Virgin Voyages is making significant updates in 2025, bringing changes that will impact every sailor.
From a brand-new ship launch to updated itineraries, entertainment, dining, and even an overhaul of the Virgin Voyages app, this is a year of transformation.
If you’re planning a cruise, this post will walk you through every major update, helping you prepare for what’s ahead.
This blog post expands on everything covered in the video while providing additional insights into how these changes might affect your sailing experience
There is a full YouTube video that breaks down all of these updates in greater detail. If you want to see firsthand what is changing, be sure to watch the video below for a comprehensive overview of what’s new in 2025.
Brilliant Lady Launches in September 2025
One of the biggest and most exciting updates for 2025 is the launch of Brilliant Lady, Virgin Voyages’ fourth ship.
This long-anticipated addition to the fleet will debut in September 2025 and introduce a slimmer ship design that allows access to more unique ports.
While the core Virgin Voyages experience remains intact, this ship’s itineraries bring new opportunities for exploration.
Brilliant Lady will have four homeports throughout her inaugural season:
- New York City (September 2025)
- Miami (October 2025)
- Los Angeles (Spring 2026)
- Seattle (Summer 2026, featuring Alaska sailings)
Her itineraries will include another Panama Canal voyage and Virgin Voyages’ first full Alaska season, marking an expansion into destinations that travelers have long requested.
If you are excited about sailing on Brilliant Lady, be sure to book your trip with us to get the best rates and access to exclusive deals.
Scarlet Lady Gets a Refresh
In late 2024, Scarlet Lady went through a brief dry dock period, during which Virgin Voyages introduced a few updates to enhance the onboard experience.
The most noticeable changes include:
- Razzle Dazzle becomes Lucky Lotus by Razzle Dazzle for dinner, introducing an all-new Chinese-inspired menu. Brunch stays (mostly) the same with a change to three of the dishes.
- More RockStar rooms have been added, which is great news for those looking for premium accommodations. However, this may mean Richard’s Rooftop will feel more crowded Richard’s Sunset Hour.
While these updates don’t dramatically change Scarlet Lady, they are small adjustments that enhance the overall experience.
Read more in the full blog post here.
Get TOP TIPS in the Printable Virgin Voyages Pocket Guide
Want all the MUST-KNOW tips in in a PRINTABLE GUIDE to have with you while sailing?
Don’t miss out on the Virgin Voyages pocket guide which summarizes all the KEY things to know and serves as your go-to while you’re on the ship.
The Virgin Voyages App is Getting a Much-Needed Overhaul
The Virgin Voyages app has long been a point of frustration for many sailors, and finally, in 2025, a major redesign is in progress.
Beta testing has already begun, and while full details have not yet been released, the app is expected to be much more user-friendly.
One important change that has already been implemented is the ability to book brunch and dinner reservations on the Virgin Voyages website instead of solely relying on the app.
This update makes trip planning significantly easier, especially for those who find the current app challenging to navigate.
(This entire section is a nicer way of saying “the app sucks”)
Don’t forget to pack THIS!
Virgin Voyages has reimagined sailing and what you need to pack on for this trip is DIFFERENT than a normal cruise line. There are many items I wish I knew to bring (that I didn’t have with me on my first sailing).
Get a free printable pack list and save yourself the headache!
OR if you’re just looking for some inspo! See the curated list of Amazon items I’ve put together (and use!) for Virgin Voyages.
Entertainment: New Shows, Parties, and Previews
Virgin Voyages is bringing new energy to its entertainment lineup in 2025. Some key changes include:
Entertainment previews in the app: Virgin Voyages is now offering sailors a preview of their entertainment lineup before they set sail. While final schedules will still only be available onboard, this is a step toward better planning and transparency.
New themed parties: The highly anticipated Y2K Party and Club Caliente will offer fresh, immersive nightlife experiences onboard.
We’re also seeing parties like Studio 72 (Circus Disco) going away.
Duel Reality is available on land: The signature show that was once exclusive to Virgin Voyages is now touring on land, opening up new entertainment opportunities.
