15 October 2026 – Virgin Voyages has introduced Mermaid Origins, a five-film series exploring the backstories of the mermaids featured on the bows of its four Lady Ships.
Developed in partnership with creative studio Native Foreign, the project comprises one hero documentary exploring the wider story of the mermaids and four individual films dedicated to Scarlet, Valiant, Resilient and Brilliant.
The series presents the characters’ previously untold backstories through artist-led creative development, using artificial intelligence (AI) tools from Magnific.
Five Films Explore the Lady Ship Mermaids
Each of Virgin Voyages’ four Lady Ships carries its own mermaid, hand-designed by a different artist and given a distinct personality. The mermaids have formed part of the cruise line’s identity since the beginning, with each character associated with the ship she represents.
Mermaid Origins explores the individual stories behind these figures, presenting the characters and their mythology through five films.
The project includes a central documentary covering the broader mermaid story, accompanied by four separate films dedicated to the individual characters.
Scarlet and Valiant: Courage and Independence
Scarlet, the red-haired mermaid, was created by the mother of the mystic seas. Although associated with peaceful surroundings and quiet waters, her character possesses an underlying strength. Her story explores courage, healing others before herself and eventually pursuing her own dreams. The narrative presents courage as a willingness to act despite fear, while following Scarlet’s journey towards her personal aspirations.
Valiant, meanwhile, is portrayed as a character guided by instinct and a close connection with nature. Her story centres on trusting her own voice, acting independently and following her instincts rather than waiting for direction. The character is also associated with encouraging guests to become active and participate in experiences.
Resilient and Brilliant Complete the Four Stories
Resilient‘s backstory begins with an incident from her childhood, when she discovered a piece of broken glass and transformed it into something beautiful. The experience reflects her resourcefulness and determination. Her character is associated with overcoming difficulties, maintaining an optimistic outlook and supporting others through challenges.
Brilliant, the fleet’s new mermaid, is portrayed as a warrior who follows her own guiding light. Her story follows a journey across galaxies, during which she seeks to protect her sisters and help preserve the world.
The narrative also emphasises the significance of the journey itself, alongside the destination.
Native Foreign Directs Artist-Led AI Production
A new team of artists developed the visual interpretations of the four mermaids’ backstories using Magnific’s AI tools, with creative direction provided by Native Foreign. The artists guided every creative decision, using AI technology to explore their ideas and translate their creative vision into the films.
The project brings together the mermaids’ existing identities and new visual storytelling techniques to present their individual narratives.
Films to Appear Across Virgin Voyages Channels
Virgin Voyages will introduce the mermaids and their stories over the coming weeks through several of its guest communication channels. The films will be featured on the cruise line’s blog, in its pre-voyage Sailor Scoop communications and on cabin tablets aboard its ships.
The series will allow guests to discover the individual backstories of Scarlet, Valiant, Resilient and Brilliant, the four mermaids associated with the Lady Ship fleet.
Source: Official announcement by Virgin Voyages on 15 October, 2026
