Virgin Voyages debuts Alaska sailings

Virgin Voyages has launched its first Alaska season, sailing from Seattle aboard Brilliant Lady.

The new deployment gives First Mates a kid-free option to sell in one of cruising’s most popular markets, with Alaska itineraries now part of Virgin Voyages’ growing product lineup.

The cruise line says the season includes new Alaska-specific programming, destination-inspired dining, retail offerings and expert guests.

Virgin Voyages is also promoting its advisor proposition, including 16 per cent commissions and no NCFs.

A new Alaska option

Brilliant Lady’s Alaska sailings give the brand a West Coast presence and a new homeport option from Seattle.

The company says the itineraries are aimed at clients looking for a different take on Alaska cruising, with Virgin’s adult-only approach, onboard programming and Always Included model.

That model includes dining across more than 20 eateries, group fitness classes, entertainment and Wi-Fi.

Virgin says more than 30 per cent of its Sailors return for future voyages.

The Alaska season also gives past Virgin Voyages clients a new destination to consider, while giving advisors another option for clients who may have been interested in the brand but wanted more itinerary variety.

Sustainability focus

Virgin Voyages says it has worked with local ports and environmental organizations in preparation for its Alaska debut.

More than half of the line’s Alaska Shore Things are operated by sustainable tour operators, including companies certified through Adventure Green Alaska and Travelife.

The onboard marine team has also partnered with ORCA for training on whale sighting and collision-avoidance practices. 

A wildlife expert will be onboard full-time to educate Sailors.

Virgin Voyages says it will follow voluntary speed reductions in the region to help protect large cetaceans and marine life.

Brilliant Lady is also equipped with advanced wastewater treatment systems and shore power capability.

Alaska programming onboard

Virgin Voyages is introducing two new Happenings Cast members for the Alaska season, along with a Cultural Heritage Guide from Alaska Native Voices on select sailings.

The Lumberjack, described by the line as “part athlete, part storyteller and all flannel,” will share stories connected to Alaska’s timber legacy and the history of Ketchikan on select voyages.

The Naturalist, a wildlife and ecology expert, will lead conversations and small-group moments focused on glaciers, whales, wildlife and the region’s ecosystems.

Virgin Voyages will also welcome a Cultural Heritage Guide from Alaska Native Voices on select voyages, with programming focused on art, storytelling, contemporary culture and the lived experiences of Alaska Native communities.

Additional Alaska-inspired programming includes Primetime Ports, a visual alternative to traditional port lectures; Drawn to the Wild, a sketching session using birch canvases; Northern Nightcaps, a mixology workshop with Alaska-inspired cocktails; Baking Alaska, a dessert class paired with wine and Crack the Crab, an Alaska trivia game using oversized foam crab claws.

Seasonal dining

Virgin Voyages’ culinary team has also created eight Alaska-featured dishes for the season, available for a limited time while Brilliant Lady is in the Pacific Northwest.

The dishes feature ingredients such as king crab, Alaskan halibut and black cod.

Offerings include pan-roasted Alaskan halibut at The Wake, chorizo-crusted black cod at Pink Agave, Squash Wrapped Halibut at Extra Virgin, grilled squid with king crab at Rojo and smoked salmon taramasalata at The Dock.

The beverage program has also been adjusted for the season, with more hot beverages and local brews available across the bars and Ship Eats.

On High Street, 10 onboard retail brands feature artisans or products from the Pacific Northwest, along with cold-weather items such as beanies, knits and layered outerwear.

Alaska sailings aboard Brilliant Lady are now bookable. 

First Mates can access resources, training and booking tools through Seacademy and LetsGoBook at virginvoyages.com.

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