Latest news with #BrilliantLady
Travel Weekly
13-05-2025
- Business
- Travel Weekly
As it approaches its four-year cruising anniversary, Virgin Voyages has goals
Teri West NEW YORK -- Debuting its first ship to homeport in the Northeastern U.S. may be Virgin Voyages' biggest undertaking this year, but it's far from its only goal as the cruise line approaches its fourth anniversary. As Virgin Voyages grows -- its fourth ship, the Brilliant Lady, will debut in New York in September -- and works to gain customer loyalty, it is eager to make each ship distinct, tempting customers to try a new one to access different cuisine and entertainment. And through partnerships with travel advisors and its own advertising, Virgin Voyages aims to address a misconception: That its product is not just for young adults eager to party but one that can be enjoyed by adults of all ages. Last month, CEO Nirmal Saverimuttu, COO Michelle Bentubo and chief marketing officer Nathan Rosenberg engaged with travel advisors at the Virgin Hotel in midtown Manhattan, talking with them about the Brilliant Lady's upcoming debut. There were murmurs of agreement from agents in the room when Saverimuttu asked whether their clients believe Virgin is a "party cruise line." It's something a recently launched ad campaign intends to contradict, by featuring adults of all generations on Virgin enjoying activities from running to pasta-making classes. "We've been trying to support you all with better marketing messages ... to help you tell the story, because the reality is Virgin Voyages is for anybody traveling without kids," Saverimuttu told the advisors. "That's it." Keeping onboard concepts fresh One of Virgin's biggest competitive assets is its dining options, and it knows that means it needs to keep the concepts fresh. Saverimuttu said that customers were "repeating a lot. They're coming back far faster than we ever expected them to, which is a good thing, but it's a challenge for us that we have to keep evolving the product." He hinted at new menus underway, and that week, the brand announced that Brilliant Lady would debut a Spanish-inspired restaurant, Rojo by Razzle Dazzle. Scarlet Lady, by comparison, has a Razzle Dazzle restaurant with Chinese cuisine called Lucky Lotus. "What are the differentiators we can put on each of the ships, that you're only going to get this experience when you go on that vessel?" Bentubo said in explaining the philosophy. On the entertainment side, for example, the offerings on the Brilliant will be unique, she said, with seven original productions. Other features Virgin has underway aim to simplify and add incentives to the booking and arrival process. A pre- and post-cruise package involving the New York Virgin Hotel is in the works for Brilliant Lady-bound guests. A new Brilliant Bounty incentive will give advisors $200 per new Brilliant Lady customer booked for the next two months. That money can be used any way an agent chooses, including handing it directly to the customer should they need an extra push to convince them the price is right. And the company is redoing its Circle program for group bookings, which Saverimuttu conceded was too complex. "The intent for us was to create a program that was very flexible, that was not complicated, but unfortunately I think we have failed the second half," he said. "We have too much flexibility, so the whole thing's become a mess." Virgin Voyages' positive booking trends Virgin said that as of the end of its first quarter, March 31, it wasn't feeling the effects of global sentiment about U.S. policies, which have prompted some foreign travelers to avoid visits to the U.S. "We have not seen a slowdown from our Canadian market," Bentubo said, adding that Canadian revenue was up 45% and bookings grew by 36% in Q1. The one trend the company was watching was a move to closer-in bookings, she said. And Virgin is aware that customers may be increasingly cautious about discretionary spending, Bentubo said. "We will have to remain focused on making sure that we are providing the value, so that when somebody chooses to spend that money, and they want to spend it wisely, that they're getting the most for their dollar," Bentubo said. "And that is why I think that we've not experienced [a slowdown]. People are booking us, and our revenue has been phenomenal over the last three months ... because we offer a value experience."
