Adult Atmosphere
Insisting on an 18 + age requirement, founder Sir Richard Branson took a risk by barring kiddos, but the decision to adopt an adults-only environment has been well-received by parents and nonparents alike.
Another contributor to the line’ s popularity is the crew. Industry insiders report that the # 1 reason rebookers cite for taking another cruise is“ crew interaction.” Rank-and-file crew— in restaurants, bars, on deck and in the spa— are responsible for high guest satisfaction. Their mantra is“ be the reason someone smiles today.”
It was when I leaned back into the plush cushions of the art-deco inspired Sip Lounge that my shoulders dropped and I exhaled the bottled-up tangle of traffic, childcare and logistics that I left behind. This exalted space, an oasis of calm and civility, is the perfect venue for bougie Champagne cocktails and charming chitchat with my fellow passengers over caviar blinis. Gazing out of the windows and into the sea views, I felt the stress melt away and immersed myself in the care of the ship’ s awardwinning crew.
Inclusive Dining
Rojo by Razzle Dazzle is the newest dining concept in the fleet, with a Spanish-influenced menu featuring shareable plates and gastronomic delights like braised oxtail. But I decide to try Pink Agave first. As I sit down, the other diners at my table are telling me how much they appreciate that specialty dining is included in the fare. We sample nearly every small plate on the menu of uninhibited Mexican flavors. I started with esquites, grilled corn with a spicy aioli, before the bold striped bass with mole verde entrée. Finally, I am ready for the dessert that I kept hearing about— tacos de chocolate composed of a crunchy outer“ shell” and a decadent filling of creamy dulce de leche caramel.
Venture outside to popular gathering spot, The Dock. The Dock calls to mind the seaside tavernas of Greece’ s Cyclades Islands. Soak in the sunshine on outdoor loungers or grab a table to order snacks while the DJ pumps energetic music. Mediterranean bites include lamb skewers, grilled shrimp, hummus with colorful crudité and cauliflower couscous.
Engaging Entertainment
More is more when it comes to nightlife on Brilliant Lady. Feel-good energy sets the tone and festive touches are everywhere you look. Seven brandnew shows fill out the live production schedule, including Dual Reality, an engaging performance with highflying acrobatics and emotional scenes that remained with me long after I disembarked. The Pajama Party— always scheduled on the first night— is another fan favorite. Bring red pajamas for the glitzy, late-night event.
Richard’ s Rooftop
Richard’ s Rooftop is a private enclave available only to suite guests and includes a cabana deck with dedicated staff. With a full-size telescope and a spare room filled with guitars, the aptly named Massive Suite features a private hot tub and sunbathing space on its generous 1,700-square-foot terrace. It’ s the most“ extra” of the Mega RockStar Suites. ■
UP NEXT: ALASKA
New itineraries to Alaska are now available from Seattle or Vancouver. Brilliant Lady was built to maximize the views of the dramatic Alaska skyline with its snow-capped peaks. Floor-to-ceiling windows in staterooms, dining areas and social lounges are meant to keep your eyes cast outward, in search of native wildlife like breaching whales, low-flying bald eagles and playful porpoises. Get ready to have a blast!
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