Virgin Voyages’ Brilliant Lady Makes Dazzling Debut in Saint John, New Brunswick
The Bay of Fundy shines as Virgin Voyages’ first-ever Canadian stop
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – SEPTEMBER 19, 2025
Saint John, NB – Today, Virgin Voyages’ newest leading lady, Brilliant Lady sails into Saint John during her much-anticipated North American debut. With her sleek silhouette and bold spirit, Brilliant Lady’s inaugural call to the Bay of Fundy also marks the brand’s first visit to the great white north.
Port Saint John is rolling out the red carpet to stage a welcome befitting of the iconic vessel and her Sailors. Headlined by unique activations, live performances, and interactive experiences, the AREA 506 Waterfront Container Village will transform into a playground aimed to inspire and delight.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Brilliant Lady and her Sailors to our beautiful city,” says Craig Bell Estabrooks, President & CEO of Port Saint John. “Being the first Canadian port of call for Virgin Voyages speaks volumes about our position as a premier cruise destination, and we look forward to showcasing the exceptional experiences our Bay of Fundy region has to offer.”
The crown jewel completing Virgin Voyages’ legendary class of Lady Ships, Brilliant Lady joins her sisters Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, and Resilient Lady in leading cruise industry innovation and excellence. With new shows and a new restaurant on board, Sailors can expect vibrancy, style, and the signature playfulness that has come to define the Virgin experience.
Brilliant Lady’s first visit to Saint John will also be marked by the presentation of a newly commissioned inaugural call plaque, featuring Indigenous artist Tara Audibert’s Sunrise Ceremony at Hopewell Rocks. This special recognition highlights a key moment in Port Saint John’s reconciliation journey, celebrated together with Virgin Voyages.
Natasha Salzedo, Director of Itineraries said, “We’re incredibly excited to bring Brilliant Lady to Saint John, marking Virgin Voyages’ very first visit to Canada. With its dramatic tides, charming streets and warm hospitality, we know our Sailors will be captivated by the city’s natural wonders. This moment is a milestone for Brilliant Lady and a celebration of the exceptional destinations and experiences that make sailing with Virgin so unforgettable."
About Virgin Voyages
Promising to Create an Epic Sea Change for All, Virgin Voyages is the award-winning, exclusively adult cruise line founded by Sir Richard Branson. Delivering unforgettable, relaxing vacations at sea, Virgin Voyages launched at the end of 2021. Inspired by superyacht design, its fleet of Lady Ships exemplify an elevated, boutique hotel at sea with contemporary spaces that strike the perfect balance of nautical chic and glamour. Currently departing from the sun-soaked cities of Miami, Barcelona, Athens and San Juan, the fleet offers more than 60 unique itineraries, sailing to 150+ incredible ports of call. On-board, 20+ eateries feature culinary experiences from Michelin-star chefs, stylish workout spaces and group fitness classes are offered daily, and a festival-like line-up of intimate and larger-than-life shows are on the agenda. Paired with modern, tech-savvy cabins, designer suites fit for a rockstar and a mermaid-inspired spa and thermal suite, the brand is taking the industry by storm. For three consecutive years – 2023, 2024 and 2025 – Virgin Voyages won best cruise line in Travel + Leisure’s highly coveted World’s Best Awards for mega-ship ocean cruise line, along with the 2023 and 2024 Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards for best large ocean cruise line.
About Port Saint John
Port Saint John is a rapidly advancing Port striving to be a catalyst for growth, recognized for community leadership. A critical piece of Canada’s national supply chain, the Port boasts a diverse cargo base, unparalleled optionality, and a thriving cruise tourism sector. By championing innovation, promoting meaningful engagement, and investing in infrastructure, Port Saint John aims to be a safe, efficient port of choice while delivering economic prosperity in New Brunswick and beyond.
Media Contacts:
Becky Knox, Port Saint John bknox@sjport.com
Virgin Voyages PR Team media@virginvoyages.com