Forbes
01-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Virgin Voyages Launches Rojo, Adding More Razzle Dazzle To High Seas
Cruise lines have been hitting it out of the park with their food and beverage efforts of late, as high-concept restaurants from celebrity chefs is increasingly on the menu. The latest example of this can be seen via Brilliant Lady, Virgin Voyages' newest ship, which is already about to get a restaurant upgrade as the line has unveiled Rojo by Razzle Dazzle, a new Spanish-inspired restaurant. Maine Lobster Paella at Rojo by Razzle Dazzle, a new Spanish-inspired restaurant on Virgin Voyages. ... More The new restaurant, helmed by chefs Justin Severino and Nate Hobart, who are famously co-chefs of Morcilla, a Pittsburgh-based Spanish-style charcuteria, will feature signature dishes such as Oxtail Montadito with braised oxtail, caramelized onion, mahón cheese and a crostini. "Rojo came to fruition after many discussions of how we wanted to evolve our award-winning culinary program," said Chef Levi Mezick, Director of Culinary Program Development at Virgin Voyages, in an interview. "We wanted to showcase one of our incredible homeports and chose Barcelona because we thought the convivial nature of small, tapas-style dining felt very Virgin and lends itself to the sense of community we try to build on each voyage. Also, Spanish cuisine has amazing depth and flavor that the team fell in love with," said Mezick. This is in a long line of exciting new restaurant concepts Virgin has been unveiling. "Rojo is the latest pop-up taking over the Razzle Dazzle restaurant," said Mezick. There's been other pop-ups like this across the fleet, such as Lucky Lotus by Razzle Dazzle, which is a Chinese-inspired culinary concept, and Razzle Dazzle by Night which is a modern twist on American classics. "Lucky Lotus (which launched in the fall aboard Scarlet Lady), was so well received and now the highest rated restaurant across the fleet. Coming off that success, we also wanted to give Brilliant Lady a handful of fresh experiences (and experiences Sailors could only get on that ship), so we decided to totally change the look and feel of Razzle Dazzle," said Mezick. For this restaurant, rather than black and white "Razzle Dazzle" pattern (inspired by WWI ships), this spot will have what is meant to be more of a Spanish flair, such as deeper red tones and warm wood accents. A standout item on the menu is Oxtail Montadito with caramelized onion, mahon cheese and crostini. "The oxtail is slowly braised and then mixed with garlic and fresh herbs. We coat the crostini with a caramelized onion jam and then top with the oxtail and mahon cheese. The dish is a savory explosion of flavor. It has a deep rich flavor that only comes from long slow cooking," said Mezick. Char ártico asado a la plancha with arctic char, Artichokes, and salsa verde. Another signature dish will be char ártico asado a la plancha with arctic char, Artichokes, and salsa verde. "I have alway loved cooking fish and Arctic Char has always been one of my favorites. The fish has a mild flavor that is slightly buttery and sweet. The flavor of the char is enhanced by adding crispy artichokes and a fresh tanginess that comes from the salsa verde," said Mezick. As ship restaurants need to rise to the occasion day and night to fully be appreciated, during the day, there'll also be a Spanish-American brunch with dishes that include jamon croquettes paired with options such as acai bowls, pastries and frittatas. At night, the menu features pintxos, tapas, and platos grandes and a wine menu that will include well-known Spanish bold reds like Rioja and Ribera del Duero as well as whites like Albariños from Rias Baixas as well as artisanal vermouths, sangrias, sherries and sparkling Provocativo cava spritzes. Rojo by Razzle Dazzle will open on September 5, 2025 during Brilliant Lady's maiden voyage from New York City to Bermuda.
The Independent
23-04-2025
- Business
- The Independent
Virgin Voyages boss: Why no children is key to a successful cruise
Child-free cruises have been hailed as a key factor in the success of Virgin Voyages. The adult-only cruise brand reported a record wave season – the industry's new year sales period – in the first quarter of 2025. The cruise line said it has been buoyed by record bookings and revenues as passengers seek premium kid-free sailings. Sir Richard Branson's cruise brand revealed it has seen 34 per cent growth in bookings, with revenue up 45 per cent globally and 30 per cent in the UK. Nirmal Saverimuttu, chief executive of Virgin Voyages, said: "These outstanding results demonstrate the tremendous momentum our brand has established in the market. 