This is CruiseMapper's cruise ship refurbishments schedule of dry-dock dates, news, and information on deck plan changes during vessel refits, regular maintenance and repairs, overhauls and renovation of small and big passenger cruise ships. Next links jump down directly to the cruise line refurbishment schedule of RCI-Royal Caribbean, CCL-Carnival, NCL-Norwegian, Princess, Celebrity, Holland America, P&O (UK-Australia), Oceania, DCL-Disney, MSC, Costa, TUI-AIDA, Windstar, plus various small-ship and luxury brands.
Cruise ship refurbishment tends to be the best value-for-money strategy and highly successful policy for major cruise line companies in a time of worldwide economic uncertainty.
For your convenience, this link goes directly to the list of all cruise line refurbishments 2018-2019-2020 schedule. To read more cruise ship technology news, please visit our engines-propulsion-fuel survey.
At CruiseMapper's list of new vessels under construction or on order, you'll also find an impressive number of passenger ships (river-, ocean- and cruiseferries) being built/launched in the period 2015-2019. The majority of those joined the fleets owned by the world's biggest cruise companies - Carnival Corporation and RCCL-Royal Caribbean - via their subsidiaries/brands.
Cruise ship refurbishments, renovations, refits
Cruise ship drydocking (vessel refits and onboard refurbishments) is a multi-billion market with regularly scheduled vessel renovation projects every 2-3 years. Most drydocks are planned by the world's largest cruise shipowners - Carnival Corporation, RCG-Royal Caribbean Group, MSC Shipping Group, and NCLH-Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings.
2019's drydock schedule featured the industry's largest (so far) vessel reconstruction project - Carnival Triumph's conversion into Carnival Sunrise. The 60-day project (at Navantia Shipyard in Cadiz Spain) was budgeted ~USD 200 million. For comparison, Carnival Destiny-Sunshine conversion (2013) cost ~USD 155M. Navigator OTS' drydock reconstruction (Jan-Feb 2019) was budgeted USD 115M. Also in 2019 were conducted the drydocks of the NCLH-owned Oceania (6 ships) with fleet refurb budget ~USD 100 million.
Cruiseship refurb and newbuild contractor companies
One of the industry's largest companies contracted for cruiseship and yacht interior outfitting (both of newbuilds and refitted boats) is De Wave Group (based in Genoa Italy). The company's cruiseship order book in 2022 was EUR 104 million. De Wave Group's latest projects included the newbuilds Seabourn Venture, Seabourn Pursuit, Discovery Princess (EUR 15M), Norwegian Prima (EUR 10M), Celebrity Beyond (EUR 9M/April 2021), as well as refit projects for Virgin's Resilient Lady (June 2021/EUR 40M), NCL (EUR 6M), Oceania's Marina and Riviera (~600 staterooms + public areas).
ALMACO Group is another major turnkey manufacturer serving the marine and offshore industries. The company designs, manufactures and installs staterooms (crew and passenger cabin units), galley/kitchen equipment, provision stores, cold freezer rooms, refrigeration machinery systems, laundry facilities, pantries, bars. ALMACO is also contracted for lifecycle services (scheduled maintenance works) and spare parts supply for passenger vessels (including cruiseferries), as well as for and expert engineering and project management. Among ALMACO's customers (multi-million projects) are Carnival Corporation, Saga Group UK, Ritz-Carlton Yachts, Swan Hellenic, VIKING LINE.
Why cruise ships are being refurbished?
Time is money - while a cruise ship overhaul takes 15-30-days, building a new liner (design to launch) takes ~3 years (depending on vessel size, specifications, special features, owner, budget, etc).
In comparison to cruise newbuilds' cost (especially of bigger units), ship refurbishments are a lot cheaper than building a new one. Due to the impact of the Coronavirus crisis and IMO's new maritime regulations, all major cruise shipping companies started to sell (and eventually replace) the fleet's oldest units to smaller travel operators.
In most cases, "refurbished" is synonymous with "maintenance and repairs", "freshened up" and "overhauled". Works include engineering/machinery updates, hull cleaning-painting, new furniture and decors (sometimes only changing the color schemes), new carpets, smart HDTVs (interactive systems), shipwide Wi-Fi coverage and faster satellite Internet, replacing handrails and glass, upgrades of venues (sometimes creating new lounge areas or expanding old ones), new amenities and services, etc. This would cost the company between US$10-30 million per ship. Some refits may cost up to US$50M.
Drydock refit projects for older vessels always include installing low-water usage toilets (urinals and fixtures), energy-efficient LED lighting (inside and outside), energy-efficient windows, HVAC system (heat-ventilation-air conditioning), hull coating (to reduce the boat's resistance through water).
What the list of cruise ship renovations generally includes?
Major cruise ship overhauls may include reconstructing or adding new cabins, lounges, restaurants, a SPA facility, swimming pool(s), sometimes adding a whole new deck, and even better - a whole midsection, like the case of MS Enchantment of the Seas refurbishment / lengthening in 2005 (next photo and the YouTube video below).
Some technical enhancements, like a new external coating or an updated propulsion, for example, could significantly reduce fuel consumption (improving the ship's efficiency and environmental performance), while "most fun" modern time gadgets and contraptions attract huge crowds - like virtual "real-time" windows in all Inside cabins, or a water park with a slide, or a kids-only area, or a hugely-huge movie screen by the main pool.
Cruise ship refurbishment news are some of the "most wanted" and extremely popular on all major online travel forums. All big lines put their liners into dry dock every few years to update (or upgrade) them - it costs money, but again - it's cheaper than going on newbuilds. It's a fact that many travelers are hesitant to take the first sailing post-drydock.
Most dry-docks are routine - just refreshing, do not include major changes and have a fairly accurate schedule. A major refit, on the other hand, usually involves significant changes in construction (or services) and have an "unpleasant" tendency to start prior to the actual drydock (even during the sailing prior) and often continues into the first sailing after.
