Virgin Voyages Rebrands Celebration Voyages

Virgin Voyages has announced major updates for its Celebration Voyages concept, including a rebranding and a new lineup of high-profile musicians for cruises through 2025. These unique sailings, initially launched in 2023, highlight Virgin’s connection to the music world and its commitment to delivering culturally immersive experiences to guests. Starting in 2026, the series will be rebranded as Red Hot Sailing Club Voyages, a name inspired by its new entertainment programming and Virgin Records heritage.

Final Celebration Voyages Feature Iconic Performances

The cruise line’s final two Celebration Voyages in 2025 will spotlight A-list performers Melanie C (formerly of the Spice Girls) and Kathy Sledge, a founding member of Sister Sledge. Melanie C, known for her role as Sporty Spice, will headline the Lisbon Celebration Voyage aboard the Scarlet Lady, departing July 22, 2025. Guests will enjoy nightly performances and ports of call in Porto and La Coruña before concluding in Portsmouth, England.

Meanwhile, Kathy Sledge will headline the Athens Celebration Voyage aboard Resilient Lady, which departs May 18, 2025. This 11‐night Mediterranean itinerary initially planned stops in Istanbul, Ephesus, Santorini, Rhodes, Mykonos, and Crete has been adjusted due to forecasted high winds. The revised itinerary now includes stops in Istanbul, Kusadasi (serving the historical site of Ephesus), Santorini, and Rhodes, with the originally scheduled Mykonos stop replaced by an extended stay in Chania, Crete.

Rebranding to Red Hot Sailing Club Voyages

Virgin Voyages has confirmed that starting in 2026, Celebration Voyages will shift to the Red Hot Sailing Club brand, offering fresh themes centered around music icons and innovative programming. The first voyage under this new banner will take place aboard Brilliant Lady, Virgin Voyages’ fourth ship set to launch in September 2025.

The name change reflects the cruise line’s dedication to aligning entertainment with its Virgin Records legacy. Brilliant Lady will host a musical revue called Red Hot, celebrating Virgin’s impact on music history. This theme is expected to resonate throughout future sailings under the Red Hot Sailing Club banner.

Special Voyage Adjustments for Resilient Lady

Due to forecasted high winds in Mykonos, Resilient Lady’s May 2025 Athens Celebration Voyage has undergone a minor itinerary adjustment. Instead of stopping in Mykonos, the ship will extend its stay in Chania, Crete, allowing guests to enjoy an overnight stay and additional shore excursion opportunities in this charming port known for its historic old town, pristine beaches, and lively atmosphere. The rest of the itinerary remains intact with planned stops in Istanbul, Kusadasi, Santorini, and Rhodes.

Virgin Voyages cited the Meltemi winds, which often impact Mykonos during the summer months, as the reason for the change. The adjustment is designed to ensure guests have an equally enriching experience.

Brilliant Lady Debut and Future Sailings

Brilliant Lady will join Virgin Voyages’ fleet in September 2025, launching with a series of cruises out of New York. Her inaugural voyage will be a five‐night Bermuda sailing, followed by repositioning to PortMiami for Caribbean itineraries lasting through March 2026. Afterward, the ship will transition to Los Angeles for Mexican Riviera routes and eventually to Seattle for Alaska cruises starting in May 2026.

In addition to hosting the first Red Hot Sailing Club Voyage, Brilliant Lady will introduce new entertainment programming that celebrates Virgin Records’ legacy while offering guests immersive onboard experiences tailored to the brand’s music‐centric identity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Red Hot Sailing Club Voyage?

The Red Hot Sailing Club Voyage is Virgin Voyages’ rebranded series of music-focused cruises, set to begin in 2026. These sailings build on the Celebration Voyages concept while offering expanded entertainment tied to Virgin Records’ legacy.

Who are the performers on Virgin Voyages’ final Celebration Voyages?

Melanie C of Spice Girls fame will perform on the Lisbon Celebration Voyage in July 2025, while Kathy Sledge from Sister Sledge will headline the Athens Celebration Voyage in May 2025.

What changes were made to Resilient Lady’s May 2025 itinerary?

Originally, the Athens Celebration Voyage was set to include a stop in Mykonos. Due to forecasted high winds, the ship will now extend its stay in Chania, Crete. The revised itinerary maintains stops in Istanbul, Kusadasi, Santorini, and Rhodes, ensuring an equally enriching experience for guests.

When will Brilliant Lady debut?

Brilliant Lady is scheduled to enter service in September 2025, with her inaugural voyage departing New York for Bermuda. The ship will eventually sail Caribbean, Mexican Riviera, and Alaska itineraries.

Why is Virgin Voyages rebranding its Celebration Voyages?

The rebranding to Red Hot Sailing Club Voyages reflects Virgin’s focus on aligning its cruise experiences with music heritage, particularly celebrating Virgin Records’ influence on the entertainment world.

With these updates, Virgin Voyages continues to redefine the cruising industry through music-driven itineraries and innovative branding, ensuring its sailings remain a top choice for adult travelers seeking unique maritime adventures.