Here’s an idea: the best new cruise ship of 2025 isn't just about stunning destinations or killer amenities. Virgin Voyages' Brilliant Lady cruise ship is about to serve up the most epic maiden Miami cruise of the decade, and we’re doing it with a Grammy-nominated headliner. Read on for more reasons to grab your spot on board the Brilliant Miami MerMaiden, sailing from October 17-25.
Kelis is headlining the maiden voyage (yes, that Kelis)
Right off the bat, your jaw should officially drop. Brilliant’s 8-night MerMaiden Voyage isn't just another boring christening ceremony with champagne and speeches. We’ve tapped Kelis — the genre-bending icon behind "Milkshake" and “Bossy,” who also happens to be Le Cordon Bleu-trained — to headline a pool deck performance under the stars for this sailing.
This isn't typical cruise ship entertainment, where you politely clap through another cover band. This is a high-energy, high-style celebration by an artist who has collaborated with everyone who’s anyone — from rap legends like Lil’ Kim, Outkast, and Nas to alternative darling Björk and electronic pioneer Giorgio Moroder (to name a few).
Kelis isn’t just performing — she's creating
Because Virgin doesn't do anything halfway, Kelis isn't just showing up to sing. She's also co-creating an exclusive signature dish in partnership with The Wake (our upscale steakhouse — yeah, we have one of those on board).
The decadent Kelis Sundae is guaranteed to bring all the boys to the yard — and it’s only available on this sailing. It's a sweet indulgence that reflects both creativity and luxury, and honestly? The thought of a Grammy-nominated chef creating dessert exclusively for your cruise is kind of everything.
Miami’s hottest bars are climbing aboard
But wait, there's more (and it involves cocktails). We’re raising a glass to Miami with a speakeasy popup inspired by the city's most iconic watering holes. This is an exclusive — and intimate — experience available only during this sailing, curated in collaboration with four of Miami's legendary local bars:
- The Sylvester: Nostalgia meets sophistication
- Bar Kaiju: Where craft cocktails get a little dangerous
- Swizzle: Classic vibes with a modern twist
- Better Days: The name says it all
This isn't just about the drinks — it's about bringing that authentic Miami after dark energy to sea. Because the best parts of your destination shouldn't end when you board the ship.
And speaking of Miami — the city is a breeze to get to from basically any other major (or even mid-sized) American city. Whether you hail from New York or Boston, Atlanta or DC, it’s a hop, skip, and a jump down to the 305.
The Brilliant Lady Miami experience that breaks all the rules
This MerMaiden has everything. You're getting 8 nights in the Caribbean — with a stop at our exclusive Beach Club at Bimini, an experience that offers all the luxury of an all-inclusive beachside resort, without the distractions of kids. You’re getting bespoke culinary collaborations from actual celebrities who know their way around both a stage and a kitchen. And you’re getting a glimpse into Miami’s nightlife scene that — whether you’re just visiting the city or you’re a hardened vet of the 305’s clubs — you won’t get on land.
Add all of that to the joys you’ll have by being some of the first Sailors to experience Brilliant Lady’s new shows (like Up With a Twist, a supper club musical with a new ending every night), new dining concepts (a tapas smorgasbord at Rojo by Razzle Dazzle), and new onboard spaces (like clear viewing decks built to give you unique sightlines into our gorgeous ports).
Book now and take advantage of our current offer! Being part of history has never been so affordable.