The next YouTube video shows the timelapse of the MS Braemar's drydock extension at the Blohm+Voss shipyard in Hamburg Germany.
Cruise ship refurbishment jobs
Cruise ship refurbishment jobs are another issue. In 2009 Saga Holidays (UK company) refitted and refurbished its newly purchased Saga Pearl 2 ship (former name ms Astoria) spending 20 million pounds on this project and providing more than 300 jobs over a 3-month period.
The next video is about the April 2016 drydock refurb of Splendour OTS (now Marella Discovery) done in Freeport Bahamas.
Often vessels' need unscheduled repairs - not matching with planned maintenance schedules. In such cases are used teams of underwater specialists for fast, high-quality repairs, thus avoiding potential loss of income due to drydocking. The world's first global underwater ship repair service provider is Wartsila which provides any marine services and maintenance works, regardless of the ship's current location.
In 2017, Wartsila (Finnish marine corporation) acquired Trident BV (a global provider of commercial diving services) Via Trident, Wartsila offers worldwide underwater repairs, propulsion systems overhaul, regular maintenance works (hull cleaning, propeller polishing, welding), scrubber-cleaning and retrofitting, even major underwater overhauls. Corporation's main underwater teams are in Holland, Italy, and the Canaries. They can be dispatched to any location in a matter of hours, providing fast-response vessel inspections, repairs, refurbishments, equipment installation/replacement.
Cruise ship refurbishment schedule 2020-2023
This is a regularly updated list of dry-dock dates, with concise info about the cruise ship upgrades, deck plan changes and refits by the cruise company. All links in the following table are internal (CruiseMapper) and redirect to the ship's deck plan page.
Note1: All Singapore-based vessel refurbishment projects are done by Sembcorp Marine (at the Admiralty Yard). The company is among the leaders on the cruise ship refit market. Among its regular clients are Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Asian/China-based companies.
Note2: All Cadiz (Spain)-based ship refurbishments are done by the Navantia shipbuilding company - Europe's 5th and the world's 9th largest shipbuilder. The company's ship-repair services are provided to both commercial and military (naval) vessels.
RCI Royal Caribbean drydock refurbishments
RCI's "Royal Advantage" renovation program (2011-2016) was budgeted US$300 million. RCI's 6-ship refurbishment project "innovation renovations" was implemented in 2016. The vessels Adventure, Empress, Jewel, Liberty, Majesty, and Radiance received some of the company's most popular shipboard features.
In mid-March 2018, Royal Caribbean announced a USD 1 billion fleetwide refurbishment project ("Royal Amplified", 2018-2022) covering 10 liners in 3 classes (Oasis, Freedom, Voyager). By this program were introduced new and innovative features/technologies, experiences and amenities, pool deck areas and venues, dining options, nightlife concepts, onboard attractions.
RCI drydocks are usually conducted at the shipyards in Freeport (Grand Bahama), Singapore, and Cadiz (Navantia's shipyard in Puerto Real). RCI ships usually enter drydocks in up to 5-year periods. For details see the RCI's link.
Next are listed only RCI's recent drydocking, the majority of which are for general maintenance/classification inspections and technical overhauls.
- Explorer OTS (2023 Jan-Mar) Perfect Storm added
- Independence OTS (2023 Jan-Feb)
- Mariner OTS (2023 Feb-Mar)
- Vision OTS (2024 May)
- Rhapsody OTS (2022 April-May)
- Serenade OTS (2022 March)
- Harmony OTS (2021 April)
- Symphony OTS (2021 May)
- Jewel OTS (2024 May)
- Liberty OTS (2021 July)
- Enchantment OTS (2021 Sept)
- Radiance OTS (2024 March)
- Freedom OTS (2020 (January-March) Royal Amplified, cost US$116 million
- Allure OTS (2020 March-May) Royal Amplified, cost US$165 million
- Navigator OTS (2019 Jan-Feb) Oasis- and Quantum-class cabin updates, Perfect Storm added
- Ovation OTS (2019 April)
- Oasis OTS (2019 Sept-Nov) US$165 million
- Voyager OTS (2019 Sept-Oct) US$97 million
- Quantum OTS (2019 Oct-Nov) US$65 million
- Brilliance OTS (2018 April) Oasis-class upgrades
- Grandeur OTS (2024 April)
- Majesty OTS (2016 May) Perfect Storm added
CCL-Carnival Cruise Line drydock refurbishments
CCL's refurbishment schedule shows newly added onboard amenities and facilities. These old and future planned fleetwide upgrades are by the company's "Fun Ship 2.0" fleet renovation program. The company's additional program for ship technology upgrades (also fleetwide) was budgeted USD 300 million.
- (new facilities): bars (RedFrog, BlueIguana, Library, Alchemy, EA Sports), Guy's Burger, BlueIguana Cantina, Punchliners (George Lopez), DJ IRIE (Spin U /DJ Academy), Seuss at Sea (kids venue), Hasbro The Game Show, Playlist Productions (dining menu and show programming upgrades).
- Some have Bonsai Sushi
- technology upgrades (scrubbers, shoreside power capabilities)
- WaterWorks Aqua Park, Camp Carnival (kids playground)
Ship Name | Drydock Dates / Shipyard | Refurbishment Review / Deckplan Changes |
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2023
2024
2025
| 2023
2024
2025
| In 2019, Carnival Triumph was renamed "Carnival Sunrise" (upgraded to Sunshine-Class). In 2020-2021, Carnival Victory was renamed "Carnival Radiance" (upgraded to Sunshine-Class at Navantia/Cadiz Spain). (2020, USD 40 million drydock in Freeport) Miracle - hotel maintenance works, Fun Ship 2.0 upgrades (Guy's Burger, WaterWorks, Red Frog Rum Bar, Blue Iguana Cantina) (2020, USD 36 million drydock in Freeport) Elation - adding 30 new cabins (Deck 9), new carpeting (all staterooms), technical maintenance works, repairs (2024) Carnival Panorama general maintenance |
NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line drydock refurbishments
All drydock refurbishments 2016 thru 2019 as projects were part of NCL's "Norwegian Edge" fleet renovation program (budgeted ~US$500 million).
