Virgin’s Brilliant Lady Will Be Delayed

Virgin Voyages today announced its fourth ship, the Brilliant Lady, will face a delayed introduction.

“Despite careful planning, we are facing unexpected construction, supply chain and staffing challenges that have delayed the introduction of Brilliant Lady,” the company said in a statement.

“We want to make sure that when the ship launches, we can deliver the standards our Sailors have come to expect from an award-winning brand like Virgin Voyages.”

Originally set to launch later this year, the ship’s launch date will be determined soon, the company said.

Guests with bookings that have been cancelled will receive generous offers along with exclusive rebooking perks and on-board credit once the new date is announced, the company said.

“We’ve built a brand that has taken the industry by storm, but even the strongest businesses face unforeseen challenges every now and then,” said Michelle Bentubo, SVP of Service Excellence and Travel Operations.

“We are sorry that our Sailors and First Mates who were excited about Brilliant Lady will have to wait a little bit longer for her launch. We know they will love the new itineraries as much as we do, and we look forward to welcoming them onboard.”

Always wanting to do right by its Sailors and travel advisors, Virgin Voyages will offer anyone impacted by the new itineraries price- and promotion-protected options to rebook and receive $300 – $600 USD in Sailor Loot or a full refund. Travellers wanting to experience one of the exciting new ports can take advantage of 30% off Med 2024 voyages and up to a $600 Bar Tab when they book by Sept. 28. A handful of select Caribbean sailings and repositioning voyages are also eligible for $500 off.

Norwegian Cruise Line has delayed the launch of the second Prima-class vessel Norwegian Viva

As a result, the vessel’s sailings from 3 July 2023 through 17 August 2023 have been cancelled.

In response, the line has repositioned Norwegian Getaway to take over Viva’s cancelled European voyages.

A spokesperson said: “Guests can rebook on Norwegian Getaway and receive a 20% discount on the voyage fare paid, or they can receive a full refund.

“Guests choosing either option will receive a 10% discount valid for any future sailing bookable from 23 August 2022 through 31 December 2024. We appreciate the understanding of our guests and travel partners.”

Cunard Pushes Back Introduction of New Queen Anne

Cunard Line has announced a delay to the introduction of its newest cruise ship, Queen Anne.

Originally set to enter service in early 2024, the 3,000-guest ship will now debut in early May, with the Carnival Corporation-owned brand citing numerous challenges in shipbuilding, including the supply chain and energy shortages.

The ship is under construction for the iconic brand at Fincantieri.

“As a result, our new ship Queen Anne will be arriving slightly later than expected,” the company said in a statement.

“We have automatically transferred guests booked or waitlisted on the maiden voyage to the new seven-night maiden voyage, which will depart from Southampton on May 3 2024, visit La Coruna on 5 May 2024, Lisbon on May 7, 2024, and then return to Southampton on May 10 2024.”

Queen Anne’s new maiden season voyages will include sailings from Southampton to the Mediterranean, Scandinavia, the Canary Islands, and the Norwegian Fjords. Voyages go on sale this December.

Joining Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth, Queen Anne makes it four ships for Cunard Line in 2024.