be better, the service could be faster, but the atmosphere? They've absolutely nailed it.
This is cruising for people who don't think they like cruising. It's sophisticated but not stuffy, high-energy but not exhausting, inclusive but not exclusive. The parties are genuinely fun (not forced fun, not performing-for-camera fun—actual, lose-yourself-in-the-moment fun). The crowd is lovely. The energy is infectious.
If you're the kind of person who enjoys nightlife, dancing, and celebrating with strangers who might become friends, Virgin Voyages delivers something genuinely special. If you prefer quiet evenings and early nights, this might not be your vibe—but honestly, you'd be missing out.
We left each party sweaty, happy, and already planning which one we'd hit the next night. That's exactly what cruise entertainment should feel like.
Bermuda: Quick thoughts
We'll cover Bermuda properly in a separate dedicated post, but quick thoughts since it was our port stop on this sailing:
Bermuda is stunning. Genuinely beautiful. Crystal-clear turquoise water, pink sand beaches, British colonial architecture painted in pastel colours, and an atmosphere that feels like someone took the best bits of the Caribbean and made them more organised and polite.
The island felt safe, welcoming, and surprisingly easy to navigate. We hired a scooter (terrifying on the left-hand side of the road but brilliant fun once you adjust), explored independently, and loved every minute. The beaches are gorgeous—Horseshoe Bay gets all the attention (and the crowds), but there are quieter coves dotted around the island if you're willing to explore.
Food in Bermuda is expensive. Really expensive. Budget accordingly. A casual lunch for two easily hit $80-100 USD, and that's before drinks. It's worth it—the food is generally excellent, with strong British influences (proper fish and chips, Sunday roasts, cream teas)—but don't arrive expecting Caribbean-level prices.
We spent one full day ashore (the ship docked overnight, so we also enjoyed Bermuda's nightlife—much quieter than the ship, but charming in its own way). One day felt right for a first visit, though we'd happily spend 2-3 days if we returned.
Bermuda highlights:
- Horseshoe Bay Beach (yes, it's touristy, but it's gorgeous)
- Scooter hire (rent from Oleander Cycles—friendly staff, good bikes, reasonable rates)
- St. George's (historic town, UNESCO World Heritage Site, worth a wander)
- Dark 'n' Stormy cocktails (Bermuda's national drink—Gosling's rum and ginger beer, brilliant)
- The general vibe (British orderliness meets island relaxation)
Bermuda tips:
- Bring cash—some smaller places don't take cards
- Rent a scooter early in the day (they run out during cruise ship port days)
- Wear reef-safe sunscreen (Bermuda's protective of their marine environment)
- Try a fish sandwich from a roadside stand (local institution, delicious, cheap)
More detailed Bermuda coverage coming soon in a dedicated guide. For now, just know it's absolutely worth visiting if you're sailing Virgin's NYC-JContinueBermuda route.
Related: Planning time in NYC before or after your cruise? Read our 5-day New York itinerary for gay couples for honest neighbourhood guides, where to stay, and nightlife recommendations.
Disembarkation chaos & Uber tips
Disembarkation from Brilliant Lady was chaotic. Not Virgin's fault entirely—Brooklyn Cruise Terminal is small, the area lacks public transport options, and when a massive ship dumps 2,700 passengers into the surrounding streets simultaneously, things get messy. But there are lessons we learned that'll save you time, money, and stress.
The disembarkation process
Virgin Voyages' disembarkation is relatively painless compared to traditional cruise lines. No formal check-out, no waiting in long queues clutching paperwork—just leave your bags outside your cabin the night before (they'll be waiting for you at the terminal), scan your ship card one final time, and walk off.
Disembarkation times are assigned based on your travel plans. We had flights later that afternoon, so we were given a 9:00 AM departure slot. You can request earlier or later times depending on your needs (Virgin's app lets you manage this).
The process:
- Night before: Pack your bags (keep a small carry-on for overnight essentials), leave suitcases outside your cabin by 10:00 PM
- Morning of: Grab breakfast (or try to—remember our disaster), check your cabin one final time, head to the designated disembarkation area
- At the terminal: Scan your ship card, collect your luggage from the designated area (bags are organised by deck number), go through security, exit the terminal
Final Verdict: Would we sail Brilliant Lady again?
Yes. Absolutely. Without hesitation.
Despite the teething issues, the long food waits, the occasional venue capacity chaos, and that breakfast disaster on disembarkation day, we had a brilliant time on Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady. The ship is stunning, the energy is infectious, the inclusivity is real, and the parties genuinely deliver. We're already planning our next Virgin sailing.
But we need to be honest about what this experience taught us about sailing new ships on early voyages.
What Brilliant Lady got right
The inclusivity
This is Virgin's greatest strength. Genuine, embedded LGBTQ+ inclusivity that goes beyond rainbow flags and tokenistic gestures. Same-sex couples everywhere, staff using inclusive language naturally, drag performances integrated into regular entertainment, and an overall atmosphere where queer people can be fully themselves. That's rare and valuable.
The parties
Genuinely excellent. Creative themes, proper production values, talented performers, and crowds that actually show up ready to have fun. The Neon Party was one of the best nights we've had on any cruise. Ever.