Each drydock cost ~US$35-40 million.
Ship Name | Drydock Dates / Shipyard | Refurbishment Review / Deckplan Changes |
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2024 (Nov 18-Dec 2) Damen Brest | new Spice H2O (an outdoor lounge on the adults-only pool deck/aft on deck 18), replacing the Laser Tag Arena expanded Cagney's Steakhouse and Teppanyaki (taking over the spaces of Los Lobos Cantina (deck 8) and Coco's Patisserie (deck 6) Ocean Blue (seafood restaurant) transformed into Palomar (Mediterranean seafood restaurant) The Haven Suites redesigned both The Haven Deluxe Owner's Suites (forward deck 18) recategorized (The Haven Premier Owner's Suite), expanded (from two to three bedrooms, 4x bathrooms), completely renovated new 24x balcony cabins + 2x club balcony staterooms added (taking some space from the Observation Lounge (deck 15). | |
2024 (Jan 22-Feb 12) Grand Bahama |
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2020 | technical upgrades (Wheelhouse refit, cabin upgrades, new scrubbers and propellers) | |
2018 (April-May) Brest France | drydock 2020 (technical upgrades, cabin refurbs) drydock 2018
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"Norwegian Edge" 2016 (May-June) Freeport |
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2015 Sept 27-Oct 17 (Brest France) 2025 (April-May) |
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"Norwegian Edge" 2017 February |
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2017 Jan (Freeport) 2020 (Jan-Feb), Marseille France | (2017 drydock) extensive updates to all public areas and staterooms 2020 drydock (USD 100 million)
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"Norwegian Edge" 2018 April (Barcelona) |
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2024 (Oct-Nov) Brest France "Norwegian Edge" (2018 May) Barcelona | (drydock 2024) routine maintenance/classification works, machinery overhauls and repairs (Azipods, Bow Thruster replacement, stabilizers replacement), hull cleaning/repainting (drydock 2018)
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"Norwegian Edge" 2017 March (Freeport Bahamas) |
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"Norwegian Edge" 2018 Oct-Nov (Singapore) |
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2015 October-November (San Francisco CA) |
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2025 May "Norwegian Edge" 2018 February | (drydock 2018)
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Princess Cruises drydock refurbishments
Ship Name | Drydock Dates / Shipyard | Refurbishment Review / Deckplan Changes |
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2023 (Mar 30-Apr 15) Fincantieri Palermo | renovation of public spaces, regular maintenance works, underwater hull cleaning/painting; "The Catch by Rudi" (seafood restaurant) replaced the "Bistro Sur La Mer"; Sabatini’s Trattoria relocated from Deck 5 to Deck 7 | |
2023 (April 19-May 6) Rotterdam Holland | renovation of cabins and public spaces, regular maintenance works, underwater hull cleaning/painting; "The Catch by Rudi" (seafood restaurant) replaced the "Bistro Sur La Mer" | |
2022 (VIGOR Portland OR) 2019 (June) 2017 Mar 25 - Apr 5 | (drydock 2022) regular maintenance and technical works added fleet's first-ever waterpark (Reef Splash Zone/without waterslides) aft-portside on Deck 17) that includes a large-sized Splashpad (outdoor water playground) fitted with splash pool, water cannons, water sprays, showers, interactive whale-like structure (with a "raining" fluke). The surrounding family lounging area was updated with new patio furniture, fixtures, finishes. The existing swimming pool, whirlpool hot tub (large outdoor Jacuzzi) and poolside bar (Morgan's Bar) were renovated. Newly-added Game Zone hosts family competitions with oversized backyard games. The water-park area is protected by wind panels (throughout) and has Shade Canopy (seating area covered with canvas canopies). The music system and lighting were upgraded (to the steps and swimming pool) and new wall lighting was installed. On Deck 16 forward, the Spa complex was renovated, redesigned and updated with artworks and signage. On Deck 16 aft, Camp Discovery's Outdoor Play Area was upgraded with an interactive water table. | |
2024 (Sep 26-Oct 17) Sembawang Singapore 2016 Jan (Freeport Bahamas) | (2024) routine drydocking (2016) new carpets, beds, gym equipment
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2019 Jan 19 - Feb 2 (Singapore) |
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2018 (Dec 1-8) Freeport |
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Grand Princess (2022, at VIGOR Portland OR) - regular maintenance and technical works Sapphire Princess (2023 April, at VIGOR Seattle WA) - regular maintenance and technical works |
P&O Cruises (Australia and UK) drydock refurbishments
Ship Name | Drydock Dates / Shipyard | Refurbishment Review / Deckplan Changes |
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2020 (Feb 12-27) Singapore | last drydock as Dawn Princess in 2017 (May 27 - June 22, Singapore) (2020) USD 30 million drydocking before joining P&O Australia) - maintenance works, renovations to public areas and all cabins (carpeting, upholstery) | |
2023 (February 6-25) Singapore 2021 (March-April) Singapore | (drydock 2023) on Deck 17 were installed the Twin-Racer (142 m-long dealing waterslide) and the P&O Edge Adventure Park (Zipline, Cargo Net, Walk the Plank, Beam Walk, Rock Climbing Wall) drydock 2021 (fka Star Princess / 2-week drydocking before joining P&O Australia)
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2024 (March) | Byron Beach Club Cabanas, daybeds (on poolside decks), installed a new sound system, wellness facilities upgrades (treatment rooms, beauty salon), new carpeting throughout, new turfing, repainting of walls and ceilings, furniture updates (~2000 pieces) | |
2024 (April) 2019 (Oct 8-22) Damen Brest (France) | (drydock 2024) upgrades to/renovation of all public spaces, crew areas, all staterooms, redesigned Lobby Hall, Market Cafe enhancements, children's splash pool (revamped with interactive water features), Sunset Bar's capacity increased with extra seating (drydock 2019)
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2020 (April 4-16) Ferrol Spain | drydock 2020 (GBP 20 million)
drydock 2015 (GBP 26 million)
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2023 April-May 2025 April |
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2023 April-May 2024 November |
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2018 March 13-Brest France) |
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HAL-Holland America Line drydock refurbishments
In 2003-2008, by the SOE ("Signature of Excellence") program, HAL upgraded all older vessels, on which were also added new venues, stateroom categories, and amenities. In November 2015 was announced company's USD 300 million fleetwide renovation program, including Suite cabin improvements (new decors, furnishings, amenities, services) for all suite categories on Vista-Class, Signature-Class and R-Class vessels.
