Valiant Lady (photo courtesy of Virgin Voyages)

Sailing Boldly: Why Virgin Voyages’ Valiant Lady Is Turning Heads in the Cruise Industry

Denella Ri'chard shares her experience onboard Valiant Lady.

Denella Ri'chard Published March 20, 2026

What if the cruise your clients are asking for is the one that breaks all the cruise rules?

No buffets.
No kids.
No tipping.
And an atmosphere that feels more like a luxury boutique hotel at sea than a traditional cruise.

That’s exactly what I discovered when I stepped aboard the stunning Valiant Lady from Virgin Voyages. As the host of the weekly television series, Traveling With Denella, I’ve sailed on many ships around the world — but this voyage felt different the moment I arrived. The vibe is modern, playful and unapologetically designed for adults who want to relax, indulge and celebrate life at sea.

And here’s something travel advisors should know: since Virgin Voyages “officially launched” its sailings in 2021, I’ve heard nothing but amazing things about the experience aboard its ships. From seasoned travel advisors to first-time sailors, everyone consistently describes the brand as fresh, exciting and unlike anything else at sea. After spending time onboard myself, I can confidently say — the buzz is well deserved.

For travel advisors looking for a cruise product that resonates with today’s experience-driven travelers, Virgin Voyages may be one of the most compelling conversations you can have with your clients.

A Cruise Line Designed for the Modern Traveler

Virgin Voyages currently sails four striking ships — Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, Resilient Lady and Brilliant Lady — all built around a simple concept: cruising should feel fresh again.

Every sailing is 100% adults-only, creating a sophisticated but fun atmosphere where guests can truly unwind. For many clients — especially couples, friend groups and professionals looking for a vibrant getaway — that alone can be a major selling point.

The Sea Terrace: Where the Ocean Becomes Your Living Room

My home at sea was a Sea Terrace cabin, a space that blends sleek design with comfort and thoughtful details.

Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a private balcony overlooking the horizon. But the feature that I loved the most is the signature red hand-woven terrace hammock — a perfect spot for morning coffee or sunset reflection.

Inside, customizable mood lighting lets you transform the cabin’s ambiance with the touch of a button, while the modern layout creates an airy, relaxing retreat after a day exploring the ship.

It’s the kind of cabin that invites guests to slow down and savor the journey.

Dining That Reinvents Cruise Cuisine

Across the ship, guests can explore more than 20 reimagined dining venues, all included in the cruise fare. Menus are curated by world-class chefs, delivering a culinary experience that feels more like a global food tour than a typical cruise lineup.

One of my favorite moments happened inside The Test Kitchen, where I joined Executive Chef Kevin Green for a hands-on culinary experience. Together we experimented with flavors and techniques to create a mushroom pâté served with crostini.

It was a reminder that great food isn’t just a meal — it’s storytelling, creativity and connection.

And thanks to Virgin Voyages’ no-tipping policy, the experience feels refreshingly simple: the price you see is the price your clients pay.

When the Sun Goes Down, the Ship Comes Alive

Nightlife aboard Valiant Lady is where the brand’s personality truly shines.

The ship’s entertainment lineup ranges from immersive performances to high-energy nightlife, with the glamorous signature two-story nightclub and entertainment venue, The Manor, becoming the heartbeat of the ship after dark. Also, the mirrored entrance of The Manor is absolutely stunning!

Then there’s Scarlet Night, Virgin Voyages’ signature onboard celebration. Picture the entire ship transformed into a sea of red, with music, performers and guests dancing poolside under the stars. It’s not just a party — it’s an “energy” that brings the whole ship together. I truly had the time of my life at Scarlet Night.

Wellness and Balance at Sea

For travelers who want both indulgence and wellness, Valiant Lady offers an impressive range of fitness and relaxation experiences.

Guests can start their day with meditation or yoga, join high-intensity workouts, or enjoy fresh-pressed juices delivered right to their cabin.

For ultimate relaxation, the Redemption Spa provides a tranquil escape with thermal suites, steam rooms and restorative treatments. My personal highlight? Curling up in the spa porthole window to take in the relaxing views of the ocean waves.

A Private Beach Club in the Bahamas

Our itinerary also included a stop in Bimini, home to the exclusive Virgin Voyages Beach Club at Bimini.

Here, island flavors filled the tables, piña coladas flowed freely and DJ Taj was spinning on the turntable keeping the party hype with an infectious energy. It’s the perfect blend of beach day and fun!

Behind the Scenes on the Bridge

One of the most fascinating experiences of my sailing came when I met the ship’s captain, Justin Lawes.

During a private bridge tour, I saw the technology and controls that guide Valiant Lady across the open ocean. And yes — I even got the chance to blow the ship’s horn. For a moment, I felt like the captain myself!

Why Travel Advisors Should Take Notice

By the end of my voyage, one thing was clear: Virgin Voyages has created an adults-only cruise experience that is fresh, stylish and unapologetically bold.

For travel advisors, Virgin Voyages represents a unique opportunity to offer clients a cruise experience designed for adults who want to travel boldly. It resonates strongly with:

Experience-driven adults seeking a boutique, adults-only vacation
Couples, friend groups and solo travelers looking for social, energetic and immersive experiences
First-time cruisers and seasoned sailors who want a fresh alternative to traditional cruises
Clients who value luxury, wellness, world-class dining and vibrant nightlife

See the Full Experience

Want to see what sailing aboard Valiant Lady really looks like?

Watch the full Traveling With Denella: Virgin Voyages episode to explore the ship, meet the crew and experience the energy that’s redefining cruising.

👉 Travel advisors can watch the full episode and others now on VAX VacationAccess — and discover why Virgin Voyages may be the bold new adults-only cruise your clients are waiting for.

Set sail with me and see why sometimes the best way to sell a voyage … is to experience the story behind it.

Follow me on Instagram: @travelingwithdenella

Subscribe on YouTube: @travelingwithdenella

About the Author

Denella is the host and executive producer of the award-winning, nationally syndicated (ABC, CBS, NBC, CW) and globally streaming television show, “Traveling With Denella Ri’chard”, which won two, 2023 Silver Telly Awards for “best cultural and diversity television series” and two Magellan GOLD Awards (2023), one for her partnership with Disney Cruise Line. Denella was recognized by International Hospitality Institute and Global Hospitality Magazine as one of the 100 Most Influential People in USA Hospitality and Travel for 2023.

With her unique blend of Southern charm, humor and hospitality, Denella Ri’chard is a world traveler, TV personality, travel industry executive, travel lifestyle influencer, and entrepreneur. Her uncanny ability to connect with people at all levels inspires them to experience the beauty and abundant culture that travel offers. Yet beneath her powerful influence, she is both authentic and accessible. Her ability to engage her audience in life-changing experiences allows them to walk in the footprints of her journeys.

Denella is a sought after travel expert and thought leader, often speaking at conferences on the future of travel, women in travel, and diversity in travel. She previously held leadership positions with publicly traded multi-billion dollar travel companies: Hilton Worldwide, Carnival Corporation & Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings.