Lorraine Williamson
A massive cruise ship anchored off the coast of Málaga has puzzled onlookers for months. The vessel has been moored without passengers or visible activity since October 2024.
What’s behind this extended stay, and why is it causing so much curiosity?
The Brilliant Lady: Virgin Voyages’ latest flagship
The ship in question is the Brilliant Lady, Virgin Voyages’ newest addition to its fleet. Owned by British entrepreneur Richard Branson, the vessel has remained anchored off Málaga’s coastline as it undergoes preparations for its first official voyage. The ship joins the Valiant Lady and the Scarlet Lady, two other Virgin Voyages ships that previously docked in Málaga.
Extensive testing and crew training
Before embarking on its inaugural commercial trip, the Brilliant Lady is undergoing rigorous testing. Onboard crew members are also receiving essential training. Málaga’s calm waters and stable weather conditions make the bay an ideal location for fine-tuning such a large vessel. With the current schedule in place, the ship is expected to remain in Málaga until May 2025 before heading to the United States.
What the Brilliant Lady offers passengers
At 278 metres long with 17 decks, the Brilliant Lady can accommodate 2,762 passengers. This adult-only ship offers an alternative to traditional cruise experiences, with over twenty dining venues instead of buffet restaurants. Onboard amenities include wellness areas, a spa, a nightclub, and even a tattoo parlour. Sustainability is also a key focus, with the ship using engine waste heat to generate electricity and providing fast satellite internet via Starlink. Virgin Voyages promotes the Brilliant Lady as offering a luxurious, conscious travel experience at sea.
Why Málaga was chosen as the ship’s base
Málaga’s strategic location and modern port facilities make it an ideal base for Virgin Voyages’ operations. The bay’s calm waters provide the perfect conditions for testing, and the city’s appeal as a cruise destination has grown in recent years. With increasing numbers of ships using the port for training and testing, Málaga is steadily becoming a significant player in the cruise industry.
A milestone event for Málaga
While the Brilliant Lady remains anchored, Málaga is set to host another major cruise event. On 9 April, the Mein Schiff Relax, the latest vessel from TUI Cruises, will be christened in the port. British singer Robbie Williams will perform at the event, marking his role as the ship’s “feel-good ambassador.” The ceremony will take place at the eastern cruise terminal, with three TUI ships in port, expected to bring around 15,000 passengers to the city.
Málaga’s rising profile in the cruise industry
The prolonged presence of the Brilliant Lady and the upcoming christening of the Mein Schiff Relax reflect Málaga’s growing significance in the global cruise market. The city’s modern infrastructure and cultural appeal have made it an increasingly attractive stop for cruise lines. Alongside popular destinations like Valencia and Barcelona, Málaga continues to position itself as a key port for luxury Mediterranean cruises.
For now, the towering presence of the Brilliant Lady remains a fixture on Málaga’s horizon, a silent testament to the city’s expanding role in the cruise industry.
Also read: Spain breaks historic record with over 12.8 million cruise passengers in 2024