The cabin quality
Our Sea Terrace cabin was lovely. Spacious, well-designed, thoughtful touches throughout. Yes, the bathroom was small, but the balcony more than made up for it. Excellent value for money.
The bar tab system
Brilliant concept, well-executed, genuinely saves money if you use it properly. £700 for two cocktail-loving travellers on a week-long sailing was perfect. We'd use the same strategy again.
The ship itself
Brilliant Lady is gorgeous. Modern design, smart layout, adults-only policy that creates a sophisticated atmosphere. Walking around the ship genuinely felt special.
The crew
Lovely, friendly, approachable people who clearly enjoy their jobs. That Virgin Group energy is real, and it permeates the entire experience.
What needs improvement
Food service speed
This was the biggest letdown. Long waits, inconsistent timing, and that breakfast disaster on disembarkation day all pointed to capacity planning issues. Virgin packed the ship to capacity before crew had time to find their rhythm. Profit over experience.
Food quality
Good but not excellent. Compared to our Athens sailing on Resilient Lady, dishes felt less polished. We think this is temporary—a function of first-sailing chaos rather than systemic problems—but it was noticeable.
Venue capacity management
Missing shows because venues hit capacity was frustrating. RockStar passengers get guaranteed entry, but everyone else is left hoping. Virgin needs better systems for managing demand or clearer communication about capacity limits.
Embarkation organisation
Functional but chaotic. Crew were still learning the ship's layout, signage wasn't always clear, and there was a general sense of "we're all working this out together" that won't be present on later sailings.
Comparing Brilliant Lady to Resilient Lady
We sailed Resilient Lady from Athens in May 2024, and that experience set our expectations for Virgin Voyages. How does Brilliant Lady compare?
Resilient Lady (Athens)
- Smoother operations (ship had been in service longer)
- Better food quality (faster service, more consistent dishes)
- Easier embarkation and disembarkation (Piraeus port is better organised than Brooklyn Terminal)
- Similar party energy (excellent on both ships)
- Similar inclusivity (genuine on both ships)
Brilliant Lady (NYC)
- More chaotic (first full-capacity sailing, crew still learning)
- Slightly lower food quality (wait times longer, dishes less polished)
- More challenging logistics (Brooklyn Terminal, NYC transport)
- Same excellent party energy
- Same genuine inclusivity
The core Virgin Voyages experience—inclusive atmosphere, creative parties, adults-only sophistication—was identical on both ships. The operational smoothness differed, and we attribute that entirely to Brilliant Lady being newer and still finding its rhythm.
Who should sail Brilliant Lady?
You'll love Brilliant Lady if:
- You're looking for genuinely inclusive LGBTQ+ travel experiences
- You enjoy nightlife, parties, and high-energy atmospheres
- You value flexibility over rigid cruise schedules (no assigned seating, no dress codes)
- You're willing to forgive first-sailing hiccups for the chance to sail a brand-new ship
- You want adults-only cruising (no kids, ever)
- You prioritise experiences and atmosphere over ultra-luxury
- You're comfortable navigating occasional chaos with humour and patience
Brilliant Lady might not suit you if:
- You prefer quiet, traditional cruise experiences
- You need everything to run perfectly smoothly
- You're sailing in the first few months after launch (wait until operations settle)
- You prioritise food quality above all else
- You prefer smaller, intimate ships
- You're uncomfortable in high-energy party environments
When to sail Brilliant Lady
Best time: Wait until the ship's been in service for 3–6 months. By then, crew will have found their rhythm, capacity issues will be resolved, and operations will be smoother. You'll still get the new-ship excitement without the first-sailing chaos.
Peak season (summer, holidays):
Expect full capacity sailings, potential venue access issues, higher prices. Book well in advance and consider upgrading to RockStar if guaranteed show access matters to you.
Off-peak (winter, shoulder season):
Lower capacity means smoother operations, easier venue access, better value. If your schedule allows, this is the smart time to sail.
Final thoughts
Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady delivered an experience that was chaotic, beautiful, occasionally frustrating, and genuinely fun. We loved it despite its flaws. We'd sail again without hesitation.
The teething issues will resolve themselves. Food will improve. Capacity management will get better. Crew will find their rhythm. The core Virgin Voyages magic—that genuine inclusivity, those brilliant parties, that infectious energy—is already there. Everything else is just operational tweaking.
If you're considering Virgin Voyages, here's our honest advice:
- Book Sea Terrace unless you have specific reasons to upgrade
- Load more bar tab credit than you think you'll need
- Book Extra Virgin for dinner
- Arrive early for popular shows
- Walk away from the cruise terminal before requesting your Uber
- And most importantly: embrace the chaos, dance at the parties, and let yourself get caught up in Virgin's genuinely special atmosphere
We're already planning our next sailing. That tells you everything you need to know.
Watch our full YouTube review
Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady MerMaiden Review
Related reading
- Virgin Atlantic Upper Class A350 Review (our flight to NYC for this cruise)
- 5-Day New York Itinerary for Gay Couples (our NYC adventures before the cruise)
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