'Our kid-free, award-winning experience has successfully positioned us as a true premium alternative in the cruise industry.' Virgin Voyages launched its first ship, Scarlet Lady, in August 2021, with an aim to make waves in the cruise industry and appeal to a younger audience. The fleet has since been joined by Resilient Lady and Valiant Lady. A fourth ship, Brilliant Lady, is due to launch with a maiden voyage from New York this September. It has ditched dress codes and main dining rooms for a mix of specialty restaurants such as the Gunbae Korean barbecue and the six-course Test Kitchen, all included in the cruise fare. There is even a tattoo parlour and record shop onboard. Virgin Voyages says the median age of its passengers falls between 43 and 47, which is below the cruise industry average of 55. There are plenty of photo opportunities around the ship with colourful backdrops, and passengers will find unique takes on entertainment onboard such as a 1980s style VHS workout and a drag bingo event called Bingo With The Diva. Virgin Voyages also has a Scarlet Night, where passengers are encouraged to dress in red. There is a party atmosphere with acrobats and performances across the ship, with the night culminates in a poolside disco. You may even be invited to its secret bar below deck. It wasn't all smooth sailing at the start though as some Virgin Voyages passengers initially questioned the bland cabin décor and small pool size, while there were some eyebrows raised by an 'adult toy box' that could be purchased in the rooms. Cabins have since been improved, with pictures, wood panelling, throw pillows and more storage. The adult toy box has been removed and some of the more risqué entertainment has been changed. Never Sleep Alone, a headline show that gave out condoms and featured a sex therapist advising passengers on chat up lines and bedroom antics, is no longer on the ships and there is more of a focus on comedy, cabaret and wellness onboard. For example, passengers can book a comedy cruise hosted by Jack Whitehall aboard Scarlet Lady from Portsmouth this August. Saverimuttu said the brand is appealing to those who are looking for a more relaxed environment without kids. and some sailings are made up of 60 per cent of repeat cruisers. He added: 'Our vessels' deliberate size delivers the perfect balance of intimate, elevated experiences with exceptional variety that resonates strongly with consumers. The impressive repeat booking rates we're seeing validate our business model and product-market fit, with initial sailings consistently converting to long-term customer relationships. 'We're not just changing how people cruise – we're redefining what a vacation at sea can be. And we're doing it with our signature mix of style, substance, and innovation that only Virgin can deliver, including exciting new itineraries, new entertainment, new food and of course Brilliant Lady 's debut.' There are plenty other adult-only brands. A recent Which? cruise passenger survey ranked over-50s line Saga as the best cruise brand, while other options include Ambassador and Viking. Cruise lines such as P&O Cruises and Marella also have adult-only ships. Alternatively, there are lots of family-focused cruise lines offering waterslides, entertainment and top kids' clubs such as Norwegian Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises and Disney. Carnival Corporation, which owns P&O Cruises and Princess Cruises as well as Cunard, also reported record revenues during wave season. Josh Weinstein, chief executive of Carnival Corporation, said: 'We are delivering amazing vacation experiences every day in a time when people all over the world are placing increasing importance on experiences, particularly those spent with family and friends. Our value for money is truly a strength when people look to make their vacation dollars go further.'
Forbes
27-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
The Most Exciting New Cruise Ship Launches Of 2025
You don't have to be a cruiser to marvel at the impressive scope of today's cruise ships. Gone are the days of tiny cabins, limited dining options and uninspired entertainment—ships these days offer everything from full-scale Broadway shows, outposts of celebrated restaurants and slidecoasters (yes, it's exactly what it sounds like). From Disney's latest, Disney Destiny, to MSC Cruises' sleek new MSC World America, 2025 is shaping up to be a big year for new cruise ships. There's something for everyone, from a massive waterpark on Royal Caribbean's Star of the Seas to immersive pop-up festivals on Celebrity Cruises' Celebrity Xcel. Below, the most exciting new cruise ships of 2025. Artist's rendering of Disney Destiny. The House of Mouse is launching the new Disney Destiny this fall, when it's set to cruise the Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale. Holding 4,000 passengers, the new ship will debut a new main dining experience—'Feast of The Lion King'—as well as new bars, including De Vil's piano lounge (inspired by Cruella de Vil) and The Sanctum (paying homage to Doctor Strange). Themed around Disney heroes and villains, families of all ages will have something to enjoy, including photo opps in front of a giant statue of T'Challa from "Black Panther' in the Grand Hall and the ship's new AquaMouse water-coaster, featuring foes like Scar from 'The Lion King' and the Evil Queen from 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.' Explorer Suite on Viking Vesta. The 12th ship in Viking's small, ocean-going fleet, Viking Vesta will debut this summer with an intimate head count of just 998 passengers. Due to its small size and adults-only atmosphere (guests must be 18 to sail), it's a great choice for couples who want to relax and unwind in the Mediterranean. Like many of Viking's other ships, Vesta will feature chic and minimalist Scandinavian design, as well as low-key activities (think: educational workshops and trivia nights) that