Returning acts: Fan-favorite performances, including The Magnets (acapella group) and Plan V (on Valiant Lady), are making a comeback.
Laugh Out Loud (LOL’z) Supper Club: This new comedy and dinner show at The Manor promises a night of laughter and delicious food.
Wi-Fi Updates: Faster but More Expensive
Wi-Fi has changed multiple times recently, and 2025 brings another update:
- Basic Wi-Fi – Free for all sailors.
- Premium Wi-Fi – 2x faster than basic, but longer supports VPNs.
- Work From Sea Wi-Fi – 5x faster than basic, most expensive and the only option that allows VPN access.
Speeds have improved, but pricing has increased, so sailors should plan accordingly.
For latest pricing see the updated blog post about wifi on Virgin Voyages by clicking here.
Dining Updates: New Menus and Bottomless Brunch
Food remains a highlight of the Virgin Voyages experience, and 2025 brings new dishes and brunch options. Updates include:
Bottomless Moët brunch at The Wake and Razzle Dazzle, available for $75 per person.
Extra Virgin’s expanded menu, featuring Salmon Crudo, Braised Lamb over Pasta, and Chicken Cacciatore.
Gunbae is introducing new dishes, particularly during the Eat & Drink Festival.
I’m going to be honest: I’m a super savvy traveler and I didn’t believe travel agents could get a better deal than me..
Until I was proven wrong by a *TOP 100* Virgin Voyages travel agent who beat every price I compared.
Learn more by clicking here!
Not sure if we can get you the best deal? Learn more about us in Virgin Voyages Facebook group by clicking here!
The Spa Experience is Changing
- Spa treatments can now be booked in advance.
- Thermal Suite access is no longer included with spa treatments—now requires a separate pass.
- Spa pricing has increased, continuing the trend of rising costs onboard.
The Solo Sailor Experience
The Solo Sailor program is expanding:
- More structured meetups and activities.
- Daily solo dinners instead of just a welcome event.
- The experience varies slightly by ship, but overall, it’s improving.
Read more about all the changes in the Solo Sailor blog post by clicking here.
The Annual Pass
Virgin Voyages continues to offer an Annual Pass, allowing unlimited sailing for a year. A new perk in 2025 includes itineraries with stops at Necker Island, Richard Branson’s private retreat.
My Honest Opinion on the Future of Virgin Voyages
With all of these changes, Virgin Voyages is continuing to evolve. I miss the old days. I want to make that clear.
While the expansion of new itineraries and entertainment options is exciting, the increase in pricing for things like Wi-Fi and spa access signals a shift toward a more premium experience and that all makes sense because Virgin Voyages needs to make money.
Some of the original cheekiness that made Virgin Voyages stand out is being toned down (a lot), and while it remains a unique cruise line, it is becoming more mainstream in ways that will draw in “the normal cruise crowd”.
The future of Virgin Voyages will likely involve a balance between maintaining its identity and making adjustments to appeal to a broader audience.
Will I still sail with Virgin Voyages? Yah. It’s a unique experience. Is it the ONLY kind of vacation I’m going to take? OF COURSE NOT.
Everyone thinks “I only cruise”, but I dare you to go watch the vlogs of me living on a yacht in the Maldives droning manta rays with a research team and ocean non profit or the time I biked across Ethiopia and camped with the locals.
Bottom Line
Virgin Voyages is bringing major updates in 2025:
- Brilliant Lady launches in September with four homeports.
- Entertainment and dining are getting a refresh.
- The Virgin Voyages app is being redesigned.
- Wi-Fi plans have changed again, with higher costs but better speeds.
- Bar Tab is still available but unpredictable.
- Weddings, structured solo programs, and spa changes are onboard.
- A new beer collaboration, new ports, and a revamped Annual Pass offer new experiences.
While Virgin Voyages still offers a unique experience, it is evolving to become more premium and mainstream.
For a full breakdown of everything changing, be sure to watch the full YouTube video. If you’re planning a sailing in 2025, book with us to secure the best deals and perks.
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