Cruise News

Richard Branson Takes Part in Historic First Call with Brilliant Lady at Prince Rupert

Virgin Voyages’ latest ship, the Brilliant Lady, made its inaugural stop at Prince Rupert Cruise Port on May 26, 2026, during its first Alaskan season. Sir Richard Branson, the founder of Virgin Group, attended the event as the ship’s debut coincided with the beginning of 17 new voyages covering 12 destinations across Alaska and the Pacific Northwest.

The season commenced on May 21 and is set to continue through September 2026. During the visit, Branson engaged with local officials, cruise industry executives, and representatives from Prince Rupert, celebrating this significant milestone for the port.

Branson’s day included a scenic flight with Inland Air Charters and a meal at Fukasaku Restaurant, renowned for its Japanese seafood. Steve Finnigan, general manager of the Prince Rupert Cruise Port, expressed excitement about Virgin Voyages’ presence: “Welcoming Virgin Voyages to Prince Rupert for the first time is an exciting milestone for our port, our partners, and our community. The arrival of Brilliant Lady reflects the growing recognition of Prince Rupert as an authentic, experience-rich cruise destination.”

This season’s activities follow the port’s launch of its 2026 cruise schedule, which began with the arrival of Holland America Line’s Noordam in April, marking it as a potentially record-breaking year for Prince Rupert Cruise Port.


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At CruiseShip.net, our editorial team is made up of passionate travelers, seasoned cruisers, and maritime industry enthusiasts who live and breathe life at sea. From the latest ship launches and destination spotlights to detailed reviews and onboard tips, we are dedicated to helping readers discover the joy of cruising. Our mission is to make every article both inspiring and useful, whether you are planning your first voyage or your fiftieth. We research, fact-check, and collaborate with cruise insiders around the world to bring you accurate, up-to-date, and exciting coverage of the global cruise industry. Join us as we chart new horizons, exploring one port, one ship, and one unforgettable experience at a time.