Aruba proudly welcomed the Brilliant Lady, the new adults-only cruise ship from Virgin Voyages, marking an important moment for the island’s cruise tourism sector. The arrival also coincided with the official start of Aruba’s Carnival season, one of the island’s most anticipated cultural celebrations.
The historic occasion took place in the presence of a distinguished delegation representing Aruba’s tourism and port sectors, including the Minister of Tourism, Transport and Labor, Mr. Wendrick Cicilia, Ronella Croes, CEO of the Aruba Tourism Authority (A.T.A.), and Marc Figaroa, CEO of the Aruba Ports Authority NV (APA NV). Key members of the Government of Aruba, members of the A.T.A. and APA NV teams, tour operators, the Aruba Police Force, Port Agent SEL Maduro and Sons, the Department of Immigration, and other essential cruise operation partners were also present. To honor the Carnival season, the delegation was warmly welcomed by Carnival dancers accompanied by live music.
Brilliant Lady and Virgin Voyages
The Brilliant Lady is the fourth ship in the Virgin Voyages fleet, along with the Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, and Resilient Lady. The ship carries approximately 2,770 passengers and 1,150 crew members, with a weight of around 110,000 tons.
As part of Virgin Voyages’ adults-only brand concept, the Brilliant Lady offers a new cruise experience focused on luxury, design, immersive entertainment, and culinary innovation.
Sustainability: A shared commitment
From the moment the delegation boarded the ship, it was clear that sustainability is an integral part of the Brilliant Lady’s operations. Virgin Voyages emphasizes environmental care through:
- Emission reduction technology: Tier III MARPOL compliance, NOx reduction using selective catalytic converters, and SOx scrubbers.
- Elimination of single-use plastics.
- Advanced waste management: systems for recycling, separation, and treatment.
- Energy efficiency: LED lighting, optimized design, and smart sensors.
- Shore power readiness: connection to clean shore power facilities where available.
- Food and water sustainability: initiatives to reduce food waste (no buffet) and optimize fresh water use.
During the tour, the delegation observed how the Excursions Department works in coordination with local suppliers to ensure low-impact tours, environmental awareness, and community-focused activities.
Additionally, Virgin Voyages’ excursions emphasize electric transport (where available), emission reduction, and interaction with Aruba’s local community.
This commitment aligns with Aruba’s sustainability ambitions. The collaboration with Virgin Voyages creates a platform for learning, sharing best practices, and long-term cooperation.
Plaque exchange ceremony
One of the most significant moments was the plaque exchange ceremony, commemorating the inaugural visit of the Brilliant Lady. The ceremony included an exchange between Captain Niksa Stjepovic and the crew of the Brilliant Lady, A.T.A., and APA NV, symbolizing mutual trust, collaboration, and a shared commitment to sustainability.
Looking to the future
The Government of Aruba, A.T.A., and APA NV, together with Virgin Voyages, remain committed to long-term collaboration, improving cruise operations, advancing sustainability, and ensuring that tourism benefits Aruba’s local community and environment.