In 2018, HAL contracted ABB Group (Swedish-Swiss corporation specializing in robotics, marine power, and propulsion equipment) for installing shore-power systems fleetwide. The technology allows docked in ports cruise ships to receive shoreside power supply (from the city's grid) and turn off their engines, thus reducing to zero emissions and noise. ABB installed its shore-power equipment on 11x HAL ships. Switchover (ship-to-shore power) at seaports takes around 20 min.
In 2023, HAL conducted 5 refurbishment projects to expand the casino space on its vessels in the Pinnacle-class (Nieuw Rotterdam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam) and Signature-class (Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam). Each of the enlarged gambling facilities now has 140 of the gaming industry's newest slot and video poker machines. In addition, a separate non-smoking area was added in the casinos of Nieuw Rotterdam, Nieuw Statendam and Koningsdam.
Ship Name | Drydock Dates / Shipyard | Refurbishment Review / Deckplan Changes |
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| top-grade suites upgrades:
****Holland America Line's USD 300 million fleet renovation project included updating onboard entertainment, dining and suites fleetwide in 2016-2018. Enhancements vary by ship.
Noordam (2019) - Billboard Onboard, Microsoft Studio, Fujifilm Wonder Photo Shop, pickleball court (Sports Deck), all suites renovated and updated with new furniture, renovated (furniture and carpeting) were Pinnacle Bar, Pinnacle Grill, Dining Room, Lido Market, Spa & Salon. |
Celebrity Cruises drydock refurbishments
In July 2018, the company announced a USD 500 million fleet modernization (drydock refurbishment) program dubbed "Celebrity Revolution".
The 4-year fleet refurbishment project was conducted in the period February 2019-2023.
The next table lists all ship drydocks by the Celebrity Revolution project, as well as drydocking projects for regularly scheduled maintenance works.
Ship Name | Drydock Dates / Shipyard | Refurbishment Review / Deckplan Changes |
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2024 (Oct-Nov) | technical | |
2023 (Oct 15-30) Marseille | routine maintenance/class inspection (complete hull works, systems and machinery overhauls, hotel upkeep) | |
2021 Feb (Cadiz) 2015 (Oct 15-29) Freeport Bahamas) | (2021 drydock) technical (2015 drydock)
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2016 (Feb 17 - Mar 12) Freeport Bahamas |
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Celebrity Eclipse (2022, at VIGOR Portland OR) regular maintenance and technical works | |
| "Celebrity Revolution" fleetwide modernization project (USD 0,5 billion)
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Oceania Cruises drydock refurbishments
In August 2018, Oceania announced the company's OceaniaNEXT fleet renovation project budgeted USD 100 million. It includes drydock refurbishments of 4 R-Class liners (Regatta, Insignia, Sirena, Nautica).
As a result, the fleet was expanded with 1368 new staterooms (342 per boat), and all shipboard restaurants, bars, and lounges were redesigned and redecorated.
- New public spaces include a redesigned Lobby with Reception Hall (lower level) and Upper Hall (2nd level) connected via Grand Staircase (decorated with railings and balustrades) and featuring a large crystal chandelier (with hanging pieces of hand-painted glass).
- Grand Dining Room (Deck 5 aft) received new premium furniture (leather chairs with metallic bronze threading) and new crystal chandeliers.
- Martinis (piano bar lounge on Deck 5) was redesigned, new silver-white marble bar top and walnut paneling were added.
- All staterooms were completely overhauled (redesigned and refurnished) and upgraded with custom-made furniture, polished wood, stone finishes, designer accessories, smart HDTVs, USB ports, LED lighting. All cabin bathrooms were overhauled and received new tiling, surfaces, fixtures, designer accessories, vanities glass shower enclosures. Penthouse-Vista-Owner suites' bathrooms were enlarged and upgraded with Carrara marble tops, onyx, polished granite.
Works on the fleetwide refurb project involved 1000+ artisans and craftsmen and resulted in 1368 new cabins, 8000 new light fixtures, 12000 new sofas and chairs.
Ship Name / Dry-Dock Dates / Shipyard | Refurbishment Review / Deckplan Changes |
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(all R-class vessels) - upgrades total cost USD 50 million Insignia 2018 (November 18 - December 6), Freeport Bahamas Nautica 2024 (June 19-28) Regatta 2019 (September 7-23) Sirena 2019 (May 5-18) drydock shipyards:
| Note: These are deckplan changes made during refurbs before OceaniaNEXT.