cater to the brand's older and more distinguished crowd. This ship will be 30-feet longer than its previous counterparts, meaning there's sure to be plenty of space to spread out across its two pools, spa and thermal suite. Exterior of Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady. Virgin Voyages, best known for its hip and irreverent design and entertainment, is an ideal choice for friend groups or young couples that want a more fresh and cheeky atmosphere than the traditional cruise scene. This year, the brand is debuting the latest ship in its fleet, Brilliant Lady, which will hold up to 2,770 passengers and feature many of the same popular amenities found on its sister ships Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady and Resilient Lady (think: included Wi-Fi, high-quality dining and well-made cocktails). It will be the first Virgin ship to sail from the line's new home ports of New York City and Los Angeles, as well as the first to debut Canadian itineraries. Aerial view of Royal Caribbean Star of the Seas at night. Sometimes bigger really is better: As if the 2024 debut of Icon of the Seas—also known as the world's largest cruise ship—wasn't enough, Royal Caribbean is continuing to expand with a new offering, Star of the Seas. Set to debut this summer, the new ship will hold 7,600 passengers and offer over 40 restaurants and bars as well as a massive water park that will include six slides and seven pools. Much like Icon of the Seas, the new ship will also feature the AquaDome, home to the largest waterfall at sea and live diving performances and acrobatic water shows at the AquaTheater, as well as the AquaDome Market, a global food hall featuring seemingly endless selections of international fare. Terrace Suite on the Luminara. Luxury hotel group The Ritz-Carlton is bringing another superyacht to the seas this summer through their cruise line, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. The brand's latest ship, Luminara, will hold just 452 passengers and feature spacious all-suite, all-balcony accommodations, in addition to five restaurants and six bars. Similar to the brand's first two yachts, Evrima and Ilma, luxurious furnishings and refined interiors will be on display, thanks to architecture and design company AD Associates and interior design firm Chapi Chapo Design. Luminara will also debut a new category of Residential Suites beginning at a very spacious 1,000 square feet. Exterior of Norwegian Aqua. Norwegian Cruise Line was already well-known for its full-scale Broadway performances and theme park-like activities, but the cruise line's latest ship, Norwegian Aqua, will offer an even more ambitious entertainment slate when it debuts this spring. A larger version of its sister ships, Prima and Viva, Norwegian Aqua will mark the debut of Norwegian's latest creation, the Aqua Slidecoaster. A hybrid water slide and rollercoaster, guests will be able to propel up and down three stories of the ship—not for the faint of heart. In addition, an indoor glowing sports court is sure to entertain active teens and adults, and much to the delight of adrenaline junkies, The Drop, a dry slide off the side of the ship that made its debut on Prima, will be back for round two. MSC World America will debut the first Eataly at sea. After the launch of MSC World Europa last year, MSC is bringing the next ship in its World Class fleet stateside. MSC World America will be the first of its fleet to sail from the U.S. to the Caribbean, and will be a particular draw for foodies, thanks to its wide range of diverse dining outlets. In addition to Paxos, a Greek restaurant that will encourage guests to select their meal from a fresh fish counter, the crown jewel of the ship will be the first-ever Eataly at sea. The reservation-only outpost of the popular Italian food market will offer 94 indoor seats as well as a 22-seat patio area and sling up classic favorites as well as several new dishes exclusive to the MSC ship. Celebrity Xcel At Sea. Large families or groups with a wide variety of interests are sure to find something to love on Celebrity's latest ship, Celebrity Xcel. Much like the cruise line's previous Edge-class ships—Edge, Apex, Beyond and Ascent—Celebrity Xcel will feature many of the same innovative offerings, like the Magic Carpet (which transforms into different restaurants, bars and lounges as it moves up and down the side of the ship) and Infinite Balconies (which allows a stateroom to merge into a veranda with the touch of a button). What sets this ship apart is the debut of The Bazaar, a space dedicated to immersive festivals, music, shopping experiences and entertainment that will change in accordance with the ship's destination that day. Activities will include dance classes, crafting workshops and performances by local musicians. My name is Astrid Taran and I'm the senior travel editor at Forbes Vetted, where I oversee hotel and cruise coverage. I have covered travel for almost a full decade as both a writer and editor, during which I have written numerous destination, hotel and cruise guides as well as long-form features on luxury travel, adventure travel, wellness travel and more. I have taken almost a dozen cruises over the course of my career to destinations including Alaska, the Galapagos, the Caribbean and the Mediterranean.
