As the Brilliant Lady ship slipped gracefully past the Statue of Liberty into New York Harbor on September 2nd, an unexpected moment of maritime accord unfolded. Two thousand four hundred voices—comprising crew and Sailors (passengers) alike—rose as one from the upper decks, performing Queen’s spirited anthem “Don’t Stop Me Now” in unison.
The mass performance, guided by Astrid Jorgensen of Pub Choir, transformed the vessel’s arrival into a powerful symphony across the water.
Sir Richard Branson, founder of Virgin Group and present aboard the ship, reflected that the arrival signified the completion of their fleet and celebrated a moment whose resonance would extend well beyond the steel and fiberglass of the ships themselves. He observed that it was the people—the hands on deck and the souls aboard—who rendered Virgin Voyages so uniquely vibrant. The united song, he remarked, captured that brilliance in full harbor light.
Nirmal Saverimuttu, the cruise line’s Chief Executive Officer, further held that the scene reflected the essence of the Brilliant Lady: an atmosphere that is joyous, welcoming, and transformative. He remarked that this convergence of voices was proof of the deep connections born when individuals are encouraged to be their authentic selves.
For First Mate Jana, the moment defined the spirit aboard Virgin Voyages: stepping from the world as it is into the world as it should be, where strangers become kin and every voice is vital.
The soundscape marked more than ceremonial fanfare—it heralded the Brilliant Lady’s inaugural “MerMaiden Voyage” from New York on September 5th, bound for Bermuda. In the weeks ahead, the vessel will offer fall sailings through Northeastern and Eastern Canada before turning toward Florida and beyond.