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Disney Cruise Line drydock refurbishments
Ship Name | Drydock Dates / Shipyard | Refurbishment Review / Deckplan Changes |
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2024 (Sep 16-Oct 19) Damen Brest 2020 (Brest France) 2018 (Jan 1-14) | (drydock 2024) updates to youth spaces (Oceaneer Club, Edge Club, exclusive sundeck), wellness complex (new treatment rooms), Donald's Cantina (new Mexican restaurant/Deck 11), new Concierge Lounge, refreshed Lobby/check-in area, 2-level Dream Tower Suite ("funnel suite"/duplex accommodation inside the forward smokestack), general maintenance works (drydock 2020) general maintenance works (technical checks and updates), class inspections, interior upgrades drydock 2018
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2020-Q4 (Brest France) | general maintenance works (technical checks and updates), class inspections, interior upgrades | |
2023 (Apr 15-May 4) Freeport 2019 | (drydock 2023) general maintenance works, machinery overhauls, renovation of passenger cabins and public spaces, Concierge Lounge redesigned, all concierge staterooms (plus the Royal Suites) completely refurbished (new fixtures, furniture, artworks), new movie-themed bar venue created (Soul Cat Lounge), shore power connectivity was installed. (drydock 2019) added Rapunzel's Royal Table (themed restaurant), transformed teen club, redesigned Cove Cafe (adults-only), added Club Disney Junior (lounge part of Disney's Oceaneer Club, redesigned Rainforest Room in the adults-only Senses Spa (steam and hydrotherapy). | |
2023 (Sept 17 - Oct 3 (Seaspan Victoria BC) | The 2-week drydocking project was mainly for regular maintenance (technical overhaul and hotel upkeep). |
MSC Cruises ships lengthening and drydock refurbishments
MSC Cruises announced in late December 2013 the start of the EUR 200 refurbishment program (named "renaissance") involving not only the revitalization of all Lirica-class vessels but also stretching all four of them in the period 2014-2016 (a total of 38 drydock weeks).
During drydocks in the period 2019-2024, MSC will install a fleetwide ZOE - in-cabin digital assistant developed by Samsung. ZOE is a voice-enabled artificial intelligence device available in all passenger staterooms. ZOE speaks 7 languages, answers cruise-related questions, provides info on shipboard services-activities-facilities, makes reservations-bookings.
Ship Name | Drydock Dates / Shipyard | Refurbishment Review / Deckplan Changes |
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The cruise ship refurbishment dates by vessel were:
Each of these vessels is now 824 ft / 251 m long, with a weight of ~60,000 GT and passenger capacity 2,070. After the refit, each of them is 902 ft / 275 m long, with a weight of ~65,000 GT and capacity 2,680 pax, featuring 193 additional cruise staterooms and 59 new crew cabins. |
| After the drydocks, each of the 4 Lirica-class ships has:
(USD 30 million, Freeport) MSC Armonia drydock 2019 (Nov 18 - Dec 8) - all public areas and staterooms renovated |
2023 (Nov 30-Dec 13) Shanghai | routine maintenance, repairs, classification inspections, hull cleaning/painting, public areas renovations | |
2023 (Mar 31 - Apr 15) Valletta Malta | routine maintenance and classification works, technical overhaul, hull cleaning/painting | |
2024 (May 10-29) Malta 2017 (Nov-Dec) | (drydock 2024) routine maintenance, classification inspections, technical overhauls (drydock 2017)
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| all projects were mainly for routine maintenance and classification works, plus machinery overhaul and minor interior enhancements | |
Poesia | 2023 (Nov 30-Dec 20) Palumbo Malta | routine maintenance works |
MSC Grandiosa | 2024 (Oct 27-Nov 16) Palumbo Malta | routine drydocking |
Costa Cruises drydock refurbishments
Besides the ship's staff and crew, Costa cruise passengers are also served by Peper robots - the latest cyborg technology implemented fleetwide in 2016. These humanoid robots greet and guide passengers upon embarkation, and also assist them throughout the voyage with information and tips. Pepper robots are mobile and communicate in 3 languages (English, German, Italian).
Ship Name | Drydock Dates / Shipyard | Refurbishment Review / Deckplan Changes |
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2015 Jan |
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2023 Nov (Marseille) | general maintenance works, classification inspections, technical overhauls, renovations and upgrades to all public areas, venues and passenger staterooms (including new carpeting and soft furniture) | |
2017 (Nov-Dec) |
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2015 Apr |
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2014 |
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TUI and AIDA Cruises drydock refurbishments
Besides the ship's staff and crew, AIDA passengers are also served by Peper robots - the latest cyborg technology implemented fleetwide in 2016. These humanoid robots greet and guide passengers upon embarkation, and also assist them throughout the voyage with information and tips. Pepper robots are mobile and communicate in 3 languages (English, German, Italian).
In May 2024 was announced the fleet modernization program "AIDA Evolution". Starting in 2025 with AIDAdiva, these drydocking projects are scheduled for AIDA's three SPHINX-class ships (diva/2025, luna/2025, bella/2026). The planned works include extensive renovations in all public areas, complete redecoration of all passenger staterooms, increasing suites number, machinery updates (technical equipment and systems), increasing suites number, adding exclusive areas and venues (restaurants, bars, services) currently available on newer ships.
