Virgin Voyages is starting its inaugural Alaska season with the Brilliant Lady sailing from Seattle on May 21, the cruise line announced in a statement. 

During the season running until September, the ship is set to sail 17 seven- to 12-night voyages to 12 destinations in Alaska. 

“Alaska has always held a special place for me personally. The sheer scale of its landscapes, the richness of its culture, the biodiversity – it’s humbling,” said Michelle Bentubo, chief operating officer of Virgin Voyages. 

“We felt a real responsibility to honor that. Deep partnerships with local communities and organizations were essential to making sure we’re telling Alaska’s story the way it deserves to be told.” 

The season will entail specialized food and beverages menu, as well as onboard experiences and events, to make the sailings more immersive. 

New Alaska-inspired Happenings include: 

• Primetime Ports: Lectures preparing guests for what they’re about to see 
• Drawn to the Wild: Guests make sketches on canvases made of birch  
• Northern Nightcaps: Mixology workshop where guests create Alaska-inspired cocktails 
• Baking Alaska: An interactive taste of Alaska-inspired desserts paired with wine 
• Crack the Crab: Trivia where guests use oversized foam crab claws to snap up the correct answers.  

Additionally, two new Happenings Cast members will be onboard to host workshops and lectures, the Lumberjack and the Naturalist, paired with a Cultural Heritage Guide from Alaska Native Voices.  

To make the experience even more authentic, the culinary team developed eight Alaska-featured dishes, featuring King Crab, Alaskan halibut and black cod. 

The onboard beverage program has also been tailored for the climate, with expanded hot beverage and local brew offerings. 

Guests will also be able to purchase products from 10 regional retail brands onboard.