Virgin Voyages’ Brilliant Lady arrives in Portsmouth ahead of maiden voyage

Virgin Voyages’ new ship Brilliant Lady has arrived in Portsmouth to host 1,300 agents ahead of its first commercial sailing.

The ship, the fourth in the fleet, has docked in Portsmouth International Port prior to its maiden voyage to New York this Thursday, August 21.

Agents – as well as media and guests from the local area - are being invited on board to experience the ship, which boasts new entertainment, dining concepts and itineraries. These include four-night getaways to 17-night island-hopping trips.

More: UK market ‘on fire’ for Virgin Voyages as new ship showcased

Its New York sailings will call in at ports including Boston and Halifax, Nova Scotia, while Miami voyages include Caribbean destinations, such as the Bahamas, Dominica and Antigua. 

Virgin Voyages chief executive Nirmal Saverimuttu, who has credited agents with filling ships across the company’s fleet and contributing to record satisfaction levels, said: “Portsmouth has become a meaningful part of our journey. It’s where we introduced Scarlet Lady to the world and – four years later – where we’re celebrating the arrival of Brilliant Lady.

“Along the way, our full fleet of Lady Ships has passed through, making Portsmouth the first and only port in the world to have welcomed all of our vessels. Each one marks a new moment in the evolution of this incredible brand.

“The city has welcomed us from the start and been a great partner. As we continue to expand globally, it feels right to mark these milestones in a place that reflects our values, shares our maritime spirit and has supported us every step of the way.”

Virgin Voyages’ first ship Scarlet Lady launched from Portsmouth in 2021 and returned this year for a summer season of sailings. To date, more than 72,000 Virgin Voyages passengers have travelled through Portsmouth.

While in the city, crew will host 20 careers specialists from schools and colleges from the Portsmouth area. They will be introduced to the different roles and responsibilities carried out onboard to educate students on careers in the cruise industry.

In addition, professional members of the International Chamber of Shipping and the International Underwriting Association will meet the ship’s crew to get a first-hand look at the inner workings of cruise ships.

Industry data and independent reports estimate each cruise call can generate up to £1.5m, through tariffs, supply chain uplifts, and passenger and crew spend. The port, owned by Portsmouth City Council, is predicted to contribute £10.3m in profit to the council this year.

Councillor Steve Pitt, leader of Portsmouth City Council, said: "Portsmouth is very proud to be dubbed the UK home for such a recognisable brand. The investment our council-owned port has seen over the last few years has attracted many regular calls from established cruise lines who bring repeat business into the city.

"Virgin’s ships are also equipped to receive shore power, meaning they will be ready to plug in at the port and turn off their engines when the system goes live."