Ship Name | Drydock Dates / Shipyard | Refurbishment Review / Deckplan Changes |
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2020 March 25 - April 15 (Dubai UAE) 2017 March 25 - April 4 (Lloyd Werft Bremerhaven Germany) | 2020 drydock (USD 30 million) - technical maintenance works, regular maintenance (all staterooms and public spaces), new carpeting, upholstery. 2017 drydock
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2026 (Jan 21-Mar 11) Marseille 2016 (Cadiz Spain) | drydock 2026 (AIDA Evolution) | |
2019 Mar 31 - May 4 | general maintenance | |
2023 Oct 1-15 (Hamburg) 2019 Apr 28 - May 11 | general maintenance | |
2023 (Mar 6-21) Marseille | routine general maintenance and classification works, technical overhaul, hull cleaning/painting | |
2025 (Feb 3-Mar 22) Marseille 2022 April-May (Bremerhaven / Lloyd Werft) | drydock 2025 (AIDA Evolution) drydock 2022
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2022 April- May (Bremerhaven / Lloyd Werft) |
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2025 (Oct 22-Dec 10) Marseille 2019 Apr 3-16 (Hamburg/Blohm+Voss) | drydock 2025 (AIDA Evolution) wetdock 2019
technical upgrades (shoreside power capabilities), maintenance works (stabilizers, propulsion units/thrusters), Navigation Bridge refurb, diesel-electrical plant upgrades, exhaust system, and tanks cleaning, hull coating works | |
2023 (Apr 21-May 1) Hamburg |
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2024 Jan | general maintenance works, shore power connectivity, hull cleaning/silicon coating | |
2016 (Apr 19 - May 1) Cadiz | regular maintenance, freshening up public rooms and passenger cabins | |
2020 (Feb 3-14) Marseille France |
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2023 (Nov 20-Dec 2) Dubai | general maintenance works, shore power connectivity, hull cleaning/silicon coating, machinery overhaul, public areas and staterooms upgrades (new carpeting) |
Windstar Cruises refurbishments
On November 15, 2018, Windstar announced the "Star Plus Initiative" - drydock fleet renovation program budgeted USD 250 million. The project includes enlarging (stretching) and engine changes for fleet's three Star-Class mega-yachts Star Breeze, Star Legend, Star Pride.
The project resulted in bigger passenger capacity, adding new staterooms, venues, public spaces, new and more efficient engines. Each ship's capacity was increased by 68% (from 212 to 312 passengers). The drydocks were scheduled for the period October 2019 through November 2020, at Fincantieri's shipyard in Palermo Sicily.
The Star Plus project increased Windstar fleet's capacity by 24%. Star Plus was partially financed through the Export Credit facility guaranteed by SACE Italy (financial and insurance products and services).
The drydock lengthening included cutting each vessel in two and installing a new/prefabricated midship section with length 25,6 m (84 ft). Vessel's LOA length was increased from 135 to 161 m (443 to 528 ft). The midship section has an additional elevator.
Following drydock, each ship now has 2x new dining venues, new shop, new retail space; enlarged Gym, new Spa, larger swimming pool, new tender loading area (midship), 2x new tender boats (90-seats each), expanded and upgraded staff-crew areas and cabins. The two new dining venues are an alternative Spanish specialty restaurant ("Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso") and a casual BBQ space (adjacent to Star Bar).
The old diesel engines (7 per ship) were replaced with 4 new engines running on ULSD (ultra-low sulfur diesel) fuel, thus reducing SO emissions. Each ship received 50 new cabins (to 156 total), which (based on the total investment) meant shipbuilding cost per berth USD 267,000. Among the new cabins are two larger Owner Suites. All existing staterooms were completely refurbished, including their bathrooms, balconies, sliding doors. The new public spaces and cabins were designed by the NYC-based "The Johnson Studio at Cooper Carry".
Ship Name | Drydock Dates / Shipyard | Refurbishment Review / Deckplan Changes |
---|---|---|
| fleet transfers:
| Star Breeze (2023) routine drydock for regular maintenance and classification works, technical overhaul, minor repairs, hull cleaning/painting |
|
In 2016, Star Pride was again refurbished ($4,5 million) |
Windstar sailships refurbishments 2024-2025-2026
On December 6, 2023, Windstar started a multi-million refurbishment project to extensively redesign and update the fleet's three sailing ships (Wind Star, Wind Spirit, Wind Surf). Each ship is refurbished in two phases, starting with Wind Star (2024 & 2026 Apr), follows Wind Surf (2024 & 2026 Dec) and Wind Spirit (2026 Apr & 2027 Mar).
By this project will be fully redesigned all public areas and venues (changing layouts, furniture, wall coverings and flooring, lighting, artworks).
Among the remodeled/redesinged areas are the Lobby (expanded reception area, more seating and retail space), Compass Rose Bar Lounge (furniture, finishes, lighting, multi-purpose stage area for live performances, redesigned bar area, updated evening entertainment), Amphora Restaurant (completely refreshed, redesigned with curved booths providing seating for 2-8 guests, new dining chairs), Wellness Complex (The World Spa by Windstar & Fitness Center/new color palettes, finishes, gym equipment), Pool Deck (expansion by removing the SkyLight, new swimming pool and Jacuzzi, larger Pool Bar, new poolside furniture/sofas, poufs, ottoman beds, deckchairs, outdoor lighting, speakers, greenery).
Two new category staterooms will be added - CO/Broadmoor Suite, and GA/Sea Island Suite, the Owner’s Suite (adjacent to the Wheelhouse) will be redesigned. All passenger staterooms will be fully refurbished (interiors, furniture) and outfitted with smart TVs with an infotainment system (integrated with Windstar’s Wayfinder app for easy access to onboard schedules, menus, on-demand movies, and guest accounts) and new WiFi points.
Small-fleet and luxury cruise lines ship refurbishments
Ship Name | Drydock Dates / Shipyard | Refurbishment Review / Deckplan Changes |
---|---|---|
2025 (Jan 5-Mar 1) Marseille | EUR 15 million drydock refurbishment (machinery overhaul, installation of a scrubber/SCR system, shore power connection, hull cleaning/repainting, renovations to all passenger staterooms and public areas | |
(Villa Vie Residence) Villa Vie Odyssey | 2024 (May) Harland & Wolff, Belfast | pool deck renovations, refurbishment of all passenger staterooms, machinery overhaul, hull cleaning/repainting, safety inspections, classification works |
(Ambassador UK) Ambition | 2023 (April 4 - May 7) Lloyd Werft Bremerhaven | maintenance and technical works, machinery upgrades, hull cleaning/painting, rebranding and renovation of venues |
(Ambassador UK) Ambience | 2023 (Nov 17-Dec 10) Lloyd Werft Bremerhaven | routine maintenance |
(SAGA UK) Spirit Of Discovery | 2023 (Jan 8 - Feb 2) Bremerhaven | general maintenance(drydock 2018) |
(SAGA UK) Spirit of Adventure | 2024 (Oct 21-Nov 6) Falmouth England | routine maintenance, machinery and system overhauls, hull cleaning/repainting, interior upgrades (passenger staterooms, restaurants, entertainment areas, Wi-Fi equipment upgrade) |
(Cunard) Queen Elizabeth | 2025 (Feb 25-Mar 13) Singapore 2023 (Mar 16-Apr 3) Singapore | (drydock 2025) general maintenance, renovations and redesigns (Commodore Club, Queens Room, Panorama Pool Club, Garden Lounge, The Pavilion, Grill Suites and dining venues), new Pavilion Wellness Cafe, new Harper’s Bazaar Wellness at Sea program (drydock 2023) regular maintenance (hotel upkeep, technical overhauls, steel works, minor machinery updates) |
Cunard Queen Victoria | 2022 May 2-19 (Harland & Wolff/Belfast) |
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Cunard Queen Mary 2 | 2023 Oct-Nov (Damen Rotterdam) 2016 (May 27 - June 21) Hamburg / Blohm+Voss | (2023) routine (drydock 2016)
|
(Hapag-Lloyd) Hanseatic Inspiration | 2024 (May) Bremerhaven | routine maintenance, inspections, hull works, technical overhauls, hotel upkeep (carpets, upholstery, etc) |
2023 (Jan-July 24) Trieste | major drydocks (refits and shipwide renovations), details TBA soon | |
(Celestyal Cruises) Celestyal Journey/fka Ryndam & Pacific Aria | 2023 (May-June) Valletta Malta | US$20M drydocking (the extensive refit and full-scale refurbishment)
|
(Genting) Resorts World One | 2023 (Jan 25-Feb 15) Singapore | technical maintenance, class works, minor hotel renovations |
(Genting) Genting Dream | 2023 (Feb 17-Mar 1) Singapore | regular maintenance and class works |
(RSSC-Regent) Seven Seas Navigator | 2019 June (Brest France) |
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(RSSC-Regent) Seven Seas Mariner | 2018 Mar 15 - April 3 |
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RSSC Regent Seven Seas Cruises | 2016 Oct |
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2022 April (Amsterdam), 2024 November (Navantia, Cadiz) | drydock 2022 (EUR 14 million/USD 15,9M project by Somec via TSI) renovations of all staterooms (passenger and crew), all crew areas, Pool Deck, wellness complex, outdoor decks, all indoor public areas, steel works, hull cleaning.repainting | |
Journey (2016 January in Freeport Bahamas), 2024 Sept 9-13 (Elefsis Shipyards Greece) Quest (2016 April in Singapore), 2024 (Jul 28-Aug 10) |
(drydock 2021) Azamara Journey (Navantia/Cadiz) general maintenance, some hotel updates | |
2021 Sept (Cadiz Spain), 2024 August (CNdM Marseille) | (2021) general maintenance, some hotel updates, repainting (new livery) drydocks 2024 (all Azamara ships/fleet) routine maintenance and safety/classification works, technical upgrades, propulsion machinery overhaul (rudders, propellers, bow thrusters, stabilizers), hull cleaning/painting, refreshed interiors (new carpets and furnishings) | |
Silversea Silver Whisper and Silver Wind | (Whisper) 2016 Oct (Wind) 2016 Dec | (part of Silversea's USD 170M fleetwide program)
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Silversea Silver Whisper | 2018 Dec 8-19 (Freeport) |
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Silversea Silver Wind | 2018 (Nov 26 - Dec 9), 2020 August (Freeport) |
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Silversea Silver Spirit | 2018 April (Palermo Sicily, Italy) |
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Silversea Silver Shadow | 2019 (Nov 2 - Dec 2) Valletta Malta | (USD 30 million) - part of Silversea's "Project Invictus" (fleet renovation program) - general maintenance, upgrades to public areas, complete renovation of all staterooms, adding Atrium & Arts Cafe (replacing the old Lobby) and Connoisseur’s Club (removed from Deck 7 to Deck 8) |
Silversea Silver Endeavour | 2023 (Apr 3 - May 6) San Giorgio del Porto/Genoa | extensive refit for transforming Crystal Endeavor (Crystal Cruises) into Silver Endeavour (Silversea). |
Silversea Silver Explorer | 2018 Sept-Oct (Vancouver Canada) | In 2018, the ship was drydocked for maintenance works done by Seaspan (Canadian shipbuilder). Among the upgrades were a new stabilizer (ducktail, on the stern), propeller repairs and polishing, blast painting of the underwater hull. |
Silversea Silver Galapagos | 2013 Sept 7-28 (Singapore) |
|
(Marella UK) Marella Explorer | 2019 Oct 11 - Nov 6 (Brest France) | (USD 25 million) - technical maintenance works, machinery upgrades, updates to interior spaces, Hideout (teen lounge) received AstroTurf and titled flooring (outside) and new furniture (loungers, deckchairs, bar stools) |
(Marella UK) Marella Explorer 2 | 2023 Nov (Cadiz) | routine |
(Marella UK) Marella Discovery | 2022 Nov (Cadiz) | all staterooms fully refurbished, new cabin bathrooms fitted with UV-free Antimicrobial Light technology |
(Marella UK) Marella Discovery 2 | 2024 Oct-Nov (Cadiz) | routine maintenance, classification works, machinery overhaul, stateroom renovations |
(Plantours) MS Hamburg | 2020 (April 2 - May 1) Lisnave Shipyard, Setubal Portugal | USD 20 million
|
2023 (Feb 23-Mar 9) at A&P Falmouth England | Drydock 2023 was for routine maintenance/regularly scheduled classification works, hotel and technical overhauls (Azipods, bow thrusters), hull cleaning/painting. | |
2022 (Oct 28 - Nov 13), Cammell Laird (Birkenhead/Liverpool) | general maintenance, engineering works, public areas renovations, cabin refurbishments | |
2019 (Nov 14-23) Blohm+Voss Hamburg | general maintenance, engineering works, public areas renovations, cabin refurbishments) | |
2024 (Dec 1-15) Falmouth UK | (drydock 2024) hull maintenance, machinery and systems overhauls, classification works/safety inspections, deck and mechanical systems (drydock 2019/USD 18 million) general maintenance, engineering works, public areas and cabin renovations, new venues (Tea Room, Photo Gallery) | |
Hapag Lloyd MS Europa | 2024 Sept (Bremerhaven) 2022 Sept (Hamburg) | (drydock 2024) general maintenance, machinery overhaul, hull cleaning/repainting, interior renovations (public areas, new carpets, suite furniture updates, new lounge furniture, new swimming pool, enlarged Messhall/crew (drydock 2022) 56 cabins fully renovated (flooring/carpets, fixed furniture, soft furnishings, light fixers and fittings) |
Hapag Lloyd MS Europa 2 | 2015 Apr (Blohm+Voss Hamburg) | technical maintenance, hull painting, modernization of venues (redesigned Sansibar Lounge, Sakura Sushi Restaurant), renovated cabins (8x family apartments), new carpeting |
2023 (April 23-May 11) Brest France | unscheduled drydock for repairs of the stabilizers, hull works | |
2018 (April 28 -May 4), Genoa |
| |
Mitsui Ocean Fuji (2024 Oct 1-Dec 1) Mitsubishi Shipyard Yokohama Seabourn Odyssey (2019 May/Genoa) | (Mitsui drydock 2024) complete refurbishment, adding shower toilets in all passenger staterooms, updated galley equipment, rebranding/renaming of all venues (Seabourn drydock 2019)
| |
2024 (Oct-Nov) | propulsion system repairs | |
Windstar (former Seabourn ships)
last drydocks:
| fleet transfers:
| fleet-transfer changes:
|
Windstar superyachts (fleet's smallest ships) |
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In 2016, Star Pride was again refurbished ($4,5 million) |
SeaDream 1 and SeaDream 2 | SeaDream 2 (January 2022) SeaDream 1 (May 2022) | (USD 10 million for both yachts, in Freeport)
|
(Ponant) Le Ponant | 2019-2020 (Nov-April) Genoa | 6-month drydock at San Giorgio del Porto shipyard |
(Ponant) Paul Gauguin | 2025 (Feb-Mar) Singapore | 8 new Connecting Staterooms (Deck 7) Le Grill refit and renovations (white wood finishes, oak furnishings, ceramic accents, bamboo light fixtures, floor-to-ceiling windows) Pool Deck (new teak surface, a mosaic-wrapped pool facade, a white canopy for shaded relaxation) Pool Bar (carved white wood screens, new lighting) Public spaces and staterooms (new color palettes, reupholstered furnishings, new carpeting, woodwork restorations) general maintenance, hull works, machinery overhauls, system upgrades (chillers, heat recovery, Organic Rankine Cycle, seawater treatment plant, water filters, waste management/glass crushers-compactors. |
2024 (April-May) Portugal | various upgrades (new windows and carpets, outdoor decks' wood floor varnishing, furniture repairs), hull cleaning/repainting, machinery overhaul all outside staterooms on Deck 4 and all Suites enhanced with new bathrooms and balcony doors Pool Deck completely renovated | |
Phoenix Reisen Artania | 2024 (Nov) Lloyd Werft Bremerhaven | (EUR 20 million) new Balcony Cabins (decks 5 and 6), Artania Restaurant fully redesigned, new dining venue (Pichler’s) added, Lido buffet and Fitness Center received new panoramic windows, public areas fitted with water dispensers, technical updates (shipwide WiFi coverage, hull cleaning/repainting, 4x new tenders fitted with new engines, HVAC system upgraded |
Phoenix Reisen Amera | 2023 (Oct-Dec) Remontowa Gdansk | powerplant upgrade (replacement of the diesel engines, gearboxes, alternators, main switchboard) propulsion upgrades (new propellers) extensive technical overhaul (machinery repairs and modifications) renovations of venues and accommodations (Ocean Restaurant, 232 stateroom bathrooms, Royal Suite redesign, recarpeting of all public areas) |
(Viking OCEAN) Viking Jupiter | 2023 Oct-Nov (Genoa) | routine |
Hurtigruten ships |
(all drydocks are at Fosen Yards, Norway) |
Hurtigruten's "Green Push" fleet renovation program is budgeted USD 850 million. (2020, USD 35 million drydock), Finnmarken ship renamed to Otto Sverdrup
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(Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line via Margaritaville at Sea) Margaritaville Paradise/fka Grand Classica | 2023 (tba) 2022 April-May (Freeport Bahamas) | (drydock 2023) all passenger cabins updated, new venues added (Paradise Pickleball at Sea/court, Keys on the Water/piano bar), Cheeseburger in Paradise/burger bar, Jolly Mon Kids' Club, Hemisphere Nightclub/Disco, Fins Dining), two new theater productions introduced (Caribbean Heat, Radio Margaritaville: LIVE! At Sea) (drydock 2022) all staterooms were modernized, all public spaces were renovated with new soft furnishing and carpets |
Lindblad National Geographic Orion | 2014 Sept (Singapore) |
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Lindblad National Geographic Explorer | 2015 Apr 16 (Lloyd Werft, Germany) |
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MS The World (privately owned residence ship) | 2016 Sept-Oct (Cadiz Spain) |
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Nov 2023 thru Feb 2024 2020 January-February | (drydock 2023-24) full-scale refurbishment and refit (drydock 2020)
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At the following tag-link can be found listed all CruiseMapper's news related to drydocks.